Dohner Laurann

Moon (Laurann Dohner)

Moon

Laurann Dohner

Book 10 in the New Species series. The books can be read as stand-alone stories, but it is advisable to read them in order to get the most enjoyment from the series.

Dr. Joyce Yards has never met anyone as sexy or as irresistible as 466. He refuses to discuss anything except getting her naked beneath him. Their therapy sessions are growing hotter, his raw hunger for her is becoming aggressive, and she is falling for him. Joy knows the dire consequences if she gives in to desire. It will break her heart but she must walk away.

Moon has been drugged. He is feral and dangerous to everyone. The NSO doctors turn to the only female Moon ever cared about—the one who left him in the desert two years ago.

Moon isn’t the same male Joy once knew but she is willing to put her life on the line for him. There are no rules now. If sex tames the wild beast and triggers his fractured memories, allowing him moments of lucidity, then Joy will give him her body and her soul. She’ll do whatever it takes to save him.

A Romantica® twilight erotic romance from Ellora’s Cave

Moon

Laurann Dohner

Prologue

The past

Day 159 after the first New Species were freed

Joy tried to relax in the chair but worry over her client made her fidget. She glanced at the clock, noting he was late again. Minutes ticked by while her anger grew. It was the fourth session in a row that 466 had blown off. He did it on purpose. She knew he was going to be irate over what she’d done in retaliation but he’d left her with no choice.

The loud sound of a menacing growl startled her. Her gaze flew to the door a second before it was thrown open. 466 hovered in the hallway, his rich brown hair messed up as if he’d dried it upside down with a blow dryer to give it that fullness. Rage showed in his narrowed, dark gaze. She guessed he’d been the source of the noise.

He was pushed forward as one of the guards entered the office behind her client. “Here he is. He wasn’t happy but we got him.” The man shot a dirty look at 466. “Four of his men convinced him to come along or we would have had to drag his butt inside in shackles. He wanted to fight me.”

She winced. “Please sit, 466.”

“It seems I don’t have a choice.” He sauntered over to the chair in front of her desk and dropped his big body down hard enough to make the piece of furniture groan. “So much for saying we are free.”

“The therapy was agreed upon by your people and mine. This is to help you.”

He crossed his massive arms over his thick chest, a bored look on his good-looking features while he stared at her. “If you say so, but I don’t wish to be here. You talk, I’ll listen, but end it fast.”

“The point of therapy is for you to talk to me. Getting your feelings out into the open will make this experience successful.”

He regarded her with those mocha-brown eyes of his. They were beautiful, strange, yet drew her in every time. And he had such long eyelashes. She shifted in her chair and crossed her own arms. “I don’t want to have a staring contest with you again. We both know you’ll win. You always do.” She sighed. “I’m sorry I had to order you here but you have to come to these sessions.”

He continued to silently watch her. He was a master at making her feel uncomfortable. 466 had a way of looking at her as if he could read her mind. Out of all the survivors she had counseled, he was her biggest concern. She had no idea of his emotional state, how he was adjusting to his new surroundings, or if he even attempted to fit in.

“I heard you aren’t learning any sports.”

He blinked.

“You’re spending way too much time alone and you’ve been ditching the guards and wandering away from the motel. You have to know how dangerous that is.”

He said nothing.

“They are here to protect you. They can’t do their jobs if you won’t stay put. This is a secure location. You have to stay where it’s safe. What if someone sees you? Reporters would descend on the area searching for your people.”

He yawned and continued to observe her. Joy’s frustration rose. She only had so much patience and 466 was always pushing her. He could make a saint snap and, unfortunately, she wasn’t nearly that perfect. It had been an emotionally draining decision to take the job in the middle of the desert at this secret location. She’d had to move away from everyone she knew and dealing with someone who didn’t appreciate her sacrifices had begun to downright piss her off.

She leaned forward and put her hands flat on the desk. “Fine. Obviously four sessions a week with me isn’t doing you much good.”

His full lips curved upward and she was pretty sure that was happiness that shone in his eyes, the first she’d ever seen. That made her temper flare so hot that she could visualize her blood boiling.

“We finally agree. No more sessions.” He uncrossed his arms and appeared ready to leave. His ass left the chair as she spoke.

“Not so fast.”

He eased back down but the smile died as his gaze hardened.

“I’m upping the number of sessions to seven days a week.” That got a reaction—rage. She enjoyed seeing it a little since he seemed to take pleasure in making her life hellish. It was her turn to smile.

“You’re going to talk to me, 466. I’m trying to do my job and I’m going to help you, whether you like it or not. We’ll spend more time together until you feel comfortable opening up to me. I want to know why you’re antisocial with your own people, what you have against learning to play sports, and how you’re adjusting to life outside the test facility. I can’t clear you by giving a clean bill of adjustment until we cover all those basics.” She leaned back. “It’s not as if all those additional sessions will cut into your social life. You don’t have one.”

“You wouldn’t really force more sessions. I make you miserable and you don’t like me.”

His assumption surprised her. “I don’t dislike you. I don’t know you that well because you won’t talk to me. Besides, that is irrelevant.”

He turned his head to glower at the guard stationed by the door. “Make him leave.”

The guard snorted. “It’s not happening. You know procedure.”

466 stared at her and relaxed in his chair. “Do you think I’m going to kill you?”

She wondered at times if he hated her. It was obvious he resented the required therapy but she didn’t believe he’d attack a woman. She hadn’t seen any indications that he possessed a cruel streak and he didn’t exhibit bully tendencies. “No.”

“You want me to talk?”

“That would be a nice change. Yes.”

“Make the guard leave. I’m not opening up to anyone but you. I read about patient confidentiality. I want that.”

Her eyebrows arched in surprise. “All the guards are sworn to keep our sessions private. He’s not allowed to repeat anything he hears. He’s present because I’m a woman. It’s for our mutual protection.”

“You believe I’m going to kill you.” He frowned. “Or do you think I’ll pick you up, tear off your clothes and mount you against the wall?” He smirked as his gaze lowered down her body. “A fishing reference I learned on last month’s mandatory trip comes to mind—I’d toss you back for being too small. It wouldn’t be any fun for me. You’d break if I fucked something so fragile.”

“Watch your mouth and show some respect,” the guard ordered, taking a threatening step forward.

Joy was a little taken aback by 466’s crude words but it was the most she’d ever heard him say at one time. She lifted her hand to stop the guard from interfering again. She dropped her palm flat on her desk.

“Leave us.” She glanced at the guard.

“No way, Dr. Yards, this guy is unstable.”

“He’s talking at least. Get out. You can wait down the hall in reception.”

466 obviously tried to hide his surprise but failed. He schooled his features quickly though and recovered his composed expression. “You’ll hear her scream if I attack. Leave.”

The guard shook his head.

Irritation flared inside Joy. There were only a few male guards at Site Four but they never took orders well. “This is my office and the way I conduct my sessions are my decision. Shut the door on your way out and wait down the hall. You will be close enough to get here if there’s a problem. That’s a direct order, not a request.”

“Fine.” The guard spun, stomped out and slammed the door behind him.

Joy studied 466. “We’re alone now. Talk to me. Why don’t you play sports?”

He blinked a few times as the silence stretched.

“You said you’d talk if we were alone. We are. You don’t strike me as the type of man who goes back on his word.”

“How would you know?”

“I talk to a lot of New Species. They are very proud and respect honesty.”

His hands released the arms of his chair and he crossed his arms over his chest again. “They don’t interest me. This is a human thing and I’m not.” His eyes narrowed. “I’m not a man either. I’m male.”

“You’re a hybrid human.”

“I’m an animal in human form.”

She always found it fascinating that New Species differentiated themselves from humans. The lines were firmly drawn inside their minds. It helped her understand them all a little better. 466 was even more adamant than most Species.

466 had resentment issues and that was healthy, considering he’d been held prisoner his entire life after being created with mixed DNA by a drug company who’d used his people as research subjects. Mercile Industries had somehow managed to merge animal and human genetics into living, breathing individuals.

“Is that why you’ve refused to choose a new name and kept your number instead?”

“Do I look like a Doug, Thomas, or Carl to you?” An eyebrow lifted. “Do I appear normal?”

She caught the hint of pain that flashed in his eyes and it made her hurt with him. It also broke her heart and horrified her when she heard stories the survivors shared about how they’d been treated at Mercile Industries. No one deserved the hellish lives they’d led until they had been discovered and rescued. No compassion, not even sympathy, had been shown them. They were numbers with no basic human rights. Lab rats.

Her gaze traveled over his features. There were slight differences that would always set him apart from typical humans. The facial bones were more pronounced in the cheeks and chins of the New Species. Their noses also seemed wider and a bit flatter than normal. A lot of them had fuller lips and fang-like teeth. The shapes of their eyes could reflect an individual’s distinct animal ancestry.

466 had a rugged appeal about him but he’d always draw attention if he attempted to walk around in society. Everyone would notice he wasn’t quite “normal”. She inwardly winced, remembering the debate she’d had with her boss the first week after she’d arrived. It had been more of a heated argument. They’d discussed the prospect of offering plastic surgery to the victims. Joy had taken the position that it would only traumatize them more. Her boss believed it would help them fit into society if they had the opportunity to change their looks.

Was I wrong? She bit her lip. Maybe offering them the chance to correct some of their facial anomalies should be on the table. She just believed they’d been messed with enough. It also seemed somehow offensive to her. No one should have to change their appearance to fit into mainstream society. Of course, it wasn’t up to her to make those decisions. That was way above her pay grade. She wouldn’t bring it up to any of the victims until someone decided whether it was appropriate. 466 and her other clients were attractive, even beautiful, to her. They were unique and special, perfect just the way they were.

“Well, do I?” His voice deepened, drawing her out of her musings. “Can you see calling me Tom instead of 466?”

“No, and I’m guessing you’re some form of canine species. It may set you apart from others but I don’t believe that’s a bad thing.”

He seemed surprised again. “I’m impressed you’re not lying to me by denying I’m different.”

“I’m not a big fan of deceit. I’m a psychologist. I’m here to counsel you. I deal in truths and emotions. Lying and playing games would only hurt you. I want to help. Have you ever considered taking a name? Some of your people have chosen to take names that aren’t typical. Names that reflect emotions they identify with or things they discover they love. You’re more than just a number.”

He shrugged.

He has. She hid the smile that threatened to surface, thrilled he was finally opening up a little. In four months he’d stonewalled her at every turn. She’d even changed his session times to the last appointment of the day since she didn’t want to halt him if he ever decided to talk.

“What do you feel?”

“Annoyed. I’d like to skip coming here.”

“What would you do if you weren’t here at this moment?”

He hesitated. “You want the truth?”

“I was being honest when I said I’m not a big fan of deceit.”

“Fine. I’d probably be in my room watching more of those porn videos on the internet and releasing some…tension.”

Her cheeks warmed but she refused to show embarrassment. Sexual issues weren’t her specialty but she wouldn’t back away from the topic. “Do you release tension often? Does it help with some of your aggression issues?”

“How do you know I have any?”

“You have a chip on your shoulder, you seem to avoid interaction with most of the people here, and I was informed you tried to start a few fights with the male guards. You go out of your way to target them despite knowing they wouldn’t stand a chance against you. You’re physically superior.”

His pride was easy to read. “I know.”

It told her more about him and she liked that he had self-esteem. It was a promising step toward recovery. “Have you tried boxing? Some of your men enjoy it. It’s a great outlet to release anger.”

He cocked his head. “That’s not my idea of a good time.”

“What interests you then? I’ll see what I can do if you know of something that might work. I know everyone has internet and cable access so you can learn a lot more about the outside world.”

“I doubt you’d want to get me what I want.”

“You won’t know unless you ask.”

“Fine.” He smiled—a genuine one. “Females. I’d like to pound something but it wouldn’t be a weight bag.”

She shouldn’t have been shocked by his answer but for someone who had refused to talk to her for so long, he seemed intent on saying things to make her uncomfortable. She suspected it was on purpose.

“There are plenty of women around you, 466. Ninety percent of the staff is female and some New Species women live here.”

“Ninety percent of the human females are pregnant or just had babies. Your people know we’d never attack them so they send them here to work with us. Our females don’t want to be touched. There’s no one to fuck.”

She had no words. None.

He leaned forward to peer at her, still smiling, and suddenly rose to his feet. She pushed back in her chair, a little fearful with him standing. They were alone. She didn’t believe he’d hurt her but he seemed to want to make her squirm. He was accomplishing it quite well too.

He sniffed as he leaned down, placed his hands on her desk inches from her own and softly growled. “You have no male in your life and you aren’t pregnant.”

She swallowed hard. “You don’t know anything about my personal life. Please take your seat.”

“I can smell everything about you.” He stared deeply into her eyes. “You no longer wear that stink you called perfume and switched to organic soap.”

“I was informed that it bothers your sense of smell.”

“You had sex this morning but you were alone. Do you watch porn in your room, Dr. Yards? Do you use your fingers or do you own some of those sex toys I have seen?”

She felt the blood drain from her face. How does he know that? Another thought struck and she jerked her hands off the desk. Can every client I’ve seen today tell I’ve masturbated? That implication was staggering. She was mortified and hoped he was bluffing. “Please sit down and stop trying to provoke me into releasing you early from the session.”

“Where’s your honesty now?” He leaned toward her and slowly inhaled. “I. Can. Smell. You.” A soft growl came from deep within his throat. “It drives me a little crazy and wild. Do you know what I want to do about it?”

“No. Please take your seat.”

His eyes were beautiful that close, just a foot from her. They reminded her of melted chocolate with a hint of gold thrown in. The pupils seemed to narrow as he watched her. He growled again and inched even closer until she could smell him. He carried a rich, masculine scent with a hint of something familiar that she could identify—he’d recently drunk coffee.

“I want to lay you out on this desk, bare, and lick between your spread thighs, which will be hugging my face, until you beg me to take you. I’d flip you on your stomach and bend you over in front of me right here.” His finger tapped the wooden surface of her desk. “I’d fuck you until we both couldn’t walk, think, or talk.”

Her hands trembled in her lap and clenched. She wished her chair had wheels so she could push it away from him and the desk. Wishing didn’t make it so. Her heart raced and the idea of him doing that to her did odd, funny things to her lower belly.

“It would feel so good for both of us. Do you want to help me? Take off your clothes. That’s the only way you’ll make me feel better about the things that I’ve suffered.”

She latched on to his last sentence like the drowning person she was, admitting that she found him far too appealing. She had eyes—he was a perfect specimen of muscles and tan skin, all wrapped up in a six-foot-four frame.

“Sex isn’t the answer. Talking about your problems is.”

“I’ll talk while I fuck you. I’m sure I’ll have lots to say about how good you’ll feel.”

She forced her gaze down to his hands. They were big and she knew there were calluses on his fingertips, the pads of his thumbs, and his palms. Most of the survivors had that anomaly and she’d noticed in other sessions that he had it too. She wondered what his hands would feel like on her skin. Rough? Good? Or like sandpaper? It was tempting to find out.

“Please take your seat, 466.” She looked up to stare directly into his eyes. “I will call for the guard to return.”

He shook his head but straightened and returned to his seat. She breathed easier when he sat. He once again crossed his arms over his chest and frowned. “I’m not into threesomes. I know they are popular with humans but it sickens me. We get turned off by the scent of other males on females and I’d have to strangle him if he touched you.”

Her mouth dropped open. “That’s not why I’d call him!” She sealed her lips and frowned back at him. “You know that though. Are you having fun playing with me?”

He smiled. “You won’t allow me to play with you.” He licked his lips, purposely showing her his tongue. “Next time you engage in sex alone remember me because I’ll be doing the same.” Amusement flashed in his eyes. “As soon as I leave here I’m going to my room.” His legs spread a little and he adjusted his ass in the chair. “I’m already hard.”

Her gaze flicked downward before she could stop the reaction. The outline of his cock was clear inside the sweatpants he wore. Most New Species hated any form of underwear she’d been told, and without them it was obvious 466 wasn’t lying. She gasped at his large size and he laughed.

She glared at his face. “That’s totally inappropriate. I see you need to retake the class about what to say to people and what not to. Remember Manners 101?”

“I know the difference.” He kept the smile in place. “We speak the truth here according to you and that’s what I’m doing. I’m going to go to my room and—”

“I understand,” she cut him off. “I’m your therapist and there’s a thing called ethics. You can stop having those thoughts about me because we can’t ever have a physical relationship.”

That killed his amusement. “Why not?”

“I took an oath and you’re my client. You need my help and that means not being taken advantage of. You’re in a fragile state.”

He threw back his head and laughed then lowered his chin and spread his arms wide. “Do I appear weak to you? You couldn’t hurt me if you tried.” He dropped his hands and gripped the arms of the chair. “You could bite, scratch, wrestle with me, and get as rough as you want to during shared sex. I’d enjoy it. I’d be more worried about you getting hurt.”

“You can go. I’ll see you tomorrow.” The session wasn’t going to progress with sex as the topic.

He didn’t budge.

“I said you can leave, 466.”

He took a deep breath and blew it out. “Do you know how to be totally honest?”

“Yes.” She dreaded answering him, wondering what he was up to now.

“Would you let me mount you if you weren’t my shrink?”

“I don’t know you well enough to answer that. I’m also not a shrink. I’m a doctor. We prefer that title.”

“That’s avoidance.”

“It’s perfectly honest. I don’t engage in casual sex.” She shouldn’t be telling him anything personal but he wasn’t exactly a textbook client. Nowhere in school had they covered half-beast men who’d been created by a company with no ethics. “I’ve never engaged in sex with someone I wasn’t in love with.”

“You’ve never shared sex?” The disbelief on his face was nearly comical.

“I have. I’m not a virgin.”

“He died?”

“Who?”

“The man you loved. He was killed?”

“No.”

“I don’t understand.” He leaned forward, looking genuinely baffled.

“What confuses you?”

“You are telling me lies.”

“I’m not.”

“You said you only shared sex with a male you love.”

“That’s true.”

“You don’t carry his scent. Where is he?”

“I don’t know exactly where my ex-boyfriends are. I don’t talk to any of them anymore. It’s common to cease all communication when a relationship ends.”

His gaze widened and he shot to his feet. “Boyfriends?”

Something distressed him but she didn’t know how her answers had caused that reaction. “I’ve had four serious boyfriends in my life.”

He growled.

“What is wrong?”

“Love is forever.” He gave her a disgusted look. “You have no idea what real love is, Joy.”

She watched him storm out of her office with his hands clenched furiously at his sides. She could only stare at the open door long after he’d gone.

She stood and became aware that her body had reacted to him. Her breasts were hypersensitive to the movement within the cups of her bra and she needed to change her panties for drier ones.

“Damn,” she muttered and closed her eyes. That had to be the strangest session she’d ever had. She leaned over to grab her cell phone out of her top desk drawer, scrolled through the numbers, and pressed the one she wanted.

“Dr. Megan Green,” a cheerful voice answered.

“Hi, Meg, it’s Joy.”

“What’s wrong?” Concern instantly filled the woman’s voice.

“Do you have time for a phone session?”

“Always. Hang on and let me close the bedroom door. I’m at home and so is one of my roommates. What’s wrong?”

“I’m attracted to a client. The therapist needs to be counseled.” She laughed nervously at the poor joke. “Shit. You never think it can happen to you.”

“Hot, huh?”

“Massively. He just told me what he wanted to do to me and I have to admit, it’s not something I’m going to forget any time soon.”

“What did he want to do?”

“Never mind that. The point is, he’s very attractive and he’s severely damaged.”

“Shit. A twofer. I want his number if he drives a motorcycle since he’s not one of mine.”

“Shut up. This isn’t something to joke about.” She leaned against her desk. “Worse, I think he’s a romantic. He believes love is forever.”

Meg was silent for a good five seconds. “Quit your job today. You can work here. There’s always an opening for a top-rated therapist.”

“That’s not funny.”

“I’m not joking. Run, babe. How many sessions a month do you have with him?”

Joy’s shoulders slumped. “I just changed his schedule to daily sessions. He went through a severe trauma.”

“I think I have a copy of your résumé. I’ll give it to my boss in the morning. You can have the vacant bedroom until you find a place to live. One of my roommates moved in with her boyfriend so it couldn’t be better timing. I’ll expect you in two weeks when your notice takes effect.”

“I can’t do that. I committed to this job for the long haul. It would traumatize more clients if I left.”

“They can hire someone else. You’re good but so are a lot of other professionals. You don’t want to mess with this. You could lose your license, face legal action even, and be fined at the very least.”

“I’m not going to act on it, damn it. That’s why I’m calling you.”

“You’re going to be screwed if you don’t get away from this guy and I mean that in the actual and metaphorical way. You want my advice? That’s it. Quit.”

Joy closed her eyes as her predicament settled in. “Great.”

Chapter One

The present

NSO Homeland

“What is going on?” Joy glanced at the New Species leading her through the building and continued, “I received a call that there was some kind of emergency with someone I counseled in the past. They said it was urgent that I come.”

A snarl came from farther down the hallway and made her jump. Her escort bolted away, abandoning her to rush into a room. She hurried forward despite that terrifying sound. She paused at the entrance to the room to stare in absolute horror at the scene playing out.

“Hold him down!” The New Species male who had escorted her yelled the order and two more Species males threw their massive bodies over the guy restrained on the hospital bed. An earsplitting howl fractured the room and an arm snapped free from the restraints. The Species clawed at the body over his chest, fisted the material of the other man’s shirt, and tried to toss aside the one attempting to hold him down.

“He’s still out of control!” the pale, shaken human shouted. “Paul? Where is that tranquilizer?”

Someone shoved into Joy from behind, nearly causing her to bump into the doorjamb as he rushed into the chaos. His ID tag identified him as a nurse.

“I’m here, Doctor!” The nurse uncapped the syringe in his hand just as all hell broke loose.

The guy being restrained let out another fierce howl and broke his other wrist free of the thick bindings holding him flat. He threw off two bodies, sat up, and punched the third Species square in the face, sending him crashing to the floor.

The enraged Species tore at the restraints, the sound barely audible over the commotion of men struggling to their feet. Joy stared in shock at her former client—466. His features were hauntingly familiar as he tossed his long hair back, despite the fact that she hadn’t seen him in over two years.

He slid off the bed after freeing his legs, growled at the doctor, and sent the man scurrying backward until he huddled in a corner. Worry came in a close second to Joy’s fear. Seeing 466 that way brought tears to her eyes. What the hell has happened to him? She had no answers but she wanted them.

It was clear the distressed Species planned to attack the doctor. One of the other New Species launched himself onto 466’s back but he just ended up being slung to the floor. Joy had to refrain from barging into the room to go to her former client, wanting to calm him down. Common sense held her still. Self-preservation did too.

“Moon!” the one he’d punched in the face shouted. “Look at me. You want a piece of someone? Come at me, damn it.”

466 spun and snarled, showing off sharp fangs as rage twisted his normally handsome face into something terrifying. He looked like someone out of control and filled with such hatred that he wanted to kill. He crouched into a fighting stance.

The doctor slid along the wall to get away from him and rushed toward the doorway. Moon allowed him to go, intent on attacking his Species opponent instead. The male nurse backed into Joy and dropped the uncapped syringe on the floor in his haste to escape the danger. He turned his head toward her, his eyes panic-stricken.

“Go,” the man hissed. “He’s going to kill any human he comes into contact with if he gets past them. He’s out of his mind.”

She hugged the wall as both of the human medical staff fled. She wasn’t leaving. No way. 466—Moon—might need her. Her dazed mind accepted the name he’d obviously chosen.

“Moon,” the Species male growled. “Calm yourself. We are your brothers and friends. Think and remember us.”

A horrible howl tore from Moon’s mouth before he attacked. He hit the other male shoulder-first with enough force to slam his opponent into a wall. Plaster gave way. Another Species tried to grab him but Moon gripped his arm, his teeth savagely tearing into skin instead. The bitten male bled heavily as he spun away from Moon and stumbled to the door, holding his upper arm. Joy jumped out of his way as he staggered past.

“Run,” he demanded harshly. “The smell of blood will make him worse.”

The one who had been shoved against the wall hard enough to get his elbows trapped inside the plaster broke free and launched himself at Moon again as the other New Species guard picked himself up off the floor. It was horrifying to see Moon fighting them as his big body blocked the double assault by punching out with one fist while spinning to kick at the second Species. Both males grunted with pain as they were thrown away from him.

Joy had a horrible suspicion that Moon was under the influence of what some of her clients had referred to as a breeding drug. Mercile Industries had created an experimental concoction that sent the males into a nearly violent desire to have sex. The company had used it to force them to have intercourse in an attempt to impregnate the Species females. While under the influence of the drug, the Species males could become dangerous to anyone who got in their way.

The men still attempting to subdue Moon were both injured. It dawned on Joy that they might have to seriously hurt him in order to restrain him. Memories surfaced of the things she’d learned during their sessions.

The last weeks at site four flashed through her mind. The male she’d gotten to know so well wouldn’t hurt a female unless he deemed her dangerous. They’d spent every afternoon together, sometimes expanding the hour she’d required him to be there. He’d relaxed enough to talk to her after a few days. The sexual tension between them had grown with each passing day.

Seeing him as he was now, wild and fighting other males, wasn’t how she’d fantasized their reunion would go if they ever crossed paths again. He’d wanted her once and she hoped that hadn’t changed. She had to put a stop to the violence. Her main concern was for him. She instantly kicked off her shoes. She tore out the clip that kept her hair in a bun, shaking it free to fall down her back. She clutched the front of her shirt as she stepped into the room. Nothing could distract the male she’d known back then more than the flash of her skin.

A savage face turned her way as Moon sniffed loudly, his attention fixed on her now that he was aware of her presence. Her heart raced with fear. Every fiber of her being wanted to flee but she couldn’t take the chance that the other men in the room would possibly have to kill Moon to stop his rampage.

“Easy,” she crooned. Her hands trembled as her fingers slipped between the folds of fabric and tore. Buttons landed on the floor as air hit the skin she revealed. He’d see her black lacy bra but that was the point. His gaze lowered to her cleavage as she inched into the room, keeping her back against the wall.

“Get out!” one of the other Species snarled. “Run.”

It would only make Moon go into hunt mode. The predator side of him was too close to the surface to believe any other outcome would be possible. She knew Species and was betting her life on it at the moment. She released the destroyed shirt and opened her arms wide at her sides, showing Moon her palms to prove she held no weapons.

“I’ve got this,” she stated to the other Species. “Stay back.” Her voice came out shaky at best but it didn’t crack as she battled to keep her fright under control, knowing her plan could go tragically wrong.

She focused on Moon as she slid along the wall. He watched her, seeming to forget everyone else around them. His nostrils flared as he sniffed again and advanced, stalking her.

“Easy,” she whispered. “That’s right. I’m female.”

One of the Species staggered between them, trying to prevent Moon from reaching her. “Get out of here. He’ll kill you. He’s insane and doesn’t know any of us.”

Moon grabbed the male’s shirt, easily tossing him aside, where he landed on his ass.

“His instincts are in control,” Joy surmised. She studied Moon’s dark eyes and didn’t see any signs of recognition. It scared the shit out of her. Any sense of calm she had felt vanished. He could kill her but it was too late to change her course of action. “He’s less likely to kill me than you.”

He will probably want to fuck me. She silently admitted she wouldn’t mind if he did. She’d made a mistake by running away from her feelings for him when she’d quit her job. It had hurt deeply but she’d been certain it was her only option. It had been a huge error to choose it over him but there had been no way they could be together even if she had been willing to risk everything. She’d thought a lot about Moon, almost to the point of obsession. The therapist had fallen for her client. It was inexcusable and unforgivable, but truth nonetheless.

Moon advanced as she pressed her back to the wall and turned her head to the side, expecting pain, but he didn’t hurt her when his body hit. Solid male pressed tightly against her and strong hands gripped her. He reached through the opening of her shirt to go for skin. His fingers and palms were hot, firm, as he slid them lower to dig inside the waistband of her skirt. The elastic gave and he grabbed hold of her hipbones.

She gasped when he lifted her off her feet but kept her pinned between him and the wall until his mouth hovered at the side of her throat. Hot breath fanned her skin as he panted. She was terrified as she helplessly hung there but he didn’t bite into her with his sharp fangs. His wet, raspy tongue surprised her when it licked the sensitive area of her throat underneath her ear.

He’s tasting me. Kill or sex? That’s what is going through his mind right now. She prayed he’d decide she was for the latter. Her mind scrambled to remember if she’d worn perfume that morning. She was certain she hadn’t. Nothing he would be able to smell should offend him. His lower body wedged tighter against hers and the feel of something hard nudging against the vee of her thighs reassured her somewhat. He was aroused. The stiff outline of his cock couldn’t be mistaken for anything else.

Their bellies were skin to skin since he wore only pants. She inhaled sharply when his mouth opened and clamped down over her carotid artery. He didn’t tear into her but he still could. His teeth paused there while her life was in his hands. She opened her eyes to stare at the New Species who were inching up behind Moon.

She lifted a hand to stop them and mouthed one word, “Sedative.” One of them nodded sharply, spun, and rushed out of the room. The syringe on the floor had been crushed during the fight. It had been uncapped and contaminated anyway, making it useless. She tentatively touched Moon’s biceps. They were thick and left no doubt about his impressive strength. Her fingers surfed his warm skin, rubbing.

“Do you remember me at all?” She took a breath. “Don’t hurt me. I’m no threat.”

He bit down but it didn’t break the skin. He had a firm grip on her though. The remaining Species inched closer in an attempt to launch a surprise attack. The body against hers stiffened. A growl rumbled from him, making his chest vibrate. He sensed a threat.

“He’ll rip out my throat. Get out. Do you think he isn’t aware of you? I’m fine. Back off!” Joy kept direct eye contact with the guard so he’d know she spoke to him.

The Species retreated immediately and Moon’s teeth loosened their hold. Joy stared at the male who hesitated by the door and kept her voice calm. “We’re fine. Just step out and get what I asked for. I’ll call if I need assistance.” Scream. That was the word she didn’t use but would be more accurate if things turned bad. “Let me see if I can calm him while you hurry to get what is needed.”

He looked unsure but backed away until he was out of sight. Joy slowly turned her head until her cheek rested against Moon’s. He had smooth skin—Species didn’t grow facial hair easily, if at all. She massaged the muscles of his upper arms.

“I missed you.” She spoke very softly, hoping no one but Moon could hear her heartfelt words. “I’m sorry I left. I was afraid.” She didn’t elaborate, certain that, in his current mood, he didn’t want to hear her rationalizations. “Why has this been done to you?”

So many unanswered questions tormented her. Was the damage permanent? Temporary? Was the person he used to be trapped somewhere inside his mind?

His hips nuzzled tighter against her pelvis, making her very conscious of the state of his cock and what was on his mind at that moment. The tight hold on her neck eased as his teeth released her. He might not recognize her in his drugged state but he was aware of her as a woman. She slid her hands up to his broad shoulders but he didn’t snarl or protest, seemingly happy to sniff and lick her skin again.

His hair was soft as she touched it and laced her fingers through the long strands at the base of his head, holding him close. She rubbed her cheek against his again, breathing in his masculine scent, which was so familiar to her—assuring her once again that she’d gotten way too close to her former client. Her body was alive and worse, she knew the symptoms of her own arousal. Part of her longed to wrap her legs around his waist and hope he’d take advantage of the position by tearing away the clothing between them.

Just the idea of them naked, him taking her, made her muffle a moan. She’d dreamed about him almost nightly and daydreamed about him daily. Those fantasies had primed her body to respond to the flesh-and-blood male. He didn’t have to kiss her or do anything but hold her to turn her on. All it took was being near him.

He inhaled deeply, taking in more of her scent. She hoped he’d remember her, that a memory would click into place. She’d been told by her clients that what they’d termed “breeding drugs” totally obliterated their ability to think but the fact that he didn’t seem to recognize her was disturbing.

Doubt and insecurity struck sharply. Perhaps she hadn’t meant as much to him as he’d led her to believe. Those last days she’d spent with him inside her office had been intense. He’d grown progressively adamant that he wanted her. He’d told her that he obsessed about touching her and taking her to his bed. The things he’d said he wanted to do to her still made her squirm in sexual frustration. She’d wanted him to do everything he’d imagined. The fact that it was forbidden had only made it more difficult to resist.

“Moon,” she whispered. “Look at me. Please?”

Joy wasn’t sure if he heard her or would comply but he slowly moved his head until they gazed at each other, nose to nose. Up close his eyes were as striking as she remembered and looking into them made thinking difficult.

“Hi. It’s Joy.” She licked her lips. “Dr. Yards. Do you remember me now?”

No recognition flickered in his gaze but he did pull back further and lower his focus to her mouth. He growled at her. It wasn’t a ferocious sound—more of a rumble that vibrated his chest, which was still smashed against hers. The fact that he’d done what she’d asked wasn’t lost on her. He could understand what she was saying.

“You’re going to be okay. You’re on drugs. Do you understand? The NSO called me to help you and I’m here.” Her hands stroked the back of his neck and played with his hair. “Can you talk? Tell me what you need.”

He growled again. His hips wiggled tighter against her until her tailbone dug uncomfortably into the unforgiving wall. She shifted, parting her legs to alleviate the pressure and Moon took advantage of it immediately by positioning the hard ridge of his cock against the seam of her pussy. She bit back another moan. It felt good to finally feel him there and she wanted more.

He lowered his gaze to stare at her cleavage and tucked his chin to get a better view as he breathed her in again. She wasn’t surprised when he adjusted her a bit higher in his hold to nuzzle his face between her breasts. When his tongue tasted her she closed her eyes. Her belly clenched and the urge to wrap her legs around his waist struck again. Joy barely resisted.

The soft sound of quick footsteps drew her attention. It was a New Species male and he gripped a handheld dart gun. Moon heard his approach too and whipped his head around. He reacted by snarling loudly—a scary, threatening sound.

The Species male fired immediately and Joy tensed, knowing Moon had been hit in the muscle above his shoulder blade since she saw the colorful tag at the end of the dart. The man who held her responded by throwing his head back and howling as he crushed her against the wall.

They both slid to the floor when Moon’s knees gave out. She practically straddled his lap. She glimpsed pure rage on his features for a split second before his eyes rolled up into his head. He slumped backward, taking her with him since his hands still gripped her. The other Species moved fast and managed to catch Moon’s back before he sprawled flat, out cold.

Joy scrambled to get off Moon and dropped to her knees beside him, jerking out the protruding dart from his skin to prevent it from causing him more injury before it was shoved deeper when he touched the floor. The Species male frowned at her as he gently lowered the unconscious Moon.

“What the hell were you thinking by interfering? You could have been killed. My males rushed out to report what you did when you entered the room and they told me Moon had you. Are you insane?”

Joy remembered her shirt gaped open and dropped the dart to grip the edges together to hide her bra. “I’m Dr. Joyce Yards. Who are you?”

“Answer my questions. What were you doing and are you insane?”

She swallowed hard. “I saw him fighting other Species and it was obvious he wasn’t in control. Someone could have gotten hurt. I intervened to prevent that. No. I’m not insane. I have some questions myself. Why is he on the breeding drug? Who the hell gave it to him?”

Two of the New Species who had been fighting with Moon returned to the room. Both were grim-faced as Joy scrambled to her feet and tried to compose her frayed emotions. She got out of the way as the two of them approached then gently lifted their fallen comrade from the floor. They carried him between them to the bed and placed him back on the mattress. She watched them reattach the restraints to his arms, legs, and torso before the other New Species—obviously the one in charge—stepped into her path and blocked her view.

Joy swayed a little on her feet, the urge to check on Moon so strong she fisted her shirt tighter, remembering she would give too much away if she acted on impulse.

“Dr. Yards?” This Species was tall with a beautiful mane of hair and pretty cat eyes, which appeared angry as he glared at her. “What do you think you were doing?”

“I’m an expert on Species. I was trying to prevent someone from being killed.”

His gaze lowered to her shirt. “He tore it?”

“I did. I knew my breasts would get his attention. I realize how unprofessional that sounds, but I was right. And I’m not here as his therapist, or in any official capacity.” Her chin lifted as she glared back, daring him to question her motives. “Who gave him breeding drugs? Why is he on them? What the hell did I walk into?”

“He could have killed you.”

She decided to be totally blunt. They appreciated that. “Your males are unlikely to injure a female, especially one they don’t consider a threat. He was more prone to attempt to engage in sexual activity than kill me outright. That’s also why I opened my shirt. The sight of cleavage seems to work wonders. It has been known to change their moods to downright friendly. It’s not a secret how horny some Species can be.”

He seemed astonished at her frankness but suddenly grinned. “True. Let’s start over. Thank you for coming so quickly. You were difficult to track down but as you can see, we have a situation.”

She relaxed the firm grip on her shirt. “What is going on, sir?”

“Call me Tiger.” He held out his hand.

She took it, making sure to keep her shirt together, feeling the entire situation was a bit surreal. “Um, what happened to Moon?”

He hesitated. “Did you sign the waiver?”

She had to think. “You mean the confidentiality clause they shoved at me while I was being processed at the gate? Yes, I did.”

“Good. Moon was attacked three days ago and our doctors haven’t been able to figure out what was done to him.”

She waited, confused. He remained silent. “How was he attacked? Why call me? I’m a psychologist. Was it a mental break caused by the trauma he suffered? What exactly happened to him?”

“No. Yes. Maybe. He was shot with what we believe was a high-powered dart rifle while he patrolled one of our walls. We haven’t been able to identify the drug yet but it’s not a breeding drug. We’re working on finding out what it was.”

“Okay.” She waited for more details.

“He woke feral. He doesn’t seem to recognize his friends. He wants to kill anyone who comes into contact with him. Our doctors hoped whatever he was given would wear off. When it didn’t, we figured it might be psychological. You were his head shrink after he was released from Mercile and we need you to assess him.”

Her heart squeezed while she ignored the derogatory title he’d labeled her job. She had grown used to it while dealing with Species. She was more concerned with 466’s condition. It was painful that something horrible had happened to him.

“It sounds more like a drug reaction than a psychotic break. You need to find out what he was given.”

Irritation flashed over Tiger’s features. “We’re aware of that fact but this isn’t a known drug. We’re being targeted by some of Mercile’s employees.”

That surprised her. “I heard they were shut down forever.”

“They were but we haven’t found all the doctors or staff who imprisoned us. A special task force hunts them but it takes time. Someone with strong ties to Mercile recently sent a team of mercenaries to retrieve one of our females. We believe he also hired someone who worked for Mercile to make this drug and infect Moon with it as a distraction. This unidentified drug has made him homicidal.”

“Anyone associated with Mercile will be prosecuted for what they did. It’s irrational to believe that killing their victims will change that. I’m assuming that’s why they created this drug? So he’d kill other Species?” It was her best guess.

His eyebrow lifted. “Rationality isn’t their strongest trait, considering what they did to us. Someone created a drug not listed in the FDA database. Mercile is the only enemy we have with the resources to manufacture a drug targeted to harm Species and the attack happened at the same time mercenaries paid by a Mercile associate attempted to recapture the female.”

She bit her lip but released it when she realized her nervousness showed. “Okay. I don’t see why you called me though. He needs a chemist or scientist to figure out what he was given and reverse this reaction. I’m not qualified to tell you what was done to him on a substance level.”

Tiger frowned. “You were close to Moon and we’re hoping you can reach him. His mental state has been affected. We’re working on figuring out what he was given but it’s taking too much time.”

What did he mean by the term “close”? Had someone suspected she had fallen in love with her client? Nothing had happened between them. She’d made sure to keep her ethics legally intact but she’d failed big-time on a personal level. She’d become too attached, had desperately wanted to be with Moon, but had managed to resist what they both had known was forbidden.

“I’m not someone he’d wish to spend more time with if he were able to talk.”

That lifted the man’s eyebrows. “Shrinks were never our favorite people but he spoke fondly of you.”

Astonishment tore through her. “He did?”

“Yes. He told me once that you made him speak of his emotions and he thought you fearless. He respected you.”

Guilt ate at her. She didn’t deserve the praise considering how she’d cut and run after finally getting him to open up during their sessions. The time they’d shared had become too intimate and his constant talk about what he wanted to do to her sexually had her soaking in cool baths after almost every session they’d spent together. She’d fled when it got to the point that he’d begun to touch her. She’d wanted him too much to resist for long, her job and future be damned.

“I don’t know what you expect me to be able to do.”

“Talk to him. We’re moving him to a special area that took us all day to refit for his needs. We were hoping the drugs would leave his system but now we’re that aware we’ll have to keep him prisoner until he’s cured. He’s too dangerous since he keeps breaching the restraints. We don’t want to use chains long-term due to the fact that, with his strength, he could break his limbs when he struggles. It would be cruel.”

“It might also remind him of his cell at Mercile if you chain him and keep him immobile.”

Tiger grimly nodded. “I won’t deny we’re worried about that. We don’t want recollections of his past to torment him or for him to believe he’s been sent back there.”

“It would only worsen his condition,” she agreed. “What arrangements do you have in mind?”

“We decided to place him in a cell, no restraints, just bars to keep him contained. We can’t keep asking our males to fight to keep him down. He sure can’t be allowed to run loose around Homeland. We have some human staff and he even sees other male Species as a threat. I’m not willing it to risk it. He could also attack our females. This was a unanimous decision by our people and your human doctors who have flown in to examine him. Our NSO doctors agreed too.”

She remembered that New Species always differentiated between themselves and humans. “It was a good call to make, considering what I just saw. He is dangerous.”

Tiger lifted a hand and ran it through his hair, a worried look crossing his striking features. “I know it’s a lot to ask but you don’t have to go inside the cell with him. We thought perhaps you could talk to him from outside it. He can’t reach you but he could see and hear you. We’re hoping it might trigger memories and being a female might also help. The other female he grew close to isn’t permitted near him.”

Jealousy hit, a useless emotion considering she had no right to feel that way. Still, it burned inside her chest. “Why can’t his girlfriend see him?”

“She’s not his,” Tiger said as he watched the Species add more restraints to hold 466 on the bed. “She belongs to another male but they are friends. Her mate would kill Moon if he harmed Trisha, even knowing he’s not responsible for his actions.” He turned back and dropped his hand to his side. “I’d hate for him to die.”

“Mate?” Relief swept through her. “Is she New Species?”

“Human. That’s classified.” His gaze hardened. “Understood? No information leaves here.”

“I got it. I won’t repeat anything. All that was covered before I was given clearance to be here. Besides, I never told anyone I even worked with New Species.”

He stared at her. “No one?”

“No one. Not my friends or family and not even my personal therapist.”

He seemed to believe her and his body relaxed. “Trisha is one of our doctors and she is mated to one of our males. It’s a good thing no one ever learned you worked with us or you may have been targeted by someone who doesn’t agree with our continuing existence. She was in danger because of her association with the NSO. Moon was part of her security detail. They became close friends. Trisha is irritated that Slade won’t allow her to talk to her friend but we’re very protective of our mates. One bruise, or hell, even if he made her cry, Slade would tear him apart.”

“I didn’t officially work for the New Species Organization. The government subcontracted me. I worked at one of the safe locations in the desert where you stayed after you were freed, before Homeland was given to you. The NSO was formed after you left there.”

“Right. Sorry. I’m having a bad day. I read that you dealt with Species after we were freed while everyone was trying to figure out what to do with us.” Tiger smiled grimly. “I bet that was a shit job. I was a mess.”

“What was done to all of you was horrible.” She left it at that. “It was an honor helping where I could.”

He closely studied her. “You must have done some great work. You were at site four and nobody bitches about you. That says a lot. You should have met the shrink they assigned me. She was annoying as hell and really made me angry.”

“I’m sorry. Sometimes it’s our job to push to make a client release some of their frustrations.”

His gaze flicked down her before rising again. He had assessed her coldly, no emotion showing. “It might have helped if she’d looked anything similar to you. It would have been easier when she grated on our nerves. She wasn’t pleasing to the eye or the ears.” He spun around to glance at the other males. “Did you lock him down good? I don’t want him getting up from that bed again when he wakes. We’ve mostly cleared out Medical but I don’t want the few remaining staff injured.”

“We did. I hate to see him this way,” one of the Species males grumbled.

Tiger gripped the male’s arm. “I know. I do too.”

The second male growled. “It could have been any of us but Moon was unlucky. I wish we’d been able to capture the asshole who shot him.” He glared at Joy. “Human.”

Tiger moved between them and snarled. “She’s not the enemy. We’re all angry and distressed right now. Focus that rage where it belongs. She worked with Moon after we were released from Mercile and he respected her. Do the same.”

“Fine.” The male sighed. “He bit me too.” He lifted his arm and twisted it. Blood flowed from the nasty wound.

“Let’s get it looked at.” Tiger turned and met Joy’s gaze. “We’ll be right down the hall talking to the doctor and having their injuries treated. Stay away from Moon. I’ll call one of our females to escort you to human housing to get you settled. You were told you’d be here a while, weren’t you?”

She hadn’t been, but nodded. She didn’t want to leave Moon again when he needed her. “That’s fine. I’ll stay as long as you think I can be of use.”

She’d have to call her work at some point within the next two days and tell them there was some kind of emergency. Her coworkers would need to handle her clients but that was the good thing about working for a hospital. They had the extra staff. The worst they could do was fire her but she was willing to risk it.

The three males left the room. She stared at the big body restrained on the bed. They’d not only shackled Moon’s arms and legs but run rope around his body a few times from his upper chest to his thighs to prevent him from moving. Moon wasn’t going to break free again without a heavy-duty cutting device.

She approached him slowly until she stood next to his head and peered down at a face she’d been sure she’d never see again. He was a little tanner, his hair had grown a good foot, and he’d filled out a lot. He’d been leaner when she’d met him, still recovering from being half starved by his captors. She lovingly examined each feature. He looked really peaceful.

Her hand trembled as her fingertips lightly traced his cheek. She glanced at the door, could see down the hallway, and hoped the Species weren’t within hearing distance. They had enhanced senses but she felt safe whispering. His hot skin drew her attention as she caressed him. He’d chosen a name she liked. Moon. She said it a dozen times in her head.

“Hi, Moon. I’ve dreamed about seeing you again but I didn’t want it to be this way or for this reason. I’m going to do everything in my power to help you. I won’t abandon you this time. I’ve regretted taking off on you more than you’ll ever know.”

She brushed back an errant lock of his silky hair. “Please forgive me but I would have lost everything and I couldn’t risk it because you were vulnerable. They wouldn’t have allowed it anyway.”

She released his hair and backed away, not wanting to be caught touching him again. Joy hugged her chest, knew she was in emotional turmoil and the smart thing to do would be to leave. It might ruin her career if it ever came out that she had developed a strong emotional and sexual attachment to a client but she didn’t care. She’d help him by doing her best to figure out how to restore his sanity and then she’d leave once he didn’t need her anymore.

Her time with him at site four was fresh in her memory as she longingly gazed at Moon. Excitement had made the days drag until those evening sessions when he’d been escorted into her office. She’d missed the sound of his husky voice. He’d slowly opened up about some of the abuse he’d suffered at Mercile. It had torn her to shreds listening to each horrific detail but he had needed to get it out. It was part of the healing process.

She’d managed to hide her rage while learning that he’d been beaten just to test some miracle drug that improved healing ability. Those sons of bitches had ganged up on him while he’d been chained, sometimes breaking bones as well as skin, just to see how long it would take for his body to mend. She’d silently wished she could go back in time and spare him all the pain. She was a strident advocate against violence but she’d had plenty of thoughts about performing some gruesome acts on the men and women responsible for his torture.

A few times he’d lifted his shirt to show her scars on his stomach or back. The urge to kiss them in an attempt to soothe some of his residual emotional pain had been almost irresistible. She’d been attracted to Moon in every way and wasn’t able to see those flashes of skin without having unethical thoughts. It had grown harder with every session to restrain the urge to reach out to him. Guilt had surfaced many times as well because of her fascination with his muscular, tempting body.

He’d always turned the topic to sex. It might have been a defensive gesture, a way to distract her from his real issues. Whatever the reason, listening to him speak of the sexual things he wanted to do to her had a strong effect. She’d wanted him too. It had grown harder to keep reminding him of their professional limits.

Half of her had wanted to believe him when he said sex would cure all that ailed him, despite the fact that she knew better. The line between what was best for him and what her heart demanded had blurred with each passing day. Meg had been right to tell her to quit her job but it had broken her heart to leave. Site four had severe rules when it came to contact between Species and humans. Had she stayed, it might have destroyed both of them.

Only minutes passed before footsteps sounded in the hallway. The tall Species female who appeared wasn’t one she’d counseled, and she was happy for that since she had no ready explanation for why she’d suddenly quit on them. Joy forced a smile.

“You’re the shrink?” The Species scowled when she stopped five feet away.

“Yes. I am.”

“Come with me. I’m escorting you to your living quarters and then we’ll go over what you’ll need that you didn’t bring. You don’t seem to have any luggage. You’ll need more clothes and personal items.” Her gaze flicked to where Moon slept. “I hope you can fix his head.”

“Me too,” Joy admitted honestly. “I wasn’t aware this was going to be a long stay. I have one spare set of clothes in my car if you can get someone to retrieve them.”

“We can do that and we can order whatever else you need through Homeland.” The woman evaluated her. “It may take a day or two to get clothes that fit. I apologize.”

“That’s fine.” Joy wasn’t worried about how she looked. Her gaze lingered on Moon. He was all that mattered.

* * * * *

“You will not leave your home unescorted,” Rusty informed her sternly. The Species woman growled and glared to make her point. “All your meals will be brought to you.” She studied Joy critically from head to foot. “When is your cycle?”

“My what?”

“When you bleed.”

“I don’t have regular periods.” Joy shifted her weight, glanced around the house she’d been assigned, and wished Rusty would finish her lecture. The Species seemed determined to go over every rule ever made by the NSO concerning human guests. “I take a birth control shot and have for some time.”

“Good. I will spare you the regulations and procedures then.”

“I have a good idea that I already know them.”

That drew a curious look from Rusty. “Really? I checked your history and you have never visited Homeland or Reservation before today.”

“I helped write the handbook they probably based your regulations and rules on. I was there after your people were freed from Mercile Industries. It didn’t take a genius to figure out that your males have a hypersensitive sense of smell and I’m aware of their reactions to an ovulating or menstruating woman. Also, you should keep breastfeeding women away from them.” She shrugged. “Some of your males love milk and harassed a few nursing mothers when the employees returned to work after maternity leave. I’ve talked a lot of your guys out of cornering women for many reasons. I’m the one who made it standard procedure for all female employees dealing with the males to take the shot if they weren’t already pregnant. Nursing mothers were reassigned to duties that didn’t include interaction with your males.”

Rusty frowned. “You did?”

“Yes. Someone was smart to assign pregnant women to guard the Species males but they didn’t consider what would happen beyond the pregnancy. Though they wouldn’t attack women, the scent of an ovulating one turned them on. So did the blood scent of a menstruating one. The desert heat made it worse. There wasn’t even a breeze out there sometimes so the males could pick up a hell of a lot with their noses. It was trial and error but we got it right. I changed procedure immediately after a few confrontations and called the other sites to warn them of the situation.”

A slight smile curved Rusty’s mouth. “How did you lure the males away from the females?” She gave her a once-over again. “Did you offer your body in exchange for them releasing the females they wanted?”

“No! I talked them into returning to their rooms.” Joy relaxed her tense stance. “Why can’t I eat with the general public? I read in one of the newspapers that there’s a cafeteria on site where most of your meals are prepared. Was that incorrect?”

“Head shrinks are not popular and everyone is aware you are here. We didn’t want any issues to arise. We’re keeping you separated from everyone except the ones assigned to you or Moon. Some of our people could become testy in your presence.”

“That makes sense.” She glanced around the living room again, remembering the way the Species male at Medical had glared at her and called her human. “When are they moving Moon?”

“They have already done so.” The woman removed a cell phone from her pocket, touched it, and glanced down. “They texted me to let me know he’s been safely transferred.”

“Has he woken?”

Shoulders shrugged. “They didn’t state that information.”

“We waited for my spare clothes to be delivered, I changed my shirt and ate a sandwich. I’m ready to go see where he’s being held.”

“I was told you’d start in the morning.”

That didn’t sit well with Joy one bit. She was impatient to see 466 again. “He needs help now and I’m ready to go.”

“Fine.”

Rusty led the way and Joy followed. Two males had been assigned to guard her as well though they didn’t speak and stayed far back until they reached the street. She didn’t allow it to bother her. The Species would warm to her or they wouldn’t, their choice. They drove her back to Medical and it confused Joy.

“I thought you said they transferred him.”

“They did. To a secure part of the basement. It’s divided into two parts.” Rusty motioned her to follow. “We have hospital rooms downstairs but we also have a large storage space we converted to hold him. That is where he’ll be kept. We’ll take the freight elevator.”

That kept Joy silent as they entered the building, walked down a corridor, and ended up at a huge elevator. A solitary New Species officer sat in a chair with a weapon strapped to his hip. He looked up as they approached. A laptop rested over his thighs.

“This is the head shrink.” Rusty paused. “Is Moon awake?”

“No.” The Species assessed Joy with a sweep of his gaze and obviously found her nonthreatening. “Proceed.”

The two guards remained behind as they entered the elevator. Rusty pressed the down button. The doors slid closed while nervousness gripped Joy. She hugged her chest.

“Are you cold?”

“No. I’m worried that I won’t be able to do anything for Moon.”

“He needs your help.”

“I’m going to try my best.”

The elevator stopped and the doors slid open to reveal a dim room. Rusty stepped forward and Joy followed. The basement area was big and a few cells sat across the room. From floor to ceiling were bars separating the area into three rooms, the center cell had the door closed. That one had been stripped down. The ones on either side were set up hotel-room style with a partition, a bed, nightstands and a TV. Moon’s cell contained only a bed, sink and toilet.

“It is sad to see him this way.” Rusty paused. “I will bring a chair for you to sit on and a blanket to keep you warm. I’ll return shortly. Do not go near the bars.”

“No one is down here with him?” She peered around the dim basement. “Someone should be monitoring him at all times.”

“He’s sleeping and the officer upstairs will hear if he wakes. Moon has been very loud since his attack. Seeing other males sets him off. It’s best if none are within sight or smell.”

It felt odd to be in the scary basement but Joy didn’t protest when Rusty left. She knew it was an irrational fear. The only danger was the sleeping Species male locked behind the bars. She hesitated before slowly approaching until she paused about five feet from his door.

They’d washed Moon’s hair and changed his clothing. He wore black sweatpants and his hair had been spread out above the pillow to dry. Someone had taken the time to brush the long strands and she inched a little closer. No restraints held him now. The slow rise and fall of his bare chest assured her he lived.

“I’m here, Moon.”

He must have heard her because his eyes snapped open. He sat up so fast it startled a gasp from Joy. Moon came off the bed in a fluid motion and his big body slammed into the bars. Long, lean fingers gripped the thick metal as he snarled. His dark gaze narrowed as he stared directly at her, his sharp fangs bared.

“Easy,” she crooned, refusing to back away. He couldn’t reach her.

He sniffed loudly and snarled again.

“It’s Joy. Do you remember me, Moon?”

His eyes narrowed further as he sniffed louder.

“Please remember me.” She held very still. “I’m your friend.”

He suddenly shoved away from the bars and turned to glance around the cell. He lunged at the back wall, hit it with his fists and growled when it didn’t break. He turned, attacked another wall, and Joy feared he’d hurt himself.

“Stop it!”

He jerked his head in her direction and paused.

“Easy,” she whispered. She kicked off her high heels and stepped away from them. She slowly lowered to the floor to sit on the hard surface, hoping he’d see her as less of a threat. “It’s okay, Moon.” Her hands adjusted her skirt to avoid flashing her panties as she crossed her legs to get comfortable. “I’m here with you. You’re not alone.”

He turned to face her, stalked closer and gripped the door. It rattled when he fisted the bars and shook them enough to make the muscles in his arms strain but they wouldn’t give. He sniffed at her again but lowered to his knees.

“That’s it. Remain calm.” She smiled. “You don’t want to break your hands. You’d need a jackhammer to dent the metal or concrete.”

He kept hold of the bars as he pressed his face against them. His intense stare locked on her and she realized that she studied a stranger. Moon’s personality wasn’t there, nor was there any sign that he recognized her. At least, nothing that she could assess. He peered at her as if he didn’t even know what she was. The memory of pinning her to the wall a few hours earlier seemed to have been erased.

“It’s going to be okay. I’m going to somehow help you.”

One of his hands released the metal to slip between the bars as he reached out to her. She wanted to go to him but wasn’t foolish enough to believe it would be safe. Just because he seemed calm didn’t mean he wouldn’t bite the hand she offered or try to rip her arm from the socket.

“I wish I could but you need to talk to me first.”

The elevator doors slid open behind them and Moon jerked his arm inside the bars, stood, and snarled. Joy turned her head to watch Rusty carry a folding chair and blanket closer. A loud howl ripped through the room and she gaped at Moon.

He attacked the bars and slammed his shoulder against them, trying to batter them down. Joy stood and faced the Species woman. “He was calm.”

“Not anymore.” Rusty set down the chair and dropped the blanket on it. “I’ll have them sedate him again before he hurts himself.”

“No, don’t. He was fine until you came.” Joy glanced at Moon again, saw his agitated state as he kept trying to break through the bars, and made a decision. “Leave us alone.”

“I’m supposed to stay here. We’re females and shouldn’t be threatening to him.”

Moon howled again, the sound echoing loudly through the basement. Joy winced. “He was calm until he saw you. Please, Rusty. Go. He’s going to get hurt.”

The woman hesitated. “I’ll wait inside the elevator but close the doors. I’ll remain on this floor. Yell out if you need assistance.”

Rusty spun and jogged away. Joy turned and lowered herself back to the floor.

“Moon?” Her voice softened. “Easy.”

He stopped attacking the bars as soon as the elevator doors closed, panted from his attack on his cell, and glared at her.

“It’s only you and me again. Do you remember? We used to talk a lot.”

He sank to his knees as he calmed. It gave Joy hope that some part of him did remember their sessions and he was on a slow road to recovery.

She couldn’t stand to see him so changed. It was a little petty, she admitted that, but it was upsetting that she’d done the hardest thing of her life by walking away from him only for him to end up locked inside a cell. Regret tore at her as she wondered if somehow things might have been different if she’d thrown ethics out the window, broken all the rules, and fought to remain a part of his life.

Don’t do this, she ordered herself. She knew better than to play the “what-if” game. Reality was right in front of her. Someone had done something horrific to the man she loved and all she could do was try to help him recover.

Chapter Two

Dr. Treadmont was an asshole who wouldn’t listen to reason. Joy struggled to hold her temper in check. “The drugs will only muddle Moon’s mind more. You said you had no idea what was given to him so you also have no idea if tranquilizers will worsen his condition.”

“We had to do it for days before you arrived, Miss Know-It-All.” He shot a frustrated look at Tiger and ran his fingers through his white hair. “We need more blood from Moon to try to isolate what he was injected with. I need to examine him but I can’t do it when he’s ready to kill anyone who goes near him.”

“Agreed.” Tiger sighed.

Joy gave Tiger a murderous glare. “You don’t know if it’s making him worse. He’s confused enough without purposely doing that to him.”

“We need samples.” Treadmont stared at her. “What do you suggest? We open up that door to take them and he’s going to attack. It’s not fair to ask the men to go in there to fight him so we can get him pinned.”

“You want to take them every day. That’s too much for him to handle in his present condition. You can’t drug him every time.” Her fists clenched. “Aren’t you still in charge, Tiger? Think of another way.”

“We don’t know what else to do,” Tiger admitted. “We have to test his blood and we need to take samples daily to check him. That can’t be avoided if we have any hope of finding a cure, if there is one.”

“We’re hoping to nail down what was done to him by coming up with a drug to counteract the effects.” The nurse, Paul, spoke. “It might be his only chance of recovery.”

“Adding tranquilizers into the system every day would harm a healthy person. Think of his mental state as well as his physical one.” Joy refused to back down. “There’s no point in testing him when it’s doing more damage than good.”

The silent New Species male in the corner stepped out of the shadows. “Do you have another idea, Dr. Yards?”

She was intimidated by Justice North—he was a daunting man who headed the NSO. She recognized him from television.

“He’d be better off restrained without the drugs than to constantly have them added to his system. No other chemicals should be introduced into his body until we have some answers. It could hurt him more. Anyone subjected to those levels of sedatives on a daily basis would suffer harmful effects. He’s confused already and you make him lose whatever hold on reality he has every time you knock him out.”

Tiger grumbled in obvious frustration. “I agree with her.”

“Me too.” Justice addressed Dr. Treadmont. “Ted, I’m siding with the shrink on this matter. I want him well again but messing with his mind in the process isn’t acceptable. I’ll have our males go in and pin him down. We’ll restrain him for two days for you to do your tests but I have to let him up after that. That way we’re playing it safe.”

“Two days?” Shock jolted through Joy. “That’s too long. I meant to restrain him only for the tests.”

Justice faced her. “I’ve learned a lot about compromise, Dr. Yards. You should do the same.”

“Call me Joy, please. Having him strapped down isn’t going to be good for his mental health either. Sure, it beats the drugs but that’s a long time to keep him immobile. I shouldn’t have to tell you how negatively any Species would react to that.”

“I have the whole picture to consider. There’s the safety and emotional well-being of my other males. They hate to engage him and there have been injuries. We don’t play around when we fight. Moon is feral and could kill someone. Every Species in contact with the public at the gates could be attacked again by this unknown drug. More males are in danger. Do you understand?” Justice sighed. “Compromise. No drugs but he has to be restrained. I’ll give Ted two days to do whatever tests he thinks are relevant and then we’ll give Moon freedom from the restraints for a few days inside his cell, after which we’ll reevaluate the situation. Hopefully we’ll have answers by then and discover an effective way to heal whatever was done to him.”

Joy hated it but nodded. “Okay.”

“Thank you.” Justice grimly smiled.

“I can be reasonable and I do understand. He is dangerous but I’m trying to do what is best for him.” She wanted him to understand her position.

“That’s why you were brought here. You’re his mental-health advocate. My job is to think of the safety of everyone.” Justice turned to Tiger. “We need to go in there to strap him down. Double his restraints.”

“Shit.” Tiger nodded. “We’re going to have to rig something.” Tears glittered in his eyes. “Something similar to what Mercile did to us so he has some ability to move to at least go to the bathroom. I think keeping him down twenty-four/seven would be the worst thing we could do.”

The tension in the room increased tenfold. Justice nodded sharply. “I agree. Fuck. I want to kill the son of a bitch who shot him with that drug and whoever created it.”

“Stand in line,” Tiger muttered. “I’ll handle whatever needs to be done. Go. You don’t want to see this and I highly suggest you restrict access to him even more. Everyone is going to be upset when they learn what we plan. Have Fury and Harley come. The three of us will work out the issue and set it in motion.”

Justice unbuttoned his jacket and removed it to reveal broad shoulders and a white dress shirt. His tie came off next as he toed off his dress shoes. “I’m staying. I gave the order. I’ll help implement it.”

“Justice…” Tiger frowned.

“Enough.” Justice unbuttoned the top of his shirt. “I’m staying.” He stared at the cell. “We need him flat, not restrained against the wall. That would definitely remind him of Mercile. No automated pulley systems either. The sound of the motors might trigger flashbacks.”

Tiger hesitated. “Agreed. I’m thinking ten-foot ankle chains to give him motion yet keep him clear of the door. We could hook them to the bars at the corners in the back of the cell so they would stop him short. The wrist chains can be longer and attached to the front corners, allowing him access to the back wall area. That will give him free movement in most of the area. Four of us could pull the chains taut and force him down spread-eagle on the floor when they need access to him.”

“That should work.” Justice rolled up his sleeves. “Has he lost any of his strength?”

“Nope. He’s eating plenty and doesn’t seem to feel much pain or he’s too angry to care. He’s tough as hell still.” Tiger pulled out a cell phone. “Let me make those calls.” He spun away, walking to a distant corner.

Justice removed his belt. “I had to do a press conference an hour ago. I hate wearing all these layers of window dressing.”

Joy was nervous around the NSO leader. “I don’t blame you. I hope everything is okay. I haven’t seen the news lately.”

“It’s typical stuff we deal with on a daily basis.” He sighed. “I’m going closer to Moon.”

“I wish you wouldn’t.”

That comment earned her a scowl. “Why?”

“He is calmly watching us but that is going to change if you approach him. I don’t want him to get hurt when he starts hitting things.”

“I’m an alpha figure. I want to see if he responds to that in his current condition.”

“He’s an alpha too.” Joy frowned. “It’s not a good idea but I can’t stop you.”

“Moon is pretty mellow.”

“The Moon you knew before he was drugged probably was but the one I knew wasn’t. He’s reverted completely.” Her gaze lingered on the big male crouched inside his cell, silently regarding them. “He’s relying on pure instinct. He’s not going to back down from you.”

“How can you be so sure?”

She glanced at him. “It’s an educated guess.”

Justice slowly approached and Moon rose, snarling.

“Please don’t,” she whispered, knowing Justice heard her.

He paused but backed up. “Okay.”

Tiger returned. “They are on their way and I called the supply department. They are sending chains and restraints once they locate them. We’ll have to make whatever they find work. It’s not as if we have this stuff lying around. It’s going to take a while. Maybe hours.”

Dr. Treadmont sighed. “Why don’t we have lunch while we wait?”

“Fine.” Justice left his discarded clothing where he’d neatly folded it. “Joy? Would you like to join us in my office?”

“No thanks. I’m staying here.”

“You barely left since you arrived. Take a break.”

“I think it’s best if I stay. I asked one of the officers to see if any clothes had been located that would fit me and I used the showers upstairs this morning.” She didn’t take her attention off Moon. “I’m not leaving him.”

“Okay.” Justice waved at the males to leave. “We’ll have lunch delivered to you both.”

“Thanks.” She waited for them to leave before facing the cell.

Moon crouched again when she slowly drew closer. “Hi.” She lowered to her hands and knees to keep on his level. “You seem calmer. You allowed them to share the room without getting upset.”

His nostrils flared as he sniffed loudly.

“We used to be friends.” She crawled closer, ignoring the unforgiving concrete floor, doing it slowly in case he protested. “You’re watching me pretty intently. I wish I knew what you were thinking.”

One of his hands released the bar and slid through, reaching out to her. She really wanted to touch him. He seemed calm enough but until he talked to her, it was too risky. She’d heard countless stories from the Mercile survivors of ways Species had killed their tormentors during captivity when given the chance. He might be toying with her to draw her close enough to assault her. She stopped when a couple of feet separated his fingertips from her face.

His gaze fixed on her body and she glanced down, noticing the way her shirt fell forward enough to flash her cleavage again. She sighed, looking up. “I’m not making progress with you, am I? You’re all instincts and urges because you can see enough of my breasts to interest you. Damn.”

She sat, blocking his view down her shirt when she straightened her shoulders. He didn’t pull his hand back inside the bars though, just continued to watch her. She smiled, trying to hide her concern.

“Will you talk to me? What are you thinking?”

He sniffed again and growled low. It wasn’t threatening in tone, more like frustration, she guessed. He wanted to touch but she wasn’t within reach. He’d always been stubborn. An idea came to her.

“You want?” She gripped the low collar of her shirt and tugged it down enough to give him a peek of the top of her breasts. “Talk to me, Moon.”

His sexy, generous lips parted before he licked them. Another growl rumbled from him, a little deeper. Sharp canines showed and she held his frustrated gaze.

“Can you talk? Try for me. Please?”

Emotion flashed in his eyes but she had no clue what it meant. He’d always been good at hiding everything from her. He shoved more of his arm through the bars until his thick biceps prevented him from reaching any farther. She rose to her knees, his fingertips only inches from her shirt when she leaned closer.

“Moon?”

He stopped staring at her cleavage to peer into her eyes.

“Say something, anything. Do you want to touch me? Give me something in return.”

His growl deepened, turning a little scary. She was playing a dangerous game, considering she was offering to let him actually put his hand on her if he complied. She’d do it. To hell with ethics. They needed to establish trust. That would be fundamental in helping him. It needed to go both ways.

“Are you in there?” She gazed deeply into his eyes. “Say one word and I’ll come closer.”

He sealed his lips together, hiding his fangs, and swallowed hard. His eyes narrowed as he watched her. “Give,” he rasped.

He could form words and he wasn’t repeating something she’d just said, which meant he could do more than mimic noises. That had to mean he could think and that whatever drug they’d given him hadn’t caused massive brain damage at least. She nodded and lifted her knee to crawl closer.

“Don’t hurt me.” It came out a plea. She could only hope for the best, which would be that he didn’t draw blood or worse.

“Don’t!”

The deep male voice startled her so badly she jerked and twisted her head around. A big form stepped out of the shadows on the other side of the room. His boots stomped loudly as he walked into the dimly lit area.

“Get away from him.”

Moon snarled, jerked his arm back inside the cell, and sprang to his feet. His chest rammed the bars, trying to push through them.

The New Species male storming closer had long brown hair that fell past his shoulders and dark-brown eyes that flashed rage. The biker jacket and boots came as a surprise. He wore faded jeans and a black top.

“What the hell are you doing to him?” He reached down, gripped her upper arm, and hauled her to her feet. He had to be at least six foot three.

“Who are you?” she gasped.

“Who the fuck are you? You think it’s fun to tease the animal in the cage?” He gave her a rough shake. “Who let you down here? You better talk fast, female. I might throw your ass in there with him and let him have you after what I saw. Do you know what he’ll do to you after cock-teasing him? You’ll be fucked for hours in every sense.”

Joy was taken aback. It took her a few seconds to recover. “Who are you? This isn’t how it seems.”

“I’m his best friend.” He dragged her a few feet away from the cell. “Be happy you’re a female. I’d kick your ass otherwise. What kind of sick bitch are you to do that to him? Is that your idea of fun? Cock-teasing the crazy Species?”

She grabbed the wrist attached to the fingers that held her. “No! I’m Dr. Joyce Yards and you have no idea what you’re talking about. I wasn’t being mean to him. It’s the only thing he responds to. I’d stand on my head and do cartwheels if that’s what it took to get him to interact with me but he’s only interested in sex.”

His hold on her arm loosened slightly and he frowned. “I know that name. I’ve heard it before.”

“I was Moon’s therapist right after he was rescued from Mercile. He—”

Moon howled in outrage.

She turned toward him. He looked pissed but she didn’t blame him. “Please calm down,” she urged.

He rammed his chest against the bars again, snarled, and glared at the other male who had prevented him from getting close enough to touch her. He was working himself into a rage.

“Let’s take a walk and discuss this farther away from him.” Joy tugged on the big Species, heading back the way he’d come. She kept her gaze on Moon though and spoke directly to him. “I’ll be right back and we’ll start over, okay? I won’t break my word. You can touch me. Let me talk to him first.”

The Species clamped down hard on her wrist again. “You aren’t going near him.”

She lifted her chin to direct her coldest look his way. “Walk away with me. Do you see what he’s doing? He could hurt himself. Move now if you care about him.”

“Fuck.” He jerked on her arm, dragging her instead of her tugging on him anymore. He didn’t halt until they were in the shadows by the far wall. “I’m taking you to Security where we’re going to discuss what I witnessed.”

“You saw me getting him to speak. Did you hear him? He can form words. That means he can communicate. He’s in there somewhere.”

“You were teasing him.”

“I wasn’t.” She jerked hard and he released her. “You’re his best friend? Do you have a name?”

“Harley, and yeah, I’m his best friend. That’s why I’m taking you to Security and they are going to bounce your ass on the street outside the gates.”

She fought frustration. “Listen to me, Harley. He spoke a word. Do you get that? Do you understand what that means?”

He growled low, revealing his canine traits.

Joy took a deep breath. “I can see how you misunderstood what you saw. Give me two minutes to explain.” She held up that many fingers. “That’s all I ask.”

“Make it good.” His voice was harsh, revealing his rage.

“He’s rejecting everyone here and the only way to reach him seems to be through his fixation with sex. I’m not above using that if it works.” She rubbed her wrist, sure it was bruised. “I’d do anything to help him, including flashing my breasts if that’s what it takes to find some part of him that will communicate with me. That’s what he was doing. Whatever drug he was given has reverted him to raw instinct but he has the ability to speak if he concentrates hard enough. It’s a really good sign that his cognitive skills are intact. The only effective way I’ve discovered so far to make him work with me is by offering him what he wants most.” She sucked in air. “I’m not being cruel. I’m trying to save him.”

Harley’s face was in the shadows and she couldn’t read his expression but he wasn’t growling. “He could have killed you.”

“He wants something else from me more. We didn’t have bars between us earlier when he had me pinned against a wall. I’d be dead already if he saw me as his enemy or as a threat.”

He softly growled. “What are you talking about?”

She quickly told him what had happened when she arrived. “So, he could have torn into my throat with his teeth or snapped my neck. He didn’t. I’m not stupid. Believe me when I say I’m more than aware of how easily he could have killed me if that’s what he intended.” She stepped back. “May I continue? I need to show him he can trust me. I said he could touch me if he’d talk. He did.”

“You’re insane.”

Joy didn’t respond to that accusation since he had a valid point. “I’m determined to do whatever it takes to help him.”

“What if he wants to do more than touch you?”

Heat warmed her cheeks. “Whatever it takes. I’ll do anything for him.”

He stepped forward and nearly bumped her. “What changed?”

“What do you mean?”

He leaned down a little until his face came into the light. His brown eyes were kind of scary combined with the severe look on his rugged features. “I remember who you are now. You split on him before when he needed you. You didn’t even have the courage to say goodbye.”

Shit. The guy really was a close friend of Moon’s.

“He felt something for you but you refused to give him a chance. Why are you here? Are they paying you a lot of money?”

“I’m not on the clock.”

“What does that mean?”

“I’m not on the NSO payroll. I came because they said I was needed. There was no obligation for me to drop everything to drive here but I did as soon as I got the call. I’m staying because Moon needs me. This isn’t about money. I want to help him.”

He regarded her with suspicion, not bothering to hide it. “You aren’t here on official business?”

“No.”

“Then you aren’t really his head shrink. Is that right?”

She could guess where he was going with the conversation. “I was asked by the NSO to help him. You can’t throw me off Homeland. I was invited and I’m staying.”

He leaned back, hiding his face once more in the shadows. “Ethics won’t be an obstacle this time between the two of you, will they?”

She could feel the blood drain from her face. Moon must have told his friend the things she’d said and reasons she’d given to keep him at arm’s length. Her shoulders squared and her spine stiffened. “No,” she blatantly stated. “They won’t. He’s not technically my client.” A shaky breath later she spoke again. “Do you have a problem with that?”

He backed up. “No. I’m wondering if using your body is really the only way to reach him or if you’re looking for an excuse to get close to him. Proceed, Dr. Yards. Know I’ll be watching. You cross a line that I don’t like and I’ll carry you to the gates myself. Am I clear?”

“Perfectly.” He was good at communicating his feelings. “You tell me another way to reach him and I’ll be happy to try it.”

They stood silently until she turned and walked toward Moon again. Harley didn’t have an alternate plan or he would have spoken up. Moon was furious, pacing his cell, and glared when he spotted her returning to him.

“Easy,” she whispered. “It’s me.”

He gripped the bars, attempting to tear them apart, his muscles straining. She lowered to her knees again when she was about five feet from his cell and stayed there, looking at him.

“Moon? Calm down.”

He slid down to his knees, still holding the metal bars. His sharp canines flashed as he softly growled at her. She evaluated the decline of his mood. She sat on her butt and waited until some of his rage faded. She hoped their food wouldn’t arrive any time soon because he had always been stubborn. It was going to take a while to get him to trust her.

“I’m sorry about that.” She kept her tone soft. “Your friend is really worried about you.”

He growled and released one of the bars to reach out to her. She knew a decision had to be made in that moment—either trust him or not. She had been honest with Harley. Moon could have killed her earlier if he’d wanted her dead. She leaned forward and reached for him too. Fear crept up her spine as she imagined the worst. He could yank her closer to the cell to either bite her or snap her neck.

The tips of his calloused, rough fingers brushed against hers. He stopped growling, seeming fascinated by the feel of them. She held her breath, not knowing what he would do but he just rubbed their fingers together. She relaxed.

“I’m not your enemy, Moon.”

He looked up at her then and she met his gaze. It came as a shock when he suddenly gripped her hand and pulled her closer. Her ass slid along the concrete as she gasped, praying he wouldn’t break bones when his fingers tightened even more. She tried to struggle but it didn’t do any good. Her shoulder hit the metal bars of his cell.

Another hand suddenly had her by her ribs, curving around her side. She stared at him with only the bars separating them. He sniffed at her. His focus lowered to the front of her shirt and a soft whine came from him.

He’s not hurting me. That sank in. He could. Easily. He kept her close. She stared into the depths of his brown eyes while he refused to look away from her breasts.

“Moon?”

He softly growled, a look of concentration on his face. She wondered what he was thinking so hard about but he released her hand suddenly, distracting her thoughts. She sucked in air when he cupped her breast, caressing it. He was gentle as he squeezed. He looked up then, holding her gaze.

“Joy.”

The gruff way he said her name made her want to cry. Her hand trembled as she reached through the bars to touch his face. He didn’t jerk away but allowed her to gently caress his jawline. “Yes. Do you remember me?”

He released her suddenly and pulled back until they weren’t touching anymore. She didn’t budge, just remained leaning against the bars where he’d dragged her. He stood and growled, staring across the room. She turned her head and wished Harley hadn’t stayed so close. He must have remained hidden in the shadows instead of leaving. He’d stepped back into the light.

“Move away from him, head shrink.”

“Go away,” she ordered.

Moon snarled, seeming to agree with her order.

Harley frowned. “Get the hell away from him.”

“I think he remembers me. He said my name. Didn’t you hear him?”

Harley stormed up behind her just as she felt fingers wrap around her throat, cutting off her air. Moon had her. It hurt her ears when he howled so close behind her.

Harley froze.

“Go,” Moon snarled.

“Fuck. Release her, man.” Harley growled back.

“Go,” Moon demanded again, tightening his hold.

The big Species in the biker jacket backed up a few feet. “Let her go.”

Moon reached down and gripped her upper arm while keeping a firm hold on her throat. “Kill. Go.” He forced her to her feet, yanking her hard against the bars.

She’d become a hostage. It was that simple. Moon wanted the other male to leave and she was his leverage. He could easily snap her neck. She’d have begged him to release her but she could barely breathe.

“Shit.” Harley backed up. “Don’t hurt her.”

The elevator doors opened and Rusty walked into the room, carrying a tray with two plates. She came to an abrupt halt. “Oh shit.”

Harley glanced at her before looking back at his best friend. “We’ll leave. Do not hurt her.”

“How did the human get so close to him?” Rusty retreated a few steps.

“She let him. Whoever asked her to come here made a mistake. It might end up being a fatal one.” Harley sidestepped closer to the Species female. “We’re leaving, Moon. Watch us. Don’t hurt that female.”

Both of them got into the elevator and the doors closed. The fingers loosened on her throat and arm. She shoved away from the bars on her butt and completely broke his hold when she threw her body forward. She hit the floor on her hands and knees. Gasping for air, she crawled out of Moon’s reach.

“Come,” a deep voice rasped from behind her.

Moon wanted her to return to the side of his cage. She shook her head, touching her sore throat that had to have red marks on it, if not bruises. Species were too strong. She had risked her life getting so close to him and it had almost gotten her killed. She wouldn’t make that mistake twice.

“Come!” he snarled.

Joy turned her head in his direction but couldn’t look directly at him. “No.”

Tears blinded her as she looked away. He might know her but she sure didn’t know him at the moment. The guy she’d fallen in love with never would have done that. She was lucky to be alive.

Chapter Three

“What were you doing?” Tiger was furious and not making any attempt to hide it.

“Showing Moon he could trust me.”

Joy was tired after spending a restless night in the house they’d assigned her. She’d asked to be escorted there after what had happened. She had needed time away from Moon after her close call. Her visitors had arrived after breakfast.

“She has no right being near him.” Harley wore a heavy-metal-band T-shirt with his jeans today. The biker boots must be something he wore daily. “He obviously doesn’t want her dead but next time he could force us to unlock the cell to save her life. It’s pure luck he only wanted to be left alone with her. He’s in no shape to be reasoned with.”

“Agreed.” Justice North grimly studied her. “You shouldn’t have gotten that close to him.”

“He spoke.”

Justice’s black eyebrows arched. “He did? No one told me that.”

“It was just a few words,” Tiger informed him. “He’s still dangerous and not himself.”

“He didn’t say anything to us when we were inside his cell securing him.” Justice looked at Harley. “Why didn’t he tell us to stop? He had no problem fighting us while we restrained him.”

“You did it?” Joy had wanted to be there. “Is he okay?”

“He’s angry.” Tiger shrugged. “No one was hurt.”

Relief was instant. “Good.”

“She has no right to be near him,” Harley repeated. “You don’t know their history.”

Joy wasn’t surprised that Harley was about to tell the others about her past with Moon. He had warned her he’d do anything to get her away from Moon. Harley was a man of his word.

“We’re aware of their history.” Justice dismissed it with a wave of his hand as he studied Joy. “I’m more concerned that you risked your life without consulting us first.”

“I was establishing trust. I can’t stop working with him to run a decision by you every time.”

“She allowed Moon to play with her breasts after flashing them at him.”

Joy winced at Harley’s harsh tone. “You’re making it sound vulgar but it wasn’t.” She hated the way Justice’s eyes widened in reaction. “It’s not what you must be thinking. Moon is interested in sex and it’s the only avenue I’ve found to motivate him to work with me.” Her cheeks warmed from embarrassment. “I’ll do have to get him to talk. I can’t help him otherwise. I didn’t flash my breasts either. I showed some cleavage.”

“He doesn’t want to talk,” Harley snarled. “He wants to fuck you.”

“Harley!” Justice snarled back. “Enough!”

“You know about what she did to Moon and yet you still called her?”

“Moon respects her.”

Harley snorted. “What do you know about what took place between her and Moon at site four, Justice?”

“She was his head shrink after he was released from Mercile and he spoke highly of her.”

“He trusted her and he wanted to fuck her but she bailed on him. She hurt him.”

The males in the room suddenly all turned their attention her way. Joy hugged her waist, trying to appear smaller in her chair. Her chin lifted though as she stared at Harley.

“I didn’t hurt him.”

“Bullshit. You chose your job over him. Do you think he was too stupid to know that? To figure out how little he meant to you for you to do that to him? He had feelings for you but you packed your shit and took off. You weren’t there to see how that affected him. He hated the other shrink he got stuck with too. She was a cold bitch who acted as if we were pets that needed to be handed meat treats to retrain us from the bad habits we picked up at Mercile.”

“It wasn’t like that.” Joy winced, guessing he spoke of Geraldine, her previous supervisor. The woman had no common sense. They’d never seen eye to eye on how to counsel the survivors but it made her wince inside if Harley spoke the truth. That sure hadn’t been in any of the notes she’d submitted about what was effective and what wasn’t.

Harley took a threatening step closer, his fists clenched at his sides, but halted. “It was exactly that way. He told you he wanted you and you allowed him to think he had a chance. You promised your body to make him open up in your sessions but then you fled when it was time to pay up.”

Embarrassment quickly transformed into anger. “I didn’t promise him anything. I kept telling him we couldn’t have sex. I was his therapist.”

“Ethics. Yeah. He mentioned that.” Harley growled. “Did you allow him to caress your breasts before while you were feeding him those bullshit excuses? You cock-teased him in your sessions to get him to talk and I’ll be damned if I allow you to do that to him twice, only to leave him high and dry again.”

“I did not!” She shot to her feet, glaring up at him. Her palm itched to slap the son of a bitch. “I kept it strictly professional when he was my client. He never touched my breasts or any other part of me except my hands the few times he wanted to make me uncomfortable by trying to intimidate me. I was clear that we couldn’t ever have a sexual relationship so don’t accuse me of leading him on. I didn’t!”

Harley flashed his fangs. “You are coldhearted and cared nothing about him.”

“You have no idea what you’re talking about, Harley. You’re wrong. That’s why I quit my job. I knew it was only a matter of time before he broke me down because I felt too much for him.”

“You admit your job was more important than he was. Otherwise you would have stayed with him.”

She gaped at him, ignoring everyone else in the room since no one spoke. “How could I have stayed with him? Do you know what would have happened if I had slept with him?”

“He would have been happy.”

“I would have been fired for having sex with him…and a lot worse.”

“Your job was more important!” Harley curled his lip in disgust. He turned his head to look at Justice. “She needs to be escorted off Homeland and away from Moon. We can’t trust her not to hurt him again. His well-being isn’t her priority and never will be.”

“Fuck you, Harley,” she snapped before she could leash her temper. “I’d do anything for Moon.”

He glared at her. “You left him when you knew he needed you.”

Joy shook her head. “How naïve are you? Did you hear me when I said they would have fired me if I’d slept with him? Do you think they would have allowed me near him after that? It was a classified location!” She tried to rein in her emotions. It was tough to do. “There were cameras and guards crawling all over the place. They would have figured it out fast if I’d allowed my relationship with Moon to progress into a sexual one. I would have been forced to leave there and they would have probably kept me in jail, awaiting trial for whatever charges they could pin on me to keep me locked up for as long as possible out of fear that I’d give up the location of that site.”

Harley frowned.

“I would have lost everything to sleep with him one time.” She sat down hard in the chair, hugged her chest again, and stared at her lap. “Don’t think I wasn’t tempted. I cared about Moon. You have no idea how much.” She swallowed, clearing her emotion-choked throat. “But I also knew it would hurt Moon more if we slept together. I always put him first.”

“How would it have hurt Moon more?” It was Justice who spoke.

She met his gaze. He didn’t appear angry. “Moon had a really hard time adjusting to life beyond Mercile. He was antisocial and confrontational with the guards. Imagine how much worse it would have been if he’d had to watch me being dragged off the property in handcuffs. He might have even tried to come to my aid, thinking he was protecting me. It would have made him hate the guards more than he already did or even gotten him shot if he’d killed anyone. The guards were ordered not to hurt Species except in a life-or-death situation if one was out of control but they had the authority to permanently put down the threat in an extreme situation. I wasn’t willing to risk his life or have them decide he was unable to cope with his freedom. Do you know what they did to Species unable to integrate with the humans who worked there?”

Justice sighed. “I know. They kept them heavily sedated and secured away from the others. A lot of our Wild Zone residents were brought to us after enduring that treatment.”

“Exactly!” She shifted her gaze to Harley. He didn’t appear as angry as before. “That’s why I left when I did. I knew it was only a matter of time before he succeeded in seducing me and that it could get him killed or sent to one of the hospital wards where he’d be heavily drugged. The thought of either of those things happening to him ripped me to shreds inside. I didn’t put my career above Moon. I did the only thing I could to make sure it had the best outcome for him. I figured he’d be angry at the very worst but it would all be directed at me. He’d be safe.”

Harley stepped closer and paused, studying her. “Shit.” He spun away, sighing. “I believe her.”

“Joy?”

She hated the way her gut twisted as she held Justice North’s gaze. “Yes?” He could ask her to leave. It was the worst thing he could do. He was silent for so long her stomach threatened to heave up her breakfast. It would tear her apart if she were sent away. She had no claim to even be updated on Moon’s condition. She’d have to wonder if he recovered or if he’d worsened. There would be nothing she could do about it. “Please let me try to help him.”

He blinked, saying nothing.

“Do you want me to beg?” Her pride would take a big hit but it was Moon. “I’ll do it. I got him to talk. He calms down around me. He said my name. Let me try to reach him.”

Justice glanced around at the men. “Leave us alone for a few minutes.”

“No.” Harley faced them. “Let her try.”

The NSO leader rose. He didn’t look angry but he did seem surprised. “You’re giving me orders?”

“Moon had strong feelings for her.” Harley didn’t back down. “He’s like a brother to me. We all care but I know him best.” He paused, glancing at Joy, then back at Justice. “We’re going to have to keep him heavily sedated at all times if he doesn’t come back from what was done to him. He’s too lethal in his current condition to even be set free in the Wild Zone. Hell, I’m sure we can also agree that every male would prefer to be kept in a near coma than put the rest of our people in danger. She did get him to talk and he released her the second they were alone. He didn’t want to kill her.”

Tiger cursed. “What if he tries to hold her hostage to gain his release?”

Harley softly growled. “We’ll have to walk out and leave her there with him.” He held Joy’s gaze. “Are you willing to agree to that? It means you’re on your own if he tries to use your life to make us unlock his cell door. We can’t allow him to get free. We’d track him down fast but he could kill someone first. It’s too risky.”

The implications were clear. They wouldn’t negotiate for her life if it came down to a standoff.

“I can’t agree to that,” Justice growled. “No Species would.”

Joy swallowed down the sick feeling as she looked at Justice. “I’m not Species and I’ll do it. I’m willing to put my life on the line for Moon’s. I want to do it.”

“Moon could kill you.” His expression shuttered, hiding all emotion.

“I understand.”

“He could molest you or worse if he gets his hands on you again.” His jaw clenched. “Just because bars are between you doesn’t mean he couldn’t do a lot of things if you’re within reach.”

“I understand that too. He’s lethal even behind bars.” The memory was still very fresh in her mind of Moon’s hand squeezing her breast but so was the one where he’d grabbed her throat. “I treated your people, Justice. They told me some of the ways they killed Mercile employees.” She’d had nightmares but they weren’t invoked by sympathy for the ones who’d died. It had been the haunting knowledge that New Species would have to live with what they’d had to do to survive. “A few of them tried to horrify me with very specific details of those deaths. They thought I’d judge them for what they were forced to do to stay alive.”

“What did you tell them when they shared those stories?” Justice cocked his head, obviously curious.

“I said they should put it behind them. It wasn’t their fault. Anyone would do whatever it takes to survive in extreme circumstances and to be proud they’d made it out of that hell alive.” She paused. “Off the record, after what I heard was done to them inside those cells, those abusive Mercile assholes deserved to die after torturing Species. Too bad more of them weren’t killed.”

“You should have told them the latter.”

She smiled but it wasn’t out of amusement. “I did. Off the record.”

A smile tugged at the corners of his mouth. He leaned back, relaxing. “How did they respond to that?”

“About the same way you just did. I didn’t want them to feel guilty about taking out garbage.”

Tiger chuckled. “Why couldn’t you have been my shrink?” He glanced over at Justice. “Mine kept saying it was wrong to kill under any circumstance. She was clueless.”

“Let the shrink do this,” Harley rasped. “It’s Moon.”

Justice’s smile faded as he closed his eyes and took a few deep breaths.

“You’d risk your life for any of us, Justice. We’d risk our lives for other Species. Forget she’s a human female. She’s an adult and knows the score. You heard her.” Harley crossed his arms over his wide chest. “She’s well aware of what Species are capable of.”

“I am,” she agreed, glancing between the NSO leader and Harley, still a bit dazed that he was on her side after swearing to get her escorted off Homeland.

Justice opened his eyes and anger burned in the depths of his gaze. “Fine.” He leaned forward, watching her closely. “You’re probably going to be killed or wish you had if this goes bad. He’s feral. Are you certain you’re willing to take those risks?”

“Yes,” she answered with no hesitation although inside she quivered a bit with fear.

“Did you love him?”

She nodded. “Yes.” She’d say the same if he asked if she still loved Moon.

He peered at her for long seconds, perhaps judging her honesty. “Okay. I can respect that. I’d do anything for Jessie.” He stood and walked to the door. “You should make out your will in case this goes wrong. Legal will be by before you see him again. You must sign a liability release though I doubt it will be worth anything if challenged. It is all we can do to avoid lawsuits from your family if this doesn’t work out the way we hope.” He turned, still regarding her with anger. “Reality is harsh. Be certain.”

She would have risen too but she didn’t trust her legs at the moment. It would blow her fearless act if they collapsed under her. “Could you have your lawyers put a rush on the paperwork? I already have a will. I want to get back to him.”

He blinked.

“What are the rules?”

He blinked again. “What do you mean?”

“How far am I allowed to go with him before you consider it crossing a line? So far he’s only responded to wanting me.”

“Shit,” Tiger whispered. “How far are you willing to go?”

“I’ll do anything and everything to save Moon.” She meant it. “Even if it means going inside his cell so there’s no bars between us.”

“Son of a bitch,” Justice hissed. “We don’t know what Moon will do to you.”

“I’ll bet killing me won’t be first on his wish list.”

He turned away and his broad shoulders were tense. “You better be right. I like sleeping at night and I doubt I’d do that well if you get yourself maimed or killed. I don’t know if I should say thank you or have you tossed from our land for your own protection.” He paused at the door. “Talk to her, Tiger. Explain feral sex to her. It’s her choice in the end.” The door slammed as he left.

Tiger met her gaze and opened his mouth.

“Don’t.” Joy hugged her waist, unable to hide her churning emotions anymore. “I can guess what I’m in for if it comes to that. It doesn’t change anything. I’d still risk it.”

His lips sealed tightly as he got to his feet. “Legal can have the release to you within the hour.” He paused. “You might want to call your family. Don’t tell them where you are or what is going on. Just…call them.” He paused by the door, staring at her. “Are you sure you’re willing to do this? Our females would be afraid of him right now.”

He wanted to scare her by implying she should call her loved ones to say goodbye. It worked but she wasn’t backing down now. She’d had over two years of living with painful regrets. No way was she walking away from Moon again. It might be the one and only shot she had of making up for the past.

“I’m sure.”

“You’re brave.” He left, quietly closing the door.

“You surprise me.” The deep voice held a hint of respect.

Joy had almost forgotten about Harley. He moved to stand in front of her. She shrugged. “You were wrong about me. I really care about Moon. I always have and still do.”

“It seems.” He suddenly crouched down to her level. “Listen to me.”

Here it comes, she thought, preparing for more dire threats from him about what he’d do to her if she hurt Moon. It was the natural reaction of someone feeling helpless when someone they loved was in jeopardy. They needed a way to try to control the situation.

“Don’t fight him if he ever gets his hands on you. It will send him into a rage. Go still.” He paused. “If he sinks his teeth into you, don’t pull away. Don’t scream. Don’t struggle. Am I clear? He’s more animal than human right now. Show him absolute submission if you want a chance at survival.”

She nodded, not trusting her voice at that point. His warnings put vivid images in her mind. The screaming part made her wonder how rough Moon would be if she did offer him her body. He was a really strong, big guy.

“Good.” Harley studied her features. “He talked about you to me. He said you were brave and had the courage of one of our females. I didn’t believe that until now. He could never understand why you bolted. I’m giving you a chance, so don’t screw it up. He’s the closest person to me and I’ve lost too much already in my lifetime.” His focus lowered down her body, then jerked back up. “You better not be blowing smoke up my ass and chicken out. I stood up to Justice and Tiger to give you this chance. I wouldn’t have done it but I’m desperate to save him. So are they or they’d never have agreed to allow this.”

“Me too.” Heartfelt words. “I won’t leave him this time.”

A current of understanding flowed between them. Harley suddenly reached into his back pocket and pulled out a cell phone. She wondered if he would offer it to her to use to make those calls. Instead he looked down and touched it, tapping the faceplate.

“I want you to see something.”

“Okay.”

He turned the phone face in her direction and a video began to play. She took it from his fingers, staring at a smiling Moon displayed on the small screen in her palm. He was outdoors, wearing a tank top and shorts. Humor glinted in his beautiful eyes. “What are you doing?” His voice was husky, the one she remembered.

“Making a memory,” Harley chuckled. “Videos are popular.”

Moon laughed. “I’m so not having sex with you. You’re not my type. I thought those were the only videos you watched.”

“Ha-ha,” Harley snorted. “I think you’re talking about yourself instead of me.”

“We are friends because we have so much in common.” Moon glanced away, then back at the camera. “Why don’t you film them?” He jerked a thumb over his shoulder. “They are more interesting than I am.”

Harley panned the camera to record some Species females playing volleyball. After a few seconds he zoomed back to Moon. “I wanted to video you. You’re leaving for Reservation soon and I’m going to miss you. I’ll watch this when I do.”

Moon smiled. “It’s only for a month. You won’t even know I’m gone.” He pointed again in the direction of the females. “You can play with them and look sad so they keep you occupied. It sounds as if I’m doing you a big favor.” His hands gripped his hips. “It will gain you sympathy. Tell them you miss going riding with me and take them on your bike.”

“It won’t be the same.” Harley sounded a bit depressed. “I’m really going to miss you.”

Moon’s suddenly somber, dark gaze peered into the camera. “I’ll be back before you know it and we’ll have fun. I’ll miss you too. I never thought I’d ever be close to someone.” He suddenly grinned. “Now turn that off and let’s go play some ball. We’ll play two against five and show them how it’s done before I leave.”

Harley chuckled and the video ended. Joy blinked back tears as she lifted her gaze to the man holding out his hand for her to return his phone.

“I want my friend back.” Sincerity shone in his eyes. “That was recorded a few weeks ago. That’s the Moon I know.” He glanced away, shoving his phone back inside his pocket. He held her gaze once more but she saw tears shimmer in his eyes. “I need him to be fixed.”

“I’m going to do whatever it takes,” Joy swore.

* * * * *

Moon snarled, rage a living thing inside his body. He couldn’t think and nothing made sense. Pain, anger, and the urge to explode was all he knew. He threw back his head and howled. He wanted something. No. Someone. A female.

A memory struggled to surface but it was buried under layers of haze. She’s real, isn’t she? He wasn’t sure. He paced the cell, snarled at the bars that contained him, and wanted to run. His chest slammed into them but he couldn’t get free.

He wiped at his mouth and a scent made him freeze. He sniffed, drew his fingers to his nose and inhaled deeply. It was familiar, female. He closed his eyes and the image of a dark-haired human sitting behind a desk came into focus. She was smiling at him. She had a silky mass of curls pinned up at the nape of her neck in a bun but he wanted to see it down. Big blue eyes with flecks of yellow in her irises fascinated him. They were rare for a human but he wasn’t sure how he knew that.

The dim sound of a feminine laugh soothed some of his rage and had a calming effect. It was a memory. He grabbed hold of it, trying hard not to lose sight of her. Delicate, pale hands rose, showing him her palms as the flashback became more vivid.

“Don’t, 466. You’re making my stomach hurt.” She had a musical voice. Soft. Sweet. Sexy. His dick hardened instantly, nearly drawing his focus away from her to fixate on the sexual hunger it stirred.

Her hands dropped flat on the desk and she leaned in, still smiling directly at him. “You made that up to see how gullible I am.” He wanted to kiss those lips. The urge to lunge at her, grab and pin her on the flat surface was strong. Her clothes were thin, easy to tear off. “We’re supposed to be telling each other the truth, remember? That was funny but fiction.”

“Maybe.” The emotion attached to that word came through. Amusement. He was playing with her. “The truth is I actually lay in bed last night thinking about you.”

Her features shut down all emotion. “Don’t.”

He moved around her desk and crouched, so close he could pick up the scent of her arousal. His fingers itched to free her hair to see how long it would be.

“Did you think about me? Did you touch yourself?” He hoped she’d say yes. He wanted to be the one to touch her though.

“Go take your seat.”

She was shutting him out and he didn’t like it. He turned the chair despite her attempt to stop him by gripping the edge of the desk. Her strength was no match compared to his and the sight of her legs in that short skirt was something he hadn’t expected. They were smooth, shapely, and beautiful. She gasped, her eyes widened, and her breathing quickened.

“I’d rather share yours.” He reached out after releasing one side of her chair, his fingertips gently stroking her knee. So soft. He inhaled and knew his senses weren’t deceiving him. She wanted him too but she wouldn’t admit it. “Spread your thighs. Let me in.” He licked his lips. He could eat her up. Wanted to. Needed to.

“You know we can’t do this.” Panic flashed in her eyes. “Please don’t.”

He sniffed—no fear. No, she wanted him too. Why wouldn’t she give in? He’d make it so good for her, for them both. She brushed off his touch, locked her knees together and reached for the buzzer on her desk.

“Don’t make me push the alarm. Please, 466.” It was the pleading desperation of her tone that stopped him, made him straighten and step away.

Rejected. Again. It hurt. He hurt. His dick ached from the need to take her. His body responded to the emotions and feelings that surfaced with the memory.

Agony shot through him and the haze returned. He howled, prowling the confines of the cage. Rage built. He needed out. To run. He needed…something. No. Someone… He tried to remember who but couldn’t. A snarl tore from his throat.

Chapter Four

Joy studied Moon as he paced his cell. He was distracted, snarling and agitated. A howl had fractured the quiet of the room when she’d stepped out of the elevator. He immediately focused a viciously angry gaze on her before he turned and ignored her completely. She swallowed, slipped off her shoes, and slowly approached.

“Moon?”

He didn’t even glance her way. It made her wonder what had happened since she’d left. Did he remember grabbing her throat? Threatening to kill her? Maybe he thought she’d come for retaliation in some form. Mercile employees would have.

It would be suicide to get too close to him at the moment so she walked to the chair Rusty had brought and sat. She crossed her arms over her chest as she watched him, hoping he’d calm or grow tired. The guard upstairs had told her that Moon had eaten an hour before. The new chains attached to his arms and legs dragged on the floor. That factored a lot into his state of mind. She’d bet her career on it.

“Can you understand me?”

He didn’t even pause his back-and-forth pacing. One arm shot out though the bars and the chain attached to it slammed into them. The sound made Joy wince.

“They had to do it. Do you understand? Everyone here is trying very hard to help you.”

Moon ignored her but he snarled again and paused, shaking each of his legs to make the chains jangle. Her focus fixed on the restraints when he held still. It appeared the Species had wrapped leather bands around his wrists and ankles then placed the metal shackles over them to protect his skin. He began pacing again, dragging the chains, and let out a tormented howl.

The sound was haunting yet terrifying at the same time. So much rage. Joy didn’t blame him. He’d been locked inside a cell in a dimly lit basement. She’d argued to have the lights turned up but the officer had shaken his head.

“He gets worse if we make them brighter. He seems to like the dark better. It’s the predator inside us.”

Joy couldn’t argue with that logic and had let it drop. Moon had shed his humanity after the dart attack. The animal side of him would prefer darkness if he couldn’t run free. There wasn’t any good news yet from the medical staff either. No cure had been found and the doctors were still clueless about what drug concoction had caused him to turn feral. Whatever his attacker had done, it hadn’t dissipated. She had hoped it would wear off and he’d return to normal but it hadn’t happened.

“Moon?”

He continued to pace, yanking on his chains every few feet, and threw out the other arm. The chains hit the bars. It was obvious they were making his condition worse but Justice North had made the decision and he was in charge.

Joy rose to her feet, trying to gain Moon’s attention. She crept closer. His nostrils flared as he sniffed loudly but he still refused to stop the back-and-forth trek inside the small cell. She did however note that with each turn, his gaze flashed her way. He watched her but did it on the sly.

Five feet from the cell was close enough. She brushed at her skirt, wishing she had a pair of pants. She hadn’t expected to stay at Homeland when she’d received the call from the NSO. They’d brought her some spare clothes but no pants. She had T-shirts, some gym shorts, and two skirts.

“Moon?”

His head snapped her way and his upper lip curled back to reveal straight, white teeth and sharp fangs. He snarled but stopped pacing. His dark eyes narrowed as he glared at her. If looks could kill, she knew she would be dead at that moment.

Her fingers shook slightly as she unbuttoned her shirt. Ah-ha. His gaze locked on her chest and heavy breathing replaced the angry sounds he’d made. She parted the silky material enough to give him a better view of her push-up bra and cleavage. It also showed him her bare waist to the waistband of her skirt.

“Now I’ve got your attention.”

He glanced up and held her gaze a moment before dropping his focus to her breasts. A soft rumble came from deep within his throat as he stalked closer to the bars and gripped them.

“Can you understand me? Nod if you can, Moon.”

His fingers clenched the bars tightly enough that his knuckles whitened.

“Moon?”

He stared into her eyes and she watched him. He pointed to the area in front of him.

“You want me there? Talk to me. Let me know you’re not going to hurt me.”

“Come.” His voice came out inhumanly deep.

Goose bumps broke out over her skin.

One step closer and she paused. It would encourage him to keep trying to communicate with her, she hoped. She wasn’t willing to allow him to put his hands on her until she could get a better fix on his state of mind.

“Here.” He pointed again.

“Not yet.”

Her heart pounded. Moon had always intimidated her with his sheer size and strength. That had been when he’d been her client and in full control of his mental faculties. He’d only gotten more muscular and bulky since he’d left site four.

Anger flashed in his eyes. “Now.”

Three words. Joy was keeping track of everything he said. “Do you know who I am?”

Confusion clouded his expression. It wasn’t the response she was hoping for.

“I’m Joy.” She pointed to herself. “Joyce. Dr. Yards. We used to know each other. Think, Moon.” An idea came to her. It might make things worse but she really didn’t see how it could get much worse. “466? I need for you to talk to me.”

He wanted the female to come to him but she stayed out of his reach. It incensed him. Rage swirled in a red haze inside his mind. Then she spoke and called him 466. Some of the fog thinned enough for a memory to surface. He tried to concentrate on it. It was something important…

Delicate pale hands with long red fingernails became clear in his mind. He wondered how they would feel against his skin, on his back particularly, since they weren’t real. Humans wore fake nails. It seemed curious to him that the females would do that. He stood, closed the distance, and grabbed hold of her wrist. It was delicate too. He could easily crush the bones if he wished. His gaze lifted at the sound of a feminine, soft gasp.

“What are you doing? Let go.”

There was a hint of fear in her pretty eyes and it pissed him off. He ran the pad of his thumb over the tip of her fingernail. Smooth, not sharp at all. He doubted she could break skin with them. He bent forward and she drew back in her chair but couldn’t get too far away with him refusing to release his hold.

“I’d never hurt you, Joy.”

“Joyce,” she corrected. “I mean, Dr. Yards.”

He laughed. “Why do you have these, Joy? What is their purpose?”

The question appeared to startle her. “Um, they look good and I guess they remind me of my feminine side.”

His gaze swept over as much of her as he could see with the desk blocking his view. “Everything about you is female. Why would you need a reminder?”

He couldn’t resist sliding his thumb over her palm. Soft and smooth. He wanted to feel the glide of it across his skin too. Preferably while she was naked under him. He’d even take her facing him the way humans preferred. He’d never tried that position but then again, he’d never wanted to mount one of them before.

She didn’t attempt to jerk out of his hold but she didn’t seem happy either. “It’s a human thing. Um, women like to feel pretty and they wear makeup and get their hair and fingernails done.”

He studied her face. “You don’t wear makeup.”

“I do.”

That surprised him. He sniffed, leaning closer until he was bent over the desk, hovering near her face. “I don’t see or smell it.”

“I don’t wear much.” She finally tugged weakly, trying to free her hand. “Please take your seat. You know the rules. You’re being ornery today, 466.”

His humor surfaced. “I want you. I’m curious about your body.”

“Curiosity killed the cat,” she whispered.

That amused him and he laughed. He liked to ruffle her and get responses that weren’t expected. He loosened his grip and she pulled away. Relief washed over her expression but then he leaned over the desk so far that the edge pressing against his hips was the only thing stopping him from falling over. He carefully gripped her face with both hands to avoid bruising her skin and she gasped again.

“Good thing I’m canine then.”

He went nose to nose with her, breathing in that wonderful scent that was hers alone. He loved how Joy smelled. Her lips parted. He knew it wasn’t her intention but it was an invitation he couldn’t resist. He tilted his head and tried to kiss her.

Panic widened her eyes a split second before she twisted her head, surprising him enough to allow her to escape. His lips brushed her cheek instead. He wanted to snarl but managed to control the impulse. The last thing he wanted was her fear.

“Kiss me.” He whispered the demand. “I won’t get you with my teeth. Trust me, sweetness. I want you to enjoy it.” His dick hardened so fast he flinched at the pinching sensation where it was trapped inside his jeans. He wanted Joy too much and wouldn’t be denied much longer. “Let me in.”

“No.”

He barely heard her soft rejection. A grin surfaced as he eased back a little, releasing her. “You will soon. Look at me.”

She turned her head hesitantly, so close every breath she took teased his lips. Their gazes fused. The urge to grab the desk and throw it out of the way made him fist his hands to prevent following through. He’d be on her in a heartbeat, take her to the floor and fuck her.

His dick suddenly throbbed painfully and felt as if it had its own heartbeat. The idea of her bare under him, her legs and arms wrapped around him as he pounded into her body was enough to test his ability to remain still. She’d be soft, sweet, and hot.

It was too much. He straightened, skirted the desk, and dropped into a crouch. Her eyes widened when he forced her chair to turn, moving in closer until her knees were pressed against his belly. He forced her legs apart to fit his between hers.

“466? Don’t!”

Her voice trembled but it wasn’t fear he saw in her eyes. He inhaled, the scent of feminine arousal enough to drive him insane. She wanted him too but wouldn’t admit it. Frustration rose. Why did she keep denying their mutual attraction with her words when her body revealed the lie?

“I’ll hit the alarm.”

The silent plea in her eyes was clear. She didn’t want to do it but she would. It was always the threat she used to keep him at bay. He was tired of it.

“You won’t. They’ll shoot me with drugged darts, lock me up for a week, and assign me to the other head shrink.” He moved in closer and his hands gripped her waist. It was small and her skin under the material was pliable when he gently squeezed, fascinating him with how different she was from his own kind. “You don’t like her. I’m yours and you won’t give my care to someone else.”

Her mouth opened, closed, and her breathing became erratic. “I don’t dislike Geraldine.”

“Lie,” he stated.

“She’s a colleague of mine and I’ve never said I dislike her.”

He muffled a snarl. She wanted to start an argument to distract him from sharing sex. It wasn’t going to work. “You look at her with disgust and irritation. You don’t like her and you won’t allow her near me.”

Her hands flattened on his chest. They felt good but would feel even better if she were touching his bare skin. “We treat our clients differently, that’s all.”

“What is the difference?”

Joy licked her lips, teasing him with her tongue. “Besides her making more money? Degrees. She’s got more of them than I do. As far as training and qualifications though—not much. We’re both doctors, trained in psychotherapy. She’s a psychiatrist, I’m a psychologist. I have a Psy. D. after my name but she has an M.D. after her name. She makes a distinction, as most of them do.”

“You are nicer. I’ve heard she’s mean. You won’t hit the alarm. They will give me to her. You don’t want that.”

Her fingertips dug into his shirt to grip him more firmly. They were not strong enough to force him back when she pushed. He really liked the feel of them.

“I don’t.”

He knew it. “Let me touch you. It will be good.”

That tongue darted out again to swipe her lips. “Listen to me,” she whispered. “We can’t do this.”

“You want me. Don’t lie.”

“I do,” she admitted so quietly he had a hard time hearing those two wonderful words.

Satisfaction filled him. “Good.”

“But we can’t do this.”

Frustration rose fast. “We can.”

“No, we can’t.” She glanced toward the door, then back. “May I ask you something? Total honesty?”

“Yes.” He’d tell her anything she wanted to know.

“If I were to say yes, after you got what you wanted, would you stop coming after me? Is this curiosity to have sex with me once or more?”

He didn’t have to think. “More. Once would never be enough.”

“That’s what I thought.” Her chin lifted and determination shone in her eyes. “Back off or I have to hit the alarm. I don’t want to but I will do it.”

He could see the truth in her eyes and growled, jerking away. It would be easy to stop her from sounding the alarm. His reflexes were better than hers. She’d never reach the button if he threw her out of the chair, took her to the floor and pinned her. As tempting as that was, he’d never do it. He’d lose her forever if he broke the trust she’d given by allowing him to be alone with her during their sessions.

“It can’t happen,” she whispered. “I wish it could but it can’t.”

“Why not? I want you, you want me, and no one is here to stop us.”

“They’d figure it out.” She straightened in her chair, her spine stiff. “I think we should call it a day, don’t you?”

“No. I don’t want to leave.”

Beautiful eyes pleaded with him. “You need to go. We’ll continue this tomorrow.”

“Fine.”

Anger warred with frustration. He spun and marched out of her office. The next day they told him she no longer worked there and wasn’t coming back. He never saw her again.

He was confused because she stepped closer to him. How could she have gone when he was looking right at her? What is real? What is memory? A growl tore from him as he clasped the bars that blocked his path to Joy.

“Easy,” Joy crooned. Moon was acting irrational, his expressions changing as she regarded him. “I’m right here. You need to calm down. Relax.”

The Species behind the bars wasn’t the 466 she’d known. He’d been moody, a loner, but slowly making progress at letting her get close to him. She’d fallen in love with 466. Then the version of Moon she’d seen on Harley’s video had been charming, outgoing, and he enjoyed sports. Of course, his motive for the latter may have been that he’d wanted to play with the females. That was a strong possibility and it made her little green-eyed monster stir.

The male she faced was neither of those versions though. He was dangerous and unstable. Don’t forget that, she advised herself. “Do you know me?”

“You left me.”

The words startled her but she was grateful to hear them, despite the way he snarled the accusation. He remembered the past and obviously wasn’t happy with her. It didn’t matter. He was talking and knew who she was.

“I had no choice.”

One hand snaked through the bars, reaching for her. “Come here.”

Should she move close enough for him to touch or not? Anger radiated from him but she wasn’t a stranger to him any longer. Joy took another step closer.

“Don’t hurt me.”

“Come,” he harshly demanded.

She stepped within his reach. His hand gently gripped her upper arm, steering her closer with a light tug. She pressed against the bars, peering up at him.

“Why am I here?” He glanced at the bars.

Hope flared that the drugs were wearing off. “You’ve been sick.”

Confusion clouded his features. “I don’t catch colds.”

“You were on guard duty and you were shot with a dart that was filled with an unknown drug.”

“Guard duty? We have guards. Why would I do their job?”

Alarm rattled her. “Where do you think we are?”

“The motel.”

Shit! He is in the past, not the present. She tried not to panic. “Think hard. Do you remember leaving the motel at all? Going to Homeland?” She hoped the hints would trigger memories.

“What is that?”

Oh God. Huge chunks of his memory are gone. Calm down and hide how freaked out you are, she ordered herself. His memory hadn’t returned. He seemed able to remember her and the time in the desert, at least. That was improvement.

“Let me out.” He looked at the bars again. “Unlock the door.”

“I can’t. I don’t have the key.”

He growled and his hold on her tightened but not enough to hurt. “Why did you do this to me?”

“I didn’t.”

“You ordered me caged?” Anger narrowed his eyes and he softly growled. “I hate being locked up.”

“I didn’t order it.”

“The other doctor you hate did this to me?”

“I didn’t hate her. I just thought she was kind of a snob.”

“You left and I became hers.” He pressed his face against the bars. “I don’t like her and this is payback for my refusal to speak to her, isn’t it?”

“No.” She carefully chose her words, not wanting to send him into shock or cause him emotional trauma by hinting that he’d lost so much time in his mind. “It wasn’t her choice either. You were dangerous.”

“I wouldn’t hurt any of the female guards.”

He was definitely in the past. “I know that. But you haven’t been yourself. What is the last thing you remember?”

“You left me.”

“How long has it been since I left?” She wanted to pinpoint his time frame and then she could keep track of his progression.

His mouth twisted into a grim frown and he shook his head. “I don’t know. A while.” His other hand slipped through the bars and cupped her face. His fingertips created a welcome rasp along her cheekbone where he caressed her. “Why can’t I answer that?”

“You’ve been sick,” she reminded him. “Confused. It’s okay. You’re getting better.” She slid her hand through the bars to rest her palm over his warm, firm chest to stroke him. “You’re going to be okay though. That’s why I’m here. I’m not leaving you again, 466. I promise.” She felt it was safer to use his number rather than his name since that was what he was familiar with in his current state.

His hand released her to slip his arm around her waist and urge her closer. He inhaled, closing his eyes.

“You smell different.”

“I changed my shampoo and conditioner but I’m not wearing perfume. My body wash is new too.” She didn’t have access to her own products, using what the NSO had provided instead. She planned to ask them to allow her to order the brands she used.

Dark eyes opened to silently watch her. “Tell them to let me out.”

She wished she could.

“I need out of here.” His breathing increased. “I hate being caged.”

“I know.” Her hand trailed up his chest and down to his stomach near his bellybutton, then back up, trying to comfort him. “Relax. Don’t get upset. Just talk to me. I’m right here.”

“I need to get out of this cage.” He stopped stroking her cheek to yank his hand back and fisted the bars. “Get me out.” His tone deepened into a growl. “Call the guard, Joy. I won’t hurt anyone. I’ll tell them I’m yours and they will have to take your orders.”

Temptation was a bitch and she debated what would happen if she did call out to other Species. Would seeing who guarded him set his progress back by confusing him more? It might be the push to help him remember who he’d become since she’d known him. Shock could also set back his recovery. She didn’t know what to do. She’d studied mind-altering drugs, but not how they affected New Species.

“I’ll go talk to the people in charge.”

That drew another frown but he released her waist, backing away from her and her touch. “Do that. Get me out of here.” His gaze lowered down her body, hesitating on her breasts, before he met her stare again. “I don’t want bars between us. You aren’t leaving me again. You gave your word and I’m holding you to it.”

“Okay.” She nodded, her hand feeling cold after losing the contact of his warm skin. She closed it into a fist. “I’ll do that right now. Just stay calm. I’ll be back as soon as I can.”

He looked down his body and growled, raising both arms. “Chains.”

“I know.”

Another snarl tore from him before his chin jerked up so he could hold her gaze. “Get me out of here. Get these off me. Take me to your office and tell them I’ll talk to you.”

“I will.” She backed up, hating to leave him, but needing to talk to the Species about immediately changing his living conditions. She spun, walking quickly toward the elevator.

“Joy?” She stopped, glancing back.

“Don’t run from me again. Promise.”

“I promise. I’m not leaving you this time. I’ll be back as soon as I can talk them into getting you out of there and removing those chains. I’m coming back as soon as possible.”

Chapter Five

Justice North sat behind his desk while Tiger and Fury had taken seats perched on the sides of the massive piece of furniture. Joy swallowed, waiting for the last person to arrive. Dr. Treadmont finally showed up for the meeting Joy had asked for. He closed the door behind him.

“What did you wish to speak about?”

“Moon believes he is at site four.”

Silence greeted that statement until Dr. Treadmont asked a question.

“What the hell is that?”

“There were remote sites we were relocated to after we were freed from Mercile,” Fury answered. “We were hidden from the press and given time to assimilate into life outside of Mercile.”

“They were motels,” Tiger added. “Out in bum-fuck nowhere that the government was easily able to buy or gain access to because they were abandoned. They sent in crews to clean them up, do repairs, and that’s where we were housed. They put guards around the area to keep anyone from seeing us in case stray humans happened along.”

Justice spoke next. “That’s where Moon met Dr. Yards. She was his shrink. The ones put in charge of us after our release not only wanted us to adjust to life outside Mercile but they wanted us to learn modern technology while giving us mental-health care.”

“I was Moon’s therapist,” she corrected, though she knew she’d always be a “shrink” to Species. “From what I could tell by our conversation, he believes that he’s still living at the motel. He’s come a long way though. He remembers me.” And he remembers that I left him. She decided to keep that part out. “He had a normal conversation with me. That’s a huge improvement from him saying one or two words. I think he’s slowly recovering. I’m hoping more memories will come back and he won’t have a huge gap of missing time.”

Harley growled. “Fuck.”

“That’s good.” Justice didn’t look convinced though. “Isn’t it?”

“I think so. I’m hoping his full memory will return. We need to allow him to ease into it. I don’t want to risk big shocks setting back his recovery. It’s a possibility. The chains and the cell distress him. I called this meeting to ask if we could upgrade his living conditions.”

“I will need to assess him,” Treadmont stated, shooting Joy a frown. “We don’t know her well enough to trust her judgment. I want Dr. Kregkor to talk to him.”

“Not that asshole,” Harley grumbled.

“I agree.” Fury shook his head. “That’s the last human you want to put in close quarters with Moon. I’m completely stable and I want to knock that jerk on his ass half the time I deal with him.”

“Who is Dr. Kregkor?” Joy didn’t like the sound of the guy.

“He is a shrink assigned to us by the US government.” Justice answered, not sounding happy about it. “We’ve stalled him from visiting Moon. That’s why we called you in.”

“I read that the NSO was totally under Species control.” She was confused. “That’s not true?”

“It is.” Justice leaned back in his chair. “It was a concession I made. It was easier to agree than argue. He has no real power here, and though he rubs a lot of our people the wrong way these days, it’s good publicity if the public knows we have a head shrink on staff. Otherwise I’d have him permanently escorted to the gates and banned entry.”

“Why would anyone care?” She didn’t understand.

“It makes a lot of humans feel safer if they believe we are all getting therapy.” Justice sighed. “We do what we can to minimize negative feelings directed toward Species and our publicity team thought someone sanctioned by the government would alleviate some of their fear of us.”

“As if we’re regulated in some way.” Fury snorted.

“Kregkor is annoying, but manageable. He has a confidentiality clause in his contract.” Justice stared at Joy. “We didn’t want him near Moon after how he dealt with Obsidian.”

“Who?”

“Another Species male with issues,” Tiger informed her. “The shrink would have suggested we put Moon down.”

“Kill him?” That shocked her. The logical part of her dismissed that assessment of the doctor. It was no secret that New Species disliked and distrusted most of her colleagues. No professional therapist would ever disregard a client’s right to life or fight to safeguard them. He was more than likely a bit pompous and arrogant, hence their aversion to him.

“Yes. The guy is a prick,” Harley stated. “What do you think we should do, Joy?”

She decided to be honest. “There are so many unknown factors. Species and humans are virtually alike yet the altered DNA introduces many variables.”

“I resent that.” Harley glared. “I’m nothing like humans.”

“You have human genetics too,” she reminded him, taking off the kid gloves. “You might not want to admit it after what was done to you but it’s true. A mirror will assure you of that.” She stood, too antsy to sit, focusing her attention on Justice. He was in charge. “Do you want to know what I think? That’s why we’re here, right?”

“Yes.”

“Fine. I’m not sure what to do. We could tell him the truth and hope it triggers memories. It could backfire though and hurt his recovery if the shock is too great. The Moon I knew might not have handled it well, perhaps gone into a rage, but the Moon I saw in a video isn’t the same as he used to be. He seemed better adjusted. I want to believe he could process the truth but I’m not sure.”

“What video?” Tiger stood, worry on his features. “Was there something on the news we missed?”

“I showed her a video on my phone,” Harley admitted. “I wanted her to see how he was prior to the attack. I videoed him before he left for Reservation last time.”

Tiger sat. “Okay.”

“We could also ease him back into reality.” Joy hugged her waist. “That’s a safer step to take, in my opinion.”

“How do you suggest we do that?”

She’d had time to think while she waited for the meeting. “Remove the chains and unlock the cell but keep him secluded in the basement.” She glanced at Tiger. “Do you have any women, um, female human guards working at Homeland? I’d change out his current guards with them since he believes he’s still at site four.”

“No.” Tiger shook his head.

Justice softly cursed. “Jessie could do it.” He looked angry.

“Who?” Joy peered at him.

“My mate. She worked with the human task force. She still has the uniforms. She refuses to throw them out. They aren’t the same as what Moon will remember but we’ll say she’s a medical guard.”

Fury growled. “You’re not talking my Ellie into it.”

“Slade won’t go for it either if you want to put Trisha in a uniform to pretend to be a guard,” Tiger warned. “Don’t even think about my Zandy. Obsidian won’t allow Allison to do it either. We had to send Destiny to work at Reservation to avoid issues when she started working part time at Medical again. Obsidian didn’t trust the male not to approach her for sex, knowing how Destiny felt about his mate.”

“Do you think I want to risk my mate being in danger?” Justice growled, looking anything but civilized with his lip curled up, sharp canines showing. “But I know my mate and she’d want to do this. I’m protective but I’m not stupid. Jessie doesn’t enjoy being coddled and I tell her everything. The only reason she isn’t here at this meeting is because she’s having a phone conference with her brother and his team about their efforts in Afghanistan.”

Joy opened her mouth but then closed it, not really wanting to know what they were talking about. Their expressions were all closed, angry glances flying around the room. She was good at judging undercurrents. It was very curious why the NSO had any interest about something going on across the world but it was one of those things she would let pass. Her priority was Moon.

“Besides,” Justice smiled, “do you think I’d allow my mate to do it alone?” He looked at Joy. “I’ll dress in jeans and a tank top and introduce myself as 152. He’ll think I am only another Species being held where he is. They always kept us on different schedules so he won’t find it alarming that he hasn’t seen me before. There were a lot of Species and staff I didn’t see when I was in the desert. I’ll be her backup.”

“That’s the male I know.” Fury smirked.

“I could use some time off and I know the officers are bored guarding Moon. Jessie and I will find ways to amuse ourselves while staying close enough to be there when needed.”

Tiger chuckled. “Make sure there aren’t any active cameras this time if you use one of the rooms at Medical. We all know your mate dominates you sometimes in bed but I grew tired of explaining to the males who’ve never been ridden why you’d allow it.”

Joy’s mouth dropped open. She quickly closed it. I’m not going to ask.

Harley chuckled and when she glanced at him, he was looking directly at her. “Males who haven’t shared sex with humans don’t understand the concept of having a female on top during sex. Justice was hurt once and his mate decided to, um, lift his spirits.” He laughed again and winked. “With the camera in his room on. Security got a show until Tiger ripped it off the wall.”

“I wasn’t going to ask.” She smiled though. “I do have a clue about the dominating-in-bed part though. I didn’t handle too many sexual discussions but there were occasions when it came up when I counseled Species.” She blushed. “The topic. Not… Hell.” She changed the subject. “As I said, I think it’s best if we take the chains off Moon and allow him to roam the basement.”

Harley’s amusement faded as he continued to watch her. “There will be no bars to stop him from touching you. Are you prepared for that? Are you sure you’re making that suggestion for his benefit and not your own?”

Every pair of eyes in the room swung her way and her embarrassment level rose. So did her temper. “Don’t insult me. My priority is Moon. I already told you that I’ll do whatever it takes to help him get his life back.” Her spine stiffened and she kept her chin up, glaring at him. “The chains and bars are upsetting him. He’s talking and hasn’t hurt me. I’m the one agreeing to be locked up down there with him. I wouldn’t do that if I honestly believed there was a chance he’d hurt me.”

“You’re going to be fucked.” Harley refused to back down. “He’s still obsessed with you if he thinks he’s living in the past. You were everything to him.”

She didn’t dare look away from him to see anyone else’s expression. Her cheeks burned and she broke into a sweat from being put in the spotlight. Words escaped her while she scrambled for a way to respond.

“Sex?” Dr. Treadmont shot to his feet. “Is that what you’re talking about?”

“Sit!” Justice rose from his chair too.

Joy gaped at Justice, his tone scary and loud. He growled, ignoring her, instead glaring at the white-haired doctor.

“I protest, Justice,” Treadmont sputtered. “I’m not dense. Harley was pretty clear about what her form of therapy is. This is a medical condition we’re dealing with. He needs real help, not a hooker. No amount of screwing is going to fix him.”

“Hooker?” She snapped her head in his direction and glared at him.

“If the high heel fits,” the old man snapped. “I don’t believe in sex therapists. It’s a fancy title to make prostitution legal. You’re not practicing your trade here, young lady.”

“Ted!” Justice walked out from behind his desk and stepped between her and the crusty old doctor. “Leave my office now and wait for me in reception. You’re overreacting to a situation you know nothing about. We’ll discuss this in private.”

“Sex isn’t the answer,” the doctor reiterated angrily but he stormed toward the door. It slammed when he left.

Justice turned, still looking frightening with that untamed expression. He was angry too. “I apologize.”

Her heart pounded as adrenaline rushed through her system. She nodded sharply, not sure anything that came out of her mouth at that moment would be professional. That was long gone once she’d been verbally attacked and insulted.

“We will attempt to allow Moon to slowly recover the way you’ve suggested. He can’t leave the basement until we’re sure he’s not a danger to others. I’ll talk to my mate. For the moment, we’ll ask the officers to put on casual wear and tell Moon that we’re stronger and that’s why we are guarding him. Tell him he frightens the humans at site four. That is believable.”

“Okay.”

He hesitated. “Harley does have a point. No bars means that Moon will attempt to share sex if he’s attracted to you, which I assume he is.”

“I understand.”

“You signed the release so you may return to him. I’ll call the officer and have him give you the keys to his chains and the door. Are you comfortable setting him free? I’ll come with you right now if you prefer help.”

“I can do it.”

He studied her. “Fine. I’ll double the officers outside Medical, though, to make sure he doesn’t attempt to escape the building.” He walked to his desk, lifted the phone, but didn’t dial. “You may go, Joy.” He glanced around the room. “Everyone else stay.”

She left but came face-to-face with Treadmont in reception. He sat in one of the chairs, shaking his head in disproval, his lips white from being pressed so tightly together. She debated arguing with him but fled instead, not wanting a confrontation. The man was furious and she could see his point, even if she didn’t agree with it. There wasn’t anything orthodox about what she was about to do.

Moon wasn’t a stranger though. He was 466, the New Species she’d fallen in love with and had walked away from when he’d needed her. This time she wouldn’t fail him, regardless of what anyone else thought. She’d stand on her head, sleep with him, whatever it took.

One of the uniformed NSO officers waited outside in a Jeep. “Please return me to Medical.”

“I heard what happened.” He waved her to his vehicle.

She shot him a questioning look.

“I was outside Justice’s office until Treadmont came out. He’s not so bad, just old-fashioned. He’s also frustrated. He cares about Moon but hasn’t been able to fix him. That pisses him off and you became an outlet for it.”

“He’s something,” she muttered, climbing into the passenger seat. “I’m Joy, by the way.”

“Flame.” He shoved the key into the ignition and started the engine. “Moon is a friend of mine and he spoke of you sometimes.”

Curiosity gripped her. “What did he say?”

“We were talking about regrets one night. He shared his story of losing you. I shared my story of how I met a human I really liked but I let her go. Sometimes I think about Amanda and wish I had invited her to visit me.”

“Why didn’t you?”

Flame drove, watching the road instead of glancing her way. “She’d have to leave her life to be with me. I did a background check on her and she had a rough life. A male once tried to kill her. They were engaged. She deserved better than I could offer her.”

Joy couldn’t resist probing. “I take it she was interested in you?”

“She seemed to be. She even called me a few times but I didn’t respond.”

“Why would she have to leave her life?”

“We can’t live outside NSO lands. It’s too dangerous with the hate groups and our enemies. She’d be trapped here with me and it would make her a target if she were my mate. She actually would be considered New Species. Mates are considered to be a part of us.”

Mate. He was serious about the woman. Flame parked the Jeep in front of Medical and turned off the engine.

“Here we are.”

Joy turned in the seat to face him. “If you like this woman so much, you should give her a call. I don’t know her or her history but sometimes you meet someone who changes your entire life. There’s a saying that comes to mind. Life is too short. Take a chance, Flame. The worst that could happen is she could say no.”

“I could love her if we spent time together but then she could leave me.” His voice deepened and his pretty catlike eyes held her gaze. “That would be the worst thing.”

“Or she could fall in love with you and stay. You never know until you try. Regrets are a bitch to live with. I know. You should pursue this female if you really like her. It’s worse lying awake nights remembering and torturing yourself with a bunch of ‘what-ifs’ if you’d only taken the chance to see where the relationship would have led.”

He regarded her with interest. “Moon?”

She nodded.

“Why did you quit your job then? You could have come to visit here any time if you missed him.”

“I had no choice but to leave at the time. I guess fear kept me away after Homeland opened. I’m really a chickenshit deep down. I was sure he’d hate me or have moved on with his life, once he was given one. He didn’t exactly have too many choices at site four when it came to females he had access to. Your females were less than receptive and all the guards there were either pregnant or had recently given birth. It was just me and two other women who were single. They were much older.”

“He never forgot you. He even looked you up on the internet.”

That surprised her. “He did?”

Flame slid out of the Jeep. “He did.”

“Did he try to contact me?” She hadn’t been told if he had.

“Not that I know of. He was angry.”

“Because I left him?”

“He said you were doing well without him. There were pictures of you and some males he found.”

She frowned, trying to think of why any pictures of her and some guy would be on the internet. Then she remembered the clinic fundraisers. Some pictures had been taken for the paper. “Those men were coworkers.”

“He believed you were dating them.”

“I wasn’t.” She had gone on a few dates but nothing serious and certainly not with anyone she worked with.

Flame approached her side of the Jeep and waved toward the building. “He waits.”

“Right.” She got out of the vehicle and approached Medical. When she went inside a new officer was on duty. He wore casual clothes.

“Here.” He held up two keys. “The door to the cell and to his restraints. Do you wish me to go with you?”

“No. I’m afraid it would upset him if you did. I can do it.” She glanced at his outfit. “You changed fast. I only left the meeting a few minutes ago.”

“I was nearby when the order came down. I’m relieving the officer since he didn’t have a spare set of clothes handy.”

She gripped the keys in her fist, her fear and excitement clashing. She had no idea what would happen when she released 466. It could go bad really fast. The officer stopped at the elevator and removed a set of keys.

“We’re keeping it on key access only. That way Moon can’t leave the basement. We activated the cameras below.”

“Okay.” She didn’t like the idea of being watched.

He seemed to read her mind as his expression softened while he twisted the key to open the doors. “Sound only. Justice ordered Security to blacken the screen feed.” He paused. “Only female officers are permitted to listen in. We hoped that would make you more comfortable. Call out if you need help and I’ll immediately be notified. I will come to your aid.”

“Thank you.”

He stepped inside and his finger hesitated over the button to close the doors when she followed. “I will take you down and then be stationed upstairs. It will take me about forty seconds to reach you if there is trouble. Do not fight if he attacks. Curl into a ball and be very still. Even feral, it should keep him from harming you for long enough for me to get there. Backup will only be seconds behind me. Just stay out of the way if that happens. Don’t interfere if I must fight him. You’d get hurt. I can handle Moon.”

“I don’t think he’ll attack me.”

His gaze swept over her. “Define your version of ‘attack’ for me.”

“Hurt me.”

His eyebrows arched. “Do you know the risks?”

“I know he could be dangerous.”

The doors closed them inside when he pushed the button. He was a big Species. She liked him. “He might want sex. Were you warned of that?”

Her cheeks warmed again. “Yes.”

“You are prepared for that?” He frowned, glancing down her body. “You aren’t very sturdy.”

“Um, what’s your name?”

“Darkness.”

“I’m Joy.” She didn’t offer him her hand, that being a human custom and she hadn’t noticed if Species had picked it up. “Moon and I have a history.”

“I was told about that but you never shared sex with him.”

“No. I didn’t.”

“Do you ever watch animal shows on television?”

“Sometimes.”

His eyes were really dark as they narrowed. “Wolf matings?”

“No.”

“It will be a form of that if he comes at you. Expect growling, posturing, and sniffing. When mating, we tend to stick to instinct. He’ll be aggressive and exhibit alpha behavior. Lower your eyes, make no sudden movements, and don’t fight. He’d be rough without meaning to.”

“You’re feline. How do you know about wolves?”

He hesitated. “I spent a lot of time with Reservation residents at Mercile.”

“What does that mean?”

“Our less civil Species are kept there. The ones Mercile considered failures. I was housed with them for a time before we were freed. Their animal behaviors overshadow their human traits in most cases. Don’t expect purely human actions.”

“I think I understand.”

“Are you sure you want to do this?” He studied her closely. “No one would blame you if you declined.”

She decided to be honest. “I love him.”

He didn’t appear surprised at her confession. “Forty seconds. That’s all you have to endure if you get into trouble.”

“I’ll remember.”

He pushed another button and the elevator lowered to the basement. Darkness stayed against the wall in order to stay out of Moon’s sightline. “Be careful,” he whispered. “Make sure you are comfortable with his behavior before releasing him.”

“Thank you,” she whispered back, stepping out as soon as the elevator doors opened.

Moon paced his cell, dragging his chains when she approached him. The doors closed behind her and she knew that they were both locked inside the basement now. She didn’t have a key to the elevator.

“Hi. I’m back.”

He stopped pacing and growled, his head turning her way.

“466?”

His lips parted and his fangs showed as he snarled. She halted about ten feet from the bars.

“Talk to me.”

He moved to the bars and growled low. She peered into his eyes and her heart dropped. No recognition showed there. Had he had an episode? Forgotten her?

“Talk to me,” she said again, afraid for him.

“Come,” he demanded harshly.

“Who am I?”

He blinked, a moment of confusion flashing on his features. Pain stabbed her chest as seconds passed. He growled again, shook the bars, and flashed his sharp canines. He didn’t know. Whatever lucidity he’d had was gone.

“466? It’s Joy.” Her mind worked, trying to figure out what was going on. They’d talked and he’d been almost normal when she’d left. Now it was as if she faced him again for the first time. “You know me. Try to remember.”

He spun away, pacing, dragging his chains. Soft growls came from him as she fought back the anguish. He wasn’t getting better. He was having moments of lucidity but then losing them. Her heart broke.

It took a lot for her to walk over to the chair and put the two keys down where he wouldn’t see them. No way could she release him now. She’d jumped the gun because she’d wanted to believe so badly that he was getting better.

“Come,” Moon snarled.

She looked at him when she turned to face his cell. “Who am I?”

He pointed in front of him and his gaze lowered to her chest. “Now.”

Joy approached slowly but kept out of his reach. She lowered to her knees, staring up at him. “Who are you?”

Confusion clouded his face.

She tried to get a handle on her raging emotions. It tore her apart that he’d lost what foothold he’d had on reality. The anger burned too at the people who’d done this to him. She’d like to take the person who shot him with the drugs and wring his neck with her bare hands.

“Come,” he demanded again, harsher than before.

“I can’t.” Would they have to start over every time she saw him? She kept her voice low, dropped her head, and her eyes closed. It hurt too much to see him that way.

Chapter Six

He wanted the female. She smelled good sitting so close to him, torturing him by refusing to allow him to touch her. His blood seemed to boil inside his body from the need to put his hands on her. His mouth. He wanted to taste her. To take her. To possess her.

She kept her chin down but he knew what she looked like. Her heart-shaped face seemed ingrained into his mind for some reason. Big blue eyes with yellow flecks haunted him.

She was familiar but he couldn’t remember why. He crouched, sniffed at her again, and something tugged on the outer edges of his mind. He kept staring at her while he tried to figure out what it was about the female that captivated him. Frustration made him growl.

She looked up at him then and tears shimmered in her eyes. It confused him but it also did more. A deep sense of guilt filled him. He somehow knew he was the cause though he hadn’t touched her or caused her pain. She blinked rapidly to keep those tears from spilling.

Such delicate features. Her mouth grabbed his attention. She should be smiling. An image of her doing just that flashed. The sound of her laugher followed and a memory surfaced from the murky depths of his mind.

“Don’t do that, 466. You’re supposed to be serious.”

“I could be,” he said. “If you give me what I want.”

Her humor faded. “What is that?”

“You.”

“Don’t make me end this session. We were doing so well.”

He scooted down a little in his chair and spread his thighs. “Sit on my lap and I’ll tell you anything you want to know.”

She swallowed hard and her gaze lowered to his thighs. She was tempted. He could tell. He really wanted her there.

“Sit on my lap. I won’t do anything. I want you close.”

He sat on the hard floor of a cell, not a chair, watching the female with tears in her eyes. He tried to distinguish memory from reality. She really was there but bars separated them now. That was real, the other was something from the past. She watched him as intently as he did her. Words were hard to form but he managed.

“Sit on my lap.” He repeated the words he knew he’d said to her once. “I won’t do anything. I want you close.”

Her eyes widened.

He fought to remember more and lifted his hands to her. Chains rattled, distracted him, as he frowned at them. He looked back at her. “How did we get here?”

“Where do you think we are?”

He glanced around. “I don’t know. We were in…an office.” That was right. He knew it. “Yours. I wanted you closer.”

She bit her lip. “What else do you remember?”

“You wanted to do it.”

She nodded. “I did.”

“Come to me.” He shifted position on the floor and tapped the top of his thighs.

She hesitated and then rose to her feet. He growled in protest when she turned her back on him to walk to a chair.

“No.”

She bent and picked something up, turning to face him again. “What is your name?”

He struggled for an answer and it came to him. “I am 466.”

She approached slowly, something fisted in her hand. “Who am I?”

It was on the tip of his tongue. It wouldn’t come to him though. He said what felt right. “You’re mine.”

She walked right up to the door and her gaze lowered to the lock. She did something and it clicked. She hesitated and then threw something across the room. A key hit the floor. His heart raced when the door opened and nothing was between them. The urge to lunge to reach the female was strong but fear showed on her face. He didn’t want to frighten her so he remained very still.

“Sit on my lap. I won’t hurt you.”

He held his breath when she stepped inside the cell. The chains would prevent him from reaching her if she fled. They weren’t long enough to go beyond the open door. She took one hesitant step and then another until her scent was something he couldn’t resist anymore. He drew air into his lungs, inhaling her deeply. He knew her. It confused him because he could only remember bits and pieces.

“I won’t hurt you,” he swore. He meant every word. He didn’t know her name or how they knew each other but she meant something to him. “What is wrong with me?”

“You’ve been sick.” She spoke softly as she lowered to her knees inches from him. One of her hands slowly lifted and she touched the side of his face. Her caress was light, hesitant, and fearful. “I’m Joy. Try to remember me.”

“I do. I…I’m confused.”

She surprised him when she inched closer and her other hand gripped his shoulder. He looked down as she turned a little and gently lowered herself across his thigh. Her weight was slight as she sat almost where he wanted her. He couldn’t resist anymore as his arms wrapped around her waist to position her across both legs so her ass rested over his dick. She gasped but he was careful not to crush her. She was small but he wasn’t going to let her go.

“Easy,” he demanded. “No fear of me.”

Her features changed as she relaxed in his arms. The hand clutching his shoulder eased its tight hold but she didn’t remove it.

“You can remember my office? What else is happening that you remember?” Her voice trembled.

“You wouldn’t sit on my lap but you wanted to.”

“Yes.”

“That really happened?”

“Yes.”

“It is hard to think.”

“Why are you having trouble focusing on things? Do you know?”

“I forget.”

She leaned in closer and he battled back a growl. He wanted her and his dick ached—it was hard and trapped inside the pants he wore.

“What else can you remember about that day?”

“Why do you resist me? You want me too.” He knew that about her even though he couldn’t remember how he did.

“I do,” she admitted. “I always have.”

Reality was better than memory. Joy wasn’t rejecting him. A moment of clarity hit and it made him doubt his sanity. His arms tightened around her.

“Is this a dream?”

“No. I’m really here. I’m with you. Can’t you tell the difference between what is real and what isn’t?”

“Not always.” He wouldn’t lie to Joy. The name fit her, seemed right. “I get flashes of memory but then they disappear and I forget.”

A worried expression creased her features. He knew that was the right emotion, sure of it because deep down, he was very familiar with this female. “Do I have a head injury?”

“No. You were given an unknown drug and you’ve had psychological issues ever since.”

“Who did this to me?” Rage hit fast and hard as he growled.

She bit her lip and didn’t respond.

“Don’t fear me. Who did this to me?”

“Mercile,” she whispered.

Ice ran through his veins as he looked around for the technicians but didn’t see or smell anyone besides Joy. “They have recaptured me? Taken you as well?” His arms tightened as he pulled her closer and shifted his leg. His toe caught the edge of the cell door and he kicked it closed. “I’ll fight them. I’ll get us free. Don’t leave my cage. I won’t let them inside without killing them before they reach you.”

She released his shoulder to cup his face with both hands, drawing his searching gaze to her. “Listen to me. You remember being freed, right?”

“Yes. We were at site four.”

Worry showed in her direct stare. “I’m going to tell you the absolute truth but I know you’re strong enough to take it, okay? I’m making a judgment call because I don’t want you to attack anyone here thinking we’re in danger. We aren’t.”

“We are.” Maybe she was confused too and had been drugged.

“You left site four to live at a place called Homeland. It’s run by your people. Everyone here is like you. They were freed from Mercile too.”

Her words confused him more. “They put me in a cage with chains?” He wanted to believe her but didn’t understand why the ones like him would do that.

“Do you remember the guards who patrolled to keep humans away from the motel?”

“Yes.”

“That was your job here. You kept humans away who meant your people harm. There are tall walls around the area and you were on one. Someone who worked for Mercile shot you with a dart filled with drugs. You forgot who you were and attacked other males. Your friends.”

“I wouldn’t do that.” He battled uncertainty. He didn’t think Joy would lie to him, he wanted to trust her, but it didn’t make sense.

“You couldn’t remember who I was but now you do, right?”

“Yes.”

“It’s been the same with your friends. You forgot who they are. What is your name?”

“466.” He was sure of that.

Joy hesitated. “You chose a name after you left site four.”

He struggled to remember but couldn’t.

“Moon,” she whispered. “That’s your name now. Is that familiar to you? Ring any bells?”

He shook his head and his hold on her tightened. “Why are you playing games? My name is 466. Is this a test?”

She stroked his cheekbones lightly with her fingertips. He liked it a lot and it calmed him a bit.

“I’m telling you the truth. I wouldn’t lie to you. You were dangerous so they had to lock you inside this space and chain you so they could take blood tests. Everyone is doing whatever they can to make you better. There are a lot of doctors, scientists, and chemists working on finding a way to reverse what was done. They called me and I came to help you too.”

“Called you?”

“On the phone.”

“You were in your office when this happened?”

“No. I was actually driving my car at the time, on my way home.”

“This Homeland is so big you need a car?”

“I wasn’t here. I live about an hour away.”

“We don’t live here?” Her words were confusing him more.

“You live here. I live somewhere else.”

Something clicked and he growled again. “Didn’t you come with me when I was moved to this Homeland?”

“No.”

Anger surged. “You lived at site four. Why don’t you live here? You’re mine and I’m yours. Did you give me to that other female?”

“No!” She squirmed on his lap. “Take some deep breaths. You’re getting agitated.”

“Explain.”

She glanced away and then back. He knew what that meant—she’d always been easy to read. She didn’t want to respond.

“Explain!” he demanded louder.

“I left site four before you moved to Homeland.”

Pain came with realization. It tightened his chest as though a fist squeezed his heart. He’d always feared she’d quit her job and abandon him. “You left me?”

Her eyes flooded with tears. “I did. I’m so sorry.”

He released her waist and leaned back, jerking his face away from her gentle touch. The urge to shove her off his lap was there but he couldn’t do it. “I left site four and came here without you?”

“Yes.” The tears slipped down her face.

He resisted the urge to wipe them with his thumbs. “Why are you here now?”

“You needed me. I came the minute they called. I didn’t even go home. I turned the car around and drove straight to Homeland.”

“You’re not in danger if you leave my cage?”

“No. You’re safe here. I promise.”

Joy had chosen to abandon him. He had pride. “Get out, Joy. Go.” He saw surprise in her eyes. “Get off my lap. Don’t touch me again. I don’t want your pity.”

“466,” she whispered, reaching for his face again.

He reacted by rolling, dumping her gently on the concrete floor, and scooted away until he could climb to his feet. He backed up to the wall of the cage, watching her, as he fought his emotions. Pain and anger were evenly matched.

“Get someone else to tell me what has happened. I don’t trust you anymore.”

Joy wiped at her tears as she watched 466 put as much distance between them as possible. Telling him so much had been a mistake. She hadn’t wanted to lie to him or risk him trying to escape, believing they were both in danger from Mercile. She’d forgotten how protective he was until he’d kicked the cell door closed in an attempt to protect her. The key to his shackles was out of his reach where she’d tossed it but he could take the door key if he wanted. It was inside her pocket where she’d slipped it after stepping into his cell.

“Please, 466.” She wasn’t above begging. Guilt was something she’d lived with since the day she’d packed her bags and driven away from that motel in the desert. “Listen to me.”

“No.” He curled his upper lip to reveal his sharp canines. “Get out. I am not yours anymore. Is my name really Moon? I chose that?”

“Yes.”

“Stop calling me a number then.” He glared at her and growled in a menacing way. “I told you I’d never take a human name.”

The professional part of her was happy to see that he seemed coherent and retained the information she’d given him. He had every right to be furious and reject her help after she’d betrayed his trust. It hurt that he wanted her to go. A selfish part of her was tempted to leave him for a few hours in hope that he’d forget what she’d said so they could start over again. Lesson learned. He hates me now that he understands some of what happened between us.

“Moon, I’m not leaving you. We need to figure out what is going on so I can help.”

“I don’t want you near me.”

Don’t cry again. Her feelings didn’t matter. “You aren’t lucid often but you are right now. Are you in any physical pain? Does anything hurt? Are you suffering a headache? Nausea?” She wasn’t a medical doctor but she was pretty sure they’d want to know that to gauge the effects of the drug. “It’s important.”

He crossed his arms over his chest, glanced down at the chains, and anger wrinkled his nose. “My body is fine.”

“Any weakness in any of your limbs?”

“No. The bands aren’t comfortable but I’ve lived with worse.”

“Any numbness in your fingers? Toes?”

He flexed his hands. “No.”

She was relieved to hear it. It wasn’t a drug designed to target his pain centers to drive him insane. “What about your emotions? Do you feel off? Are you having a hard time focusing or following our conversation now? How is your eyesight? Your hearing? Any buzzing in your ears or can you hear your own heartbeat?”

“Get out, Joy.”

“Damn it, Moon. Please answer me before I leave.”

“I feel normal.”

And very angry but she didn’t attribute that to any physical symptoms. “When you first saw me, you didn’t know who I was. Did it just come back to you? Was it fast as if you suddenly knew or was it slower?”

He leaned back against the bars and his chin lifted as he continued to regard her with that grim expression. “You were familiar but I didn’t know why. I focused on a memory and it got stronger until I knew you.”

“Do you remember being at Mercile?”

“Yes.”

“Do you remember being freed?”

“Yes.”

“Do you remember Homeland now?”

Some of the tension left his face as he searched his memory. “No.”

“What is the last thing you do remember?”

“Being in your office and wanting you to sit on my lap.”

She slowly got to her feet. “Try to focus on when I left.”

The anger returned. “I don’t have to. You told me what happened.”

“Try. I am here to help you. Let me.”

“Get my new therapist.”

“There isn’t one.” She remembered what had been said about Dr. Kregkor and shuddered. No way did she want someone New Species talked about that way anywhere near Moon. “Don’t you want out of this cell? Out of those chains?”

“You know I do.”

“Talk to me then. Answer my questions and let’s figure this out. Please.”

He closed his eyes and his expression cleared. She wondered if he planned to ignore her or if he was attempting to do as she asked. A few prompts might help.

“One day I was there and the next day you probably were told I was gone. I left late at night after bed check.”

His eyes snapped open and a snarl erupted. “I went to your office but the guard said you weren’t in it. I thought you were running late but she said you no longer worked there. I believed you were fired but then the human said you’d quit.”

“That’s good.” It showed he could fix on a point in time and force the memories to surface.

“There was nothing good about it.” His arms uncrossed and his hands fisted at his sides. “You didn’t even say goodbye.”

“I meant that it’s encouraging that you are able to remember if you focus on a point in time.”

“You owed me more than to leave without speaking to me first.” He pushed away from the wall, taking a step closer. “How could you do that?”

“I had no choice.”

“They lied to me? You were removed by force?”

“No.” It was tempting to lie to defuse his anger but she wouldn’t stoop that low. “The attraction between us was growing stronger and I knew I couldn’t resist you anymore. That’s why I had to leave.”

He took another step closer and paused. “You were ashamed that you wanted me? An animal half-breed?”

“No!” A smart person would continue this discussion from the other side of the bars but Joy ignored that reasoning. Moon could be frightening, intimidating. He might snarl and flash those dangerous teeth of his but she’d bet her life—was, in fact—that he wouldn’t harm her. “Of course not. I explained this dozens of times. I was your doctor and it wasn’t right if we had a physical relationship.”

“You said it would be taking advantage of me.” He took another long stride and paused inches from her, making her tilt her head back to keep eye contact. “Do I look weak?”

“No. It was your emotional state I was referring to. Do you remember that?”

He moved fast and she flinched without meaning to when one of his large hands suddenly gripped her jaw, holding her head still. She instinctively clutched his arm, avoiding the shackle at his wrist. She didn’t struggle or try to jerk free. His hold wasn’t painful but it was firm.

“They would have found out even if I was willing to toss my ethics aside. I would have been fired and promptly removed. They probably would have had to file criminal charges against me just to safeguard the location.”

“Moon,” he rasped, bending a little so their faces were closer. “You don’t know me as that name, do you? I can hear it when you speak. You easily say 466 but hesitate before you say Moon. You never saw me after I left site four. Did I recently pick this name?”

“I don’t know exactly when you took it.”

“How long has it been since you left me?”

“I’d rather not answer that. I think you’ve had enough shocks for one day.” Plus, he had a good grip on her face. She wasn’t totally stupid, despite some of her questionable choices when it came to him.

“Weeks?”

She remained silent.

His eyes narrowed. “Months?”

“Moon, I really—”

“A year?” He spoke over her, almost nose to nose with her, staring intently into her eyes. He snarled. “More than a year. I can read you.” He released her, backing away so fast he almost tripped on one of the chains but righted before he fell. A snarl tore from him and he spun, facing her. “Get out!”

Joy hated how tears filled her eyes again. She wasn’t prone to them unless it involved Moon. “Okay.” She backed up. “I’ll leave.”

He suddenly lunged forward and fear jolted through her as strong hands gripped her waist. Her feet left the floor and her back slammed into the bars. It didn’t hurt but it was sharp enough to knock the breath from her lungs. Moon pinned her with his body so they were face level. His chest and thighs were plastered against hers to keep her exactly where he wanted.

“Why?”

“I had to…before we ended up having sex. They wouldn’t have allowed us to be together. I did it for you more than myself. I swear. I was afraid you’d attack someone out of retaliation and end up getting hurt. That was the last thing I wanted.”

He leaned in until his hot breath fanned her lips. “No. Why are you here now? I want the truth. Don’t look away from me.”

“You were in trouble and I thought you needed me.”

“I needed you before.”

It was torture being so close to him. Every breath he took made her aware that he wasn’t wearing a shirt and his body heat transferred to hers through the thin material she wore. Her hands trembled when she lifted them and gripped the top of his shoulders. Firm, thick muscles bunched under her fingertips.

“Not a day went by,” she admitted, “that I didn’t regret leaving. I thought about you all the time. I wished things could have been different. I came as soon as Homeland called. I wanted to see you again.”

He softly growled, his chest vibrating against hers. “You said this isn’t site four. My people guard this place and make the rules? Is that correct?”

“Yes.”

He glanced away, his gaze sweeping the basement. “Where are they?”

“Upstairs. Seeing them upset you more.”

“We are alone here?”

“Yes.”

“My people here know me?”

“Yes. Everyone at Homeland really cares about you. Your best friend especially.”

Confusion clouded his features.

“Do you want to know his name?” She wondered if hearing Harley’s name would help him remember.

“My people called you to help me?”

“Yes.”

“Good enough.”

She didn’t know what that meant and opened her mouth to ask him but gasped instead when he pressed against her tighter, almost crushing her against the bars, and his hands slid higher until his thumbs rested under her breasts. His fingers tightened their hold on her ribs.

“Then they would know what I’d do to you.”

He spun without warning, yanking her away from the bars, and moved fast. Joy was too stunned to react until he twisted her around in his hold and flung her. She felt terror as she fell but didn’t slam into the unforgiving floor. Instead a soft mattress caught her weight as she landed on her stomach. The bed dipped to her right as she sucked in air. Chains rattled.

She looked over her shoulder, her heart racing, and was shocked as she watched Moon straddle her thighs. One hand flattened on the middle of her back to keep her in place while his other one reached for the waistband of her skirt. The zipper was loud as he yanked it down.

“What are you doing?”

Air touched her spine and then fingers slid against her underwear. He yanked hard, lifting his weight up at the same time, and her skirt was jerked down her hips to her upper thighs where the material bunched. She tried to turn but couldn’t when his knees trapped her in place.

Moon released her skirt and crouched over her. His hand flattened on the mattress next to her shoulders as he leaned in until their faces were close together to balance his weight.

“I’m trying to avoid ripping your clothes from your body but they are coming off. You can help by rolling over or I’ll shred them.”

All the warnings she’d received flashed through her mind as his words sank in but she wasn’t afraid of him. She was ready for this. She even wanted it. She’d wanted it far too long.

The hand on her back slid down to cup one of her butt cheeks, giving it a good squeeze. The rough feel of his calluses was very noticeable with so much skin revealed by her bikini-cut panties. “Your ass is mine now, sweetness. Anyone who knows me would know how much I want you.” He studied her eyes as his hand massaged her ass where he gripped it. “And they sent you to me.” He lowered his gaze to her mouth, fixating on it. “Say it.”

She had to swallow to find her voice. “What do you want me to say?” Her pulse quickened as she relaxed her tense muscles under him.

His eyebrows arched as he met her stare again. “You have no excuses? No words of rejection?”

She very slowly braced her arms and began to turn over. It was difficult with his body restricting hers but his grip on her ass eased and Moon allowed it. She rolled onto her back, not breaking eye contact. She reached up, hands trembling, and cupped his face.

Surprise showed when his eyes widened as she tugged gently to pull him closer. She tilted her chin slightly and licked her lips.

“Kiss me.”

He sucked in air and another soft growl rumbled from him. “I’m going to do everything to you.”

Chapter Seven

Excitement and a little nervousness shot through Joy as she closed her eyes and Moon’s mouth lightly brushed hers. He was surprisingly tender. It was more of a tease than a kiss as he pulled back. She peeked at him to find him hovering above her. The dark intensity of his look made her feel hot all over.

“Take off your clothes. All of them.” Moon lifted up and carefully got to his feet. “Now.”

It took her a second to get her mind to work. She sat up and reached for the bottom of her shirt but hesitated. She’d fantasized about this moment for so long. Her hands shook when she tugged it up. Her cheeks warmed, knowing he watched her, and she hoped he wouldn’t be disappointed when he got what he wanted. Other unanswered questions plagued her. He was used to Species females. Their bodies were firm and toned. Hers wasn’t. Had he ever slept with a human? She wanted to ask but knew he probably couldn’t give her an answer.

Another part of her suffered guilt. Her training screamed how wrong it was to proceed when his mental acuity was so obviously compromised. What if he had a girlfriend he couldn’t remember? Would he hate her later? Would he feel she’d taken advantage of him? Speak now, she demanded, her conscience not allowing for anything else.

“Moon?”

“Take off your clothes.” His voice deepened, almost inhuman.

“You are missing big chucks of your memory. There could be someone special in your life that you have feelings for. No one mentioned you having a girlfriend but that doesn’t mean you aren’t at least interested in someone. I know so little about your current circumstances but you would never willingly cheat on a woman. This might fall under that.”

He stepped forward and grabbed the shirt she’d removed but still clutched in front of her. He jerked it out of her hold and tossed it on the floor.

“You’d hate me later if we do this and you have feelings for someone else.”

“No excuses,” he snarled.

It gave her pause as she regarded him with alarm.

He slowly crouched. “If there is a female, she’s not here. You are.”

Ouch. Would anyone with breasts do it for him right now?

He seemed to guess where her thoughts went. It shouldn’t have surprised her. The man she’d known had been deeply insightful.

“I am certain there is no female I want more than you, Joy. If I was dating, I settled for her.”

“You can’t know that for sure.”

He leaned forward, gripped the edge of the bed with both hands, and nodded. “I have no doubt.”

He was completely sincere. It was almost embarrassing how close to the surface he brought her emotions. She prided herself on keeping a tight leash on them but then Moon had come along, tearing at the very foundation of her soul until she’d had to walk out of his life to avert disaster for both of them. She’d suffered regret and misery.

“Okay.” She reached back and unhooked her bra.

His gaze lowered to watch her remove it. She dropped it over the side of the bed before stretching flat on her back and lifting her hips. Her thumbs hooked the band of her panties and pushed, widening her fingers to catch her bunched-up skirt, sliding both down her legs as she drew them up to do it. Both garments fell to the floor when she kicked them away. She was totally naked. Moon took in every inch of her body with a methodical gaze.

His feelings were closed off as she watched his face, looking for hints of what he was thinking or feeling as she lowered her legs. She had no idea what to do with her hands so she rested them flat on the mattress, next to her hips.

Moon stood and reached for his sweats. His cock pressed tightly against the cotton material, stretching out the front. He had to ease the waistband over his arousal and it stood straight out when he worked it free. He bent, hiding that sight from her, and softly cursed.

“The damn chains.” Material tore as he ripped off his sweats to get rid of them since the shackles prevented him from getting naked otherwise.

Joy gasped when he straightened again and moved to the bottom of the bed. He put one knee on the end, dropped forward, and his hands braced his upper body. His gaze swept up her legs to her face.

“Spread open for me, sweetness.”

“Don’t you want to kiss me first?”

“I’m going to.” His gaze dropped to her shaved mound. “Open.”

Oh shit. She broke out in a sweat. “Maybe we should take this a bit slower? Um, it’s been a while and, um, I’m a bit rusty. Maybe we should kiss first and work up to that, or down? Yeah. That would be down, wouldn’t it?”

Moon held her gaze and smiled. It was devastating. “You aren’t a virgin. I remember that.”

So did she. He’d gotten furious when she’d explained she’d had ex-boyfriends she’d been intimate with. He’d seemed so naïve, thinking lasting love and sex always went hand in hand with female humans. It had drawn her to him more.

He crawled a few inches higher and one of his chains caught. The smile died as he lifted a hand and jerked, making it scrape along the bottom rail.

“Hold on!” She drew her legs up from between his arms and rolled to her side, escaping the bed to stand.

Moon snarled. “Get back here.”

“Give me a second.” She raced to the cell door. The metal dragging on the floor was the only warning she got before it slammed closed when his hand flattened against it.

“No. You aren’t leaving.”

She spun, staring up at him. “I’m going to go get the key for your shackles. You want out of them, don’t you?”

Indecision played across his face.

“I’m coming right back. I threw the key when I unlocked the door so you couldn’t take it from me. I can remove them.”

He hunched down until their faces were close, to study her. “You could be lying.”

She reached up and caressed his chest. “Trust me, Moon. I want you. I’m getting the key and I’m coming right back.”

It stunned her when he slid to his knees, keeping her trapped between his hands, which gripped the door at her back. He released the bars to cage her ribs and dipped his head. The feel of his hot, wet mouth on her right breast almost made her knees collapse under her.

Her fingers trailed upward and into his hair while he sucked on her nipple. There was nothing gentle or tender about his mouth now. Strong tugs made her quiver all over, sending jolts of pleasure directly to her clit and warming her belly until she felt as though she had ignited in flames.

“Yes.”

He released her breast to go for the other one, giving it the same aggressive attention. Growls tore from him and the hands that gripped her tightened. Joy clung to him to stay upright. She feared melting into a puddle of need on the floor.

Moon suddenly released her and lifted his head to stare into her eyes. He sniffed and a deep rumble came from his parted lips. “You want me. I can almost taste your desire.”

It was impossible to speak. She nodded instead.

The hold on her eased until he backed away on his knees. She had to let go of him, something she didn’t want to do but had no choice. “Get the key. If you’re lying to me…” The threat hung in the air.

She nodded mutely and reached back to open the door but realized her body blocked it when it tapped her ass as she pulled. Joy stepped to the side, opened it enough to fit through, and turned her back on him while she frantically searched for the key she’d tossed.

Silver glinted on the basement floor under the dim overhead lights. It took control not to run to retrieve it but instead calmly take each step. Another snarl tore from Moon when she bent and picked up the key from the floor. She turned to discover he’d opened the cell door wide and blocked it with his impressive body.

“Come to me,” he demanded harshly.

His cock twitched, appeared incredibly hard, and she put one foot in front of the other until she stood before him. They almost touched. Moon snatched the key out of her hand, keeping eye contact while he freed both his wrists. The shackles and chains fell to the floor with a loud clank. Then he bent and unlocked both ankle shackles.

Joy didn’t expect him to grab her but he did. One arm hooked around her waist and she was lifted as he swept her up against his body. Long strides took them to the bed. He dropped her there and stunned her again when he turned his back. She watched as he crossed the cell, slammed the door closed, and then grabbed one of the shackles that was attached to a front corner of the cell.

“What are you doing?”

He didn’t spare her a glance as he wrapped the chain around the bars multiple times and locked it, securing the door. He took the other front corner chain and wrapped it at least five times over that one and locked it as well. The chains would have to be cut in several places to breach the small room. He faced her then.

“Why did you do that?”

“No one is coming in here to stop me. At least, it will take them some time to get to me.”

“No one will interfere.”

“I’m not taking any chances, sweetness.”

This was the man she knew, the one she’d come to love. He approached her with the grace of a predator and she wasn’t fool enough not to see the reminder that he wasn’t completely human.

“Spread open for me,” he demanded gruffly. “Now. I won’t wait any longer. I can’t. I’m about to snap.”

Part of her was tempted to see what would happen if he did. She’d fantasized countless times about him making love to her without restraint. He’d be wild, his Species instincts barely controlled, completely unlike anyone else she’d ever known intimately. It was part of his sexual appeal. Another part of her remembered that while he seemed one-hundred-percent lucid, he could relapse again. She wasn’t going to push her luck. They were together in the here and now.

Joy spread her legs and bent her knees up, settling her heels on the edges of the mattress. Moon stalked closer, paused at the end of the bed, and his attention locked on her sex. She swallowed hard, heart racing, and once again she was at a loss as to what to do with her hands.

Nerves were also playing hell with her. She hadn’t had sex in almost three years. At first she’d been recovering from the betrayal by a boyfriend. Then she’d met 466. Her job kept her at the desert location and once she’d left, the few dates she’d had only amplified how much other men lacked. No one could compare to the man of her dreams. Male of my dreams, she corrected, remembering he hated to be called “man”.

He stood there watching her as she did him. His eyes appeared black instead of dark brown. His features seemed to grow harsh and she worried he might not like what he saw, despite his cock still jutting out, large and hard in her view.

“Moon?” The uncertainty in her voice was apparent.

One ragged breath and he eased a knee onto the end of the bed, his hands bracing his weight as he came down, and his shoulders maneuvered between her knees to push them farther apart. He didn’t give any other warning before he dropped his elbows and gripped her inner thighs. His silky hair ticked her skin before the feel of his hot breath fanned the seam of her sex.

The growl was sexy and deep, a tiny bit scary due to how inhuman it sounded, but then she had other things to concentrate on. He pinned her hips down tight and his thumbs spread her wider open to his mouth as his tongue made one long lick across her clit.

Joy finally knew what to do with her hands as they grabbed for something to claw as pleasure shot through her body. She dug her fingernails into the bedding, tightly fisting it. Moon’s mouth nuzzled in and that talented, strong tongue of his lapped at her with a determination that left her panting and unable to form coherent thoughts.

The taste of Joy nearly snapped his control. His dick hurt and raw pain pulsed through his entire system from the need to be inside her, but he fought to resist. He wanted her to come first. It would help him enter her if she was really wet and prepared. Her hips bucked against his hold. She twisted her body in a frantic, desperate way that assured him she was close enough to coming that she couldn’t hold still.

She was so responsive that it almost made him lose his hold on his human side and allow his animal instincts to take the helm. He pinned her down tighter and rubbed his tongue rapidly against the swelling bud until she cried out his name. The feel of her soft thighs enticed him to explore every inch of her but he would have to do that later. The need to be inside her overruled everything else. Her body seized, jerking, and he kept going until the scent of her release was the final push that snapped his determination.

He tore his mouth away from heaven and rose, crawling higher over Joy. Her eyes were closed, head thrown back, mouth open. Her face was flushed and rosy—the most beautiful, sensual thing he’d ever seen. Finally, she was his.

He wanted to savagely enter her, take her, own her. He even searched for the perfect place to bite where it wouldn’t do much damage so it would be displayed to all other males when she wore her clothing. The swell of her breast halted his search. She liked to wear shirts that revealed a little cleavage. One bite near the top would be perfect to stake his claim.

One of her hands released the bedding and blindly reached up, opening on his chest. He glanced down and it was a reminder that she was delicate. Her fingers were slim, her palm small, and her skin much paler than his. The urgency of his desire to fuck Joy abated slightly. Easy, damn it, he ordered the instincts pushing to get out.

He braced one arm near her face and reached between them to grip her knee, shoving it up higher to lock against his hip. He didn’t need to guide his dick to her. It had a mind of its own at that moment, all focused on the slick wetness it located. He adjusted slightly and bit back a snarl when he pressed against her.

Slow. Don’t hurt her, he chanted silently.

Beautiful blue eyes opened and he forgot how to breathe for a second, frozen above Joy, while she peered up at him in half-lidded contentment. My female. Memories rapidly flashed through his mind of all the times they’d shared, all the ways he’d wanted the female, and now the wait was over. He pushed gently, her body receptive but snug and sleek as he sank into her.

The snarl wouldn’t be denied as he entered deeper, her pussy fisting him so tightly he feared it would hurt them both. Her eyes widened but no pain creased her features. The hand on his chest didn’t claw at him but instead dug into muscle, clinging to him. Her other hand gripped his biceps, holding on as if her life depended on it. Her lips parted as she moaned.

Her hips moved, shifted under him, and muscles clenched around his shaft. It felt so good he wanted to howl but instead he focused on his female. In. Out. Slow. Let her adjust. He repeated those words to keep from taking her too fast and hard. Pure rapture threatened to drown his good intentions. He had always known it would be good with Joy but this was beyond anything he’d ever experienced. She was heaven, hell, and everything intoxicating—a drug for his senses and all he’d ever dreamed about, wrapped up in one small female.

“You’re mine,” he rasped, knowing he couldn’t last long. His seed threatened to spill, his excitement too great as his balls tightened.

He released her knee, wiggled his hand between them and pressed his thumb down on her clit to rub furiously. He knew she’d be sensitive from his mouth and she reacted instantly, nails digging into his skin, marking him. He lowered his mouth to her neck. Joy turned her face away to give him access and he gently bit down. She jerked under him and screamed out his name. Her muscles gripping his dick squeezed tighter and milked him as they began to quiver.

He tore his mouth away from her delicate throat as a white-hot fog of ecstasy ripped through his body. The base of his dick swelled as he filled Joy with his semen, strong jets of it surging out so hard it hurt. It hurt so good.

She’d been worth the wait. He’d known it would be incredible but had never believed anything would feel so right until he’d finally gotten Joy. One thing was clear above all else as his body rode though the sheer ecstasy of finally knowing the taste and feel of his female. He would never allow her to push him away again.

She’s mine to keep! It was his last conscious thought before everything turned black.

Joy tried to catch her breath but it was nearly impossible with Moon’s heavy body pinning her to the bed where he’d collapsed.

“Moon?”

He didn’t respond. Her hands ran along his arms and upper shoulders, struggling to shift him enough to see his face. His eyes were closed, his expression lax.

“466?”

He didn’t budge or wake. Worry hit hard and fast. He was in prime physical condition so it wasn’t logical that he’d pass out from exhaustion caused by sex. Of course, it could be the effects of the drug. He probably had worn himself out with all that pacing and snarling. He’d fought his chains too.

She relaxed, unable to do anything else and jostled him enough to allow her to breathe normally. No way could she move him off her without rolling him onto the floor, something she wasn’t willing to do. He could get hurt. Their bodies were still intimately joined and she realized he was probably locked inside her. The feeling of how big and snug his cock felt would account for that.

Joy knew all about Species’ physical differences. Not only did most of them have sharp canines and the thick, calloused skin on their fingertips and palms, but canine Species locked inside a female after ejaculation. The feline Species didn’t but their semen was warmer than normal. The primate Species tended to be really touchy-feely.

She ran her hands over Moon’s shoulders, arms, just anywhere she could touch him. There had been countless nights she’d fantasized she’d be in the exact position she found herself. Of course, in those fantasies he’d been awake and kissing her.

They’d finally had sex and it had blown her mind. It was ten times better than anything she’d expected. A shiver, the good kind, ran down her spine. Her Species lover not only knew how to perform amazing oral sex but he didn’t even move like a normal man did while making love. He’d ground his hips against hers, every drive of his cock searching and finding the right spot to hit. Just thinking about it turned her on again, wishing they could go another round.

I’m in love with him even more now. It was a sobering realization. 466—Moon—would be a danger to anyone’s heart. Any red-blooded woman would be drawn to his extraordinary personality and his physical dominance. She was no exception.

What happens when he gets all his memories back? She worried about that while she continued to stroke and explore his body wherever she could reach. There was a chance he no longer felt a strong emotional tie to her. People could change a lot in two years—the video Harley had shown was proof of that. The male she’d known wouldn’t have joked around about playing sports with women.

It still bothered her that he might have met someone else. Harley would have mentioned a girlfriend or a woman if Moon was seeing anyone but that didn’t mean he hadn’t lost his heart at some point. She knew that life-altering events could trigger people to take stock of their lives. What if he recovered and decided to pursue whoever he had lost? What if he didn’t want her? It would shred her to lose him yet again.

Joy closed her eyes and clung to Moon. One day at a time, one step at a time. It was advice she’d given to countless clients when they faced upheaval and uncertainty in their private lives. The first priority was getting Moon well. She’d worry about the future later.

Chapter Eight

Something is different. It was his first impression as he became conscious. An arousing feminine scent filled his lungs as he inhaled. His other senses awakened next. Warm flesh was pinned beneath him. Soft breasts were plastered against his chest and the female’s thighs were spread apart under him, the light weight of her legs hooked over the back of his.

He opened his eyes to the sight of chestnut curls spread across a pillow and the pale column of her throat only inches from his mouth. His gaze followed the curve of her chin to her dainty face. She seemed familiar but he couldn’t understand the protective instincts that rose so strongly inside him as he studied the female while she slept.

His dick was hard and buried inside her. He tried to remember how the female had entered his cell but nothing surfaced. Breeding drug. It took him seconds to associate the thought with the meaning. A foggy memory of being shot with a dart and intense pain flashed inside his head. The drug had been used on him before but the details of how many times and exact circumstances were out of reach. He knew it was a weapon used against him to force him to mount females.

Human. He lifted his head enough to stare down at the slumbering female lying on his mat. To be certain. Rage engulfed him and his heartbeat accelerated. Enemy. More images and partial memories surfaced—humiliation, abuse and sadistic behavior unleashed on him by her male counterparts.

He lifted his hand, careful to make no sudden moves that would alert her to his intent. The lower half of him throbbed, more than aware of how wet she was and how tightly she gloved his shaft. Desire to take his pleasure from her almost overrode his urge to seek revenge. It would feel good to drive his body in and out of hers. Helpless. She is too small and weak to fight me. That made him pause. He was not cruel.

He would show mercy. It enraged him that he’d been used for more tests. They obviously had wanted to breed him with a human. His gaze scanned her shoulders, throat, and down her arms, which were bent upward, resting near the pillow. No bruises or bite marks marred her pale skin. He hadn’t taken her as aggressively as he somehow knew he would have on the drug. It was also confusing that she faced him, their bodies joined that way, when she should have been facedown. He would have mounted her from behind.

He wrapped his fingers tenderly around her fragile throat. One quick twist and it would be over. She’d die without pain. The test would be a failure. He focused on her face, studied every detail of her features. Her mouth was a temptation. Her nose was so different from his—smaller and narrower. Her cheekbones were less pronounced. Even her eyelashes were dainty.

The memory of her gazing at him slammed into his mind. He knew her eyes would be blue, beautiful, with flecks of yellow. He couldn’t remember where he’d seen them before but it was a certainty that would be what he saw if her eyelids parted. His hand on her throat relaxed.

The protective instincts grew stronger until his chest felt as though it actually constricted. He had to swallow the lump forming in his throat as he nearly choked on raw emotion. It was confusing why he felt such self-loathing over even considering snapping her neck. The sight of his hand against her throat was even more alarming. He withdrew it and fingered a thick lock of her hair instead.

Soft. He inhaled, breathing her in. His dick hardened until his balls ached. He was so focused on the female that it wasn’t easy to concentrate but he forced his attention elsewhere to assess the situation.

The mat was thicker than the one he was accustomed to and it wasn’t on the floor. He turned his head, stunned by his surroundings. The cage he knew so well was gone. Bars ran from floor to ceiling on three of the walls. Chains wrapped the bars of the door but the locks were all inside. Logic told him the door had been secured from the inside.

He wasn’t a prisoner. He had secured the area to keep humans out. His gaze returned to the slumbering female. Her chest rose and fell steadily. He growled and her breathing changed. Her eyelids remained closed but she wasn’t so drugged that she couldn’t wake.

Think. How did I get here? Who is this female? He turned his head the other way, staring past the bars to a cavernous, dim room beyond. The smell of the place was different from Mercile. A howl threatened to explode from him as rage heated his blood. He hated them. It took him a moment to remember why. Mercile employees were vile humans who caused him pain and kept him at their mercy. They had none. They were cruel, cunning, vicious adversaries. Even females were cruel at Mercile.

He pulled back his lip into a snarl as he turned his head again to stare down at the female. Enemy. Human. Kill. He hesitated, unable to do it regardless of his need to seek vengeance on one of them. His lungs constricted again and it was difficult to draw breath as tenderness swamped his senses. It was a foreign concept.

Why? There was no answer. He couldn’t hurt her. Other needs grew stronger until he couldn’t resist any longer. She was his, at least for the moment, on his mat. No one could reach them without cutting through the bars or the chains. He’d secured his space…unless she’d done it after he’d been drugged. It didn’t make sense though. Humans locked him inside a cage to keep him away from them. They would not willingly trap themselves with their victims.

I did it. I must have locked us inside. He was certain of that now, despite his lack of recollection. The condition of his dick was a hint as to why he might have kept her captive. One more survey of her skin and its lack of trauma verified that she hadn’t struggled.

Some of the sluggishness faded from his mind, making it easier to think. The smell of sex hung in the air, a mixture of himself and her. He growled, wanting to find pleasure in her body. She stirred under him and her lips parted slightly. Her eyes under the closed lids moved and then they opened. Blue with yellow specks—exactly as he’d somehow known.

He expected her to scream when she became aware that he had her pinned. Instead, she smiled and the warmth in her gaze was devastating to his libido. She moved leisurely, her hands uncurled and lifted to touch the tops of his shoulders. Fingernails didn’t claw his skin in protest but gently caressed him.

“Good morning.”

Her voice was husky and feminine, honey to his ears. He wanted to hear her speak more. She did, as if she could read his thoughts.

“You passed out.”

Her palms and fingertips slid over the curve of his shoulders to the front of his chest, exploring and almost destroying his tight control. It was difficult to remain still when all he wanted to do was drive his hips against hers. Many questions bothered him but he refrained from speaking.

The expression on her face changed to one that he identified as concern.

“Are you okay?” Her touch paused. “What’s wrong?” She paled. “Do you know who I am?”

He didn’t like seeing her distressed and instantly responded by shifting his position, making sure she couldn’t struggle if panic set in. The concept of harming the female in any way was offensive to him. His arms settled next to hers to keep her caged.

“Easy.” He wanted to assure her she wasn’t in danger.

Fear filled her eyes and his heart rate increased at her distress. She lowered her gaze, but he wasn’t fooled. He might be crushing her so he braced more of his weight on his arms and legs, lifting half an inch. It gave her the opportunity to wiggle out from under him but she didn’t.

“You are safe,” he rasped, mindful of his tone to avoid frightening her more.

He didn’t tense when her hands slid up his chest to his shoulders again. She wasn’t strong enough to really harm him. Her nails would hurt if she dug them into his skin to draw blood but he could handle that discomfort. She wasn’t going for his face, where she could do actual damage to his eyes. The female gripped him, clinging in a way he liked.

“I’m Joy. We know each other.”

Very well. He took a deep breath, drawing in the scent of their spent passion, still lingering in the air. His dick inside her, combined with their lack of clothing and what his nose told him assured him of that. He wanted to mount the female again.

“Do you know your name?”

He had no answer but it didn’t matter. They were together. He shifted his hips carefully and the silken confines of her pussy were torture. The small movement was enough to send him into a frenzy of mindless passion. She was hot, wet, and tight around him. She didn’t scream or struggle when he tested how she’d take him while sharing sex. Surprise was the only emotion she showed, urging him to sink his shaft deeper inside her.

Her legs tightened around the back of his while her hands gripped him with more force. He paused, waiting to see if she’d protest. Her tongue darted out to lick her lips but she stared at him now without fear. He noted the way her breathing increased but as he slowly dragged his dick almost all the way out of her, she lifted her thighs higher to his waist and clamped them firmly against his hips.

That was definitely a yes. He buried his nose against her throat, his mouth parting to taste her skin, and growled in excitement. The flavor of her was delicious and he wanted more, to lick her all over and explore…later. He plowed his hips into the cradle of her thighs, careful not to be too rough. She was human after all. They bruised easily and harm was the last thing he wanted as she moaned next to his ear.

He nearly came from the feel of her. She squeezed his dick to the point of pain but it was the best kind. He drove in and out of her pussy, moving faster until he had to stop kissing her and clench his teeth to resist losing control. Her moans rose in pitch as her vaginal muscles tightened even more. The feel of her climax was the final straw as her sex grew wetter, hotter, and she dug her nails into his skin.

His head snapped back and he howled as his body exploded. The ecstasy left him blind. He was not sure if he’d closed his eyes or if all his senses had been overridden by his swelling dick as he locked inside her, filling her with his seed. He shook violently from the intense experience.

He dropped his face into the curve of her neck before he could pull his thoughts together and find rationality. She was his. He sank his teeth into her tender skin and blood coated his tongue. He snarled, loving how good she tasted—so right. He felt her body jerk under his but it barely registered until she cried out. It wasn’t a sound of pleasure but one of pain.

Horror jolted through him as he realized what he’d done. He jerked his mouth away and stared at the bite he’d inflicted upon the female. Bright-red blood from two puncture wounds stained her neck and shoulder and dripped on the bedding. The indentations of his lower teeth were already forming bruises on her pale flesh near the base of her throat in the curve of her shoulder.

She released him and grabbed at the injury. He looked at her eyes then. They were filled with distress as she stared at him.

He would have rolled away but his swollen dick held him captive inside her. He snarled, enraged at what he’d done. Regret didn’t undo the action. Her legs released his hips and straightened along the length of his. Tears slipped silently down the side of her face. A ragged sob escaped her.

“I didn’t mean to.” He winced over how raw his voice came out but he couldn’t mute his sorrow.

He grabbed her trembling hand and pulled it away from the wound. He studied what he’d done to the female. The bite would scar where he’d pierced her skin. She’d carry his mark for the rest of her life.

She turned her head away, giving him a better view of the damage he’d inflicted, and used her other hand to hide her upper face. He would have urged her to trust him but it seemed insincere under the circumstances.

“I’ll tend it. Relax.”

She didn’t say a word but it had to hurt. He lowered his mouth and prepared to hold her securely if she struggled. His swiped the injury with his tongue as gently as possible. It drew a gasp from her but she didn’t flinch away.

The taste of her made his dick twitch and harden. It was uncomfortable instead of arousing with the swelling still receding from the knot that had formed near the base of his shaft. They both suffered a little as he finished cleaning the wound.

Joy shielded her eyes while she attempted to get a handle on what had happened. She didn’t argue about germs or how unsanitary it was for 466 to lick at the bite. Animals tended to wounds that way and there was no denying his DNA.

He bit me. She couldn’t get over that fact. It was bad enough that he didn’t know who she was. It wasn’t much of a surprise, albeit disappointing. He could have reacted in various ways when he’d awoken to find an unknown woman naked under him. It took control not to shudder as those scenarios scrolled through her mind. The worst being that it could have cost her life.

Where is he right now? Still at Mercile? She was afraid to ask. He might think she was the enemy. He could go from being tender to tearing her apart with his bare hands. The stories she’d heard about Species killing their captors were the makings of nightmares. Nope, don’t go there, she decided. A bite suddenly didn’t seem so bad.

He finished licking her and raised his head. She needed to get a read on his emotional state but kept her hand over her eyes. Dragging out the moment didn’t seem so terrible as she dealt with her own turmoil.

“Joy?”

Hope flared that his memory had finally returned. She wiped at her tears, blinked rapidly to clear them, and shifted her hand to peer at his handsome face. “You remember me?”

His frown and the confusion in his eyes was answer enough. It would be a terrifying situation if she wasn’t in love with him.

“That is your name?”

That is a question, not a statement. She cleared her throat. “Yes.”

He glanced away to stare at something near the center of the room. “I did that?”

She followed his gaze, spotting the chains on the door. “Yes.”

Dark eyes fixed on her. “Why?”

“You wanted to make sure no one could come in here.”

Keep calm, and damn it, stop crying. Her emotions were so raw that the hated tears were always just below the surface, waiting to escape at the most inopportune times. She felt like an emotional wreck and had to constantly battle for composure. She almost never cried, yet it seemed she fought tears at every turn now. Only Moon could do that to her.

She’d just shared intimate relations with someone who considered her a stranger. It hurt on many emotional levels. What they had was something she cherished yet to him she could have been any woman. She’d made love to him but he’d fucked her.

He glanced at her throat then held her gaze. “I didn’t mean to draw blood. I am sincere.”

“I believe you. It’s okay.”

“No.” He softly growled. “I’m furious.” His hand suddenly cupped her cheek. The loving way he regarded her was promising. “I don’t understand why but you are important to me.”

Somehow he sensed they had a strong connection. “You’re having a difficult time remembering your life.”

“I was given the breeding drug.”

“No. It’s something else.”

“What?”

“I don’t know. We haven’t seen it before.”

“We?” His voice deepened and his eyes narrowed with suspicion. “You are Mercile?”

“No!” She shook her head in denial. “You were freed from there.” She paused. “Does the name 466 or Moon mean anything to you?” She hoped one of them would trigger some clarity.

“466.” He seemed a little excited. “I know that. It’s my name!”

“Yes, it is.”

He glanced around again, lowering his tone. “Where are we?”

“Homeland. It’s safe here.”

His voice lowered as he inched their faces closer until their lips almost touched. “Tell me what is going on. What is wrong with me? Who are you and why are we sharing sex? Is this a trick? Are you being forced into a breeding experiment with me? I want the truth, female.”

Her hands flattened on his chest and fear inched along her spine. “Please listen to me. Mercile is gone. You are no longer being controlled by them. An unknown drug has affected your memory. You get confused. You don’t need to hurt me to get me to tell you anything you want to know. Just ask. I’m here because I want to be and I care about you.”

His chest vibrated when he snarled. “You care about me?”

“Yes.”

“You’re human.”

“I am.” She couldn’t deny that.

“They are my enemy.”

“I’m not.”

The concentrated way he studied her made her optimistic that he’d at least reflect on her words. “466, what is the last thing you remember? Focusing on a fixed point in time seems to help you remember more. Will you please close your eyes and try to tell me anything that comes to mind?”

He continued to watch her. “I want you again.” He slowly withdrew his semi-stiff cock from her body though. “Don’t distract me anymore with sex. I demand answers.”

“I’m giving them to you. You need to help me help you.”

He smirked. “I don’t like that saying. I’ve heard it before.”

“That’s good. It means you’re recalling something. What is it?”

His eyes closed and she patiently waited. It was paramount that he concentrate on any fragments he could locate to piece together any part of his life. She wanted to get the man she loved back. The ache in her chest grew stronger as time passed while she worried he wouldn’t find lucidity. His expression began to change. His dark eyes snapped open and the pain in them almost stole her breath.

His gaze slid to the bite mark and he snarled, released her, and moved faster than she thought possible. One second he was over her and the next he had rolled away. She turned her head in time to see him land on the floor on all fours.

She struggled to sit up, deeply concerned when he stayed crouched there with his back to her. “466?”

His head whipped around and the shimmer of tears pooling in his eyes had her reaching out to him. He rose to his feet, turned to face her as he backed away, and didn’t stop until his ass hit the bars. He growled, spun, and crossed the room to the far corner.

Joy watched him grip the bars and every muscle in his body seemed to grow rigid. The sight of him totally bare was distracting since he was so beautiful but her worry about his mental state made her feel guilty about noticing his perfect physique.

“466?”

“Get out of here,” he rasped. “I hurt you.”

“It’s not your fault.” She stood on unsteady legs. Between the sex and having him sleep on her, her body felt a little sluggish and achy. It was a reminder of how out of shape she’d allowed herself to get over the years, sitting behind a desk. A heavy workload didn’t allow any spare time to go to the gym. “Look at me.”

“I can’t.” He drew in a deep breath, his back expanding. “Get out, Joy. Now. I’m dangerous.”

He’d realized who she was. His tortured tone was a clue to the deep regret and anguish he must feel if he had regained some of his memory. “It’s okay. I’m fine. It’s nothing a bandage and a few days won’t take care of.”

He shook his head, his hair brushing against his back. “I savagely mauled you. Get out!” He snarled. “Go!”

“I’m not leaving you. It’s a bite. I won’t die from it or anything.”

He released the bars and slowly turned around. She almost wished he hadn’t when she saw his face.

“You already left me. Why did you come back? Why are you here?”

“I have told you many times. What do you remember?”

“You left me there. You quit.” He took a step forward but halted. His hands clenched at his sides. “I was drugged by an enemy, suffered memory loss, and you came to help me claim my life again.”

She nodded, ignoring the chill in the room that was becoming increasingly noticeable. She no longer had his body heat to keep her warm. “That’s all true. What is the last thing you remember?”

“All of it.”

She wasn’t sure if that statement was accurate. He couldn’t know that for sure, the way he kept relapsing. “What is your name?”

His chin rose a little and his eyes narrowed. “Moon. I live at Homeland and sometimes Reservation. We were transported from site four, given Homeland by the United States government as a way to bribe us into forgiving them for their part in funding Mercile Industries. We bought Reservation on our own.”

Her heart pounded. He wasn’t exactly the man she’d fallen in love with but he was Moon, the person he’d become after she’d left his life. “Do you remember the attack? The one where you were drugged?”

She tried hard to be clinical. The woman in her was heartbroken though at the cold way he stared at her. Her worst fear was becoming reality. He said he remembered everything and if that was true, he’d decided to reject having her in his life. She’d always been afraid he wouldn’t be able to forgive her. It seemed that fear was justified.

“Some bastard shot me with a tranquilizer dart. I was at Reservation.” He looked away from her then, studying the room. “Is this the basement of Medical at Homeland?”

“Yes. You were brought here.”

“I attacked my friends.” His tone deepened and his fingers unclenched. Anger flushed his features as his gaze turned her way.

The way he perused her naked body from her toes upward until he met her gaze made her blush. “Put on your clothes.” He glanced down at his chest, seeming to notice his own naked state. “Shit.”

“This is the first time you’ve been completely lucid since you were drugged.” She didn’t move toward her discarded clothes. It was pure agony for her to resist doing as he ordered. He was angry that they’d had sex and didn’t bother to spare her feelings. She pushed aside her embarrassment and hurt to focus on his mental state. “How do you feel?”

“I’m calling for help. Put on something,” he demanded harshly, “or they will see all of you.”

“Talk to me. Are you in pain? Do you have a headache? Buzzing in your ears? Any numbness in your extremities?” It was tough to keep in therapist mode. “Do you know what happens to you when you lose your memories?”

“Goddamn it,” he growled, staring at her. “Cover yourself now. I can’t get dressed since I destroyed my sweats when I tore them off over the shackles.”

Joy blushed and bent, her hands trembling as she attempted to get dressed. Pain pierced her chest as though a dagger had been jabbed directly into her heart. He regretted what they’d done. She’d screwed everything up by having sex with him when she should have known better.

“I’m sorry,” she whispered, dragging her skirt up her legs and failing to zip it all the way. The shirt was easier to put on.

“For what?” Chains rattled. He still sounded angry.

She looked at him and was surprised to see him use the key on the shackles. He unwound the chains from the bars, dropped them to the floor, and yanked open the door. He didn’t leave the cell though but instead stalked her way. Joy kept her gaze on his face.

Her thoughts were jumbled. He respected the truth so she couldn’t lie by apologizing for what had transpired between them on his bed. He might regret it but she didn’t. “I’m sorry you’re upset.” That was the best she could do under the circumstances.

Moon walked past her, ripped the sheet off the mattress and proceeded to wrap it around his waist to cover his lower half. She got one good look at his ass before he knotted the material to keep it in place and slowly faced her. One quick glance down her body and he held her gaze.

“You shouldn’t have come back. You made your choice a long time ago not to be a part of my life.” He reached up suddenly and gripped her arm. Strong fingers dug in but it didn’t hurt. “What the hell were you thinking by coming into this room with me when I was out of my mind? You’re lucky I didn’t kill you.” His gaze flicked to her wound and his mouth compressed into a tight line. “Cover your ears.”

She hesitated.

“Do it. When I yell it will echo in here.”

She lifted both hands to do as he’d ordered.

“Security!” he shouted. “We need assistance now!”

Joy stopped pressing her palms against her ears when he released her and stepped back. Moon’s furious gaze swept the cell before he looked at her again.

“Get out. I’m still dangerous. I have no idea how long I’ll remain rational but I think it won’t be for long.”

The elevator doors slid open but Joy ignored whoever entered the basement. She fixed her attention on Moon. “I’m not going.”

A muscle jumped along his jaw. He didn’t glance at her but instead at whoever had come when he’d yelled for help. Surprise changed his expression.

“Jessie? What the hell are you doing here?”

Joy turned to watch a pretty redhead wearing all black approach the cell. The woman gripped a dart gun that was aimed at Moon. Her hair was really long, falling over one shoulder in a braid that nearly reached her waist. The woman halted, a frown firmly on her face.

“Moon?” The uncertainty in the guard’s voice was clear. “You know who I am?”

“Of course I do. I’m not screwed up at the moment but I could lose it at any time. Get her out of here and lock me up. I’m dangerous.”

The weapon lowered and the redhead shot Joy an angry glare. “You totally unchained him and left the door open?”

“Jessie?” Moon interrupted before Joy could answer. “Catch. I can’t keep that.”

He tossed the key to his shackles. The redhead caught it. Joy was stunned when Moon bent and grabbed one of the chains. He dragged it over and secured the shackle to one ankle then pressed the auto-lock into place until it clicked.

“What are you doing?”

He glanced up at her while he secured the second one. “Fixing your mistake. You never should have set me free.” Anger deepened his voice. “I could have attacked my friends again. They put me in these for a damn reason.”

His admonishment left Joy reeling. She’d allowed her personal feelings to cloud her judgment. He’d called her on it and she couldn’t even deny her culpability. Harley’s accusations that first time she’d met him came back to her. All the good intensions in the world didn’t matter when faced with Moon’s anger.

“Moon?” The male voice surprised Joy and she jumped, staring at Justice North standing behind his wife. She hadn’t heard him come into the room.

“Good to see you, Justice. I wish the circumstances were better.” Moon snapped the restraint onto his wrist. “Why the hell is your mate close to me? She shouldn’t be. Have you lost your mind too?”

Justice entered the cell and gripped Moon by the shoulders. “Moon?”

“I’m present. Currently.” Moon reached up and clutched Justice’s arms. “Did you catch the bastard who shot me?”

“Not yet but we have solid leads. We managed to capture a few of the humans who attempted to steal Beauty. They didn’t want to talk at first but I was persuasive.”

“You took off the tie again and started stripping to avoid getting blood on your fancy suit?” A smile tugged at Moon’s lips and his gaze softened. “Is the Gift okay?”

“She’s fine. Safe. Shadow and Beauty mated.”

“Good. I’m glad this shit wasn’t for nothing. What is my condition besides being fucked?” He glanced at Joy then, before staring at Justice. “I could have killed her. Why is she here?”

“We thought you’d just been tranquilized but you woke feral. Our doctors are consulting with specialists all over the country.”

“A Mercile concoction? Those bastards are the ones who tried to grab the Gift?”

“It was the rich prick who once owned her but we believe he’s working with Mercile.”

“You didn’t answer my question. Why is she here?”

Justice hesitated. “We were desperate to try anything. I sure wasn’t going to allow Kregkor near you. I know how you feel about him.”

“Thanks.” Moon released Justice and stepped back. “I’m not sure how long I have before I lose it again.”

“Are you sure you will?” Justice studied him. “Maybe it’s over.”

“I don’t think so. I have a headache and a bad feeling.”

“What kind?” Justice asked.

It hurt Joy that he’d answer his friend but had ignored her questions, making it obvious that her help wasn’t welcomed by Moon. She remained silent as the two of them talked.

“I don’t know, but I’m worried I’ll lose my sanity again.” He lifted one arm, staring at the restraint on his wrist then let it drop. “Keep me confined. It’s better to be safe than sorry. My memory is not real clear. There are fuzzy gaps. Besides biting a few people and kicking some ass, have I done any real damage to anyone?”

“No.”

“Apologize for me, will you?” Moon took another step back. “It gets all screwed up in my head. I can’t tell what is real and what isn’t. I am confused most of the time and believe I’m back at Mercile or in the desert. I feel pure hatred to the point that I could hurt anything that moves.” He paused. “Murderous rage. Do you understand? That’s the emotion driving me.”

“We’re doing everything we can and we won’t give up.”

“I know that.” Moon hesitated. “I’d be noble and ask you to put me down but I’m not ready to toss in the towel yet. I want to beat this shit and get my life back.”

“We wouldn’t do that,” Jessie assured him, moving closer to the cell. “We’ll hunt down the sicko who created the drug and make him tell us how to reverse the effects.” She’d holstered her weapon. “Even if I have to go at him. I can be pretty mean when I’m pissed and I’m livid.”

Moon grinned at the redhead but it appeared strained. “Are you working with the task force again to track him down?”

“No. I was pulling guard duty because you believed you were at site four. It’s the only uniform I have.”

“I’ve been with her,” Justice softly added. “You wouldn’t have gotten the chance to cause Jessie harm. I was inside the elevator the entire time, ready to come to her aid.”

“Don’t put your mate at risk.” Moon pressed his back against the wall and reached up, rubbing his temple. “Damn. It’s getting worse. It feels as though my head is being squeezed.”

“Call Treadmont,” Justice ordered.

Jessie grabbed her cell phone. “On it.”

Moon’s gaze lifted and he stared at Joy. Fear gripped her that he’d order her to be sent away but he didn’t say anything. Jessie’s voice was soft as she explained the situation to whoever answered and requested a medical team be sent downstairs.

Joy knew her time with Moon was limited. Dr. Treadmont would probably demand to examine Moon in privacy. She slowly approached him while they continued to stare at each other. Justice didn’t try to stop her. She paused a few feet away from the man she loved.

“I’m not leaving,” she whispered and hated the tears that once again filled her eyes. “Please don’t ask them to keep me away from you.”

He surprised her by reaching out and cupping her face. His thumb was gentle as he stroked her cheek. “We have unfinished business, sweetness.”

The tears slipped out but she didn’t wipe them away. It gave her hope that he didn’t hate her after all.

“You’re the only one who can reach me when I’m lost.”

She wanted to lunge and hug him, relieved that he acknowledged that something special was between them. It took a huge effort to resist the urge. His hand dropped away and he broke eye contact to stare over her head at Justice.

“Don’t give her the key to my restraints again. I bit her. Keep bars between us from now on. That’s the only way she can stay with me. Am I clear? Send her upstairs to have the wound checked.”

Chapter Nine

Frustration and worry were two emotions Joy could live without. They seemed to be her constant companions since she’d been escorted by Jessie to the elevator. The male nurse had cleaned the bite, bandaged it, and given her an antibiotic shot. Stitches hadn’t been required.

“How is Moon? Is he still lucid? It’s been four hours since Dr. Treadmont and his team went downstairs.”

Paul, the nurse, frowned at her from across the desk. “We’re still waiting for word.”

“Can’t you check? May I go see him?”

“Ted said to keep you here.”

“Of course he did.” The jerk was territorial and didn’t like her. Sex therapist! Anger burned at that insult.

“I could call for an escort to take you back to your housing.”

“No. I’m not leaving Medical.”

“Then we wait.” The nurse opened a drawer and offered a pack of gum. “Want a piece?”

“No thanks.”

He returned it and glanced at his computer. “You could sit at that other desk. We have a few games loaded on these things.”

“I don’t want to play draw poker.” She leaned forward to glance at the screen, having noticed that it kept most of his attention. “Is this what you do all day?”

“It is when we’re shut down for the most part. Trisha is treating people at her house if they need something minor. Only emergencies are cleared to enter Medical.” He smiled. “I patched you up since you were already here or you would have been sent to her house too. It’s been a slow day, luckily.”

“Moon is locked in a cell. There’s no way he could get up here to hurt anyone.”

“It’s not why Medical is still shut down. He howls when he’s in a mood. It upsets anyone within hearing distance. Species can’t stand to hear their own suffer. We had a few incidents.”

“What kind?”

He sighed and leaned back, staring at her. “They tried to go to him, thinking they could help. It only made it worse. He broke free a few times. It wasn’t pretty. We were keeping him up here at first. Even in the basement, if he raises a ruckus, well, Species have good hearing. It’s best if we keep the building cleared.”

She glanced at the clock. “What is taking so long?”

“I don’t know since I’m not there. They are using Species nurses with Moon now. He tried to kill me a few times so I’m not complaining. He’d want me to avoid him.”

Joy stood and paced. “I want to know what is going on.”

“We’ll find out when they come upstairs.”

The nurse’s nonchalant attitude drove Joy a little nuts but part of her envied him. Moon’s well-being was all she could think about. Had he lost touch with reality again? Was he talking and sane? She should be with him.

Footsteps sounded and she spun, watching as Justice, Ted Treadmont, and a few tall Species nurses entered the reception area. It took control not to lunge forward to demand answers. She didn’t bother glancing at the white-haired doctor, sure he wouldn’t tell her anything. Justice North held her full attention.

He met her gaze. “Moon needed to be sedated. His state of mind deteriorated.”

Pain sliced through her. “Did he attack anyone?” She glanced at all the men, not seeing any visible signs of an altercation.

“His headache grew worse until he stopped talking altogether.” Justice paused, running a hand through his hair. A grim frown marred his mouth. “It became clear that he didn’t recognize us anymore when he snarled and tried to take a bite out of Ted. I called it quits at that point. He needed rest.”

The older man scowled. “Moon’s condition is improving. His moments of lucidity are growing more frequent and lasting longer.”

“I’ll send these samples to the lab.” One of the nurses left the room carrying a case. The other two followed him.

“Blood samples?” Joy knew they took a lot of those.

“And hair.” Ted threw himself into a chair and sighed loudly. “I wish we could find the chemist who brewed whatever Moon was given. I’d love to know how he did it.”

“I only want to know how to cure him,” Joy added, trying not to take offense at Treadmont’s line of thought. He was not emotionally invested, as she was. The method of how something was done would be important to him, as well as how to reverse the effects. “May I go downstairs?”

“He’s sleeping.” Ted shook his head. “She’s not necessary, Justice. We should send her home.”

Outraged, Joy opened her mouth to protest but Justice spoke first.

“No, Ted. Moon responds to her.”

“Of course he does. Sex is a basic need to any man. Like food. Sleeping. Urinating. Any woman would do. We should use Species females instead of having her underfoot.”

Joy felt as if he’d slapped her. “It’s not only about sex. He’s talking to me. He—”

“Enough.” Justice’s voice deepened. “Ted, you’re being rude. I don’t believe he’d struggle to find his memories if just any female was sent to him. He had no coherent moments before her arrival. We were able to speak to him and carry on a lengthy conversation.”

“They had sex.” Disgust lined the doctor’s face. “Spare me the pretense that they didn’t. I don’t have your hyper sense of smell but even I could tell by the state of his bed and what remained of his sweats what went down.”

“I don’t care what they did. The results matter.” Justice’s hands fisted. “It’s not your call. It’s mine. She stays.” His gaze slid to Joy. “You may return to him but the door remains locked. Moon had me promise to keep bars between the two of you from now on. He was deeply upset that you were hurt. Keep out of his reach.”

She started to argue but he didn’t give her time to utter a word.

“That’s the rules. Accept them or leave. I gave my promise that he wouldn’t be given the opportunity to harm you a second time. I was willing to allow you to risk your life to save his but he made it clear that wasn’t acceptable. I have to respect his wishes.”

It was obvious that Justice had made up his mind. She nodded in agreement. It was better to be near Moon than to be asked to leave Homeland. “Okay.”

Justice’s cell phone rang and he withdrew it from his pants. “Hello?” He listened a moment. “Good. How far out are the SUVs?” He paused again. “I’ll meet the team when they arrive. Prepare an interrogation room.” He hung up, depositing the phone in his pocket.

“What happened?” Ted straightened in his chair.

A cold smile curved Justice’s mouth as his gaze hardened. “We couldn’t get the one who invented the drug Moon was given but we have someone almost as good.”

“Who?” Joy was curious.

“For the past few days the prison guards have questioned the Mercile employees we arrested. It took some convincing but we have just picked up one of their research team leaders. Four different prisoners gave him up. He will know what drugs they were developing.”

Ted stood. “I want to be there.”

“Of course.” Justice glanced at Joy.

“I want to see Moon.”

“Go ahead.”

She didn’t need to be told twice. She almost ran from the room. There was no guard at the elevator. The ride down was fast. When she entered the dim basement a New Species male she hadn’t met hovered just inside. He inhaled and waved her by.

“He’s been tranquilized. It will be a few hours before he wakes.”

She crossed the room to the bars. Moon had showered. His hair was wet and a new pair of sweats had been given to him. He lay on his side facing her, appearing too large for the cot with his knees slightly over the edge. His steady, slow breathing assured her he was fine.

She wished she could touch him. It wouldn’t happen any time soon, according to Justice. He’d made it clear she had to stay far enough away that there was no chance of any physical contact.

“You’re too close, female,” the male rumbled from behind. “Justice said you are to stay five feet from the cell at all times.”

Her shoulders sagged as she glanced back. “Moon is still sleeping so he can’t reach me. My name is Joy.”

“Smiley.” He walked closer. He had pretty eyes. She studied his face. Primate. She knew the feature distinctions. They weren’t as aggressive as the canines or felines, in her experience.

“Were you here when they were talking to Moon?”

“Yes.”

“How was he after I left?”

“Very clear that you aren’t to be put in harm’s way again.” He paused, his gaze slowly wandering up and down her body. “I agree that you’re fragile enough to easily be hurt. He was frustrated and angry over what was done to him. His headache grew worse until he became completely disorientated.”

She hated hearing that. Every time she grew hopeful that he’d recover, he relapsed. It was disheartening. “It’s my decision about what risks I’m willing to take.”

“It was…until Moon stated otherwise. You are to be protected from him.”

She hated feeling helpless but she’d have to live with it. Justice had a valid point and he made the rules. She’d either follow them or be escorted off Homeland.

“We’re going to get him back. Moon is a determined male. No one here will give up hope.”

“Are you close to him?”

“Everyone loves Moon.” He shifted his stance enough to get a good view of the sleeping Species. “He’s closest though to Brass and Harley. They are like brothers but then, we’re all family at the NSO.”

“I’m sure you are.”

His gaze jerked back to her. “You’re the head shrink?”

She nodded and turned back toward Moon. The peaceful expression on his handsome face did little to alleviate her worry about what the future would hold for him. “May I ask you a favor, Smiley?”

“I refuse to allow you inside his cell.”

“You said he’d be out for hours. I just…” Emotion choked her voice. “I don’t know when I’ll be allowed near him again. I won’t stay long. I just…need to touch him.”

“I can’t do that.” He reached out and touched her shoulder gently, turning her to face him. He watched her eyes carefully. Whatever he saw there made him wince. The Species lowered his voice to a whisper. “Shit. You care deeply for him.”

“I do.”

“This isn’t only a job to you, is it?” His hand dropped away. “Do you love him?”

She didn’t even consider denying it. “I do.”

Keys jangled. “Don’t tell anyone I did this. They haven’t come to adjust the camera feeds yet. Five minutes and I stay inside with you in case he shakes it off sooner than anticipated. We have been forced to adapt to so many drugs in our lifetimes that some of us work through them faster. Keep your voice low. Though the cameras are still on blackout, the sound is active. They get a live feed into Security.”

“Thank you,” she whispered back. “I appreciate it.”

“I’m a sucker for love but don’t tell anyone.” He unlocked the door and pushed it open. “Sorry,” he stated loudly. “I can’t do that. I’d get into trouble.”

Joy rushed inside and sat on the edge of the cot. Her hand trembled slightly as she brushed back damp strands of Moon’s hair from his cheek and caressed his jawline. She glanced at his chest, noticing his taut nipples and seemingly chilled skin.

“Is there a blanket?” she murmured, remembering to keep her voice low.

“He doesn’t need one.” Smiley crept closer. “This is a comfortable enough environment for him. It’s the calming drug that cools his skin. It slows his heart rate. He needed the rest and a reprieve from the headache. Warming his external temperature too much would only remove the sedative faster through his pores. We actually even lowered the heat to make sure he stays down longer. He’ll warm quickly when he wakes. All that pacing and fighting he does causes him to sweat.”

Joy nodded, touching Moon’s chest. He did feel cooler than normal to her. His skin always seemed hot. Something nagged at her and a crazy thought suddenly popped into her head. She looked up at Smiley. “Species sweat out drugs?”

“Of course. It’s part of the reason we’re all in such great shape. We realized at a young age that rigorous exercise not only kept us from being bored while we were locked in our cells, it helped us rid our systems of their drugs. The cycle became routine to us. I feel restless if I don’t keep an active regiment of working out.”

Her attention returned to Moon. “You keep adjusting the temperature down here?”

“Yes.”

Her head whipped in Smiley’s direction. “Is there a sauna at Homeland?”

“No.” His expression became almost comical. “Those hot rooms? They would be a form of torture to my kind. The heat would be unbearable.”

“It would make you sweat a lot though, right?”

“Buckets.”

Her gaze slid to Moon. “And maybe sweat out any drugs you’d been given?” She glanced back at him.

Smiley’s eyes widened. “We didn’t try that.” He reached for his radio but paused. “He’d dehydrate.”

“Not if he is monitored and it is done correctly.”

Smiley backed out of the cell and walked far enough away that all she could hear were the soft tones of his speech but not the words. She focused on Moon.

“I’m here.” She stroked his cheek. “I know you want to protect me but you wouldn’t hurt me, regardless of your mental state.” She believed that. He’d be more inclined to want sex instead of bloodshed.

Footsteps sounded and Joy turned her head. Smiley waved to her and whispered. “Get out. They are coming down here. You can’t be found on that side of the door.”

Regret was a bitter pill to swallow as she released Moon, her gaze lingering on him as she rose to her feet. Smiley locked the door and pointed.

“Five feet back.”

“What did they say about the sauna?”

“I don’t know what the doctors will say but Justice was interested in the theory.”

Joy stared at Moon’s still form. “I hope it works.”

“We’re desperate. We’ll try anything at this point.”

She glanced at Smiley.

He shrugged. “That’s the truth.”

* * * * *

466 couldn’t move when he woke. He raised his head and snarled. The human standing a few feet in front of him started, paled, and turned to speak to someone.

“I still protest.”

“Do it, Ted.”

The male who replied had a deep, gruff voice for a human and it sounded as if he spoke through a door or wall. It gave 466 time to glance down his body. Restraints held him upright on his feet and tightly bound to a flat wooden surface. Thick straps were wrapped around his wrists, elbows, chest, waist, thighs and ankles.

The strange tubes that were taped to his body were alarming. Were they injecting some fluid directly into his veins? He snarled again, lifted his chin, and gave the human a glare that promised swift death. He struggled but the straps across his body didn’t break.

They should have used chains. That was a mistake, he decided. Mercile usually didn’t do stupid things that could allow them to escape but their error would cost the life of the white-haired human. It might take time to break free but he would, then he’d snap the human’s neck. He’d worry about the other human after he got through with the first one.

“We should wait until the task force arrives. You can interrogate the man they are bringing in and get answers that way. This could do more harm than good.”

“The prisoner could lie. It could take days to break his spirit enough to trust his words. There’s no guarantee he even knows about this drug Moon was given.” The other voice deepened even more, almost sounding inhuman.

“What if he is so bitter that he purposely gives us an answer that will cause Moon’s death?” A third human had an unusually deep voice too. He also remained out of sight. “Let’s stick to what we know are facts. We can sweat out certain drugs. It might not work in this case but it’s safer to try this than to trust some chemist with a grudge.”

The white-haired human appeared flustered. “We’ll call in more experts and have them double-check anything the asshole does before we try it on Moon. I understand your reservations to trust anyone who worked for that company but that’s why we have good people on call.”

“So far those experts haven’t figured out what was done to Moon. They don’t know much about Species. Unfortunately, only Mercile does. Do it, Ted. Otherwise, move out of the way and I’ll do it myself.”

“Justice.” The white-haired human reached up and gripped the bridge of his nose with his forefinger and thumb, pinching it. “Some days working for the NSO is a pain in my ass. This isn’t professional.” His hand dropped to his side. “At a hospital we would call this hack medicine.”

“Then go work for one.” It was a female who spoke. “Come on, Ted. You knew when you took the job that the rule book would go out the window. They didn’t cover Species in med school.”

“I don’t like it, Trisha.” The white-haired human hesitated. “Fine. I’m stating on the record, though, that I protest.”

“Noted,” the female agreed. “We’ll monitor his vitals closely and we have an emergency team standing by if Moon gets into trouble.”

466 glanced around with worry. The technicians usually didn’t mind inflicting pain on his kind. It had to be a particularly gruesome torture for one of them to balk at doing whatever they planned.

The room was small with wood planks lining walls and very hot. It appeared that planks had also been laid over a tile floor—he could see through some of the wider cracks. A big drain was to his left. He had to twist his head to get a view of the thing he was strapped to. It appeared to be some kind of wooden table that had supports that kept it about an inch off the floor. The thing he stood on wasn’t long enough to keep his toes from dangling over the edge as he wiggled them. He glanced up. Four big round metal things with many holes were attached to the ceiling at one end of the tight space. At least none of them were pointed in his direction. A few feet in front of him there was a strange-looking little burner or stove of some kind with rocks on top. A bucket of water and a ladle sat beside it.

He wondered if this was the end of his existence. Had the technicians decided to kill him? It appeared that way. Gas could come from above. The drain implied easy clean up and the wood-lined walls would be easy to replace if bloodshed was involved. He struggled again.

The white-haired human faced him, his expression grim. 466 snarled a warning.

“You’re about to get very hot,” the human whispered. “Tell me if it’s too much, okay? We’re monitoring your vitals but we need your help too. We don’t want to overheat you.”

They must be testing new chemicals but they weren’t doing it with a hose. 466 glanced at the metal handles just behind the man. Did they control the flow to the metal objects overhead? Fear and rage combined as he struggled harder but couldn’t break free.

“Please,” another female voice reached his ears. “Let me go in there with him.” There was something familiar about her voice.

“No.” The white-haired human backed away to the other side of the cramped room. “It’s crowded and uncomfortable enough in here.”

“I don’t care!” The female voice rose. “Please, Mr. North? He’s struggling and he looks panicky. I don’t think he knows that no one is going to hurt him.”

“Go,” the deep voice responded.

A human female stepped in front of him. He ceased his struggles with the straps when he saw her face. Wide, big blue eyes met his. She froze for a heartbeat. Dark hair fell over her white T-shirt to hang just below her breasts. The sight of her did something funny to 466. The urge to kill left him. It somehow didn’t apply to her.

She approached him cautiously, her small hands lifted and she opened her palms toward him. They held no weapons or medical devices. She shoved her hair out of her face when it stuck to her cheeks. She was beginning to sweat from the heat.

“Hey,” she whispered. “It’s me.”

He looked down at the shirt molded over the swell of her breasts. Through the material of her shirt he clearly saw something black that hid her nipples. The human wore a much smaller shirt under the T-shirt for some strange reason he didn’t understand.

“Nothing will hurt you. I promise,” she crooned. One hand reached out and she almost touched his skin. “See? It’s just really hot to make you sweat.” She glanced at the white-haired human. “You can go a hair hotter. I think I can tell if it’s too much.”

466 pulled back his upper lip and allowed her to see his sharp canines as he growled a warning. It was a reminder that he’d stopped fighting the restraints. He sucked in air, expanding his chest to push against them while flexing his muscles. It might have been wishful thinking but the restraints seemed to give him a little more wiggle room.

“I’m Joy.”

She didn’t flee the way he thought she would. Movement drew his attention and he watched as the white-haired human moved to the bucket, dipped out some water and poured it on the rocks. Steam rose and the room became noticeably hotter. Sweat broke out all over his body.

Gentle fingers brushed his chest and his eyes widened in shock. Though the human wasn’t wearing gloves, she made direct contact with his skin. He threw back his head and howled in rage. Mercile must be attempting to kill him since this hadn’t ever happened before. He struggled again, jerking his body violently in hopes that he’d be able to slip free.

“Look at me!”

The human suddenly did the unexpected. She gripped the top of one of his shoulders and used it as leverage to haul her body higher. Her small feet planted right between his on the platform where he stood. The female’s body was soft and moist as she pressed tightly against him. He looked down at her.

He could slam his head against her forehead to knock her away. It wouldn’t kill her but it would hurt. Her chin lifted and she met his glare. She exposed herself to death now. All it would take was for him to slam his chin into the bridge of her tiny nose with enough force.

“Please stop fighting.”

“Get down from there!” the white-haired human yelled. “Are you crazy?”

466 agreed. The female had to be insane to put herself within striking distance. The yellow flecks shining in the blue of her irises fascinated him though and held him utterly still. She had beautiful eyes. The pleading look in them made his stomach muscles clench.

“We’re trying to sweat the drugs out of you.” The tone of her voice was almost sad.

She adjusted against him and her fingers rose to touch his cheek. He could have flinched away to avoid contact but curiosity held him still. Soft skin caressed him and he liked the feel of her fingertips stroking his face. She was gentle and the way she peered at him was as if she cared deeply for him.

“Talk to me,” she whispered as her breasts smashed against the wall of his chest. “Think. Remember.”

The weight of her hand on his shoulder and her fingers trailing along his jawline weren’t offensive at all. He liked her against him, so close. His nostrils flared as he drew in a deep breath and her scent filled him. Blood rushed to his groin as his dick hardened. An image flashed in his mind. He tried to grasp it but it vanished. She was what he wanted.

“Damn it!” the human yelled. “Get away from him!”

466 turned his attention to the human, directing his rage there. If he’d been able, he’d have wrapped his arms around the female to keep her close. The human seemed the threat now. The white-haired man took a step in their direction and it seemed his intention was to take the female away by force.

466 growled. “I’ll rip your arms off if you touch her.” He couldn’t get free at the moment but that didn’t mean he wouldn’t. The human would die a painful death if he came any closer.

The white-haired human gasped and stumbled back.

Chapter Ten

This is my fault. Joy had been the one to suggest they try to sweat the drugs out of his system. It had never crossed her mind that he’d mistake their intentions.

She’d managed to get Moon’s attention again once he stopped threatening Dr. Treadmont. No recognition sparked in his dark gaze. It seemed a plus though that he hadn’t tried to shake her off. He was restrained but not totally defenseless. He could have bitten her. Her hands and face had been within reach of his mouth.

She debated, not sure if he’d respond to Moon or 466, or at all. She softened her tone, hoping it would soothe him. “You can talk so I’ll assume you can understand me.”

His gaze narrowed. She was sure he didn’t recognize her—again. She slowly inched her fingertips closer to his face again. He didn’t pull away. He allowed her to push back some of his hair, which had fallen into his face. Her palm caressed his cheek in the process.

“You’re at Homeland.”

Confusion clouded his expression a second before he masked his features. Where was he in his mind? She paused, trying to figure out the best way to continue without sending him into a rage.

“It’s a safe place. Have you ever exercised to help get the drugs out of your system?”

His mouth firmed into a tight line and he glanced over her to Dr. Treadmont, then back. “Yes.”

That one terse word gave Joy hope. “That’s what we’re doing. A bad drug has left you really confused and disorientated. You’ve suffered memory loss.”

“Make him leave.” He growled low.

“Not a chance,” Treadmont sputtered.

“Ted?” Justice North spoke from the other room. “Get out of there now. That’s an order. He’s calmer with her and you agitate him.”

Joy didn’t glance back to see how the doctor would react but she could guess he wouldn’t be happy about being overruled by the NSO leader. She heard Treadmont leave the room.

“What drug?” He kept his voice low, almost a hiss. “Who did this to me? That technician?”

“No. We don’t know what drug but we’re hoping you can sweat it totally out of your system.”

He shifted, tugging at the restraints but did it slowly enough that she wasn’t dislodged from him. “Free me. I won’t harm you.”

“You need to get a little better first. Do you remember me?”

“I like how you smell.”

Her lips curved and she couldn’t help but smile. “I like how you smell too. I guess that’s a start.”

He glanced down his arm. “They are still giving me drugs.”

She looked at the IV in his arm. “The line is not open. It is just there as a precaution. It’s only saline solution and won’t be used unless you show signs of dehydration.”

Some emotion flickered in his eyes. “I don’t like sports.”

YES! She wanted to fist pump the air but didn’t dare. She barely had a toehold on the footboard with him. She didn’t want to fall and land on her ass. “That’s right.”

He closed his eyes. “You’re a shrink. You want to fix me and make me more human.” His eyes snapped open. “I’m not.”

“You’re definitely not like human guys. You’re better.” She had a timeframe now.

“Yes.”

Sweat beaded his upper lip and his brow. She knew it was happening to her as well. The makeshift sauna was creating the environment they needed.

“Your hair is longer than I thought it would be. You always keep it in a tight ball at the base of your neck.” A muscle in his jaw clenched. “Who are the other humans in the next room? Guards?”

“They are your friends. Some of them are like you.”

That surprised him, judging by his expression. He closed his eyes again and a look of concentration tensed his features.

“Are you okay?” she asked.

“It’s so hot.”

She glanced down his body. Sweat poured from him. She was pretty sure she was sweating as much. Her hold on him slipped and she had to grab the strap on his upper biceps to keep from falling back. The temperature in the room was nearly unbearable.

She waited for him to speak again. Time seemed to stand still. Every inch of her clothing felt as if it were glued to her skin.

“Joy, I remember,” he suddenly said. “Where is Justice? I told him to keep you away from me.” He frowned. “Get down before you fall.”

Hands gripped her hips and she gasped. Justice was behind her and easily lifted her to the floor. His clothes were already plastered to him but he seemed oblivious as he released her to address Moon.

“She has a calming effect on you.” Justice shrugged. “It wasn’t as if we could ask you nicely to work out until you dropped from exhaustion.”

“I thought about killing her, damn it.” Moon didn’t even look at Joy. “This is the big cure? Melt me?”

“You’re back to being you so don’t complain.” Justice reached up and pulled at his shirt. “It’s like standing in hell, isn’t it? I’m going to need a shower.”

“Let me loose.”

“We’re hoping this will get whatever you were exposed to out of your system.”

“I didn’t say I was going to walk out of here. Get me out of this damn contraption.”

Justice freed Moon’s upper body and bent to free his lower half. The ripping sound of Velcro was loud. Joy backed into a corner to give the two men more room.

“Couldn’t you just dunk my ass in a hot tub?” Moon was free and stepped down to the floor. “Are we in Medical?”

Justice pulled off his shirt, tossing it to the floor. He bent, tearing at his shoes. “Yes. This is the biggest bathroom we had. You have no idea how many males it took to rig this up. And a hot tub wouldn’t have worked. Even if it had, you know how impossible it would have been to put you in and keep you there. Imagine the risks involved with someone drowning if you struggled too much? You haven’t exactly been friendly.”

“Get out of here.” Moon finally glanced at Joy again. “There’s no reason for anyone else to suffer. How long do I have to stay in here?” He lifted the arm that was still attached to the IV and asked Justice, “Can I get rid of this?”

“Only if you keep Ted informed about anything that feels off to you. I mean anything and everything. We’re not sure how long to keep you overheated. We want that drug out of you for good.”

“Twenty minutes,” Treadmont shouted. “Then we can take you out for a few hours and assess your long-term prognosis.”

Moon tore out the IV and Joy winced at the sight of blood. “There was a better way to do that.”

He shot her a dirty look before grimacing at Justice. “Get out of here. It’s hotter than hell.”

“No shit.” Justice chuckled. “We decided to try this before we force information out of a resident from Fuller. He’s a chemist. You can appreciate my hesitation at depending on anything he might have to tell us. The humans imprisoned at Fuller aren’t to be trusted.”

“Moon?” Harley suddenly barged into the cramped space.

The expression of elation on Moon’s face hurt Joy’s feelings. He hadn’t ever reacted to her that strongly or positively in all the time she’d known him. The big Species nearly shoved Justice out of the way to reach his friend. He grabbed the other man in a bear hug.

“It’s so good to see you. I missed the other time you were lucid.” Harley eased back but still kept hold of his friend. “You’ve got to beat this thing.”

“I’m trying.” Moon grinned, his chin dropping to his chest to stare downward. “I’m more important than your favorite biker boots? The leather might shrink in this hellish heat.”

“I don’t care. I’ll buy more.” Harley shook his head. “Duck next time someone shoots at you.”

“It was bad luck. It missed my vest and hit my arm. It didn’t hurt, if that helps. Just a little sting and then a whole lot of nothingness.”

Justice turned and motioned for Joy to leave. She hesitated but Moon was smiling at Harley. He didn’t seem to even remember she was there. The burning sensation in her chest had little to do with the heat. It came from knowing that Moon didn’t need her. She shoved away from the wall and exited the bathroom ahead of the NSO leader.

It was a drastic difference in temperature when she opened the door and eased into the other room. Chills racked her body before she made it ten feet into the room. Trisha, Treadmont, and four New Species stared at her.

She crossed her arms over her sweat-soaked clothes and shivered, sucking in the much cooler, fresher air. “I, um, need a shower and dry clothes.”

Trisha, the female doctor, gave her a sympathetic look. “Follow me to the next exam room. I’ll get you hooked up. I bet you’re freezing.” She glanced at Justice. “You know your way around.”

“I can manage on my own and I know where the spare scrubs are stored,” he agreed.

Ted Treadmont turned to watch the monitor. “I’ve got this, Trisha. Take your time. I’ll yell if we need you.”

Embarrassment was a stupid emotion, Joy decided. She still felt it though as she avoided looking at the Species males she passed. Moon hadn’t even said goodbye or thanked her for going in there to help him. He has other things on his mind, she reasoned. More important people in his life to talk to. Ouch. Yeah, it hurts. What did you expect? She had no answers.

Moon watched Harley strip down to his black boxer briefs and smirked as he took a seat on the floor. “You don’t have to stay in here and babysit me. Nice shorts though.”

Harley settled next to him. “Friends suffer with friends. Humans like it this hot in a room? What is up with that?”

“No clue.” It was miserable being that hot. He studied his friend’s face. “Did you miss me?”

“You know it.” Harley cleared his throat and pointed up. “We’re on camera.”

Moon glanced at the camera. “Who is out there?”

“Ted, Trisha, Justice, Flame, Jericho, and Fury. We’ve all been worried about you.”

Moon let it sink in. “Do they think this is going to work?”

“We’re hoping.”

“Did they catch the one who did this to me?”

“We’re still searching for him.”

“Who was Justice talking about from Fuller then?” Moon rubbed his chest, hating the feel of sweat covering his body. Fuller was the prison where the humans who had worked for Mercile were incarcerated. Fuller had been created to house them. Species wanted and needed to be kept away from them so only human guards worked there.

“One of the jerks who used to run some of their drug trials.”

“This drug is something new?”

“That’s what we figured. No one remembered ever being subjected to a drug like this one. It is probably something Mercile was screwing with before they were shut down.”

“It’s worse than the breeding drug. At least we knew it was only temporary.” He rubbed his arms next, wiping away the sweat that was gathering on his skin. “Tell me about her.”

Harley frowned.

“Joy,” Moon stated softly. “Who called her? How did she react?” He was almost afraid to hear the answer. “How much did it cost to bribe her into coming?”

“I don’t know who called her. I flew to Reservation to be with you and she was already here when I returned to Homeland. I was delayed a few days though to clear up the mess after our walls were breached.”

“Were any lives lost?”

“None of ours.”

“Good. How much money? Don’t dodge the question.” It pissed him off that his best friend wasn’t being forthcoming but he understood Harley’s desire to protect his feelings. “Be honest. That’s what I need most.”

“No money was involved. She made it clear that she didn’t want to be paid.”

Some of his anger eased. It also confused him. “Then why is she here?”

“That’s what I wanted to know. I was rough on her when we met. I caught her flashing her breasts at you.”

Astonishment slammed into Moon. “What?”

Harley grinned. “Yeah. That’s what went through my mind. I was ready to toss her over my shoulder and jog her to the front gates, thinking she was a pervert about to take advantage of you or teasing you just to be cruel. You wouldn’t respond to anything but her showing her goods, Moon. That was about the sum of it. I was leery at first of her reasoning but it worked. It seems sexy humans showing a lot of skin tames the beast in you or at least makes you talk to get to see more.” He laughed.

Hazy images surfaced of Joy and her very appealing cleavage. “I kind of remember. Not much though.”

“You were pretty out of it that day.” Harley reached up and pulled his hair away from his neck. “I can feel the pounds rolling off as we speak. Is it just me?”

“No. Humans pay for this? Doesn’t it open their skin pores or some such shit?”

“My pores are so open that my skin wants to fall off.”

“Ten more minutes,” Ted called out. “Do you need water?”

“I’m in a puddle of it,” Moon answered. “We’re good.” He lowered his voice and wiped more sweat off his chest. It was running down his body. “Do me a favor though, Harley.”

“Anything.”

“Make sure I don’t get the chance to hurt her if I lose my mind again.”

Harley hesitated.

“I didn’t feel the urge to kill but I still had the idea of slamming my chin into the bridge of her nose when she came in here and got too close to me. That would have killed her instantly if I’d had enough momentum to send the bone into her brain.”

Harley reached out and gripped his wrist. “She knows the risks. She signed a waiver absolving the NSO of responsibility in case of her death or injury.” He let go.

Moon was glad he was sitting down. Was that even possible? It astonished him that Joy would willingly do something of that magnitude to stay at Homeland.

“She is aware of the damage we can do. This morning I read the files she made on some of us. Justice let me read them after we argued a bit. I wanted to look out for you. All the shrinks’ notes on patients were transferred to Homeland when we were. One of our males told her about how he tore out the throat of a technician who leaned in too close to him while he was strapped down on a table. He could only move his head. Another Species described how he got an arm free and snapped the neck of a guard before the human could even react.”

Harley swallowed, shoving at his damp hair to keep it out of his face. “That female knows how dangerous you can be yet she doesn’t shy away from rushing to your aid. What does that tell you?”

Frustration rose in Moon. He was hot, irritable, and angry.

“She’s willing to die for you. I didn’t trust her at first and was wary of her motives but she has strong, true feelings for you, Moon. She regrets bailing on you at site four.”

“She never even attempted to contact me once we came to Homeland. Or Reservation.”

“You should speak to her.”

“I’m talking to you.”

“Okay.” Harley cast a hesitant look in his direction. “I think she loves you.”

“Love?” Moon rubbed his arms again, harder this time, trying to wipe away sweat and the uneasy feeling that made him a bit lightheaded.

His finger found something odd and he rubbed the spot while he mulled over Harley’s words. He had been obsessed with Joy when they’d been at site four. She was the female he’d wanted above all others.

Her leaving had depressed him and he’d sulked for a long time over her loss. Every time he even thought about her it was as if he’d eaten something bad and pain gnawed at his gut. Can that be love? He wasn’t sure since he had never experienced it.

“Love,” Harley repeated. “I can’t think of any other reason she’d face off against you when you were feral. Hell, you scared me and I’m not a weak little human.”

Moon frowned, distracted. His finger probed the spot again. The small lump moved against his bone, actually hurting.

“What is this?”

“There’s something under my skin.”

Harley looked down. “Is that where you were shot?”

“Yes.”

“It was a dart, not a bullet.”

“What did you say?” It was Ted, yelling from the other room.

“I found something in my arm.” Moon’s voice rose and he looked at Harley. “It’s small and it hurts when I press on it.”

“Get out here,” Ted ordered. “Let me see.”

Moon rose to his feet but swayed when he stood, the room spinning a little. Harley didn’t have that problem though as he grabbed him at his elbows to steady him.

“You okay?”

“I think the heat is getting to me.”

“Me too but I’m not wobbly. Let’s get out of here.”

Suddenly Fury was there to help, putting an arm around him. It humiliated Moon a little to need help walking but both males kept a firm grip on him as they led him out of the bathroom. Ted pointed to the bed on the far side of the exam room.

“Put him down there.” He glanced at Flame. “Get Paul. Tell him that playtime is over and our patient won’t try to kill him. I need the ultrasound machine. Your people haven’t been trained on them as well as he is.”

“I’m on it,” Flame announced, spun, and dashed down the hallway.

“What do you think it is?” Moon nearly collapsed onto the mattress. His body was wet and he’d gone from sweating to being cold. “Did part of the dart break off in my arm?”

“Where did you feel it?”

Moon showed the doctor by placing the human’s index finger over the area. “Right there.”

Paul drew everyone’s attention as he pushed a machine on wheels into the room. He smiled when Moon met his gaze. “There’s the guy I know.” Paul came closer. “I hear you’re with us again. I’m so glad. Really. Last time you tried to take a bite out of my arm.”

“I’m sorry.”

Paul halted and bent to plug in a cord. “No problem. It’s all fun and games until someone loses an eye…or an arm, in my case.”

“Knock it off,” Ted snapped. “Joke around later. That’s the problem with you young people. You’re more concerned about bedside manner than treatment.”

“No one would ever accuse you of that,” Paul muttered as he turned on the machine and prepared it. “What are we looking for? Did he get injured? Does your chest hurt? I told them to make sure they didn’t tighten the straps too much and to make sure you could breathe without difficulty. We should run you through X-ray though if you think you might have fractured some ribs.”

Ted produced what looked like a marker and drew a circle on Moon’s upper arm. “Search this area right here.”

“That makes it easy.” Paul withdrew a bottle of ultrasound gel and hesitated. “Do you want me to warm this?”

“No. I’ve had enough heat to last me forever.” Moon never wanted to be that hot again.

Paul nodded and slathered the clear substance over a handheld instrument attached to the machine. He pushed it against Moon’s arm and watched the screen, which Moon couldn’t see. It slowly moved over his skin but then stopped. Paul pushed a little harder, adjusted the thing, and softly cursed.

“What the hell is that?”

“Damn it. I need a scalpel. We’ll excise whatever it is and examine it.”

“Did the tip break off in the bone?” Moon didn’t like the idea that part of the dart was still inside him.

“No, I’m sure it is not the dart tip. We didn’t check for foreign objects because the dart was intact,” Ted ground out in an angry voice. He appeared unusually concerned. “It’s an oblong object, very small. Definitely not anything that could be part of a dart.”

“Uh-huh,” Paul agreed. “Shit. It’s almost like one of those pet chips my wife had implanted in our dog in case he ever got lost. Maybe a bit bigger.”

“He was tagged with a tracking system of some sort?” Justice had returned. He wore the same type of outfit as the nurse, only in a larger size.

“I don’t know what it is,” Ted admitted. “We won’t know until I remove it.”

“Do it,” Fury demanded.

Moon nodded. “Yeah. Get it out of me. I don’t know why they’d want to be able to track me though. Our enemies know exactly where we are. Here or at Reservation.”

Harley growled. “What if they have some kind of weapon that could target a certain location? A missile of some sort. It could be sending out a homing signal.”

“Get it out of him now,” Justice ordered. “I’m calling Tim and getting his input. He’d know all about military-grade weapons.”

Moon’s first thought was of Joy as he stared up at Harley. “Get Joy out of here. Take her to human housing and stay with her.” He didn’t want her anywhere near him until he could be sure of what was going on. He also didn’t want to lose Harley if Medical came under attack.

“I’m not leaving you.”

Damn stubborn Species. “Are you really a brother?”

Harley’s dark eyes narrowed and he softly growled. “You’re pulling that card?”

“Yes. Get her to safety and stay with her.”

“Fuck.” Harley spun away and marched toward the door. “You don’t play fair.”

“Put on some pants first,” Moon called out. The idea of Joy seeing so much of Harley didn’t sit well with him. What if she found him more sexually appealing? The concept alone had him ready to call Harley back. He didn’t say anything though and lay still.

Chapter Eleven

Joy paced the living room of the cottage and chewed on her bottom lip. Harley watched her from the couch, his arms crossed over his chest.

“Is that helping any? This exercise of yours?”

She resisted the urge to flip him off. The male was annoying but she knew he was worried about what was going on with Moon at Medical. So was she. Harley had told her about the object in Moon’s arm.

“You should have told me about his arm before we left Medical.”

“Would you have left?”

She stopped walking. “No.”

“That’s why I didn’t tell you.”

“Doesn’t the NSO have antimissile systems or something similar to shoot anything down if someone launches an attack?”

“We have armed guards with weapons to deal with anything that is a threat. We aren’t sure why anyone associated with Mercile would put a tracker inside Moon but that’s the nastiest scenario we could think of and it’s better to be prepared for the worst. Maybe they only wanted to see if we’d fly him to Homeland from Reservation. They may have wanted to track our flight patterns. We change them often after one of our helicopters was shot down. I can think of a dozen more reasons they might have done it.”

“I don’t know how you live like this.” Joy paced again. “So many assholes to deal with and so much danger. Why can’t they leave Species alone?”

“We wish they would stop harassing us too. Wishing doesn’t make it so.” He crossed his ankles, his bare toes wiggling. “Your world isn’t so safe either. We get your news on our televisions. There are no muggings, rapes, or carjackings on NSO lands.”

Joy kept pacing.

“We don’t steal from each other. We don’t—”

“I get it!” She groaned. “I’m overreacting and not being reasonable. Your crime rate is much lower here. I’m a bit freaked out over the whole tracker-missile thing. You have to admit that is kind of sinister.”

“The term enemy implies they aren’t pleasant to deal with.”

Joy knotted her hands together at her waist and shot him an exasperated look. “I’m ranting, Harley. It’s a normal way for people to express their frustrations. I’m worried about Moon and what is going on with him.”

“Oh. This is a human thing?” One eyebrow arched.

“Yes.” She shrugged and relaxed. “More specifically, a woman thing. You’re supposed to nod, not start an argument with me.”

“Got it.”

She studied him. “You’re pretty calm for a Species under stress.”

“We’ve come a long way since we were freed, Doc. Don’t expect me to lie back on this couch and start discussing how I feel. It isn’t happening. I’m also not going to tear up my fists punching your nice walls. It’s tempting but it won’t accomplish anything unless you want a more open feel between the kitchen and living room.”

Joy smiled. She liked the Species when he wasn’t threatening her or accusing her of doing nefarious things to Moon. “I doubt the NSO would appreciate you remodeling one of the guest cottages.”

“Probably not.” He glanced at his wrist and then sighed. “I keep forgetting I don’t have a watch.”

“What happened to it?” She was curious about how dependent Species had become on technology. It had been a long time since she’d been around them. Gadgets had been foreign to them after Mercile.

“I laid everything too close to that stove. My watch and boots were ruined.” He glanced down his body at the sweats and NSO-logo T-shirt with a grimace. “I miss my jeans but I promised Moon I’d make sure you got here and stayed.”

“I won’t try to find my way back to Medical. I realize I’d need an escort and that it would alarm anyone who saw me walking around without one. That’s the last thing I want to do.”

“I keep my word, Doc. Even to a head shrink.”

Her good mood fled. “Your people agreed to therapy as well as mine. Do you know how irritating it is to be called that? Head shrinking implies something horrible and it sounds painful. All we wanted to do was help you adjust to life outside Mercile. You needed to have had someone there to talk to and connect with after all you’d been put through. That’s basic compassion and common sense to help someone in need. It wasn’t easy for us either.”

His eyebrows rose again as he regarded her.

“You guys weren’t exactly friendly at first. I was terrified one of you would suffer a posttraumatic break in my office and don’t think for a moment that I didn’t know that even the burly male guards would have been ill equipped to handle that situation. Even your women could have kicked their butts and handed them their balls. Females,” she corrected, knowing they preferred that term.

Harley grinned.

“Do you know how much grief I got from my parents and friends when I packed up and told them I had gotten a job I couldn’t talk about? They had no idea where I was and my mother thought I was being cruel by keeping her in the dark. We couldn’t leave site four and it was boring. I would have killed to go for a drive or take a walk to a coffee shop. Anything normal.”

“You’re ranting again, aren’t you? Should I nod now?”

“Sorry. What is taking so long? Can’t you text them or something to get an update? Rusty did that.”

“I forgot my cell phone was in the back pocket of my jeans. I was afraid to turn it on until it cools down. It might be fried.”

“Damn.” She stared at the house phone on the table by the door. “Can you call someone?”

“They’ll let us know when they figure out what is going on. All we’ll do is make them drag their asses more if we interrupt whatever is happening right now.”

“Impatience used to be a common Species trait.”

“Isn’t progress a wonderful thing?” He chuckled. “I see why Moon likes you. You’re kind of cute when you’re not in shrink mode.”

“You’re single, aren’t you?”

“Yes.”

“Big surprise,” she huffed and crossed her arms over her chest.

“Sarcasm isn’t lost on us anymore either.” He stood. “Do you want something to eat? It might keep your mouth busy before you get too insulting.”

Joy knew she was being bitchy. She’d thought up the crazy plan. They could have at least told her if it worked or not. It was driving her nuts, wondering if he’d been able to retain his memory or if he’d slipped back into the mental fog.

The doorbell rang and she started. Harley strode to the door and threw it open. His big frame blocked her view but she was close enough to hear his surprised gasp.

“Moon!”

“And a Security detail,” a familiar, husky voice answered. “To watch me to make sure I remain myself.”

“You’re out of Medical?”

Joy inched closer, a little stunned as well that he’d been released from supervision. Elation hit next. It must mean he had broken free of the drug’s hold on his system. Her heart speeded up and she hugged her waist, trying to get a look at him around his bulky friend.

“We’ll talk later. I came to speak to Joy. Do me a favor and go to my house. I’d kill for a few steaks and some coffee. I should be there about the time you’re done making them.” Moon chuckled. “I assume you won’t mind.”

“No.” Harley stepped forward and hugged the other Species. “Not a damn bit. I’m glad you’re back.”

Moon stared at Joy over his friend’s shoulder while he hugged him back. “Me too. I’ll be there soon. We have a lot to catch up on.”

Joy barely noticed Harley’s departure, staring at the man she loved instead. Moon had obviously showered. He wore a black tank top and sweats. His dark gaze locked on her as he stepped inside then turned and spoke to the Species who accompanied him.

“Wait there. This is private. You’ll hear if there’s a problem and I won’t lock the door so you can gain entry if there is.” He didn’t wait for a response as he closed the door firmly between him and the security detail on her porch. He leaned against it and looked at her.

“It worked.” It was all she could think to say. Moon stood in her living room. His handsome face held a grim expression, a stark reminder that he wasn’t the same person she’d once known. Wariness shone in his eyes and a little anger too, if she were to guess. Nerves struck hard as her stomach clenched. He’d either come to thank her for rushing to his side or to ask her to leave Homeland.

“We found an implant in my arm. It was dosing me with the drug to keep it in my system longer. At first we believed it was a tracking device but realized the truth once it was examined under a microscope and tested. Traces of the same chemical in my system were held within it.”

She was too stunned to speak. He was cured but it wasn’t because of her suggestion to use the sauna after all. It didn’t matter to her as long as he was better though.

“Ted figured it would have kept drugging me for a few more days at most but then it would have finally been over.”

“I’m glad you’ve recovered.” Her voice came out shaky. Her shoulders straightened a bit as she pulled herself together and forced her arms to her sides. She wanted to appear calm and composed. “How are you feeling? No lasting headache or fogginess?”

Moon cocked his head. Anger definitely flashed in his dark eyes. “Is that all you have to say to me, Dr. Yards?”

She gave up on being professional. It was bullshit to even pretend to be able to pull that off and they both obviously knew it after the mocking way he’d just addressed her.

“No.” She took a hesitant step forward, the urge to touch him strong enough that her fingers flexed. It probably wouldn’t be smart to try it though so she paused, keeping a good ten feet of space between them. “What do you want me to say? I’m no longer your therapist but that’s the role I’m most comfortable with at this moment because you are glaring at me. I’m trying to determine why.”

He pushed away from the door and slowly stalked closer. Joy took in the lithe way he moved. An alarm went off in the back of her mind. That wasn’t a man coming at her but a predator, a pissed-off and dangerous one. She took a step back before he could touch her. He froze and softly growled.

“You of all people should know better in my current mood. You turn and run, I’ll take you down.” He glanced behind her before holding her gaze. “The carpet looks thick but I doubt it would prevent you from getting hurt if I tackle you to the floor.”

It was tough to think as she battled fear and logic. He wouldn’t intentionally harm her though she knew his threat was real. She stared up into his face and his exotic beauty struck her once more. He looked fierce and sexy at the same time. His full lips were slightly parted, reminding her of his sharp canines. The bite mark on her didn’t hurt but her awareness of it was suddenly heightened, along with the memory of how he’d put it there.

“I’m almost tempted to push you,” she admitted, throwing caution aside. His beautiful eyes widened, his surprise apparent. “What would you do to me?”

His gaze moved down her body slowly, taking in every inch, and his nostrils flared as he inhaled. She glanced down to the front of his sweats. There was no missing his response. The outline of his cock thickened and lengthened as she watched.

“Fuck,” he softly hissed.

She jerked her gaze away from his groin to look into his eyes again. He glared at her. She took another small step backward, knowing it would provoke his instinct to give chase.

“Don’t do it, Joy. I came to talk.”

That’s what she dreaded. She was afraid he’d ask her to leave Homeland. He must regret what had happened between them and it wouldn’t be a stretch if he blamed her for them having sex. His need to speak to her implied he wished it hadn’t happened. She tried to hide her pain.

“Okay.”

His eyes closed. “Don’t use that tone.”

“What tone?” she whispered, not trusting her voice to hide the fact that her heart was breaking.

His eyes opened. “Damn you. You have no right to act injured. You left me! You’re the one who walked away.” His voice rose into a snarl. “Don’t expect to return to my life as if all that time hasn’t passed. I’m not the same male.”

“I know that.”

The front door opened and Flame peered in. “Is everything okay?”

“Get out,” Moon ordered. “We’re having an argument. She’ll scream for you if she needs assistance. I’m fully aware of who I am and not losing it again. Stay outside at your post and stop interfering.”

Flame glanced at Joy, making sure she was well. She nodded, worried he wouldn’t give them privacy otherwise.

“Um, understood.” He withdrew, firmly closing the door.

Joy studied Moon. One of his hands lifted to run his fingers through the side of his hair, pushing it back, away from his face. Anger still burned in his brown eyes as he grimly regarded her. Her gut twisted. This was going to be a painful end to their reunion.

Moon fought down his rage. Joy had always been a sore spot with him. It had been hell when she’d disappeared, leaving him no recourse but to accept that he’d never see her again. It wasn’t as if he could track her down in the foreign world she’d fled to. It had crossed his mind a few hundred times though his chances of actually locating her hadn’t been good. Pride hadn’t allowed it in the end and it would have been sheer stupidity to put his life at risk to pursue a female who had rejected him in a very final way.

She stood in front of him, appearing fragile, her emotions clear on her face. That hadn’t changed about her. Her eyes had always been too expressive and got past his defenses every time. Even now he wanted to soothe her and make that hurt look fade. The fact that she still affected him strongly only strengthened his bitterness.

“I appreciate you taking time out of your busy life to come to Homeland.” He kept his tone neutral.

Joy lowered her gaze to stare at his chest. She nodded as her shoulders stiffened.

He stifled a snarl and was grateful for once that he’d spent a lifetime hiding his feelings. After all she’d put him through, he wouldn’t allow her to step back into his life as if no time had passed. He’d changed over the years, learned to get past his obsession with her, and he’d done a good job of it. The risk of her walking away from him a second time was too high to chance. He wouldn’t allow her to creep into his heart again. Once burned, twice shy. It was a human motto he had become familiar with.

“What do you want from me?” He refused to apologize for his harsh tone but he needed answers. “Why did you really come here?”

She raised her gaze to his. The sadness in her gaze weakened some of his resolve to send her back to her world. But only for a moment. She had no right to sympathy. He’d been the injured party.

“I’m glad you’re well, Moon.”

He snarled low to show her his patience had reached its limit.

She didn’t flinch away. “I missed you.”

“A lie,” he accused. “There are always choices. You were too weak to face the tough one of sticking around to find out what was between us.”

“I don’t know how much you remember of our discussions while you were under the influence of the drug but I want to be sure you know that I’m so sorry I left. I had to.”

“I don’t believe that.”

“You’re still naïve then.” Her chin jutted out and a defiant look appeared on her face. “Do you know how much money they had invested in keeping Species protected from the press and any possible threats? I would have been considered a security risk. It was top priority to keep all the sites hidden at any cost. Even if it meant tossing me into a jail cell and dragging out the paperwork or whatever else they had to do to keep me from speaking to anyone not involved with the program. My supervisors would have removed me by force.”

His temper flared and he cupped her face before he realized his intention. His hold was gentle but he knew it was a mistake touching Joy. It wasn’t enough and he wanted more. He wrapped his other arm around her waist to keep her from withdrawing from him.

“They wouldn’t have taken you away because you allowed me to get close to you.”

She slumped a little in his hold but didn’t look away. “Yes, they would have. I wasn’t military, 466. The rules were very strict on my interaction with Species. The only physical contact allowed was in the event I was attacked and had to defend myself until one of the guards arrived.”

Use of his Mercile-assigned number was an insult but he didn’t believe she meant it as such. “Moon,” he corrected.

“I’m sorry.”

“You left before I took a name.”

She intently peered up at him. “You have to believe me. Did you know at Site Two they kept one of the therapists locked inside her room for six days as punishment for holding the hand of one of your females?”

“Why was she kept in her room? Why would she hold the hand of a female and be punished for that? Did the female protest?”

“The female had experienced a horrific trauma. The therapist held her hand to show emotional support. The client didn’t mind but the guard in the room reported the physical contact.” She blew out a breath and he identified frustration in her expression. “It was stupid but that’s how the supervisors responded to it. Barbara was suspended six days without pay and secluded, just to make an example of her. She was a really nice lady with a lot of compassion. I spoke to her often because we were both getting some grief from Geraldine, who looked down on our qualifications to treat Species.”

Moon believed Joy. Humans could overreact and he remembered her telling him that was the cause of friction between her and Geraldine.

“I wanted to touch a lot more than your hand,” she softly admitted as she leaned close enough that her breasts nearly brushed his chest. “I wanted to sit on your lap, let you do anything you wanted to me, and I knew I couldn’t keep saying ‘no’ much longer.” She wet her lips, drawing his focus there, and his dick hardened to the point of pain. He ached to have her. “You made it crystal clear that I wasn’t just a curiosity, to see what it would be like to share sex with a human. Once never would have been enough for us. Someone would have figured it out.”

He closed his eyes and fought the strong desire to take her to the floor. Her clothes would shred easily in his hands and then nothing would be in his way. He could explore and lick every inch of her. It had always been his desire to memorize her body by taste and touch.

One of her hands hesitantly settled against his chest. Her palm rested on his shirt but her fingertips found skin. It was enough to snap his control. Moon was done fighting his hunger for Joy. She was right in front of him and almost daring him to take her. This time there wouldn’t be any drugs in his system to give it a surreal quality. No dreamlike memories would haunt him afterward or leave him questioning how good they really were together.

He slid his hand from her waist to her ass, squeezed her there as he pulled her firmly against his body and lifted. Joy’s gasp of surprise was so slight he barely would have noticed if he wasn’t so closely paying attention. He strode forward, looking for the nearest bedroom. He wouldn’t take her on the carpet. He released her face to wrap his other arm under her ass to keep her from sliding down.

“Hold on to me,” he demanded.

He almost expected her to protest but her fingers clutched at his shoulders. She didn’t say a word as he carried her through the living room and into the first bedroom down the hallway. He paused, used his foot to hook the door and push it closed. There wasn’t a lock. He silently promised to beat Flame if the male came to investigate what was taking him so long.

Human housing had smaller beds that were closer to the floor but it beat not having one at all. He stopped at the bottom and met her gaze as his hold loosened. She slid down until her feet touched the carpet.

“Take off your clothes.”

Her smooth white teeth dented her lower lip and he studied her eyes carefully to search for any signs of fear. There weren’t any. She reached for her shirt. It amazed him when she began to undress. His dick jerked in response, wanting to rise even more to the occasion of her surrender. He was going to fuck Joy and this time there was no question that they both knew what they wanted.

He hated the way his hands trembled when he tore his tank top over his head and tossed it aside. He didn’t give a damn where it landed. They hadn’t had shoes at Medical so he didn’t have to bother to remove them. His thumbs hooked the waistband of the sweats but he paused, contemplating if the bare evidence of how much he wanted her would cause her to change her mind. Some humans were afraid when they saw a Species male totally naked.

Faint images surfaced in his mind of him and Joy inside the cell. He’d claimed her body before and she hadn’t flinched when she’d seen the length and thickness of his dick. He only wished he could vividly recall the details. The memories might resurface but he was about to make new ones that he damn well would remember. He shoved the sweatpants to his ankles as he bent, working them over his feet. She wanted him and she was going to get him. He straightened and gave her his full attention.

His knees almost buckled as he gazed at her creamy skin. Joy’s naked body was a vision. She was so different from Species females. No muscles lined her belly—it was smooth, soft flesh. Her breasts were rounded and more generous, the nipples fuller. He swallowed hard, longing to wrap his lips around each one to test how well it fit inside his mouth.

Blue eyes drew his attention when she eased back to sit on the edge of the bed. The hesitancy he recognized in them didn’t prevent him from taking a step forward, then another, and leaning over her as she lay back flat. He braced his weight to keep from falling on top of her.

“Spread your thighs wide for me, sweetness.”

She did it, her legs brushing against his as she maneuvered on the bed. He tucked his chin to watch as she opened her sex to his view. She’d shaved her mound free of hair. He breathed her in—all the wonderful scents of Joy. A hint of arousal also teased his nose. She wasn’t ready to take him yet but she would be by the time he joined their bodies.

Joy was addictive and did crazy things to him. It was a bit unsettling and he suddenly understood why males wanted to mate females. The idea of wrapping a blanket around her and tossing her over his shoulder flashed through his mind. He’d never allow her to leave his home though if he carried her there. His gaze lifted to the headboard, deciding he’d definitely be tempted to tie her to it if it meant keeping her in the bed.

“Moon?”

Her voice drew his focus. A hint of uncertainty made him realize he’d stilled all movement while he debated the logistics of how to get her to his home without anyone alerting Security that he’d carried her out of the human guest quarters. They might assume he’d had a relapse and wasn’t acting sane. It wasn’t rational to want to do that but it had nothing to do with all he’d recently endured. She drove him crazy.

She sat up and gripped his shoulders as she peered deeply into his eyes, her worry apparent. “Are you okay?”

He glanced down at the soft mounds of her breasts and growled. Images of all the things he wanted to do to her swamped his senses, making his dick ache from how hard it had grown. It made him grateful that he was already on his knees or he might have collapsed. “I’m fine,” he managed to rasp.

She didn’t appear to be convinced. “Are you getting a headache?”

He gripped her hips, his touch gentle as his fingers curved around the top of her supple ass. He pulled her closer until the head of his dick brushed her where she was spread to fit his body. He hated the way his hand shook when he slid it around to brush his thumb against her clit. Joy gasped, eyes widening, but didn’t pull away. He rubbed it in slow circles.

“No headache. I can’t wait to be inside you.” His restraint was slipping away as the alluring scent of her arousal grew. “Tell me to slow down.”

She did the unexpected by reaching between them and wrapping her fingers around his shaft. It was his turn to gasp when the slow torture began as she explored the length with her hesitant touch.

“Fuck.” He was done waiting. “Tell me if I’m going too fast.”

Chapter Twelve

Joy moaned in pleasure when Moon suddenly lunged and warm, full lips wrapped around one nipple. His mouth was hot, wet, and he sucked hard, as if he was starving for a taste of her. Strong tugs shot jolts of awareness through her body.

Her hand fisted in his hair to keep him in place as she spread her thighs wider to give him room to play with her pussy. Her hips rolled and she arched her back in protest when he released her breast but he only turned his head to give attention to the other one.

“Moon… Don’t stop.” She’d have to kill him if he did. It would be beyond cruel if he got her hot and bothered then abruptly called a halt. Not that she’d blame him for wanting to punish her for the past. “Please.”

Yes, I’ll beg, she silently admitted. I’ll do damn near anything for him. To have the male she loved that close, reveling in his touch, her fingers tangled in his silky hair, was worth any price.

She leaned back, refusing to let him go as he followed her down. Her other hand frantically stroked the rigid length of his cock. He was steel-hard but velvety soft at the same time. The thumb caressing her clit pressed down a little tighter, changing from a circular pattern to strum it up and down. Her belly clenched as she almost came.

“Please?” She wanted him inside her more than she wanted to breathe. The climax would seem less fulfilling without their bodies joined. The emptiness had become a torment that only he could cure. “I need you inside me.”

Moon nipped her breast and she cried out from the sharp pain but his tongue soothed the hurt before he released it. His chin rose and those sexy eyes of his gazed at her. They narrowed as his nostrils flared while he inhaled deeply. A growl rumbled from him before he jerked her down the bed a few inches more until her ass rested right at the edge. He looked down, shifted his hips. It was easy for her to guide the crown of his shaft to where she wanted it.

The wetness of her desire was slick when the head of his cock rubbed against her until they were positioned just right. Moon closed his eyes and she watched his handsome face as he hesitated. Joy wrapped her legs around the back of his thighs, tugging at the base of his shaft, encouraging him to enter her.

“Goddamn you,” Moon snarled. Dark-brown eyes snapped open to lock gazes with her as he pushed his hips forward. “Damn us both, sweetness.”

It was an emotional slap but before she could reel from the blow of him cursing them both, he was stretching her open and his thick cock was buried in her pussy. The fit was snug enough to draw a sharp moan from her. He grabbed her wrists and her arms were jerked upward above her head. His weight pressed down over her, almost crushing her into the soft mattress.

Moon repositioned his body by bracing his elbows to lift some of his mass so he wouldn’t restrict her breathing and his mouth took possession of hers. A growl vibrated his chest and made her very aware that they were skin to skin.

The wild passion of his kiss and the savage sounds he made heightened her desire. He drove inside her deeper, filling her until she was sure she couldn’t take any more and they were linked as completely as two people could get. She shifted her legs higher, wrapping them around his waist to cling to him since he refused to release her wrists, though she franticly jerked her arms.

He withdrew a little and her vaginal muscles clenched, trying to prevent him from leaving her. He paused, his tongue slowing its exploration of her mouth, before driving into her with one strong plunge. She cried out in ecstasy and turned her head, breaking their kiss to avoid biting him.

His nose brushed along her throat as he softly growled. “You okay?”

“Yes. You feel so good.”

“You’re so tight and hot. Wet.” His breath tickled a little and the tip of his tongue traced the shell of her ear. “I’ll be gentler.”

“No.” She wanted Moon, all of him, just the way he was. “Don’t hold back.”

His fingers uncurled from her wrists and she cupped his face the moment her hands were free, loving being able to stroke his cheeks while staring into his beautiful eyes. She could stare into them forever.

“I’m pretty strong.”

“I can take it.” Her hips wiggled enough to make both of them groan from the pleasure of the slight rub of their sexes. “I want you.”

Indecision flickered in his gaze.

“You’re Species and I don’t want you to pretend to be anything less.”

One corner of his mouth twitched as amusement showed. “Do you want me to fuck you like an animal?”

She licked her lips, missing his kiss. “I want you,” she repeated, stressing the point. “Don’t torment me.” That inner doubt surfaced that he might be toying with her.

An unknown emotion twisted his features before he burrowed his face against her neck. “Hold on to me, sweetness.”

Her hands slid from his cheeks to the tops of his shoulders. She clung to him as he started to move. The unhurried glide of his thick shaft sliding in and out of her renewed her lust for Moon. Every stroke drove her higher. Moans tore from her throat as her fingernails bit into his back.

“Yes,” she urged.

Moon lightly nipped at the sensitive skin under her ear. Each bite was sheer delight and her entire body wound tighter, tensing. He pounded harder, the headboard slamming into the wall with each potent thrust.

Joy threw her head back and whimpered his name. A haze of rapture stole her ability to think. Moon wasn’t as quiet when he found his release. He threw back his head and snarled.

“Fuck.”

She loved the feel of him coming inside her, each tremor of his body filling her with his seed. The swelling that happened at the base of his shaft was even nice, locking them together in a way that seemed right. They both lay spent and panting. He recovered first and lifted his head.

She opened her eyes to stare into his flushed features. There was something really sexy about the soft look in his gaze and the way his hair fell forward. He cleared his throat before licking his lips. He suddenly twisted his head toward the bedroom door.

“Don’t you dare come in here,” he called out. “Go away!”

Joy glanced at the closed door. Moon’s Species hearing would account for how he’d know the house had been breached. He faced her with a grim expression.

“You and I are going to have a long talk later. I have to go. Harley is waiting and I’d hate to beat up Flame because he’s concerned about me being with you so soon.”

He was leaving. It wasn’t a surprise since she’d overheard him making plans with Harley but it still stung. She wanted to linger in bed with him. There was a lot to say and she really wanted to know if what they’d shared was only sex to him…or more.

“Will I return tomorrow to find you gone again?” Anger suddenly narrowed his eyes and sounded in his deepening voice.

“I’m not going anywhere.” A hundred things popped into her head that she wanted to tell him. “You’ll come back to see me?”

“Tomorrow,” he confirmed. “Medical wants me to return tonight for another checkup but they’re letting me go home tonight with Security standing by. Other than Security only Harley can be there. The doc wants to be sure I’m drug-free and safe to be around. You know how doctors are.”

“They are worried.” She could understand that.

The silence stretched as they watched each other. Moon broke eye contact first as he lifted off her and withdrew from her body. They weren’t locked together anymore now that the swelling had abated. He slid off the end of the bed and she sat up, grabbing at the covers to pull over her naked body. It was slightly uncomfortable suddenly to be so exposed.

Moon kept his back to her while he dressed. A part of her resented that he wasn’t sticking around. She was reminded of the bitter history of her last boyfriend. Jeff had a way of making her feel used after sex. He’d never spent the night or even bothered to stick around to cuddle afterward. It was impossible not to compare the past with the present as Moon crossed the room.

Pride kept her silent as he opened the door. The rational side of her knew they hadn’t planned to end up in the spare bedroom for spur-of-the-moment sex and that Harley was waiting at Moon’s home for him to arrive. He had to go. Another part of her wanted to cry because he could have made a phone call to say he’d be late so they’d have some time to work a few things out.

He took one step into the hallway but stopped. He didn’t glance back but his body language indicated he was torn between going or staying. She hoped he’d turn around and come back.

“Don’t leave.” He still didn’t move, as if he were waiting for a reply.

“I won’t,” she answered.

That’s when he slowly looked her way and his gaze found hers. “I’ll see you tomorrow. And Joy?”

Her heart hammered at that intense look.

“What?”

“Be here.”

It was an order. Pure and simple. She nodded. “I promise, Moon.”

He closed the door when he left. Her shoulders sagged as she released the tight grip on the bedding. It slipped away from her breasts. She glanced down and her fingers trembled a little as she traced the bite pattern he’d left there. The skin wasn’t broken but he’d definitely left another mark. It was sensitive but didn’t hurt.

“Damn,” she whispered.

She was madly in love with someone who might not be able to forgive her for the past. Just because he’d gone to bed with her after he’d become lucid didn’t mean he wanted a future with her. She wasn’t that naïve. Sometimes sex was only sex. The saving grace was that he wanted to see her again. It might be to tell her to go to hell but she’d have to wait until he came back to find out.

The sticky feeling between her thighs became more apparent. A shower was in order and food wouldn’t hurt either. She had a feeling that it was going to be a very long night. No way would she stop worrying about their next conversation until they had it.

She wrapped the blanket around her body when she stood, not sure if Moon had thought to lock the front door. The last thing she wanted was to walk down the hallway butt naked and run into Security, checking on her well-being.

No one stopped her as she fled the short distance to the master bedroom and locked the door. The blanket dropped at her feet and she headed toward the bathroom, debating whether to take a long bath instead.

A slight buzz sounded and she paused, glancing around. It came from her purse, where it rested on the nightstand. She changed direction and slid her fingers into the outside pocket, glancing at her phone as she checked the caller ID.

“Great. Just what I need.” She slid her thumb over the screen and jerked it to her ear. “Hello, Eric.” Her boss had left six messages already and he was probably pissed that she’d taken off without giving him notice despite the calm tone he’d used. He was pretty mellow but he did have a business to run. “I’m so sorry I haven’t returned your calls. I told you an emergency came up and I haven’t had any free time.” She remembered his last voicemail. “Things are a little better but I still need a few days.”

“I’m glad to hear that.” He hesitated. “We, um, have a serious problem.”

Dread hit. Was he going to fire her? It was a possibility. As much as she hoped things would work out with Moon, being fired was not an option. She didn’t want that on her work record.

“Someone broke into our offices a little while ago.”

That was the last thing she’d expected to hear. “Was anyone hurt?”

“No. It’s Susan’s birthday and we threw her a party at the burger joint down the street. Our entire wing was closed so no one was there when it happened.”

She cringed. The receptionist was a sweetheart. She made a mental note to call a florist as soon as they hung up to send a gift basket. She had the woman’s address stored in her phone.

“That’s horrible. Did they steal the computers?” There was a television in reception too but nothing else came to mind that a thief might target. “How did they get past hospital security or down the elevator without being caught?”

“They didn’t steal any electronics.”

“Let me guess. A junkie thought we store drugs up there?”

Eric hesitated again. “I need you to come down here immediately.”

“I can’t.”

His voice lowered. “You need to come in, Joy. Whoever they were, they broke into our file cabinets. We’re all going through them to see what is missing or has been tampered with but you’re the only one who can check your files. You could tell if any are missing or if anyone messed with them.”

“We keep session notes in there.”

“Exactly. Personal, confidential, very private information.”

“You think they were going for the files? Maybe they believed that’s where the drugs were stored. Someone high on drugs might have thought the cabinets were locked because they held narcotics.”

“I have three clients who have stalkers. One of them has a sexual addiction that could put his job at risk.” His voice lowered even more until she had to strain to hear him. “A few are having extramarital affairs. We’re liable if any sensitive information has been breached and we don’t warn them. What if it was someone’s stalker? What if they were looking for information to use to blackmail someone? Do you get where I’m going?”

Unfortunately, she did. “I understand.”

“Good.” He spoke in a more normal voice. “The police have arrived. How long will it take you to get here? They are waiting for us to figure out if any of our clients were targeted. Do you have any high-risk cases?”

“Four.” Jenny, who lived with an abusive boyfriend who took jealousy to an extreme level. She had encouraged the poor woman to leave him but it was a slow process. That jerk would probably kill her if he ever got his hands on those notes and read about their discussions. Paul was gay but wasn’t ready to make that known for fear of hurting his career. He was a professional athlete with a lot of fans. The press would tear his life apart if they got wind of his secret. Maggie was new and it was too early to tell if someone really was watching her the way she claimed. It could be a possible stalker or a case of paranoia. Lesley was a rape survivor who had come in after her attacker had been released from prison. He had made threats and the constant fear she experienced had caused her to seek help.

“Joy?”

“I’m still here. I was thinking.” She glanced at the clock on the nightstand and calculated. “I can make it there in about two hours.”

“I want you here now.”

“I’m not in town.” She didn’t mention needing to shower before she left. “It’s going to take me that long to drive there and I will probably get a speeding ticket or two at that rate.”

“Get here ASAP.”

“I’m on my way.” She ended the call and rushed into the bathroom. She had no choice. She was responsible for her clients. She had to go.

Moon wouldn’t come back until morning. She could easily drive to the hospital, deal with the crisis and return to Homeland before he arrived. She had no way to contact him so she’d leave a note on the door and a message at the gate. She wouldn’t risk any more misunderstandings between them. If she was delayed for some reason and he found her gone… Well, she didn’t even want to think about what could happen. She didn’t wait for the water to warm before stepping into the stall. She had to hurry.

* * * * *

“This was great. Thank you.” Moon grinned and pushed away from the counter to lean back in his chair. “You somehow make better steaks than I do.”

Harley chuckled. “It’s all in the seasoning. I keep telling you to use salt and a little pepper before you sear them.”

“You could leave Security to work in the cafeteria.”

“Hell no.” Harley sipped his soda. “I couldn’t stand to be stuck indoors all day even if it was to cook.”

It was a common issue with Species and the reason they had humans working at Homeland. Humans didn’t mind being cooped up inside buildings. “Fresh air is wonderful.”

They exchanged a knowing look, both remembering all the years they’d been locked in cells at the mercy of Mercile.

“So…” Harley arched an eyebrow. “Are we going to keep avoiding the subject? We’ve eaten and I updated you about the Gift Female and Shadow. They are happy and in love. Breeze is fully recovering at Reservation. I’ve talked. You haven’t.”

Moon sighed.

“You came in smelling of shared sex. She’s still all over you since you didn’t shower before dinner. What are you doing?”

“Spending time with my best friend.”

Harley grumbled deep within his throat to sound his displeasure.

“I don’t know.” It was tough to admit. “Joy’s always been a complication.”

“Is she leaving?”

“Not right away,” he hedged.

“Damn it. Stop that. What is going to happen between you two?”

“I don’t know.” It frustrated him. He stared down at his legs, resisting the urge to kick the kitchen island he sat in front of. It might feel good to put a hole in something.

“You have to give her some credit for trying to help you when you were drugged out of your mind.”

He looked up and held Harley’s gaze. “Which she shouldn’t have been allowed to do. I could have killed her.”

“That’s what I said at first but I got outvoted. I changed my mind once I realized she was the only one you could connect with. She is an adult female who knew the risks.”

His temper flared. “I was dangerous.”

“True.” Harley shrugged. “But you wanted to fuck her more than anything else. She could have gotten you to bark and do dog tricks just by flashing her tits.”

It took control not to reach over and punch his friend. It would be satisfying to knock him right off the barstool onto his ass.

“Quit pushing my buttons.” He knew him too well. “You are hoping that if we go a few rounds fighting that I will confess that I still have feelings for her once I calm.”

Harley’s quick grin made him regret not following through with his fist.

“There’s no need to push me to talk. She ties me up in knots. I went to human housing because I couldn’t stay away. You being there was my excuse to see her.”

“Ouch. I missed you too.”

“Don’t.” Moon was in no mood to play games. “You know you’re a brother. She’s the one I think about when I’m alone.”

“Stroke material, huh? Is she the one you picture when you—”

Moon snarled, flashing his canines. “You’ve either really missed sparing with me or you’ve grown foolish while I was drugged. I meant that the memory of her has tormented me when I feel lonely. It’s not just sexual.”

All humor vanished from Harley’s features and his eyes narrowed. “Are you going to allow her to leave Homeland or not? That’s what I want to know.”

“It’s not up to me. We’re going to talk tomorrow.”

“She’s little and it would be easy for you to keep her around if you wanted to make sure she stays. Refuse to let her leave. I’d like to see her try to get around you to walk out a door if you said otherwise. You’re no longer a newly free male who is finding his footing in life. You’re in control now instead of the other way around. She’s got no authority here.”

“I can’t force her to stay if she wants to return to her world.”

Harley snorted. “I would if I ever wanted a female that bad.”

“I’m still angry at her for the past and she never came to Homeland to see me until this happened.”

“Ah.”

“What does that mean?”

Harley leaned in closer and peered at him, frowning. “The female is yours. Face it. You’ve come in late for other meals right off a work shift stinking of sweat. You always shower to wash it away no matter what I put on a plate or how hungry you are. I’m smelling her because you’re having one of those weird reactions we experience when a female has us by the balls. You probably need her scent on you in order to keep sitting there instead of sniffing after her to get another whiff.” A smile curved his lips. “Deny it to yourself but I know you too well. You have that whipped expression we’ve both witnessed on the males who have mated.” He laughed. “That’s the one. It’s that oh-shit look as it sinks in that it’s true.”

Moon knew the color had drained from his face. His best friend was right. He wouldn’t lie to Harley.

“Go to human housing and wallow in your female. Be sure to tell her that I expect to still spend time with you. She made a mistake. Get over it. I refuse to watch you sulk and beat on the task force members we train with when you unleash your anger on them. They aren’t cute and fuckable. She is. Don’t allow her to leave because you hold a grudge.”

“Sometimes I think you’ve grown too human.” It amused him though and Harley was right. He might hate what she had done to him once but she’d come back. They had things to work out but he did want to try. That meant he needed to ask her to stick around to be able to do that. He didn’t want to dwell on the past when Joy could become part of his future.

“I spend way too much time with Trey and the guys. They are a bad influence in the best way.” He jerked his thumb toward the door. “Go get her.”

As Moon slid off the chair the doorbell rang. He glanced at Harley, who shrugged.

“I’m not expecting anyone.” Moon crossed the room in quick strides. It wouldn’t be Joy. Her escort would have called first to get his permission to bring her to his house.

“Everyone was worried about you. Word spreads fast. It’s probably someone wanting to make sure you’re really back to normal after being told you’re home.” Harley followed. “Let’s hope it’s not a female to offer you a sympathy fuck. They won’t know you’re already taken until they smell her all over you.”

Moon jerked open the door and bared his teeth when he glared at the human waiting on his porch. It wasn’t anyone he wanted to see. “You.”

“Hello, Moon. Are you going to ask me in?”

He stepped to the center of the doorway, spread his arms, and gripped the frame to completely block the entrance with his body. “No.”

“You’re being extremely rude.”

“Go away, Kregkor.”

“I have come to evaluate you.”

“You’re not my shrink. I don’t need one.”

The annoying human gave him a chilly smile. “You’ve suffered a trauma and might still be experiencing side effects. Please invite me in. We’ll discuss all that has happened to you and how you feel about it.”

“He thinks it sucks that an asshole shot him.” Harley paused behind him. “He’s fine now that the drugs have left his system. Evaluation over.”

Moon resisted laughing. Justice had asked them to tolerate the shrink. That didn’t mean he’d invite him inside his home or waste time being asked stupid questions. His friend’s responses didn’t please the human. A scowl creased his face.

“I came to speak to Moon. You can set an appointment with me if you wish to discuss your feelings, Harley. I have a few open timeslots tomorrow. I know you have a lot of serious issues that need to be addressed. It will save me the headache of going to Fury or Justice to make you come see me.”

Harley’s chest pressed against Moon’s upper arm and he gripped the wood frame tighter to prevent his friend from reaching the shrink. Moon shot Harley a warning look that he hoped conveyed that he needed to remain calm. Kregkor had a habit of infuriating Species with his belief that all of them were desperately in need of his help. As much as the shrink might deserve to be knocked on his ass, they weren’t allowed to touch him. Harley growled but eased back.

“I have things to do.” Better things to do than waste my time, he silently amended, forcing a smile. “It was thoughtful of you to drive to my house but I’m leaving.”

“In other words, you’re in our way.” Harley glowered. “Don’t you have a mate to get home to? I’m sure she misses you. You’re so pleasant to be around.”

Moon almost winced at the clear sarcasm. It wasn’t missed on the shrink either as his face reddened while his hands twitched at his sides. He needed to smooth things over.

“I am to return to Medical tonight for a follow-up. I’m sure you don’t want me to be late for that.” It wasn’t exactly a lie. He’d go there after paying a visit to Joy.

“This is part of the follow-up.” Kregkor’s beady eyes gleamed with satisfaction. “It’s mandatory that you be given a clean bill of health. That means you need to speak to a trained professional about the emotional ramifications of the trauma you’ve suffered. Justice agreed.”

Moon bit back a curse. No one had told him that.

“He won’t be talking to you.” Harley leaned in again to growl at the human. “It just so happens that you aren’t the only head shrink at Homeland. He’ll go see Dr. Yards.”

That was brilliant. Moon grinned. “Good idea. I’ll go see her right now.”

“That woman?” Kregkor shook his head. “She’s not qualified.”

“She cared for me right after I was freed from Mercile.” Moon released the doorframe, not caring anymore if Harley wanted to intimidate the human. No one was allowed to dismiss Joy. “She knows more about Species than you ever will.”

“She doesn’t want to kill us and would be smart enough to never verbally harass a mate.”

Kregkor’s face flushed red as he shot Harley a furious glare. “You are of line. That was a special circumstance.”

“I don’t like you.” Harley growled again, deeper, more menacing.

The human paled slightly and stepped back. He addressed Moon. “I realize I’m not popular but you do need to be evaluated.”

“Joy will do it.”

“Dr. Joyce Yards left,” he said smugly. “When I was being processed in at the main gate, her vehicle was being checked for departure.”

Moon’s heart skipped a beat. “You’re wrong. She’s at human housing.”

“She has long brown hair and was driving a blue four-door sedan. They said she was Dr. Joyce Yards.” He jerked out his cell phone to wave around. “Do you want to call the main gate? It was odd seeing a stranger leave Homeland at this hour. Most of the day staff leaves at five.”

Rage filled Moon as he spun, bumped into Harley, and rushed to his home phone. Security answered on the second ring.

“Where is the female shrink?” He figured whoever answered would be able to identify her easiest with that description.

“She left, Moon. Her car was searched to make sure she didn’t take anything with her that belonged to the NSO. Do you want me to find the one who spoke to the female?”

“No.” He threw the phone and it smashed apart when it impacted with the wall.

“Damn.” Harley sighed.

He spun to face his friend. Harley held his gaze with an equally harsh expression. Kregkor had crept inside his door while they were both distracted. It made him a target in the worst way. Moon lunged before considering what he was about to do. Harley grabbed him before he got to the human to throw him out. He would have sent the male flying out the door into the yard.

“Breathe,” Harley ordered. “That’s it. Let me handle this first and then we’ll deal with what to do about your female.”

He nodded, his control held by a thin thread. Strong emotions were crushing into him. Joy had promised she would stay. It was the past repeating. The howl that wanted to burst loose nearly choked him.

Harley let him go and stalked over to the shrink. “I’ll give you a five-second head start. If you’re still here, I won’t stop him from turning you into a screaming punching bag. Lesson number one about Species that you should learn is to never fuck with one when he’s about to snap. Take a look.” He jerked his thumb in Moon’s direction. “See that murderous glint in his eyes? Remember what we are. Run, human.”

Kregkor turned tail and bolted. Harley slammed and locked the door.

“Easy, man.” He slowly turned and his dark eyes narrowed. “Don’t mess up your house. Or my face. You like us both. We’ll deal with how to handle this as soon as you calm down.”

Chapter Thirteen

Joy unlocked the front door to her condo a little after ten o’clock that night. It had been a nightmare dealing with the problem at work. She’d managed to reach the hospital within two hours but she hadn’t expected the three-ring circus she encountered there. Her boss had called in a legal team to protect their clients’ rights.

The lawyer had demanded she respond to him in whispered answers to every question from the police. He’d been the one to speak to them directly after filtering what she said. It had been a slow, annoying process that had taken hours.

She kicked off her shoes inside the door and locked it. She hit the switch and light filled the open-concept living space that combined the kitchen with the living room. The seven-hundred-square-foot home wasn’t big but it was affordable. A long counter she used as a dining table was the only thing that separated the rooms. The lone barstool was a reminder of her solitary life. She missed Moon.

The trip to her bedroom was a quick one. The twin bed with matching furniture was more suitable for a teenager but with the limited space it allowed her to use one side of the room as a home office. She turned on her computer to check emails and noticed her answering machine blinking as she waited for them to load. She hit the button to check them.

“Hi, Joy. It’s Mom. Don’t forget to call Aunt Margie on Tuesday. She’s having surgery again and you know how she gets. Make sure she doesn’t rewrite her will. Poor Markus is fed up with her saying she’s going to die. Give your cousin a break by calming her down. Love you.”

Joy winced as she listened to the next four terse messages from her boss. He’d left them before they’d spoken on her cell. The last message was another reminder that she’d totally lost touch with her own life when she’d rushed away to be with Moon.

“Are you okay?” It was Meg’s voice. “I know you’re stressed with the flood of new clients that were shoved on you when your coworker retired but you never stand me up. I’m worried. Call me.”

She grabbed up the phone and dialed. Meg answered on the first ring.

“I’m so sorry. I hope it’s not too late to call.”

“Never. I was making a snack. Right from my lips to my hips at this hour but I’m counseling someone with a food disorder. I suddenly don’t care if I gain a few pounds. Being the perfect weight is overrated. Enough about me. How are you?”

Joy grinned and sat down at her desk. “I’m good.”

“You always call me if you aren’t able to make our movie night.”

“I am sorry about that. Life kind of took a surprising turn.”

“Do you need me in professional mode?”

“No.” Joy laughed. “Just relax and be my friend.”

“You say that so you don’t have to pay me.”

It was a standing joke between them. “It cuts both ways. I didn’t charge you when you rambled on about your ex-boyfriend.”

“True. What’s going on? Are they working you too hard at the hospital? I keep telling you private practice pays more and the hours are very stable.”

“No.” Joy debated what to say. “My past kind of came up and bit me.” She subconsciously rubbed where Moon had sunk his teeth into her. It was still a bit tender. “I took some time off work to deal with it. I knew you’d freak out if you didn’t hear from me and I don’t want you to be concerned. I’m alive and well. I won’t be around for a bit until I get this sorted out.”

Meg was silent for long seconds. “What is going on? I can’t think of anything that would distract you to the point of blowing me off and having to take time away from your clients.”

“Remember when I moved in with you for a few weeks? It’s about him.”

“Shit. The guy you fell for? Did he show up at your office asking you to counsel him again?”

“No. Let’s just say we ran into each other and I’ve been spending some time with him.”

“Is he still massively hot?”

“Even more so.”

“And he’s not your client anymore.”

“Nope.”

Meg softly cursed. “You went there, didn’t you? I remember how depressed you were. I’ve never seen you so hung up on a guy. You even refused to tell me anything about him.”

Joy knew what Meg wanted to know. “I went there. We had sex.”

“Oh my god!” Meg sounded astonished. “Okay. It’s been a few years. No one could accuse you of anything unethical. At least in theory.” She paused. “How was it? Please tell me he isn’t one of those types who is all looks but totally clueless in the sack. You went through hell over that guy. Was it worth it?”

Heat warmed Joy’s belly just remembering the intimate moments she’d shared with Moon. “It was a hundred times better than anything I ever fantasized about.”

“I’m glad and a bit jealous.”

“Thanks. I only came home to pack some of my clothes and then I’m going back to him. I don’t want you to worry if you don’t hear from me.”

“So you’ve temporarily moved into his home?”

“Um, not exactly. I’m staying at the same place he is.”

“That sounds mysterious and vague. Do you want to expand on the details?”

She couldn’t tell Meg about Homeland without giving away that Moon was New Species. “Not really. I’d still be with him but I had to handle an emergency at work. I stopped home to pack my bags since I’m only a few blocks away from the hospital.”

“Is everything all right?” She didn’t ask for specifics, knowing she couldn’t give precise details on anyone she treated.

“Someone broke into the offices while everyone was out.”

“A drug addict looking for a score?”

It was a common problem in their line of work.

“No. Whoever they were, they opened and screwed with every one of my files.”

“You’re sure?”

“The pages were out of order in some of the files and I’m meticulous about that. Nothing was missing though and the copier we use keeps records of everything we print. They didn’t make duplicates. Of course, that doesn’t mean they didn’t use some other technology to do it. For all we know, they could have snapped pictures of every page with their phones.”

“Shit!”

“I know. The police were still dusting for prints when I left. Hopefully they’ll locate some and find out who did it. I had to call all my clients to let them know about the breach of privacy. The lawyer had a fit but what else was I supposed to do?”

“It was your duty to inform them.”

“That’s what I said but the jerk was worried we’d get sued.”

“Great.”

“Yeah.” Joy glanced at the clock. “Look, I need to get going. I have to get back to, um, him, and I’d prefer he not know I’m gone. We’re meeting in the morning. I have to pack enough clothes to last me for a good week just in case I’m there that long. It would be good to get some sleep tonight.”

“You’re not even going to give me a name, huh?”

“No.” She hoped that would change though if she and Moon could work beyond their issues. One day she’d love to introduce him to the important people in her life.

“What does your boss say about your leave of absence?”

“He’s not happy but I had vacation time. I used it. I have nine days to figure out if I should return to work or quit.”

Meg didn’t say anything.

“Are you there?”

“I take it he lives too far from the hospital to commute to work daily if things become serious between you two?”

They already were but she didn’t state that. She loved Moon. It didn’t get any more serious than that. “Yes.”

“Don’t you think you might be acting on impulse? This is your career, Joy. I feel the need to point out that it would be a mistake to make a rash decision. Date him for a while and give it time before you alter your life to mesh with his.”

It wasn’t as if Moon could leave Homeland to live with her. She’d have to make the sacrifices. He might be willing to have a long-distance relationship but she wasn’t. It had only been six hours since she’d seen him and she missed him so much it gnawed at her. The concept of only spending time with him on her days off wasn’t acceptable.

“You’ve got a job and your condo to think about. I know you’re not independently wealthy,” Meg gently prodded. “You can’t afford to quit and make your mortgage payment. Keep all that in mind before you do anything that might have dire consequences.”

“Noted, therapist,” she quipped. “I’m grateful that you care and you’d be impressed if you could peek into my thought process. I need to go.”

“All right.”

“Don’t worry about me. I have hope that things might work out in a way that would really make me happy.” She hung up and focused on the computer.

* * * * *

Moon couldn’t sit still and he knew it irritated Harley. “Stop watching me as if I’m going to explode into a rage. I haven’t hit anything yet but that could change.”

“You’re acting like a caged tiger.” A gleam of amusement flashed in his expression. “And you sure don’t look like one. Your eye shape is wrong, plus you’re no longer behind bars.”

“Is this your version of helping me? She left. Again. Stop with the attempts to tease me out of a bad mood. It won’t work.”

Harley shifted his position slightly where he sat on the couch. “Did you argue?”

“No.”

“Was the sex bad?”

Moon flipped him off.

“She is human. It was a legitimate question. You tamed it down, right? Made sure you didn’t frighten her? You know the drill. You have to give them polite compliments and take it real slow so they don’t believe we’re rabid when things get heated.”

“She wasn’t afraid.”

“I’ll take your word for it since I wasn’t there. She did handle you well when you were on drugs. Hell, I wouldn’t have taken my clothes off around you when you were in that condition and I know I’m not even your type. You were pretty out of it. There was no telling what you’d do.”

“Harley!”

“Perhaps she fled in fear of something else.”

“Like what? No one here would dare threaten her.” Suspicion struck. “Do you think one of the males said something to her? Two of them were stationed outside human housing.”

Harley rose to his feet. “Smiley is too human friendly and Darkness would avoid her. That male isn’t social but he wouldn’t terrorize a female. I meant that she might have needed some time to think things through without you invading her space.”

“I should speak to them to be certain there wasn’t a problem.”

“Now you’re just being thickheaded. She’s a female. It’s in their nature to do things we don’t understand. It’s part of the reason we are so drawn to them.” He crossed his arms over his chest and smiled. “She will return. Think as if you are a human.”

“I’m not.”

“True.” Harley nodded. “Her life will drastically change if you two mate. It’s forever and she isn’t naïve about what we are. Divorce isn’t on the table if she agrees to become yours. It would mean giving up a job that I’m certain means something to her and leaving the outside world. They have family and friends to consider too. I have no young but if I did, I’d be leery of sending mine to the out world where they could get hurt. Her people might feel the same about our world. Maybe they are not Species fans and believe all the bad hype they hear from our enemies.”

Moon frowned, not enjoying the queasy sensation he experienced. It would be difficult to talk her into being his mate if her people were set against it. The emotional turmoil it would cause to decide between them or him would be great. Only she could guess at their reactions since he’d never met anyone from her personal life.

“It’s been a long time since she was around Species and we have evolved. That will take some adjustment time too, Moon. Humans panic when they are faced with long-term commitments. That’s why they have that ‘cold-feet’ saying.”

“I didn’t mention anything about making her my mate.”

“She’s not blind. You’ve got all the symptoms that are easy to spot.”

“Not to her.”

“She learned a lot about us after we were freed.”

“She dealt with Species right out of Mercile. There were no mated couples at site four.”

“True.” Harley let his arms drop to his sides and shrugged. “I believe she has strong feelings. She’ll return. Give her some time.”

“What if she doesn’t come back?”

“We could have the task team go after her and bring her back. She’d be easy to locate and grab.”

Moon was tempted to call Trey Roberts. They were friends and the male was always helpful. It would only take about an hour to assemble a team. He mentally picked out three other members he’d entrust Joy to. Better yet, he’d go with them. They’d only need one vehicle. Tim Oberto needed to be kept out of the loop since that human would want approval from Justice, Fury, Slade, or one of the council members to collect a human female from the out world.

“You’re plotting it in your head right now, aren’t you?”

Moon stared at Harley. The male had the audacity to laugh.

“It was a joke. You have it bad. Are you sure your balls are still attached?”

He snarled, insulted.

Harley threw up his hands as he stood. “Okay. I get it. This isn’t humorous to you. I’m sure you’ll tease me if I ever find a female I go insane over. No more kidding around. You can’t send a team after her. Can you imagine how terrified she’d be to have the equivalent of their SWAT team suddenly surround her? She might handle it well but the ones near her would flip out. It would draw media attention and Justice would have to hold press conferences to undo the damage. He’d be unhappy at having to assure the public that we’re not going around kidnapping their females to be our mates.”

But when? In another two years? He couldn’t even get the words out to express that fear.

Harley looked concerned. “She has strong feelings for you. You weren’t there when she was facing down a roomful of males. The female is fierce when it comes to you. I would guess it’s a case of cold feet. They aren’t as focused as we are on getting and keeping what we want. They tend to chase after something, catch it, and panic when they realize they have it within their grasp. You fell for a human so you need to accept her flaws.”

“Fine.” He needed to be alone and think.

“What does that mean?”

“She’ll return to me.” Even if he had to make certain she did.

“Why don’t we go for a run? It will drain some of your restless energy. You’re still wound too tight.”

“I’m fine.”

“Lie,” Harley accused. “You are anything but fine. I’d be pissed if she had abandoned me. You need to run and sweat it out.”

“I’ve had enough of that to last me a lifetime.” He had a flashback what he’d endured at Medical.

Harley grinned. “True. That was hellish.” He sobered. “I can’t hand over the bastard who hurt you so you’re able to pound him into a bloody pulp or track down your wayward female. What I can do is help you deal with the anger. We’ll run or take it to the mats if you need to fight. You sure can’t seek out a female to distract you since you only want Joy.”

He did want her in the worst way. First, he’d yell at her for leaving him but then he’d seduce her to prove she belonged to him.

“I am angry,” he admitted. “I know they’ll catch the ones involved with the attack. Patience still isn’t my best trait but I know it’s only a matter of time before they are brought to us. I need to be alone to think about Joy.”

Harley glanced low and smiled. “Miss her that much, huh? It must make it harder with her scent clinging to you.” His eyes sparkled with amusement when he looked back up.

“You said you’d stop making jokes.”

“Sorry.” He shrugged. “You wouldn’t have let that one pass either if it were anyone else. I’ll sleep here tonight to keep you company.”

“Go home. I promise I won’t destroy my house or call Trey to assemble a team.”

Harley studied him with suspicion.

“I found my mate but she’s fled Homeland. I only want to take some time to adjust to everything. I need some space and quiet. It was easier to find calm in the silence of our cells at Mercile.”

“Okay. You call me though if you need anything. I’ll keep a phone within reach at all times. We’ll share breakfast in the morning if I don’t hear from you by then.”

“Thank you.”

The hug they shared wasn’t awkward. It was a reminder that someone cared about him and the bond between them was strong. He had found family in Harley. They separated.

“Call me if you need to talk,” Harley murmured. “Or want someone to sit with you.”

“I will.”

Moon watched him go and waited a full minute to make sure he wouldn’t return before spinning on his heel and stomping into his bedroom. He threw open the closet door, flicked on the light, and scanned his clothing. He picked black leather as he pulled the jacket from the hanger. He threw it out into the bedroom to land on the bed. Jeans followed, along with his boots.

A team wouldn’t be sent after Joy. Harley had reminded him that it would cause a scene if there were any witnesses around her when they arrived. One male wouldn’t draw too much attention though. He growled low, exiting the closet to take a quick shower.

“I’ll go after her myself.” Fuck waiting. He’d spent two years without Joy after she’d run from their feelings and he refused to allow her to do it a second time.

* * * * *

Guilt was an emotion Moon rarely experienced. He didn’t tell lies or do things he knew were wrong. Until tonight. He made sure to mask his expression as he held the gaze of the officer on duty at the concealed gate. It was an emergency exit in case of attack or if they needed to sneak someone in or out of Homeland.

“I didn’t recognize you in that outfit, Moon.” True was a male who’d been stolen by some of Mercile’s employees before the facility had been breached to free Species. He’d been located later and recovered with a few dozen others. “Is that a motorcycle?” He studied the machine between Moon’s thighs. “I’ve never seen one other than on television.”

“Harley loves them and we each keep one here. He has five of them at his home at Reservation.”

“It’s beautiful.” The male walked around the bike, admiration in his gaze. “Is it difficult to drive with only two wheels?”

“I’d suggest learning on a dirt bike at Reservation first. That’s what we did.”

The male smiled when he paused in front of him again. “I won’t be going there for a while. I’ve been assigned to start working with the task force soon.”

“I remember. You’re going to go on rescue missions with them so you can make first contact with Species.”

“I like the humans on the force.”

“Trey was impressed with your ability to deal with your aversion to humans when you trained with them. He recommended you for the job.”

“They aren’t our enemy.” His voice deepened. “I only have a problem with the ones who harm others who can’t fight back.”

“I’m glad you’re adjusting so well. Open the gate.”

The male didn’t move. “Why?”

“I’m going to patrol.” He shoved on the helmet, hating the lie. “It’s something I do from time to time.”

“Species don’t leave Homeland without a full escort.”

He knew the rules. “Take a good look at me. The helmet covers my face and the glass is tinted. Can you see my face through it, even with your vision?”

True stepped closer, peering intently at him. “No.”

“Exactly.” He flexed his gloved hands on the handlebars. “Every inch of me is covered. I’ll appear human. It’s a great disguise.” He had hoped the male would take a direct order from him but True wasn’t a pushover. “No one knows we bought the house on the other side of this gate. I’ll pull out of the driveway as if I’m a human living there. Sometimes we patrol outside our wall.”

“No one informed me of this.”

“Not all know about the location of this gate either.” He hoped that would settle the matter. “Open the gate. I’ll come back in through the main one. The humans watching won’t think anything of a bike coming in but they might grow suspicious if one leaves.”

“I need to contact someone to get permission.”

“You’re wasting time.” Moon growled to show his displeasure and frustration. He needed to go after Joy. “Open the gate now. That’s a direct order.”

True frowned. “You chose this location because you hoped I wouldn’t know procedure, didn’t you? I’m not naïve. They would have informed me if you were going to arrive here. You want to leave Homeland without anyone knowing about it. Why?”

Shit! Moon knew his plan had failed. He could attack the male and go but it would leave the location unguarded. He’d have to knock True out to get around him. He wouldn’t risk a breach at Homeland.

“You’ve been ill.” True stepped closer. “Are you experiencing instability? I was told you were fully recovered.” His tone softened. “Tell me the problem and I’ll do whatever I can to help. Do you want out because you are feeling closed in?”

Moon’s shoulders sagged. The level of remorse at attempting to fool the male rose. “I apologize. I did hope you wouldn’t question me. I don’t have permission to leave.”

“Do you wish to go hunt for the ones who hurt you? I understand if you do but the task force hasn’t had any leads yet. I’m friends with some of them and would have been told if they were gearing up for a mission. Going out there blindly won’t do any good.”

“That’s not why I want to leave.” He was a bad liar and wouldn’t try it again.

True reached out and gripped his leather-covered forearm. “You wanted to break free. Homeland is large but you’re probably feeling contained within our walls. Why don’t you ask to be sent to Reservation? Perhaps a few days in the Wild Zone with some of the residents will do you some good.”

Moon reached up the second True released him and tore off his helmet. “My female is out there. She left and I want to get her back.”

Surprise widened True’s eyes.

“She’s human. Ever hear of the term ‘cold feet’? Harley believes she suffered a bout of it when she realized I want to mate with her. I left her at human housing but found out she’s gone. They verified at the main gate that she left that way.”

True shook his head. “I don’t know that term but does it mean she was frightened and ran away?”

“Yes.”

“That’s annoying.” The male stepped back a few feet. “How will you find her?”

“I looked up her address. They did a full background check before they sent for her after I was drugged. I’ve been out with the task force teams enough to know their driving laws. I want to speak to her and talk her into coming home with me.”

“You’re sure she’s your mate?”

“Pretty sure. I’m telling lies and breaking rules trying to see her.”

“Do you believe she feels deeply for you?”

Moon nodded sharply. “Yes.”

“My shift ends at six a.m.” He reached for his belt and withdrew his sidearm, offering it to Moon. “Take this. You may need it. I hear the outside world is pretty dangerous.”

Moon was too stunned to move.

“I cared about a human once. I might have done something really foolish if I’d been given the chance to be with her. I was wrong about her being a good female so it didn’t work out for me. Good luck, Moon. Be back before my shift ends so I can let you in. We’ll both be in trouble if they find out I let you go.”

Gratitude finally broke through his shock. He accepted the handgun, tucked it into the waistband of his jeans, and zipped his jacket. “Thank you.”

“Be careful. Don’t forget, my shift ends at six. Sometimes they come five or ten minutes early.”

“Thank you. I owe you a huge favor.”

“Get your female and be happy. I wish that for you.”

Moon shoved the helmet back on while True unlocked the gate, swinging open the solid partition that resembled brick on the other side to match the rest of the wall. He started the engine and slowly pulled forward. He shot the male a grateful look that he couldn’t see through the tinted glass as he entered the backyard of the house next door, not turning on the headlight until he reached the residential street.

He was driving in the out world to go find Joy. He’d done it!

Chapter Fourteen

Joy cursed as she sucked on her bleeding finger. “Damn it.” The small injury had everything to do with her suitcase being overstuffed. She had shoved her weight over the top of it and struggled with the zipper to get it closed all the way.

She stepped back and studied the two suitcases. It had been her intention to only pack enough clothes for seven days but she hadn’t figured on how tough it would be to pick out outfits. The black cocktail dress was a little too over the top but it was sexy. The blue almost-identical gown matched her eyes. It had been too tough to pick between them so she’d packed both.

Jeans had been a must since Moon might want to take her on a tour of Homeland. She hoped he’d want to spend time with her. She’d had to take long- and short-sleeved shirts to match each pair depending on whether it was a day or evening stroll. The real trouble had happened when she’d thought about inviting him over to dinner. She’d yanked open her lingerie drawers at that point, seduction on her mind.

What was sexy to a Species? Oversized nightgowns? Silky teddies? Maybe he’d enjoy seeing her in stockings and garter belts with nothing else but a matching panty and bra set? He had liked to watch porn videos when she first met him.

That’s when she’d totally gone crazy by pretty much deciding to take it all. It was important that he found her as appealing as the women he’d obviously been drawn to.

“I’m being such a girl,” she muttered, taking a seat on the side of her bed. “I know better.” She’d told her clients a thousand times that it was important that people accept themselves for who they were instead of focusing on changing their appearances. Of course, she’d never been so worried about her appeal to men before either. “It’s kind of sad,” she decided.

The doorbell rang and she frowned, getting up. It was a little after midnight when she glanced at the clock near the television. She paused and hesitated in front of the door. It had been on her to-do list to have a peephole installed in the door but she’d never found the time. Her job kept her pretty busy during the week and her time off was spent with family or friends.

“Who is it?”

“Mr. Johnson.” The voice was muffled.

She still didn’t unlock the door. The building manager had no reason to be there so late. He lived on the first floor and she hardly saw the older man. He kept to himself unless someone broke the rules. She’d parked in her own space. “What do you need?”

“There’s a water leak upstairs,” he muttered low enough that she barely made out the words.

She groaned, twisting locks. A few months before she’d heard about a water pipe breaking on the fourth floor. The dump truck outside hauling away wet drywall had been an eyesore. It was a given it had been more unpleasant for the tenants involved to see that mess inside their homes. The walls involved on two floors had to be ripped away and replaced once the plumbing was updated. She jerked open the door to let him in.

“I haven’t seen any wat—”

It wasn’t a frail body that plowed into her but a solid, big one. It happened so fast that she barely registered what was going on before she was falling, landing on her back on the entry tile. The door slammed and the distinctive sound of a lock clicking drew her out of the pain of having the breath knocked out of her to stare in fear at the man planted between her spread, bare feet.

He wore a gray hoodie that kept most of his features shaded from the light in the living room. His lips were thin and pulled back in a grimace to reveal his teeth. He bent before she could recover and cold fingers wrapped around her throat. They squeezed enough that she wasn’t able to scream. She really wanted to.

“Where have you been, Joyce?”

His voice was familiar as she fought down panic. It registered that the intruder knew about Mr. Johnson and he’d said her name. This wasn’t some random crime.

His other hand fisted her shirt and he dragged her to her unsteady feet. It hurt, choked her, but she was able to get air into her lungs when the fingers eased slightly around her throat. He was about nine inches taller than she and she placed him at about a hundred-eighty pounds. She really hoped this was only a robbery. The other options weren’t ones she wanted to consider.

Everything she’d read or heard about criminals flew through her head as she kept her eyes lowered to stare at his chest. He might not want to kill her if she avoided looking at his face, giving him a sense of security that she couldn’t identify him. Instinct demanded she fight but she resisted. Statistically her chances of survival were better if he deemed her nonthreatening. Of course it depended on his motivation. The fact that he had attacked her in a private location drastically increased her chances of being raped or murdered.

She’d attempt to talk to him but he kept a bruising hold on her throat. It was tough to breathe. Forming sentences would be impossible. Her hands fisted to prevent her from clawing his wrists, something she really wanted to do in hopes of getting free. She knew paying attention was important. Every interaction with him would give her clues on how to proceed.

“Where have you been?” His high-pitched tone implied he was agitated and she was struck by a sense of familiarity. She’d heard that voice somewhere before but couldn’t quite place it. “You just disappeared.”

It was tough not to glance up at his face. She closed her eyes to resist the temptation. What did he mean? He wasn’t rational. Not good.

“I went to your office,” he confessed. “I thought I’d find a clue there to where you went. I drove by your parents’ house and all your friends’ places.”

Joy locked her knees when they threatened to buckle. The situation was far worse than she had suspected if he knew so much about her life. She was the target. The motivation was out of her reach though. Was he someone linked to one of her clients who thought she could be used to somehow gain whatever he wanted from them? Maybe he blamed her for some action one of her clients had taken. A scorned boyfriend or perhaps a family member who feared she had too much influence over the person he loved?

Worse, he could be a former client. There were times she’d counseled someone and they hadn’t meshed. The latest one she’d referred to another doctor had issues with women in general. He’d been easily offended at any spoken word by her and spent the hour putting her down. She’d known it was a lost cause to see him a second time so she’d given him Bill Core’s card. That might have been viewed as rejection though she’d wanted him to be seen by someone he’d feel comfortable talking to.

He spun her around roughly enough to almost knock her over. The hand released her shirt but he kept a firm grip on her throat. One arm wrapped around her middle, jerking her off her feet. He stumbled forward through the living room in the direction of the bedroom, her back pressed against his front. The terror of being raped became a real possibility.

She’d fight. The moment he put her down, all bets were off. The building was older, the walls thick enough to muffle noise from the neighbors, but they might hear her screams. She planned to do a lot of that once she got his hand off her throat. He obviously felt slighted some way by her and had stalked her without her suspecting a thing. Rape wasn’t about sex.

The suitcases would prevent him from throwing her on the bed. He’d have to either kick them off or shove them out of the way. He couldn’t do either, the way he had her pinned. The lamp was a good weapon but so was the heavy art deco statue on her nightstand—a Greek god. The powerful build of the male figure had been a sad reminder of 466. She’d still purchased the thing, even knowing why she was drawn to it.

“You’re going somewhere?” His anger was clear as he spit out the words. “The camera didn’t show you carrying anything in so you’re taking them out.”

He was watching her place? How? A dozen questions went unanswered. It was deeply disturbing in any case. He held still, panting a little from carrying her dead weight. It was a good thing. It meant he wasn’t in good shape, which increased her chances of hurting him when given the opportunity.

Her gaze darted to the bathroom door. It was hollow-core, all the inner doors were, but it had a lock. Hairspray would be a great weapon and so would the scissors she kept in the top drawer of the vanity. It was gruesome, considering plunging them into a living human being but she was certain she wouldn’t hesitate. Stabbing him in the throat would be her best bet to take him out fast. It was disturbing to discover where her mind went at that moment but she pushed the dismay away. Survival meant everything.

“I knew breaking into the office would bring you back.” He took another step, taking her closer to the bed. “I knew you’d show up here. There’s too much security in the parking lot at the hospital. This is much better for what I have planned.”

His voice had gained a normal tone now that he was secure and had the situation under control. Icy fingers speared her heart when she remembered that voice. Douglas Peed had been her client for four months, a referral from a coworker who had retired. He’d been bullied all his life. It had started with kids making fun of his last name, taunting him to the point that he’d attempted suicide a few times in his early teens. The cruelty from others hadn’t lessened much as an adult.

She’d tried to steer him into releasing the bitterness but he tended to let the anger boil under the surface. They’d been gaining ground though until three weeks ago when his longtime girlfriend had dumped him on the spot after he’d proposed marriage.

Joy had been brokenhearted for him when he’d fallen apart in her office, admitting to her that the woman had refused because there was no way she’d be stuck with his last name. He had been kicked around hard his entire life.

Why is he coming after me? She’d given him sympathy and understanding but it had been rough on him when his therapist had retired and he’d been reassigned to her. Had missing their appointment while she’d been at Homeland set him off? Had that been the final straw? His next words confirmed her suspicions.

“I’m done being shit on by everyone.”

She hoped she could talk him into being reasonable. He needed to put her down and release the choking hold on her throat. She made a soft noise to indicate she wanted to speak. He tensed against her body but before he could say or do anything in response, a loud pounding started in the other room.

Douglas panicked and dropped her. She was free and slowly turned to face him. She started to speak but the gun he jerked from the back of his pants muted her instantly as she stared at the barrel.

“Joy? I know you’re inside. Open up.”

Moon! There was no doubt who that deep, growly voice belonged to.

“I’ll kill you,” Douglas swore. “Get rid of whoever that is.” He backed up, keeping the gun trained on her.

She trembled from head to foot as she followed the unstable man into her living room. The source of her fear changed from her own safety to Moon’s. No way would she risk his life.

Moon pounded his fist on Joy’s door again. She was there—he’d found her blue car parked behind the building. The background check had given him the license plate number so there was no mistake. The hood had been cold, indicating that it had been there a while. It was the only vehicle registered in her name so she had to be home.

“Joy?” He hated to raise his voice because she lived very close to other humans but he wasn’t going to allow her to hide. He’d break down the door if he had to. It wasn’t his first choice. Someone might call the police. “I’m not leaving until we speak.”

He listened, breathing through his mouth. The stench of the hallway bothered him. Whoever cleaned the floors had used strong chemicals and it competed with the offensive odor of trash. He turned his head, glaring at the bag of it down the hallway. Didn’t humans take it outside and seal it inside plastic containers? He raised his fist again and gave the door two sharp taps.

“Joy?” He backed up a few feet to evaluate the best place to plant his boot. The door didn’t appear too sturdy. One strong kick should bring it down.

A deadbolt slid and the door eased open a few inches. Joy’s face appeared as she peeked out at him. “What are you doing here, Moon?”

He winced. There was a trace of fear in her voice and her face looked unusually pale. He hadn’t meant to scare her. He stayed still instead of pushing forward to shoulder his way inside her home as he wanted to do. The other problem was that she seemed to be pressed tightly against the door. She might get hurt if he forced it open.

“Why did you leave?” His heart pounded as blood rushed to his ears. He wasn’t sure what he’d do if she ordered him to go away. He wouldn’t, not until he talked her into returning to Homeland. It was tough to keep his voice neutral when he wanted to snarl.

“An emergency came up at work.” She licked her lips and cleared her throat. “I’ll give you a call tomorrow. It’s late and I need to get some sleep.”

Her answer floored him. It wasn’t what he expected but it angered him after he let it settle. “You’ll call me?”

“Yes.” She pushed against the door until her cheek dented along the edge of it. “I love you.”

Three softly spoken words caused him to sway on his feet and forced him to shift his weight to keep upright. She loved him? The door slammed and the lock clicked. He blinked a few times while it sank in. She loved him? He wasn’t sure what to do. How could she tell him that but put a door between them? A variety of jumbled emotions burst forth. He wasn’t the only one with strong feelings. Love meant everything to him but what about her?

It pissed him off that she had blurted it out without warning. And slammed the door in my face. He backed up, paused, stepped forward. His hands twitched at his sides, wanting to touch her. He needed to know how she loved him. Humans were far too vague. They loved their friends, their cars, and possessions with seeming equality.

He lunged, not giving a damn if it startled her or sent her neighbors into a state of fear. No way would he turn and walk away from her when he wasn’t sure what loving him meant to her. His boot nailed the door inches from the handle. The snap of wood was far louder than he intended but the door flung open.

He expected Joy to jump or perhaps scream when he stormed inside to go after her. The sight of a male facing him across the small room with Joy between them halted his forward movement abruptly. The human’s face was mostly hidden by a floppy hood but the gun pointed directly at her head drew his attention.

Time seemed to stand still while he struggled to make sense of the situation. The arm holding the weapon jerked in his direction. Joy cried out and spun around to face him. Her hair whipped around so fast that the long strands snagged on the metal. She kicked upward and jumped in his direction. His reflexes were slow as her body plowed into his chest. A sharp bang deafened him in the small room.

He’d been off balance when Joy’s full weight tackled him and they were propelled backward. The feel of her was enough to jar him from his shock. His back crashed into the wall next to the door, the only thing that kept them from both hitting the floor. Instinct took over as he glanced to the side before he threw her into the kitchen. He didn’t have time to see if she landed safely behind the row of cabinets that separated it from the living room. All that mattered was that she was out of the line of fire.

He howled in rage and shoved away from the door. The human had shot at them. The male stumbled backward as Moon leapt at him, tripping on the coffee table. The male’s arm flew upward when he lost his balance. Another shot hit the ceiling, sending down white debris.

Moon landed on the human’s legs. The grunt of pain from him barely registered as he tore the weapon away. The male sucked in a sharp breath screamed as if he were a female. It was cut off when Moon threw all his rage behind his fist that plowed it into the pasty face that wasn’t hidden anymore. The human’s eyes rolled back, accompanied by the crunching sound of his jaw breaking from the blow. He didn’t move but he was alive as his chest rose and fell.

Moon snarled, ready to tear out the male’s throat.

“Don’t kill him,” Joy panted. “He’s sick.”

Moon didn’t give a damn. The human was inside Joy’s home and he’d taken a shot at them. Rage surged. Why was the male there in the first place? Was he the reason she’d left Homeland? Was he someone she cared about? Loved? He snarled and his fingers curved into claws as he eyed the exposed throat.

“Moon!” Joy sounded a little closer. “Please don’t kill him. Tie him up.” She tossed something at him that landed on the floor next to where he crouched.

He glanced at the dishtowel. It was black and thick.

“Tear strips and tie him up. I’m calling 9-1-1. Please, Moon? He’s a client of mine. He’s mentally ill.” She took a ragged breath. “He suffered abuse growing up. He is obviously delusional and dangerous now.”

I’d like to snap his neck, Moon grumbled to himself, battling the urge to kill the bastard. It would upset Joy more. He bent and grabbed the towel. It was easy to bite into an edge and tear it into three long strips. Moon wasn’t gentle when he rolled the human onto his stomach. It gave him satisfaction when he realized, from the odd way it was twisted, that one of the human’s legs was broken near the knee. It would be painful when he regained consciousness and hurt like hell.

The bindings might be too tight but he had no gentleness in him. Not when it came to Joy’s patient. He was tying a second binding a little higher than the first one when something caught his attention. He glanced at his thumb to see blood. He finished the job and examined his hands to see where he’d been cut. He wasn’t cut or wounded. He lifted his thumb to his nose to learn the scent of his enemy.

The stench of the gunpowder had left his senses a little dulled but the scent he picked up now stilled him. He knew it only too well. He turned his head to stare at Joy. She was in the kitchen on the other side of the counter, leaning heavily against it. One hand was holding her upper arm and blood seeped between her fingers.

He’d hurt her. It must have happened when he’d thrown her out of the way. Her arm must have slammed into a counter and cut her skin. Regret was instant as he stared at her. She was pale as she watched him. He glanced at her hand again as he rose to his feet.

“I’m sorry.”

Tears filled her eyes, spilling down her cheeks. “My phone is in the bedroom. Call 9-1-1. My cordless is in the charging cradle in there.”

He was torn between going to her and doing what she asked.

“Tell them we need the police and an ambulance.”

He growled, shooting a hate-filled glare at the unmoving human sprawled facedown on the floor. “I’ll tell them to come arrest him but I won’t ask for medical assistance. I want him to suffer for as long as possible.” He glanced back at her, hoping she knew what it had cost him not to kill the bastard in the first place.

“It’s not for him.” Her voice cracked. “It’s for me.”

Moon’s heart lurched. “I hurt you that much? Is your arm broken?”

She frowned. “You didn’t do this. I was the one who jumped in front of the bullet. I’m glad it hit me instead of you.”

He looked at her arm, noticing that she was bleeding a lot more. Her fingers were covered and it stained her shirt to the elbow. She’s been shot! The scene at the door replayed through his mind.

The human had stood across the room but Joy had been walking away from the door when it had come crashing open. She’d been much closer to him than the male holding the gun. She’d been facing the man so she must have seen him aim at Moon, ready to fire. The next part almost took him to his knees.

“You purposely got between us. You knew he was going to shoot me.”

“Call 9-1-1. I’m trying really hard to remain calm. I’ve never been shot before. It really hurts and did I even mention that I don’t handle the sight of blood well? I don’t. I am trying really hard not to pass out.”

He rushed to her and swept her up into his arms. She gasped but didn’t protest when he almost ran to her bedroom. It was easy to locate the bathroom. Human households were the same as Species. The light was already on in there when he placed her on the counter.

“What are you doing?” The pain in her eyes tore at him.

He gripped her hand tenderly and pulled it from the wound. Blood ran faster. It was too much for him to treat with any first-aid kit she might have stashed in the bathroom. He released her hand. “Put pressure on it.” She needed a doctor, not him.

She moaned. “I think I’m going to faint. I really can’t stand seeing blood.” She did what he demanded though, seeming to fight her reaction to the wound as she held on to it.

He slammed his knee into a corner of her bed as he ran into the bedroom, almost tripped, but recovered as he reached her desk. The small room was littered with too much furniture for him to easily maneuver. He noticed that his hand was coated in her blood when he jerked up the phone and found the talk button. He dialed with an unsteady finger.

“9-1-1. Please state your emergency,” a calm female answered.

“My female has been shot by a human male.”

There was a few seconds of silence.

“Did you hear me? Send an ambulance. She’s been shot in the arm and is bleeding.”

“All right.” The female didn’t sound alarmed by the news. “You said a female has been shot by a human male?”

“Yes.”

“Is she human too?”

“Yes.” He carried the cordless receiver into the bathroom to check on Joy. She sat where he’d left her, holding her arm. He was afraid she’d fall over so he pressed closer, wrapping an arm around her waist. She leaned into him. “Send help.”

“Sir,” the female on the phone sighed. “9-1-1 is for real emergencies.”

“This is one. A human male has shot my female. She’s in need of medical care.”

“Okay. I’m routing a patrol car to your location. The responding officers will be able to help you.”

“I need an ambulance.”

“I’m sure they’ll be happy to call one if you need more assistance than they can give you.” She paused. “Do you take medication?”

He growled. “You think I’m insane? My female is bleeding. The human male is tied up in the living room.”

Joy looked up at him and he hated the way she swayed before her lids lowered. He hoped it was her aversion to blood that made her woozy. He adjusted his arm behind her and shoved her fingers out of the way, hating to hurt her as he clamped down hard to apply pressure to the wound. It could be from the trauma of being shot or blood loss but he wasn’t going to take any chances with her life. She dropped her face against his chest and whimpered. He didn’t ease his hold.

“I’m not implying anything, sir. Officers should be there within a few minutes. Do you have a weapon? You said she was shot?”

“Not by me. It was a human!” Did they think he’d hurt Joy? It angered him.

“All right. As opposed to what? Aliens?”

It suddenly made sense. “I’m New Species,” he snarled. “I’m calling Homeland. They’ll send a helicopter to us if you won’t help.” He hung up and hit talk again. The phone beeped at him but he heard a dial tone. He called the NSO.

“You’ve reached the NSO. How may I help you?” He recognized the male’s voice.

“Book, this is Moon. I need help immediately.” He rattled off Joy’s address. “Scramble a team to this location and we need a doctor. My female has been shot. The human police are on their way.” All hell was going to break loose at Homeland but it didn’t matter. He’d face whatever punishment came his way. “I sneaked out to find Joy. Tell Justice and everyone that I’m sorry. You should call Harley too. I want him on that helicopter.”

“Shit!” Book snarled. “This isn’t a joke, is it? This is coming from an outside line.”

“No.” He lowered his chin to rest on top of Joy’s head, pressing her tighter against him. He hated feeling helpless. “Did you write down that address? Hurry. She’s bleeding. A human shot her in the arm.”

“Don’t hang up,” Book demanded. “I’m on this. We’re coming.” He put his hand over the mouthpiece but it barely muffled the sound of him yelling out orders to the Species around him. He finally spoke directly into the phone again. “Listen to me. You ready? I’ve got Justice on one line and Trisha on another. Fury just got on the line too. I can hear them but you can’t. I’m putting you on speaker so they can hear you.”

The other line kept beeping but Moon ignored it. It was probably the annoying operator trying to call him back. “I understand.”

“Tell the humans who arrive at the scene that you’re New Species. I’m sure they will see that but state it loud and clear so there’s no mistake. They have no jurisdiction over the NSO. They can’t arrest you but they could shoot you first from a distance if they don’t know what you are.” He paused. “Fury says they are contacting the local police to make sure they know you are Species and know the laws concerning us. We might be able to keep them from entering her home.”

“I brought a gun with me but haven’t used it.”

Book hesitated. “Don’t point it at anyone. Where is it?”

“Tucked into my pants in the back.”

Book hesitated again. “You’re allowed to carry it. Their laws don’t apply to us. Tell the humans you have it and where it’s located. Do not touch it. They might panic.”

“Understood.”

Moon’s keen hearing picked up the sound of footsteps. “They are here. Someone is anyway. They just entered her living space.”

“Yell out that you’re New Species,” Book paused. “Now.”

Moon closed his eyes, his back to the door, not wanting to jar Joy. “I’m New Species!” he stated loudly. “I’m armed but it’s tucked into the back of my waistband. I won’t use the gun. I’m on the phone with Homeland.”

“Put me on speaker,” Book demanded.

“I don’t think her phone has that option.” Moon glanced at it. He didn’t see it on the face. “It doesn’t.”

He raised his chin, his sense of smell confirming what his hearing told him. He slowly turned his head, meeting the gaze of a uniformed human officer. The male had a gun pointed at him from the doorway but lowered it. He gripped the mic attached to his shoulder.

“It’s not a prank,” the male stated to whoever was on the other end of it. He cocked his head, listening to the device in his ear. “Confirmed. I’m looking right at him. He is New Species.” He released the mic and slowly holstered his weapon. “Easy.” One palm extended, as if he wanted to hold Moon back if he attacked.

“I’m not a danger to you.”

The male swallowed hard. “Sorry. We’re not trained, um, I’ve never met one of you before.” He glanced at the mirror behind Moon, eased a little to the left, and his mouth tightened into a grim line. “She’s hurt?”

“She was shot in the arm. The human who did it is in the living room. Joy is a shrink and he was her patient.” He wouldn’t ever be again if Moon had anything to say about it. He’d hunt down and kill the male first before he ever allowed him near his female again. “The NSO is sending a helicopter for us.” He held out the phone. “They want to speak to you.”

The officer hesitated but stepped closer, accepting it. He didn’t put the receiver up to his ear right away. “Can we send in help to her when the paramedics arrive?”

“Please.”

The cop pinched his mic again. “Send in the paramedics when they arrive. The situation is calm inside the bathroom. Evacuate the man in the front room.” He put the phone up to his ear. “This is Officer Ventino. Who am I speaking to?” He listened, making one-word responses before disconnecting. He warily regarded Moon the entire time.

Irritation flashed through Moon but he understood his fear. He was glad that they weren’t attempting to kill him or rip Joy out of his arms. He turned away, rested his chin on her head and closed his eyes. She was breathing but so slowly that he knew she’d lost consciousness.

“Please tell the ambulance to hurry.”

“Yes, sir,” the officer responded. “Maybe she’d be more comfortable on the bed?” He backed out of the bathroom. “I’ll clear a spot.”

Moon gently lifted Joy, keeping his hand in place against her wound. Her head rolled against his chest. He peered down at her and knew he’d lose his mind if she died. The officer stayed at least four feet away as he entered the bedroom. Moon watched him shove two heavy suitcases to the floor.

Moon sat with her in his lap. He ignored the officer watching him, barely paid attention to the noises coming from the other room while two more officers came to take away the bastard who’d shot Joy. It didn’t even make him smile, hearing his agonized protests when it jostled him to consciousness. He kept Joy as still as possible, every breath she took a relief.

“Is there anything I can do, sir?”

Moon opened his eyes and stared at the human. Compassion was reflected in the human’s eyes. Moon glanced at the male’s left hand, which sported a gold band. “You have a mate?”

“I’m married. Yes.”

“My name is Moon. I can’t lose Joy. Is there any way to get medical help here faster?”

Loud sirens drew closer. “They will have cleared the front of the building and another officer will hold the elevator doors open so they can get up here faster. There’s another one who will direct them right to the front door.” He stepped closer and bent, gripping the bottom of the blanket. “Let me help. She’s lost a lot of blood. We’ll keep her warm to help prevent her from going into shock.”

Moon was touched that the human cared. He noticed the way the male tucked in the blanket around Joy’s body as if he were a parent tending a child.

“I’m John.” The officer crouched. “Can you tell me what happened here, Moon?”

“I came to see Joy but her patient was here before I arrived. He had a gun on her and I kicked in the door.” He paused, not clarifying that he hadn’t known that at the time. “He tried to shoot me but Joy got between us.” It was purely unacceptable to show weakness in front of humans but tears welled in Moon’s eyes as the reality of it all slammed into him full force. “She did it on purpose.” He stared down at her beautiful face. “She could die because she risked her life for mine.”

“She must love you a lot and I can see how much you love her.” A hesitant hand patted his knee in an attempt to give comfort. “I don’t think it’s fatal, okay? I’ve seen victims in far worse condition make it. I’m sure she’ll pull through.”

Moon knew he’d lose his mind if she didn’t. A commotion drew their attention as a male in a different uniform slowly eased into the room. Fear was etched on his face. “I’m a paramedic. Can we come in?” His attention shifted from Moon to Joy. “We want to help her.”

A human female pushed against the male but he threw out an arm, holding her back. She met Moon’s gaze and paled, her fear apparent.

“Help her,” he rasped. “I’m not a threat.”

They eased into the room with their medical equipment. It was frustrating how fearful they were, as if he’d bite or attack them. It quickly became apparent that they wouldn’t get too close so he lifted Joy and scooted off the bed to lay her flat. He kept hold of her arm.

“I’ve been applying pressure.”

The female braved coming into contact with him first when she pressed against his side. “Please move your hand. I’ve got it.”

He hated the sight of their gloves as they took over Joy’s care. It reminded him of Mercile. He backed away until his ass hit the desk to give them more room to work when they tore open packages from their medical kits.

John drew his attention when he stepped to stand next to Moon. “She’ll be okay. They are starting fluids and will transfer her as soon as they stabilize her.”

“Transfer her to where?”

The human was tall enough to hold his gaze level. “She needs a hospital. The guy on the phone ordered me to keep you both here and said neither of you were allowed to leave. I know the NSO is sending a helicopter but if that were my wife, I’d wanted her treated as soon as possible. I’ll go with you both if you let them take her. We can ride with her in the ambulance.”

It made sense and he didn’t want Joy to suffer. “I stay with her at all times.”

“Nobody wants this to go bad, okay?” His voice lowered. “If they try to pull rank at the hospital, remind them that you’re New Species. I’ll back you up. We’ll say it’s a security risk if they attempt to ban us from following her into a trauma bay.”

Moon glanced at him.

John winked and raised his left hand, flashing his ring. “I get it.”

“Thank you. Let’s take her to the hospital.”

John gripped his mic. “We’re rolling with her.” He let it go to give orders to the paramedics. “You heard him. Get her stable and en route to the hospital.”

Chapter Fifteen

Joy had a hard time opening her eyes. Her tongue seemed swollen and it was tough to wake. She tried to roll but a big hand pressed against her chest to hold her in place. She was able to finally shove away the haze and peer up at a dim light above her. A fuzzy shape blocked it suddenly. She blinked and stared into dark, beautiful eyes.

She’d survived being shot by Douglas. The professional side of her wondered what had happened to him but she wasn’t naïve enough to question Moon about his fate. It had been a miracle she’d talked a Species out of killing someone who’d attacked with deadly intent. It only showed how much New Species had acclimated since their release. They’d learned to quash their tempers while using reason instead of acting on pure impulse.

“Joy,” Moon rasped. “You will be fine. They said the bullet passed through your arm but you lost a lot of blood. It missed the bone.” His voice turned gruff. “The doctor said you were lucky but I don’t agree. You were shot. Luck would have been if the bastard missed you completely.”

There wasn’t any pain but she chalked that up to really good painkillers when what he said struck her as hysterically funny. She laughed.

Moon scowled. “What is funny?”

“You.”

“You’ve been shot. Do you understand that?”

“Yes. I remember.” She tried to be serious but his expression kind of reminded her of an astonished fish. She laughed again. “You’re too cute.”

His chin jerked up and he growled as he glared at something. “What is wrong with her?”

“She’s higher than a kite,” a male voice answered. “They gave her the good shit. It’s normal. She’ll be dopey for a while. My wife laughed like a loon when she broke her leg and they gave her a shot for pain after she came out of surgery. You’d have thought she was drunk.”

Joy turned her head to peer at the cop leaning against the wall next to her bed. He winked. She figured he was there to take her statement. That didn’t seem so funny. Poor Douglas. He might be beyond help. She felt guilty for not realizing how unstable he’d grown. She’d actually believed he was starting to become a more adjusted individual. Moon brushed her hair off her cheek and she looked up at him.

Moon leaned in closer to peer into her eyes. “I am glad you’re feeling good enough to find humor in something. I can’t.”

She reached up and cupped his face. She realized her fingers must be cold against his very warm skin. She hoped he didn’t mind. “You look like hell.” His hair was messy, as if he hadn’t combed it in a while and the whites of his eyes were a little red. “What are you doing here?”

“Did you think I’d allow them to take you away without going to the hospital with you? I haven’t left your side.”

She didn’t doubt it. Moon was honorable and protective of women. Two of the many traits she admired about him. “I meant here. Why did you leave Homeland?”

“You left me again but this time I wasn’t unable to do something about it. I know how to read a map and looked up your address.”

He’d come to find her. He had either been so angry he needed to yell at her because she’d left or he cared enough to come after her. “I went home to pack my clothes. I was coming back. I didn’t even have a phone number to call you. Didn’t you read the note?”

“What note?”

“I left it taped on the door in case you came back tonight. Isn’t that how you found out I’d left Homeland?”

“No. I didn’t go back to human housing. You were planning to come back?”

“I’d say so. Those suitcases on her bed were heavy.”

They both glanced at the cop who’d spoken. He smiled.

“I left a message too. I was planning to leave a message at the gate but there was a doctor there who said he was on his way to your home. I talked to him while they were searching my car. He offered to relay my message.”

“Kregkor,” Moon mumbled then growled. He had to suppress the urge to hunt down and beat on the shrink.

Joy turned Moon’s face toward hers so she could see his eyes again. “You thought I took off on you again, didn’t you? Did you come to my place to yell at me or to ask me to go back with you?”

He licked his lips, hesitating.

It hurt when she decided it had been anger that had driven him to seek her out. “I see. I know you have reason not to trust me but I was called away by my boss on an emergency. I had to go to my office. Someone broke into our file cabinets. Douglas admitted doing it but we didn’t know that at the time.”

“Why did he do it? Did he say? Why was he at your condo with a gun?”

She turned her head to answer the cop’s questions. “He’s a client of mine with emotional problems. I can’t tell you too much more. It’s a matter of confidentiality. I will highly recommend he be held on a seventy-two-hour observation though. I’m assuming he’s been admitted to the hospital too?”

“He is. I’m guessing he’s lucky to be alive.”

“It wasn’t luck.” Moon growled the words. “She didn’t want him hurt and begged me to tie him up. The bastard is here, Joy. The police have him in the emergency room restrained with handcuffs and he’s being watched closely by them. I was promised he would be sent to jail after the doctors are done giving him treatment.”

The cop cast a knowing look at Moon. “The perp is still breathing. I’m not sure of how severely he’s hurt but it looked damn painful when I entered the residence. The—” He paused and gripped the mic attached to his arm. “Understood.” He released it and pushed away from the wall. “The NSO has arrived. They just landed.”

“Damn,” Moon grumbled.

“What’s wrong?” Joy hated the way he pulled away from her touch to straighten, stepping out of her reach.

“Will you do me a favor, John? Stay with her.”

“Sure thing. I won’t leave her side until you get back.”

Moon quickly left the room and closed the door behind him. She tried to sit up. The officer gently slid a hand behind her back to give her a boost while using the control for the bed to lift up the back so she had support.

“What is going on?” she asked him.

He took a seat in the chair. “My guess? It is a guess. I don’t think the NSO knew where he was until you were hurt. I’ve been listening to the chatter.” He pointed to his ear. “Moon came alone. Some bigwig from there called our station after the 9-1-1 call was placed from your residence to demand immediate and full police protection for their New Species. They were frantic to make sure we got as many available officers on scene as soon as possible.”

He leaned in a little, lowering his voice. “We were asked to lock down your entire building and clear it of everyone except you and him because we were told he was in danger without an escort. If they wanted to make sure he was safe they wouldn’t have let him go anywhere without adequate security in the first place, right? It took them almost an hour to arrive.”

Joy’s mind was still a bit sluggish from the drugs but it was clearing fast. “An hour?”

“Yeah.” He glanced at his watch. “They flew here by helicopter. I’m assuming it took that much time to assemble a team and put them in the air. I served six years in the army. You add in distance to here from Homeland, the time it takes to warm up the blades, and that’s a fast response.”

“He couldn’t leave without permission. You should see the security they have at Homeland. It took me almost ten minutes to be processed out when I left. They search your person and car going in and out. There are guards on the walls and at the gates.”

The officer shrugged. “Did he seem happy to you to go out and meet them? He did bust up your shooter but that was self-defense. Will the NSO have something against that?”

“No.”

“I rest my case.” He leaned back. “I also noticed you two seem tense with each other. I’ve overheard enough to piece some of it together. You left and he thought you weren’t coming back. You’re obviously a couple.”

She said nothing. It wasn’t any of his business and she didn’t want her relationship with Moon to become a story on the evening news if he repeated anything to reporters.

“Whatever argument you had, whatever it was about, that guy is crazy about you. I’ve been on the job for twelve years and seen a lot of shit go down. Excuse my language. He looks pretty tough but he lost it when you passed out. Maybe he doesn’t talk enough the way you want him to or doesn’t show his feelings easily.” He paused. “One thing he couldn’t hide though was how much you mean to him, okay? Give him a break by not busting his balls if you two had an argument. He almost made the staff here piss their pants because he threatened to toss them around if they tried to make him leave your side when they were stitching up your arm. They got you in and out of the trauma bay so fast because they were terrified of him mistaking any drag time as not giving you the best care possible. He demanded it.”

“Thank you for telling me that. I don’t remember much after I was shot.” She looked down at the thick white bandage on her arm. “I think I fainted.”

“You’re going to be weak for a few days and the doctor suggested you try to get plenty of bed rest and fluids. They want to keep you overnight. You’re also not allowed to move around without assistance. He said something about dizziness and possible fainting spells. The doctor discussed giving you other medications besides something for the pain but Moon refused to allow it.” He chuckled. “He said the NSO doctors could treat you. He wasn’t really trusting of anyone.”

“He wouldn’t be.”

The cop nodded grimly. “Right. I bet doctors and nurses aren’t his favorite people.”

“It’s tough for Species to trust us. The only people they dealt with most of their lives were the ones you handcuff and haul before a judge.”

“Understandable.”

Joy glanced at the phone on the table, debating if she should ask the officer to hand it to her. She should call her family and tell them she was in the hospital. I’ll have to explain about Moon. She discarded the idea. It was best if she waited to see if they even had a future before she involved them in her personal life. It would only hurt their feelings that she’d kept him a secret for so long. It had been to protect Moon’s privacy but they wouldn’t understand.

“Do you want some juice?”

She forced a smile. “I’d love some. Thank you.”

She stared at the door while she pondered what was going on out there. Had Moon left Homeland without permission? She dismissed it. There wasn’t any way to get over those thirty-foot walls without someone knowing about it. The 466 she’d known would have enjoyed the defiance of the act. It had been almost a game to him to lose the guards and explore wherever he wasn’t allowed at site four. As much as she wished time could stop so they could step right back into the past, things had changed a lot and so had he.

She’d said “I love you” to Moon. The words had slipped out when she realized she might never get the chance to tell him if things went wrong. It had suddenly been important that he know how she felt. His reaction had been one she’d never forget. He’d taken a step back. It had been a very slight motion but she hadn’t missed it.

She closed her eyes. Slow things down. Don’t rush him. I never stopped loving him but he’s probably tried really hard to forget about me.

Moon knew he was in deep shit when Tim Oberto stomped down the hallway with six team members in full riot gear in formation behind him. The male didn’t hide his annoyance. “Moon.”

“Hello, Tim.”

He caught Trey’s eye. The male didn’t show any signs of his normal humor. His lips pulled into a grim line as he stared at the task force leader’s back.

“Where is Harley?” Moon was pretty sure he’d asked for him though the details were a little vague since he’d been so stressed at the time.

“He’s been ordered to stay inside the helicopter, out of sight. We didn’t want to draw any more attention than necessary. There are four news crews camped out down in reception.” Tim’s tone implied his disgust.

Moon muffled a groan.

“Let’s move out before it gets any worse. Every minute on the ground will bring more of them. You’re to go straight to Justice’s office when we land.” Tim jerked his head to indicate Moon should walk first. “That way.”

“I’m not leaving without Joy.”

Tim’s features reddened and his voice lowered as he glanced around to make sure they couldn’t be overheard. “Your orders are to immediately return to Homeland.”

Moon growled and took a step back. He’d fight anyone who attempted to prevent him from returning to her room, if they dared. “Not without Joy.”

Trey stepped up next to Tim. “We don’t want to leave Dr. Yards here. The reporters will be all over her if we do. They’ll try to sneak past security and you know they are way more lax about that stuff than we are. Hell, all they have to do is put on a pair of jeans with a T-shirt, stop at the gift shop to grab flowers and a teddy bear, and they could walk right into her room before anyone is aware.”

“She’s not my problem. He is.” Tim pointed at Moon.

Trey sighed. “Think, Tim. I know we’re all grouchy after being pulled out of bed to fly here. She’s important enough to Moon that he left Homeland to come all this way to see her. She’s also hurt. How do you think he’s going to react when he sees her on the news tomorrow, lying in a hospital bed with a camera shoved in her face? Do you really believe he won’t find another way off Homeland to get to her?”

“Fuck.” Tim gave in. “Fine. Grab her and let’s go. I mean that—grab her now. I’m not sticking around for them to do paperwork to release her into our care. We’re off the ground in four minutes. No excuses.”

Moon spun around and rushed down the hallway. Heavy footsteps followed him into Joy’s room. He eyed the stuff hooked to her and began jerking off the clip on her finger that tracked her oxygen level and the wires from her chest that monitored her heart rate. The machines protested loudly. Trey was there to push buttons to silence them.

“I have some experience at this,” he explained when Moon glanced at him.

“What are you doing?” John didn’t attempt to stop them.

Moon paused to study the human. “We’re leaving. She’s coming with me. She’ll be safer at Homeland.”

The officer turned and grabbed a bag of fluid that was hooked to Joy’s arm. “Don’t pull out her IV. Take this. Keep it elevated.”

“Thank you for everything, John. I deeply appreciate it.”

“No problem. I was glad to finally get to meet a New Species.”

Joy lifted her arms when Moon shoved down one side of the bedrail so he could scoop her up. It warmed his heart that she didn’t argue. The bedding came with her since he didn’t want her to be cold. Her good arm wrapped behind his neck and she cradled the injured one against her stomach.

“I wish I’d been able to get clothes,” she mumbled. “Now I’ve lost my only good outfit because I bled all over it and my car is at my condo. I don’t even have my purse or keys.”

Trey accepted the bag of saline from John. “We have a few men at your place already, Dr. Yards. Tell me what you want and I’ll have them grab it before leaving the scene.”

“Why are they there?” Moon frowned, not enjoying the idea of team members trampling through her personal quarters.

“To clean up the mess and make sure they deal with any issues that have arisen. They are answering questions from the police and handling the press.”

“Call me Joy.” She flashed Trey a grin that sent a flurry of jealousy through Moon. “I’d love it if they could get my purse and both suitcases in my room. I have a travel case under the counter in my bathroom too. It’s blue. They can’t miss it.” She turned her head, peering at Moon. “Am I too heavy? I could walk.”

He growled, stalking around the hospital bed with her in his arms. Did she really expect him to put her on her feet after she’d been so hurt? It was irritating and insulting. Trey had to scramble to stay within a close distance since the bag in his hand was hooked to Joy.

“I can’t wait for the drugs to leave your system.”

Her smile faded and she tucked her chin. “Sorry.”

“Don’t be. I’m in a bad mood,” he admitted. He hadn’t even gotten the satisfaction of killing the bastard who’d shot her. She was too soft-hearted. “You handle stressful situations in a way that I find difficult to understand.”

“I’m feeling really good.” She looked at his mouth. “I bet I could think of something to do that would cheer you up.” She used the hand resting on the curve of his shoulder to knead the muscles there. “Mr. Grumpy needs to relax and find his sense of humor.”

Trey laughed. “Morphine?”

“I don’t know what they gave her. She’s very happy.”

“Enjoy it,” Trey laughed. “It beats the alternative.”

It was a reminder to Moon that Joy could have died. The two of them were going to have a long talk once the pain medication left her system. She never should have taken a bullet meant for him. He could withstand more damage to his body and heal faster than she could.

Trey glanced over at him as they hurried down the hallway side by side. “I meant she could be bitchy or worse, whining from the pain. I didn’t mean, hell…you know. I saw all the blood at her place. I bet it was scarier than shit before the medics arrived.”

Moon didn’t want to talk about how helpless he’d felt, even if he liked the human. Tim and the team were waiting at the end of the corridor. Tim took point.

“Let’s keep to the stairs and avoid the lobby. No one stops us.” He ordered the team to surround Moon with Trey on his left side. “The pilot is ready to take us to Homeland. We’ll go straight out the back door to the helicopter.”

Moon wasn’t looking forward to what awaited him. His quick trip into the out world had turned into a possible publicity firestorm. It had been selfish to break the protocol that kept all Species out of the spotlight. He should have gone through proper channels and asked for an escort to take with him when he left Homeland.

He hadn’t wanted to admit Joy had left him again or seem weak to everyone by stating how much she mattered to him. Harley’s teasing had really stung his pride. Moon didn’t blame his friend for finding humor in his obsession with Joy. He’d have done the same if their roles were reversed but it had made him act in an irresponsible way. That responsibility rested squarely on his shoulders.

He refused to dodge the truth. Many Species looked up to him, as if he were a role model. He’d failed them by his impulsive act. He hadn’t considered all the risks. It wasn’t as if he’d known things would become violent or that a crazy human would show up at Joy’s home with a gun but a dozen other worst-case scenarios popped into his head now that he had hindsight. The direst one was that now Joy was linked to him. She’d become a target of anyone who disliked Species.

The soft female in his arms soothed some of his shame. His only real regret was that True had done him a favor and now there would be no way to conceal how he’d left. It would be a matter of fixing a security weakness, which meant he’d have to be honest so others didn’t use the same way to leave Homeland. Somehow he’d make it up to the male if he was reprimanded in any way. It was a given that Moon would demand to take full responsibility.

Justice and the council members were going to be disappointed. It wasn’t as if they’d lock him up for what he’d done but everyone would hear the story by morning. He climbed into the waiting helicopter and sat, keeping Joy in his lap. Trey took the seat next to them, hooking her saline bag above their heads.

Moon held Harley’s gaze. He didn’t say a word but he knew him too well. They were going to argue when they were alone. It wouldn’t be pleasant.

I’ll make this right no matter what it takes.

Chapter Sixteen

Moon didn’t bother to take a seat since there wasn’t any sitting room left. Two of the council members weren’t there. They had stayed at Reservation, but Jaded and Bestial were currently in residence at Homeland. He wished it were Brawn and Cedar instead. They were more easygoing.

He glanced around the room, seeing that Slade, Fury, Justice, Darkness, and Jericho were among those present. Breeze’s absence was noted and grieved. She’d have at least brought a sense of humor into the grim situation. He took a position in the center of the office instead of leaning against a wall. Harley hovered close, as if he were protecting his back.

Justice waited until the door closed before he spoke from the seat behind his desk, addressing Slade instead of him. “Trisha is treating the shrink?”

“Yes. She spoke to the hospital and they’ve emailed all records to Medical. Joy will fully recover. The human male wasn’t a skilled marksman and only managed to pierce the flesh of her upper arm. The bullet missed the bone and arteries. My mate is examining her now to make certain they didn’t miss anything. She’s in good hands.”

Justice put his elbows on his desk and bent his arms to rest his chin on both fists when his gaze fell on Moon. “I don’t even know what to say except I’m glad everyone is alive.”

Darkness growled. “That’s it?” Almost-black eyes glared at Moon. “How did you leave? I’ve spent the past ninety minutes reviewing the camera footage along the walls and at both gates. You were not caught on any of them.”

“Easy,” Fury warned. “We’ll get to that.”

“If he could get out, someone could sneak in the same way,” Darkness protested. “We could be breached at any moment. My team needs to know how he did it.”

“I exited from the hidden gate we recently constructed. I knew cameras hadn’t been installed there yet.” Moon took a deep breath. “It’s not True’s fault. He’s new and I’m higher ranking. I told him I was going on patrol on my motorcycle and used my authority, believing he wouldn’t question it if I lied by stating it was something I occasionally do.” He closed his mouth, not admitting more. He wasn’t going to give up True for showing him compassion.

“You lied?” Jericho made that deep sound in his chest that set everyone in the room on edge. It wasn’t exactly a growl but more of a disturbing grumble. “Why? Are you still suffering from the drugs? You were to turn yourself in to Medical immediately if you weren’t completely in control of your actions. You ditched the males assigned to keep an eye on you. They weren’t even aware you were gone until the call came in to Book.”

“It wasn’t the drugs.” He held Justice’s gaze. “Joy left me again. She did that before at site four and I just had to accept her loss. We knew so little about the out world then, or how to find humans who lived there. I wasn’t about to let her run away from me this time without going after her. I know I could have asked for an escort but my pride wouldn’t allow it. I thought I could return before anyone missed me.”

“Pride?” Jaded’s bright-green eyes flashed with anger as he hissed the word. “That’s what this was about? You got the urge to go hunting because a female got away from you?” He shot a frustrated look at Justice. “I think he should be returned to Medical. He’s obviously still feeling a bit primal from the drugs. He was released too early.”

“She’s mine,” Moon stated, refusing to allow them to blame his actions on side effects from the attack. “I’ve had strong feelings for Joy since we met and having her back in my life only made me realize why I’m so drawn to her.” He gazed at Justice. “She’s mine, Justice, and when she left me again it drove me to do something stupid.” He glanced around. “I’ve teased males when they found their mates. It was funny watching them go a little nuts but it’s not amusing when it happens to you. It’s humiliating that I am so hung up on a female who has rejected me not once but twice. I didn’t want anyone feeling sorry for me by asking for help. I wanted to talk her into coming back here.”

“Damn,” Harley muttered. “I apologize.”

He glanced back. “Don’t. I’m the one with a weakness.”

Justice stood, drawing his attention. The male frowned. “It’s called being in love. It’s more frightening than confronting your deepest fear and opens you to being hurt beyond the physical plane.” He placed a hand over his heart. “It might seem as though it’s a weakness to you but it is proof that we are more than numbers, experiments, or whatever else Mercile intended us to be. It takes bravery and strength to feel such strong emotions for one person when we were denied from birth the chance to ever care about anything or anyone. I’m not saying it’s easy or painless. It is probably one of the most complex things I’ve experienced. Jessie is my life. My heart beats for her and I will admit to all that I wouldn’t want to go on if I lost her.”

Justice glanced around the room before he smiled at Moon. “The unmated ones don’t understand and are currently looking confused or horrified.” He chuckled. “I’m hopeful they’ll know the ups and downs of falling in love one day. It’s a gift and a curse at times but everyone should experience it. It’s a part of life and we are survivors.”

Moon would have spoken but a lump of emotion closed his throat. He wanted to thank Justice for understanding exactly what he was going through. He suddenly didn’t feel as if he’d become a horrible example to other Species by being somehow flawed.

“It wasn’t as if we had parents to give us guidance when we fell in love or ever saw examples of it to watch and learn from.” Justice dropped his hand to his side. “I made a mess of things with Jessie at first while I tried to figure out what the hell I was doing. I had no idea how to deal with the insane jealousy and possessiveness that suddenly had me wondering if I’d lost my grasp on sanity. Her being human only made it more confusing. You should have at least spoken to one of the mated males when you realized how much you love Joy before doing something so rash as to endanger your own life. We would have gladly assigned a team to take you to her if you’d asked.”

“I’m sorry.”

Justice nodded. “I know, Moon. You’re a good male. It’s been trying lately, hasn’t it?”

“Yes.”

“Bottom line, you’re healthy and safe at Homeland with your female.” He glanced at Jericho and Darkness. “Fix it so there are cameras on that new gate and make sure whoever is guarding it knows that no one is to leave that way unless it comes through proper channels first.” He turned to Fury. “Let’s hold a meeting tomorrow to figure out the best reading materials we can find to cover what to expect when falling in love and get them passed out. We need to reach out to our people so they are more aware of what is involved and develop better ways to handle it. We don’t want a bunch of males sneaking beyond the safety of our walls to seek out females.”

“I’m sorry,” Moon muttered.

“You should be,” Jericho rumbled again. His eyes narrowed, the red in them pronounced. “I don’t see any reason to take this lightly, Justice. A human male was injured by Moon. That’s going to cause us problems with the out world.”

“He shot my female,” Moon growled, his temper surging. It was one thing to know he was wrong to have left Homeland without permission but he didn’t feel an ounce of remorse over making Douglas bleed.

Jaded stepped between them. “No fighting. Jericho wasn’t implying the human didn’t deserve it. He’s only stating a fact that it drew attention to us. We’re always evolving and learning from our mistakes. I agree with Justice. This is something that needs to be dealt with because falling in love is a phenomenon that is increasing with our people. I’m not concerned about the human public getting upset because a Species beat on one of their own when it’s clear that the male was a menace to their society. They should thank Moon.”

“Phenomenon?” Slade chuckled. “I can’t wait for the right female to cross your path, Jaded. I’m going to remind you of the term you used when you’re doing irrational things in the name of love.”

“No more teasing,” Fury ordered, attempting to appear stern but failing when humor curved his lips upward. He did make a point of staring at Jericho. “Keep questioning the prisoner from Fuller about the drug trials at Mercile.”

“He doesn’t know anything that is useful to us concerning Moon. The drug given to Moon is new, something they hadn’t developed.”

“You’re sure?” Justice was grim.

“Yes.”

“Damn.” The Species leader shook his head. “These humans are good at hiding from us with their connections in other countries. I’ll bet the one who shot Moon is already back with the person who hired the mercenaries who were paid to steal Beauty. I will have Jessie make some calls to get an update from her brother. He keeps promising that the ones responsible will be found. I believe he’s getting closer to discovering their location.”

“I want them to pay for what was done to me and everyone harmed during the attack on Reservation,” Moon stated.

“We all do.” Justice ran his fingers through his hair, frustrated. “It seems we have a bit more patience to learn. Our enemies are cunning but we’ll never give up. We’re done here. Meeting adjourned.”

Moon hesitated. “That’s it? You aren’t going to confine me to my house or lecture me?”

Justice resumed his seat. “Do you want me to?”

“No. I’d like to return to Medical and speak with Joy.”

“That’s what I thought. I know you regret the trouble you caused and it won’t happen again. You need to figure out how she feels about you but don’t allow your pride to stop you from being totally honest with her. That’s my best advice. She won’t see it as weakness if you admit you need her in your life as a mate. Come talk to me or another mated male if you need advice or if you feel compelled to do something you know is wrong.” His gaze sharpened. “That’s an order.”

“I will. Thank you.” Moon fled the office, feeling grateful that most of them had been so understanding.

Harley stayed at his side until they reached one of the Jeeps parked outside. He grabbed Moon’s upper arm, halting him from using it to drive to Medical. “I wish you’d told me your plan to leave Homeland.”

“You would have tried to stop me and I had to see her.”

“I would have gone with you as backup in case you ran into trouble. You did and I wasn’t there to help. That torments me. We’re brothers. You let me make jokes when you could have told me how raw you felt inside. I wouldn’t have given you any shit over it.”

It was a good description to fit his emotions. It was tough to hold his friend’s gaze. “I need your respect. It’s important to me that I always keep it.”

Harley suddenly yanked him into a hug. “You always have that.” He stepped back. “You could cry like a human little girl and I’d still have your back, man.” He grinned. “It might disturb the hell out of me but we’re bros. I’d hand you tissues and buy you a teddy bear.”

Moon started to laugh. “Trey’s right. You’re such a dick at times. I wouldn’t want you to change though.”

“Okay.” Harley grew serious. “So what’s your next move? How do you plan to get Joy to become your mate? I’m here for you. Name it and I’ll do it. Should I snag handcuffs from Security so you can chain her to you? She sure couldn’t get past the gates to leave again if she were dragging your body behind her.”

“My body?”

“Yeah. In case she knocks you out trying to run away. She’s kind of sneaky, isn’t she? It’s a human thing, I guess, but they are cute. I see the draw.”

Moon turned and climbed into the Jeep. “You’re doing wonders for my confidence.”

Harley jumped into the passenger seat. “You want my advice? Sex. Lots of it. Keep her too tired to run.”

Moon started the engine. “You’re not being helpful.”

“I am. I’m throwing out backup plans in case talking doesn’t work. I wouldn’t know what to say to convince any female to move into my house and stay there. Do you?”

Moon was at a loss. “No.”

“You’ll figure it out. You’re smart. Besides, she did have a few of the task force members bring some of her belongings. I heard Trey giving them the list over the headset on the helicopter. They’ll arrive in a few hours when that team returns. That means she wants to stay here for a bit at least. That’s half the battle won.”

He’d forgotten about that. “John said both of her suitcases were heavy. I’m hoping that means she brought lots of clothes.”

“Who knows what humans pack? She might have brought her favorite barbells.”

“I don’t think Joy lifts weights.” Moon was very familiar with her body and appreciated that she wasn’t muscular.

“Everyone loves to work out.”

“Not all humans do.”

“Right. I don’t understand that.” Harley turned his head and frowned. “Who is John?”

“I’ll tell you about him on the way to Medical.”

* * * * *

“It’s going to be an ugly scar, isn’t it?” Joy had to look away from her arm as Trisha worked to change the bandage. There wasn’t much blood at least and none of it was fresh.

“No. They did a really good job. The stitches are first rate. You need to take it easy and keep the arm immobile for a few days. Keep it dry so when you shower, put plastic over it. I have something you could use for that. It’s going to be difficult to wash your hair one-handed but the wound needs time to heal. I’m giving you a sling as a reminder and to limit your movement.

“You really need to take better care of yourself. You lost a lot of blood. Not enough to need a transfusion but enough to make you feel weak and wobbly for several days. The pain meds will make you a little groggy until they wear off. Especially since you haven’t eaten enough, nor gotten much sleep, and you’ve been so focused on Moon that you’ve ignored your health. Your body was already worn down and now you’ve gotten hurt on top of it. I’m ordering you to stay in bed and food is on the way. Eat, then sleep, in that order.”

“Okay.”

The doctor finished and stepped back. “Now that we’ve dealt with the physical side of this, we need to discuss a few things.”

That piqued Joy’s curiosity. “What do you want to talk about?”

Trisha pulled over a stool and sat next to her bed. “I wanted to prepare you for what is to come.”

“What do you mean?”

“You’re involved with a New Species. I don’t know the specifics of your relationship with Moon but what happened in your home is going to—”

Joy stopped her right there. “I appreciate you taking the time to explain his elevated levels of aggression but I’m not afraid of Moon in any way. Are you worried that I would be after he attacked my client? It was self-defense. I’m very impressed that he was able to avoid killing him. It showed great restraint.”

“That didn’t even cross my mind. I’m glad to hear it though.”

“Oh.” Joy felt a bit foolish. “Okay. Sorry.”

“No need for that. Moon called 9-1-1 when you were shot and that means it hit the news as soon as they heard the police and ambulance respond to the call. Those bastards seem to have scanners glued to their ears so they can overhear all the emergency responders’ communications. I wanted to prepare you for how they work.” She paused. “I won’t sugarcoat it because I know what you do for a living. By now the reporters have probably spoken to all your neighbors, dug through your trash, and are trying to locate any friends or family they can hit up for interviews.”

A ball of anxiety formed inside Joy’s stomach. “You’re sure they know?”

“It has already hit some of the internet sites. The major television news stations will run the story on their first broadcasts in the morning and you can be sure there are some very busy newspaper employees scrambling to get it to print for the morning edition. The reporters had the address of the shooting to work with to discover your name. Moon stated he was New Species because the dispatcher thought it was a prank. He said a human had shot you and she naturally assumed he wasn’t quite…” She floundered for a description.

“She thought he was nuts.” Joy sighed. “The average person doesn’t describe another person as human.”

“Exactly. I was sent a copy of the 9-1-1 call and listened to it. I got the impression she believed she was dealing with someone who believes in UFOs.”

The ramifications of what Trisha was telling her sank in and she panicked for a moment. What had happened in her condo would be major news. Breathe. A hundred thoughts streamed through her head at once. She forced them all back to focus on her first priority.

“Can you please give me access to a phone? I would rather my parents hear about Moon and my being shot from me than some stranger knocking at their door or seeing it on television while they eat breakfast. I need to call them.”

“They didn’t know you worked with New Species or were seeing one?”

“No.”

Trisha stood. “I’ll get you one of the disposable cell phones we keep on hand in the reception area. You need to stay in that bed and this room doesn’t have a landline.”

“Why do you keep any at all?” She was glad for the distraction.

Trisha flashed a grin. “Let’s just say Species play and work hard. They come here for treatment when they get hurt. Their personal phones don’t always survive whatever brought them in so we keep a batch of spares to lend out until they get replacements. It’s how they keep in contact with Security in case they are needed somewhere.”

Joy was left alone to make a mental list of who she needed to call after her parents. Meg was a given. She would leave it up to her mother to contact other family members. The woman loved to gossip and was the artery of information that kept everyone linked.

Trisha returned.

“Here you go. I’ll give you some privacy and see if I can hurry them along on bringing you a hearty meal. Eating something will also help keep down nausea caused by the drugs.”

“Thank you.” She accepted the cell phone. “Where is Moon?”

“He’s in a meeting.”

“Is he in trouble for what happened at my condo? He had no choice but to take my client out of commission.”

“I’m sure he’s fine. This proves my point. He’s a big male who can take care of himself. Right now focus on yourself.” She left before Joy could ask any more questions. She dialed, flinching over the lateness of the hour. Her mother answered on the third ring.

“Hi, Mom. I’m okay. I’m sorry I woke you but there are a few important things I need to tell you. It can’t wait.”

“Who is it? What do they want?” Her father sounded groggy and annoyed in the background.

“What’s wrong?” Her mom’s voice sharpened. “What do you mean you’re okay? Why wouldn’t you be?”

She took a deep breath. “A client had a meltdown. I was hurt but I’m fine.”

“Oh my god, Joyce. I knew this would happen. Did he hit you? Stab you?”

She bit her lip. She couldn’t try to downplay it because they’d hear the details on the news.

“What happened to our girl? Is she okay?”

Her father sounded much closer, as if he were right up against the receiver. She could almost see them huddled together in the middle of their bed with the phone held between them. It would never occur to them to hit the speakerphone button. They never used it despite her taking the time to buy them an updated system for Christmas.

“I’m fine. I only needed a few stitches, okay? It’s going to sound much worse than what it really was.”

“What did one of those nutballs do to you?” Her father was worked up. “I told you to become a chef. Cooking is much safer. I warned you how dangerous it is to work with crazy folks.”

Oh boy, not this again. He always thinks everyone I deal with is a serial killer. She sighed.

“Enough,” her mother ordered. “What happened?”

“I’m fine,” she repeated, knowing they’d overreact when she gave them the rest of the details. She was their only child and they were very protective. “I was grazed by a bullet.” That sounded better than stating she’d been shot. Silence. She winced. “It’s a scratch.” Another lie but she could live with it.

“What hospital are you at? Honey, get dressed.”

“Dad? I’m not at a hospital.” Medical at Homeland wasn’t technically one, at least not that she was aware of. “I don’t need you to get out of bed and rush to my side. I wanted to tell you that I’m fine before you see it on the news.”

“The news?”

Joy pulled the phone away from her ear. “Don’t yell, Mom. There’s one more thing I need to tell you. I’ve been seeing someone recently that you don’t know about. Our relationship is kind of new so I wanted to wait until we figured out where it was going before I introduced you to him.”

Joy hated feeling as though she was fifteen again but she did. It was her job to counsel people on how to relate to others but her parents had a way of negating all her training.

“Kind of new?”

Dad had to pick up on that, didn’t he? “Well, we only started spending time together recently,” she hedged. “He was with me when I was shot at.” She chose her words with more care. “His name is Moon and he saved my life.” She was pretty sure Douglas would have taken more shots at them if he hadn’t ended up unconscious and bleeding on her living room carpet after Moon was done with him.

“Moon? What kind of name is that? Are his parents hippies?” Her dad didn’t sound happy.

“Tell me he’s not some rock star or actor,” her mother pleaded. “They always pick odd stage names and I read about them getting divorced all the time. Your father and I want you to have what we do.”

She bit her lip, muffling a groan. They seemed to have forgotten she’d been shot at but that wasn’t necessarily a good thing. She knew them too well.

“Marriage is a serious commitment so you make sure the boy is going to treat you right,” her dad stated. “Does he have a good job? Are his parents still married?”

“He didn’t ask me to marry me. Why are you even talking about this?” Joy kept her tone calm. “I called to tell you that I was hurt but I’m fine. I also wanted to tell you about Moon. He—”

“Are you having intercourse with him?” Her mother whispered the words. “Are you being careful? Are you using condoms and did you have him tested for those diseases you young people get these days?”

“Oh my god.” Joy wanted to bang her head on the bedrail. “I’m not pregnant if that’s what you’re going to ask next. I’m a responsible person and my sex life isn’t up for discussion. Will you let me talk? Please?”

Their silence indicated they would.

“Thank you. He saved my life,” she repeated, hoping they’d focus on that. “He’s really nice,” she rushed on. “I think you’d like him if we keep seeing each other and you get to meet him.” She paused. “He’s New Species.”

Her father responded first, sounding stunned. “What?”

“Moon is a New Species,” Joy explained. “He’s super sweet and not scary at all.” She tried to imagine what concerns they’d have to address before they spoke again. “We’ve been seeing each other and I’m hoping you’ll be okay with that because I’m serious about him. I know you don’t know much about them but I do. They are really good people. I love him.” She waited to see how they’d take the news.

Her mother surprised her. “I like them. Is he handsome?”

“Very. I think so anyway.”

“What kind is he?” Her father didn’t sound upset.

“Does he have those cat eyes?” Her mother sounded excited. “Those are so pretty.”

“Canine,” Joy offered. “So no, he doesn’t.” They were taking it way better than she expected and she was grateful for that.

“Dogs are very loyal. That’s really good.”

“Dad!” She was aghast that he’d said that.

“I didn’t mean anything by it, honey. It’s a compliment.”

“I know. Please don’t ever say that if you meet him,” she pleaded.

“We want to meet him. Isn’t this wonderful?” Her mom laughed. “Our baby is dating a New Species.”

“I can’t wait to tell the guys on my bowling team. I’m so sick of hearing about Bob’s son dating some author. This is way better.”

Joy did groan then. “Come on, Dad. Really? You’re going to use Moon to impress your bowling buddies?”

A familiar deep snarl came from somewhere down the hallway of Medical.

“I said no! Get out of my way!”

Joy almost dropped the phone when a loud crash followed. Moon was nearby and he sounded furious. She remembered her parents then.

“Let me call you back. I love you both.” She hung up before they could protest, shoving at the covers to free her legs so she could swing them over the edge of the bed.

“You are not going to ignore me, Moon.” She knew that voice and he sounded equally as angry, minus the snarl. “I am ordering you to my office.”

“No. Stop blocking the hallway or the next thing I throw will be you.”

“The only place you’re going is to my office. I’ve called for officers. You can walk on your own or they can take you there.”

“Not now.” Moon was worked up. “I don’t want to hurt you but I will. Get out of my way.”

“Help!” the man yelled. “I need assistance!”

“What is going on?” That was Trisha’s voice.

“I’m going to see Joy,” Moon declared.

“He’s not going anywhere but to my office.” The guy had a whiny tone now. “Nurse? Bring a sedative. He’s having a psychotic break.”

Joy slid off the bed and her bare feet touched cold tile. A wave of dizziness hit, reminding her she still hadn’t eaten, but she wanted to get to Moon. She used the bed and then the wall to keep her balance to reach the door. She paused in the doorway, staring down the corridor.

An average-size man had planted himself in the middle of the hall about ten feet away with his back to her. Both his arms were outstretched so his fingertips almost touched the walls to keep Moon from getting past him. A cart lay on its side between them, the source of the crashing sound.

Moon glared at the guy, his hands fisted at his sides. His lips curled back as a deep snarl tore from him. Trisha stood at his side, looking equally angry, minus the show of teeth.

“Why are you here, Kregkor? No one called you to come in. You’re not on duty.” Trisha didn’t hide her anger as she spoke.

“I got a call about what happened. He ran away from Homeland, attacked someone, and had to be brought back by force.”

Trisha frowned. “That’s not what happened. Someone from Homeland called you? Who? I want a name.”

“A friend of mine read it on the internet and knows I work with New Species. He gave me the heads-up. No one here bothered to inform me. I’m going to be speaking to my supervisors about that, and Justice too. I’m sure the president will be very concerned when he hears that you’ve got a Species running around a major city on a rampage and you tried to cover it up. This is my patient and he needs treatment. I’m tired of being prevented from doing my job.”

“Your information is wrong.” Trisha attempted to calm the situation when she used a professional voice. “Moon is fine. He—”

“This isn’t any of your concern. You’re not qualified to tell me how my patient is. You’re out of your league, physician. I’ll send him to you if he gets a broken leg or a cut but right now you’re out of line.”

Paul rushed from the reception area, looking as if he’d just woken. “What’s wrong?”

“I need a sedative and restraints,” Kregkor demanded. “Call for more officers in case he puts up a fight. My patient is having an episode.”

Joy resisted rushing forward, even though she wanted to. It was hard enough to stay on her feet when her knees wanted to collapse but she refused to return to bed.

She needed to assess the situation before she proceeded. It was tough to even pretend to be emotionally detached when the jerk blocking the hallway was threatening the man she loved. She knew Dr. Kregkor was the resident psychiatrist at Homeland but he was an idiot if he honestly believed Moon could have done any of the things he’d accused.

“Get out of my way,” Moon snarled, his gaze landing on Joy.

Trisha gripped his arm to draw his attention. “He’s not worth it, Moon. I get it. Trust me. He’s an asshole but are you really going to make me patch him up?”

“I told you to get me a sedative and call for orderlies to help us restrain my patient, nurse. Do your job,” Kregkor snapped.

Paul shook his head as he took a few steps back. “I don’t take orders from you.”

“You’re fired.”

Trisha released Moon. “You can’t fire my nurse. You’re the one totally out of line here, Kregkor. You’re making a big mistake if you believe that bullshit you just said. Your friend shared information with you from some story on the internet? Are you serious? Moon didn’t run away and he sure didn’t go on some rampage attacking humans. If you will be reasonable and lis—”

“I’m calling my supervisors.” He dug into his pocket and jerked out a cell phone. “You people are harboring a danger to society. They were justified in sending me here to keep an eye on how things are run. I’ll call a news conference if that’s what it takes to force you to allow me to treat these unfortunate souls. Allowing them loose on society isn’t acceptable. He could have killed someone and you’re trying to cover it up!”

Joy’d had enough. She kept her hand on the wall to steady herself as she moved closer to the son of a bitch. He was pushing buttons when she reached out and snatched the phone from him. He started and spun, gaping at her. She canceled the call with her thumb and tossed the phone Moon’s way, assuming he’d either catch it or let it hit the floor. It didn’t matter to her either way.

“What the hell do you think you’re doing?”

“Hello, Dr. Kregkor. We met at the front gate, remember? I assume you know by now that we’re both in the same field of medicine.” She struck out her chin, giving him a chilly stare. She didn’t offer him a hand to shake. “You are going to close your mouth and behave like a rational, functional adult or I’m going to kindly ask the nurse to bring me a sedative to give you.”

“How dare you!”

She leaned in closer. “How dare you!” Her temper flared and she barely managed to retain her composure. “I have been assessing the situation. You admitted that you came here with preconceived notions from information you obtained from an unreliable source, prepared to act upon it, without even bothering to actually do your job, which would be to calmly speak to the client to determine mental status before formulating the best course of action to assist him.”

She had to shove her hip against the wall to remain steady. She was still shaky from the adrenaline rush as well as the drugs she’d been given. “The fact that you’re using your authority to threaten someone with the use of drugs and restraints justifies my assessment of you. You’re agitated, causing a scene, and purposely attempting to provoke others into committing violence.”

“Do you know who I am?” He thrust out his chest, his eyes gleaming with outrage.

She didn’t feel well and was tired of dealing with him. “I can tell you what you are. Incompetent. I’ll be more than happy to speak to your supervisors to let them know it as well.” She waved a finger toward the ceiling. “You forgot about the cameras. I’m positive that the security office here at Homeland will be happy to send your boss a copy of you storming into this building to accuse someone of being psychotic without any foundation for that diagnosis.

“We both know the seriousness of malpractice and abuse of power. I’m also certain they’d be happy to pass out the footage to any members of the press you speak to. You have breached the NSO contract I’m sure you had to sign. Think of what will happen to you professionally.” Her voice lowered. “And you’d look like a complete and total ass.”

Kregkor jerked his head up to glare at the cameras. In his anger, he’d obviously forgotten about them. They were all over the building and easy to spot. Everyone who came into Homeland was informed of the security measures. He had paled a bit when he looked back at her.

“You bitch,” he whispered, probably hoping the audio on the cameras wouldn’t catch his words. “Who the hell do you think you are to threaten me? I’ll destroy your career before you ever get the chance to smear my reputation.”

Moon suddenly lunged forward. He didn’t strike Kregkor but his chest shoved into the man’s arm, pushing him away from Joy. He snarled. “She’s my mate. Don’t ever speak to her that way again.”

Joy wrapped her arms around his waist and hugged him. One of his arms instantly curved around her back to pull her even tighter against his side. She didn’t want him to physically assault the jerk. There’d been enough violence in one night to last her for a while.

It took a second to realize what Moon had said to Kregkor. His mate? She lifted her head and started at him in bewilderment.

He snarled again, nostrils flared, and his sharp canines were prominently displayed while he keenly regarded the other man with open hostility. Moon had clearly said she was his mate. New Species didn’t use that word unless…

Her hand slid up his stomach, feeling his firm abs through his shirt. She gripped the material near his ribs as a wave of lightheadedness struck but she wasn’t so sure it was from blood loss or drugs this time. Her heart rate increased and a sense of urgency came with it.

“Moon?”

He didn’t look down, still intent on intimidating Kregkor. It must have worked because the gasbag didn’t say a word.

“Moon?” She put a little more firmness in her voice.

He growled but flicked his gaze to her face. “I won’t kill him. I’d settle for a few broken bones. No one calls you names or threatens you.” He resumed glaring at his target.

“Moon?”

She really needed to know if he meant what he’d said. Was it a slip? Maybe he’d only said it to scare the shit out of Kregkor. What if he means it? I need to know. Does he love me too?

Any intelligent person knew Species would protect a mate to any extreme. She had kept tabs on their progress as much as possible through news stories. Most of it had been speculation on the part of the reporters but she’d watched the video footage many times.

She’d never forget when Fury was shot after he and his mate were attacked during a press conference. He’d used his body to shield her, kept running despite being wounded, to get her to safety inside the NSO gates. Tiger had jumped onto a burning RV to go after his mate, prepared to walk through flames to save her. The entire world had no doubt a Species would go to hell and back for a woman he’d mated.

“Please ignore him. Look at me, Moon.”

He didn’t look happy when he complied but he met her gaze.

“Mate?” She hoped he wouldn’t call her that unless it was true.

His expression froze, his eyes widened, and he flushed a little. There was no instant denial though. She sucked in air.

“I’m your mate?” Answer me, damn it. Please.

“You are mine.” The fear displayed in his gaze was apparent and it wrenched her heart. “Am I yours too or are you going to reject me again?”

She forgot the cameras and the people watching them because nothing else mattered except Moon. She’d sell her condo, quit her job, and do anything to be with him. “You’re mine. I’ll never leave you again. I swear.” Tears blinded her but she tried to blink them back. “I love you.”

His entire expression changed to one of sheer elation. “I’m never going to let you go.”

“You won’t ever have to.” Another dizzy spell hit and her legs finally gave out.

“Joy!” Moon kept her from falling, sweeping her up into his arms. “Trisha?”

“She’s weak and she needs to eat. Get her back to bed,” the doctor ordered. “Paul? Escort Kregkor out of here.”

“We’ve got this.” Harley had joined them. “He’s leaving Homeland and I’ll destroy his visitor’s pass myself. We were called by Security. They said we were needed inside the building and why.”

Joy peered over Moon’s shoulder as he cradled her in his arms, carrying her back to her room. Harley and two other Species males were glaring at a flustered Kregkor, surrounding him, and she almost felt pity for him.

Trisha walked behind them, her smile looking forced. “You’re going to be fine. When I said take it easy, I meant stay in bed for the next few days.”

“Sorry.” Joy licked her lips, her mind working as she hugged Moon around his neck. “Do you think the NSO will replace Kregkor? I’m suddenly looking for a position at Homeland.”

Moon carefully placed her on the bed and cupped her face, leaning in close. “You’ve got a job. You’re my mate.”

“I can’t wait to start that one. You’ll have to work sometimes though and I’d like to do the same and do some good. I know Species way better than that asshole ever will.”

Chapter Seventeen

Joy watched Moon closely, still reeling from hearing him say she was his mate. He sat on the edge of her bed as he took her hand. They had a lot of issues to resolve. Relationships were complicated but he loved her. They had a foundation to build upon.

“You shouldn’t have gotten out of bed.”

“I’m glad I did.” She wasn’t sure where to start so she went with the thing that worried her most. “Can you ever forgive me for leaving you at site four? It’s the biggest regret of my life.”

“Joy—”

“Please let me finish.”

He nodded.

“I really didn’t see a way of staying. I thought it would cause you more harm than good if we slept together. You don’t know how many times I lay awake at night wishing I had the nerve to visit you at Homeland after it opened. I was too afraid you’d either refuse to see me or worse, wonder why I even bothered to come. I fell in love with you but I wasn’t sure if you felt the same way about me.”

He scowled. “You knew I was obsessed with you.”

“Sex isn’t always about love. You wanted me but you’d recently experienced a substantial transition in your life. I knew it was possible that I was only a distraction to keep you from facing that you had an entirely new set of problems that came with gaining your freedom from Mercile. I spent a lot of nights wondering if you forgot about me as soon as you were taken from the desert.”

His thumb caressed the back of her hand as his fingers tightened their hold. “You were always in my thoughts. How could you not be? I was furious that you left and got away from me. I looked you up on the internet once when my stung pride allowed it.”

She flashed back to her conversation with Flame in the Jeep when he told her about that. “I wish you’d contacted me.”

He shrugged. “I didn’t think you’d take my call. You’d already rejected me.”

“I’m so sorry that’s how you viewed it.”

“I understand now but it hurt deeply after you were gone.” He leaned in close enough that she thought he might kiss her but he didn’t brush his lips over hers. “The only thing that matters to me now is that you’re here with me and that you stay, Joy. The past is behind us. I’m more concerned with our future.”

She blew out a soft breath. “I’ve been so lonely and miserable without you.”

“Me too. No more though, sweetness. You’re my mate. We’ll spend the rest of our lives together. I’ll hold you every night and get to wake with you in my arms.”

“It’s not going to be easy,” she warned. “We used to be really close and now there’s this big gap of time between us. There’s a lot we’ll need to learn about each other. We’ve changed.” Him more so than her. “You play sports.”

His eyebrow arched.

“Harley showed me a video.” A streak of jealousy rose but she shoved it down. It was completely unreasonable to think about all the women he might have been intimate with. “You’re so much more social now.”

“It’s all Harley’s fault.” He smiled. “He’s really annoying and refused to allow me to sulk. He challenged me to compete with him in games and I found out I enjoy them.”

“I like him.”

He growled low. “How do you like him?”

He was jealous. “I think he’s a wonderful friend who loves you very much.” She slid her hands up to his hair, playing with the strands. “You know you’re the only male I want. I understand what a mate is and the level of commitment that goes with it. You are it for me. No one is sexier than you. He totally doesn’t appeal to me in that way, okay? Everyone pales in comparison to you.”

He relaxed. “Sorry.”

“I know you can’t help it. It’s one of the many things I love about you. I don’t expect or want you to tone down who you are. Be one hundred percent yourself. Am I clear?”

“I won’t be easy to live with sometimes. Mates are crazy.” The look on his face was almost comical.

“They are, huh? Tell me why you think that.”

“They are sex-starved for their mates all the time. Males are prepared to draw blood if other males even glance at their females. They need their females’ scent all over them and can’t stand it when it fades. Most of the mated males always use at least one of their work breaks to go visit their female to hug and rub up against them.” He sighed loudly. “I know I’ll do that. I am already addicted to how good you smell.”

It was hard to smother a laugh. He melted her heart. “Lots of sex and touching doesn’t sound so bad to me.”

“That’s true.” He brightened, his gaze lowering to the gown the hospital had put her in. “That’s not very attractive. I should take it off you.”

She clung to his hand. “Not here. I want to wait until we’re alone so no one will barge in. There’s never any privacy in these places.”

He moved fast, using that Species agility, to sweep her into his arms, snagging the blanket as he lifted her off the bed. “I’m taking you home.”

“To your place?” She hooked her good arm around his neck.

“To ours. You’re my mate, sweetness.” His tone deepened into a sexy growl. “You live with me now and share my bed.”

Her belly quivered and she couldn’t wait to see his home. Ours, she corrected. He carried her down the corridor into reception. Paul was playing video games at one of the computers at the desk. Trisha was at another one flipping through a folder. Harley had hopped up onto the counter to perch on the edge of it. Three pairs of eyes turned their way.

“I’m taking my mate home. I’ll keep her in bed, Trisha.”

The doctor sighed, dropping the folder. “She’s suffered moderate blood loss but I know better than to even try to dissuade you from holding off on sex for a few days. I know you’ll take excellent care of her. Make sure she gets plenty of sleep, food, and fluids when you’re not keeping her otherwise occupied. And feed her first. She still hasn’t eaten and it appears she’ll need her strength. There shouldn’t be much pain, mostly soreness, but I’ll send over a mild pain reliever for later, just in case.” She picked up the receiver of the phone. “I’ll call Slade and tell him you want the mate paperwork right away.”

“It can wait for a few days. I don’t want anyone disturbing us.”

Harley jumped down. “Not even me? We’re brothers and you’re banning me from coming to your house?”

Moon frowned.

“I’m kidding.” Harley grinned. “Bond with your mate. I’ll make sure your work shifts are covered and don’t worry about a thing. I’ll even make you both dinner and drop it off around six o’clock every night so you won’t have to cook. I’ll leave it on the porch.”

“Thank you.”

“Consider it a mating gift.” Harley winked at Joy. “Be good to him.”

“I promise. I will be.”

Harley stepped closer to the double doors, triggering the sensor that slid them apart. Moon carried her outside to a Jeep and carefully tucked the blanket around her legs. He even put on her belt.

“I could do that.”

“You have a mate. I like to do things for you. You’re mine to care for.”

She appreciated the special treatment. “I can think of a few things I’d like to do for you.”

He rounded the Jeep, grinning. “Good things?”

“Yes. You’ll have to be naked though. Will that be a problem?”

He laughed. “No. Hang on, sweetness. I can’t wait to get you home.”

He drove slowly though, almost as if he were afraid of jostling her around too much.

“Joy?”

“Yes?”

“What about your job? Your home? Will you resent giving them up for me?” His tone was tense. “I’m almost afraid to ask about your family. Will they be unhappy that you live here with me?”

“I’m hoping I’ll get Kregkor’s job. It makes me shudder, thinking that any New Species had to deal with him. The hospital will be able to replace me pretty fast. I have some vacation days left, which means I’ll call them tomorrow and quit. That’s not a full notice but they’ll have time to find a replacement before I was due back. I won’t get a glowing recommendation from my boss but that’s fine. I liked my condo but I wasn’t really in love with it. It was affordable and close to work. I’m sure it will sell in a reasonable timeframe once I hire a few people to go in there to move out my stuff and replace the front door and carpet.”

“You’re very calm about making so many changes to your life.” He reached across the space between the seats to clasp her hand, keeping the other on the steering wheel. “I’m sorry I can’t move in with you. It isn’t fair that you’re the one who has to give up so much. I’ll make it up to you.”

It touched her that he was so considerate. “I get to be with you. That’s all that matters to me. I’ve totally focused on my career since we parted, but trust me, it’s not more important to me than you are. I’d have traded it all to be with you again, in a heartbeat.”

He pulled into the driveway of a house on a quiet street and shut off the engine. He didn’t get out but instead turned in his seat to face her. “What about your family and the people you love? How do they feel about Species? Will they believe I’m dangerous to you or that I’d be abusive?”

It was hard to see his face in the shadows. “My parents are going to love you. I’m more worried about what you’re going to think of them.”

“Why?”

She sighed. “I love them but they are kind of weird, Moon. They blurt out anything they think and it’s embarrassing. They never mean to be offensive but it comes across that way sometimes. They drive me crazy.”

He chuckled.

“What’s so funny?”

“You’re a shrink.”

She shrugged and smiled. Moon released her hand and climbed out to come to her side of the vehicle.

“I won’t growl at them, okay? I’ll even hide my teeth.” He picked her up. “Can you twist the handle on the front door when we reach it? It’s not locked. We don’t have to worry about break-ins here.”

“Harley told me it’s much safer to live at Homeland. I need to give you fair warning about my parents, though. You won’t be able to hide your teeth. My mom is going to want to see them. Probably my dad too. Don’t hold it against me if they ask weird questions like if you ever get the urge to chase cars or chew on bones, okay? They are harmless but I can totally see them doing that. Sometimes I wonder if I chose my profession only as a way to save money. My best friend Meg and I both decided to become therapists in high school. We never charge each other for sessions when we talk.”

He laughed, shaking her a bit in his arms. “I’m sure I’ll like them, sweetness. They made you for me.” He paused. “Open the door and welcome to your new home. I am going to make you very happy here.”

She had no doubt. “It’s a two-way street, Moon. I’m completely committed to making this work. I don’t want to live my life without you anymore.”

Moon kicked the door closed behind him and peered around the room, grateful Harley had kept him from punching holes in the walls when he’d discovered Joy had left Homeland. It was clean and tidy. He worked a lot of hours but that would change. He had a mate to spend time with now. He studied his home with a fresh perspective.

“You can alter the color of the walls and buy new furniture that’s more to your taste. I want you to be happy.”

Joy lifted her face up to him and smiled. “All I care about is the bed. Where is it?”

She was his kind of female. It sank in. No, she is my female. My mate. A warm sensation flowed through him. All his worries faded into excitement at the anticipation of claiming her for good.

The bed wasn’t made but the sheets had only been slept on once by him. He inhaled the scent of what humans believed mimicked a warm spring day according to the bottle of laundry soap. They were wrong but it was pleasant all the same. He set her on the end of the bed and crouched.

She shifted as he freed her from the blanket. The hospital gown was thin material and he took care to ease it over her bandage, which reminded him of how he could have lost her. “Are you in pain?”

“Trisha gave me something because the other stuff was wearing off but don’t worry,” she smiled, “it’s a mild painkiller. I won’t get another case of the giggles.”

He stilled. “You’re still on drugs?”

She removed the rest of the gown and tossed it on the floor. His gaze swept down her nude body, his dick instantly hardening in response. He wanted her so much it hurt but what she’d said could change everything.

“What is that look for?”

“You said you’d be my mate but what if you change your mind tomorrow? You—”

Her finger pressed against his mouth to silence him. “I’m of very sound mind, Moon. I know what I’m doing and what I want.” Her fingertip teased his lips as it trailed lower, down over his chin to his throat, and only stopped when it reached the neckline of his shirt. “I was hesitant to make love to you too, due the drugs in your system because I was afraid you might regret it later. You said a few things to me when our roles were reversed that I’m going to say to you now.”

“What did I say?”

“No excuses. I want you.” She paused. “I’m certain of that.”

He reached for his shirt and slowly yanked it upward. He threw it over his shoulder and satisfaction filled him when her gaze lovingly scanned his bare chest. He tore at his footwear, not even bothering to stand to get them off. The snaps of his pants opened when he gave them a rough jerk. He pushed them down his hips until they were bunched around his thighs, freeing his dick from the tight confines. “Lie back.”

“Stand up.”

Was she testing him? He didn’t want to fail as a mate. Species males were dominant by nature but they would bend to the will of their mates. “Why? Do you want to see if I’ll blindly do as you ask as proof of my love?”

She licked her lips. “I believe you love me.” She stared down at his lap. “I said on the way here that I want to do things to you. Please stand up?”

Blood rushed to his groin to make his dick painfully taut. He didn’t care anymore if it was a test. It seemed a win to him either way if she wanted his hips level with her face. He almost tripped on his way up, forgetting he hadn’t lost the pants entirely yet. He pushed them down and kicked them out of the way. His focus fixed on Joy when she reached out to brush the pad of her thumb over the crown of his dick.

Her tongue wet her lips again and he knew what she was going to do. Her hot breath fanning across the tip of his dick forced him to clench his teeth. She deserved a mate who could control the sounds he wanted to make as she made one of his deepest fantasies come true.

The first lick of her hot, soft tongue forced him to lock his knees. One of her hands braced on the curve of his hip, her fingernails digging slightly into his ass cheek. He barely noticed that as she curled her other hand around his shaft to take him inside her wet, hot mouth. His balls tightened. She moved slowly, gliding up and down but tightening her hold on him.

Fuck! It felt way better than he’d ever imagined. He wanted to tangle his fingers in her hair but was afraid she’d stop. He fisted his hands instead, not sure what else to do with them. Raw pleasure rolled through him, his muscles clenching as she sucked and licked him and took him deeper. It was pure torture when she withdrew a little but she pushed forward again.

“Joy,” he rasped, looking down to watch her turn him inside out.

Her gorgeous blue eyes lifted and he almost came. He withdrew then, too afraid of choking her if he ejaculated. It was hell forcing his dick from between her lips when he rolled his hips back, gently holding her uninjured shoulder to keep her from moving with him.

“Why did you stop me?” She looked slightly confused.

“I won’t last, Joy. I’m new at this.”

“What?”

He lowered to his knees. “That was my first time. Be impressed with my control. Trust me on that.”

Her mouth fell open as she gawked at him. It was more than a bit embarrassing but it would have been worse if his balls had seized and he’d spilled his seed.

“Damn. This mating thing is going to be tough sometimes, isn’t it? I’ve never had a female do that before. It feels too good, do you understand? I really hope you want to do it again, often, but wait until I’m not already dying to be inside you. I’ve got some pride.”

“You’ve never had oral sex?”

“I’ve never been a receiver. No.”

“But…”

“You have no words?”

She still said nothing.

He chuckled. “I’ve made you speechless. I have missed being able to do that.” He invaded her space, slowly pushing her flat on the bed. “I missed you. Open those pretty thighs for me. It’s my turn to put my tongue on you. Let’s see how long you last, sweetness.”

“Not long.” She spread her legs and he loved the sight. “And I’m not ashamed to admit it.” She reached out to touch his cheek as he bent to brush a kiss on her inner thigh and started working his way up to her clit.

“Nobody has ever done that to you? Really?”

He paused, looking at her. “Why does that surprise you?”

“I thought that there would have been a lot of, um, experiences you’d had since leaving the desert.”

There was a catch in her voice. Jealousy? It didn’t amuse him, knowing she felt it. His mate hurt and he wanted to soothe her pain.

“I won’t lie to you. I’ve been with females but they never touched me the way you do, Joy—inside or out. None ever wanted to love me. You give me that gift.” Justice was right. He’d never felt so alive as he was with the female who had become his heart. “I will cherish it and you.”

“I love you too.” She slid her fingers into his hair, stroking his scalp. “Let’s talk about this later though.” She squirmed under him.

“Maybe we should wait. You are still weak.”

“I’m lying down. We’ll be careful and I want you too much to wait.”

His thumb brushed against her clit and she jerked under him, spreading her thighs wider. The scent of her arousal filled his nose as he breathed her in, rubbing slow circles around the bundle of nerves. Her nipples grew stiff as she arched her back. “You drive me crazy.”

She softly moaned as her hips bucked against his hand. “Well, you’re mated to a shrink. Perfect, aren’t we?”

He dipped his thumb, drawing from the wetness her desire caused, to tease the bundle of nerves again. Two fingers gently probed the opening of her pussy, his dick envious as they sank inside her, stretching the tight channel to make sure she was prepared for his thick shaft.

He curved his fingertips upward to press tightly against the spot that drew a louder moan from her as he began to fuck her slowly. She fisted his hair and he grinned, ignoring the slight pain. He watched her writhe under him, her hips bucking in a frantic attempt to reach climax. She was so beautiful to him.

“Moon,” she pleaded.

She was close. He rose, withdrawing his fingers from her sex. He gripped her hips and dragged them to the edge of the mattress, being careful not to jostle her arm. He closed his eyes as his dick plunged inside her pussy. Her muscles clenched as she cried out. He placed his hand near her injured arm, ready to protect it if she showed any sign of distress, but he rode her hard, pumping his hips furiously, and lost his seed to a haze of white-hot rapture when she came around him.

He collapsed over her but braced his elbows to make sure he didn’t put any pressure on her wound. His mate lifted her hand and surfed his biceps with her palm. He turned his head, placing a kiss on her exposed throat.

“How is your arm?”

“What arm?” She laughed. “Oh, that. It’s perfect.”

He chuckled. “Everything is, isn’t it?”

Almost. He had a mate to protect. New Species had enemies who could still hurt them. The attack on him had brought Joy back into his life and he could almost forgive what was done because of it. Next time someone else might not be so lucky though.

Joy stirred. “Stop worrying.”

He raised his head to stare at her, wondering how she’d known.

She grinned. “It’s your nature. I only want you to love me and be exactly who you are. Things will work out. We have each other to always lean on, regardless of anything we face. We’ll do it together.”

“I love you.” He wanted her to know how much.

“I love you too. You can’t get rid of me.” She glanced down between their bodies. “I’m practically glued to you.” She met his gaze. “You make me happy. That’s never going to change and we’re going to have a long lifetime to spend together. Don’t worry about the small stuff.”

His dick flexed inside her. “All I’m thinking about now are the larger things.”

She laughed. “I feel.” Her thighs tightened around him.

“Trisha said I must feed you.”

“Not now. Kiss me instead.”

He pushed away all thoughts and focused on her. His mood lightened. “Where?”

She laughed, the sound reminding him of the blessings in his life he’d been given. “Anywhere you want to, mate.”

“My pleasure.” His tongue traced the shell of her ear.

“Moon?”

“Yes, sweetness?”

“Growl for me. Don’t hold back. Have I even mentioned how much it turns me on?”

The low rumble started in his chest. “Like this?”

Her fingernails dug into his skin. “Yes.”

“I howl too.”

“Mmmmm.” She turned her face into his neck, lightly nipping him. “Show me.”

“Anything for my mate.” He trailed his mouth lower and paused, pulling away. “I’ll try to avoid biting you. I’m sorry for the scar.”

She smiled. “You’re upset you hurt me but you’re not really sorry that you marked me. It’s proof that I belong to you, right? I get it.” She licked her lips. “You can do it all you want. Just try to avoid drawing blood though. Love bites are sexy and I enjoy it when you nip me during sex. It makes me so hot.”

He couldn’t miss the sincerity of her words. “You could mark me and I don’t mind if you draw blood. I love when you dig your nails into my back.”

“Then stop talking and do something to encourage me.” She arched under him. “You might have learned patience but I’m horrible at it. My pain medication is still working. I want you.”

“You’ve got me, sweetness.”

About Laurann Dohner

I’m a full-time “in-house supervisor” (sounds much better than plain ol’ housewife), mother and writer. I’m addicted to caramel iced coffee, the occasional candy bar (or two) and trying to get at least five hours of sleep at night.

I love to write all kinds of stories. I think the best part about writing is the fact that real life is always uncertain, always tossing things at us that we have no control over, but when you write, you can make sure there’s always a happy ending. I love that about writing. I love to sit down at my computer desk, put on my headphones and listen to loud music to block out the world around me, so I can create worlds in front of me.

Laurann welcomes comments from readers. You can find her website and email addresses on her author bio page at www.ellorascave.com.

Tell Us What You Think

We appreciate hearing reader opinions about our books. You can email the author directly or you can email us at Service@ellorascave.com (when contacting Customer Service, be sure to state the book title and author).

Also by Laurann Dohner

Cyborg Seduction 1: Burning Up Flint

Cyborg Seduction 2: Kissing Steel

Cyborg Seduction 3: Melting Iron

Cyborg Seduction 4: Touching Ice

Cyborg Seduction 5: Stealing Coal

Cyborg Seduction 6: Redeeming Zorus

Cyborg Seduction 7: Taunting Krell

Mating Heat 1: Mate Set

Mating Heat 2: His Purrfect Mate

New Species 1: Fury

New Species 2: Slade

New Species 3: Valiant

New Species 4: Justice

New Species 5: Brawn

New Species 6: Wrath

New Species 7: Tiger

New Species 8: Obsidian

New Species 9: Shadow

Riding the Raines 1: Propositioning Mr. Raine

Riding the Raines 2: Raine on Me

Something Wicked This Way Comes, Volume 1 anthology

Something Wicked This Way Comes, Volume 2 anthology

Zorn Warriors 1: Ral’s Woman

Zorn Warriors 2: Kidnapping Casey

Zorn Warriors 3: Tempting Rever

Zorn Warriors 4: Berrr’s Vow

Print books by Laurann Dohner

Cyborg Seduction 1: Burning Up Flint

Cyborg Seduction 2: Kissing Steel

Cyborg Seduction 3: Melting Iron

Cyborg Seduction 4: Touching Ice

Cyborg Seduction 5: Stealing Coal

Cyborg Seduction 6: Redeeming Zorus

Cyborg Seduction 7: Taunting Krell

Mating Heat 1: Mate Set

Mating Heat 2: His Purrfect Mate

New Species 1: Fury

New Species 2: Slade

New Species 4: Justice

New  Species 5: Brawn

Riding the Raines 1: Propositioning Mr. Raine

Riding the Raines 2: Raine on Me

Something Wicked This Way Comes, Volume 1 anthology

Something Wicked This Way Comes, Volume 2 anthology

Zorn Warriors 1 & 2: Loving Zorn

Zorn Warriors 3: Tempting Rever

Zorn Warriors 4: Berrr’s Vow

Ellora’s Cave Publishing

www.ellorascave.com

Moon

ISBN 9781419940552

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Moon Copyright © 2013 Laurann Dohner

Edited by Pamela Campbell

Cover design by Syneca

Cover photography by Vishstudios/Shutterstock.com

Electronic book publication May 2013

The terms Romantica® and Quickies® are registered trademarks of Ellora’s Cave Publishing.

With the exception of quotes used in reviews, this book may not be reproduced or used in whole or in part by any means existing without written permission from the publisher, Ellora’s Cave Publishing, Inc.® 1056 Home Avenue, Akron OH 44310-3502.

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This book is a work of fiction and any resemblance to persons, living or dead, or places, events or locales is purely coincidental. The characters are productions of the author’s imagination and used fictitiously.

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Table of Contents

Prologue

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Content

Dohner Laurann Moon (Laurann Dohner)