“I am.” He rubbed a thumb across the bruise on her cheekbone. “I’d like a do-over on last night.”
“Why? It was great for me.” She smiled, even feeling saucy. “I doubt you could top it.”
“Oh, I could top it and you.” His eyes glimmered with something undeniably male.
She shook her head. “Last night wasn’t smart. I believe that you didn’t kill Duck, and I know you’re here for some reason other than just joining Fire and selling drugs and guns. But I don’t know if it’s a law-abiding reason or not.” The guy must know more about Apollo and the guns than he’d let on. So did those two kids who’d just left.
The man drew her, and that was just plain and simple deadly. She didn’t know him, and for once, she wasn’t sure she could trust her instincts. Charm and danger intrigued her and always had.
“I can’t tell you any more than that, except you can trust me, Alexandra. I have no interest in breaking your laws or your heart. You have my word.”
Sweet words, but the mere cadence reminded her that his laws might be different from hers. His goals might be, as well. She stood, relieved when he released her. “I’m not sure what to do about my break-in the other night.” While she had a duty to inform her superiors that somebody had broken in, there would be no evidence left after Kell’s cleanup, and she hadn’t a clue who it had been.
She shook her head. “You’re not gonna like this, but I need to report the break-in, your interference, and your cleaning up of the crime scene.” Her loyalty lay with her job as a cop, no matter how much she liked him. If he didn’t understand that, they didn’t have any sort of chance going forward. If he wanted a chance. Well, if she wanted a chance.
Did she want a chance?
Her temples began to ache. No way was the man studying her so intently part of some drug running Seattle motorcycle club. He was far more dangerous than that, but one question harassed her: Was he a good guy or a bad? Was he investigating as some part of an international investigation, or was he protecting widespread drug cartels?
He leaned back in his chair. “How are you going to explain your delay in reporting the break-in?”
She blinked.
“In addition, if I’m questioned, I will tell them where I was last night.”
Oh, son of a bitch. Anger flared through her so quickly she swayed. “You’d tell them about last night?”
He shrugged. “Wouldn’t have much of a choice, now would I? If you report the incident and that I cleaned up a crime scene, I’ll be brought in for questioning. If questioned, I always tell the truth.”
Her shoulders settled while angry hurt dropped into her gut. Yeah, it figured he was too good to be true. What in the hell had she been thinking? “That’s blackmail. So you used me.”
He stood and was in her face so quickly she didn’t have a second to react. His hands manacled her arms, and he lifted her up, right off the ground, so they could meet eye to eye. “I. Did. Not. Use. You.” His grip was firm and controlling, but not bruising. The hint of violence was there, and raw fury burned in his beyond-dark eyes. He held her easily, his strength unbelievable.
“Who are you?” she gasped.
“I’m the man who has saved your life twice, before making you come harder than ever before.” He gave her a slight shake. “I’m the man trying to get this blasted drug off your streets, keep you safe, and still do my fuckin’ job.”
“Which is?” she shot back, seriously thinking about taking him down. From her current position, if she were to subdue him, she’d have to injure him, and she didn’t want to do that. Yet.
Slowly, the muscles in his corded arms flexed and he lowered her to her feet. “Trust me.”
“Would you?” She stepped away to give herself leg room in case she needed to strike. “If you were me, a cop, would you just randomly trust you in your current situation? As a supposed enforcer for the Titans of Fire Motorcycle Club?”
He exhaled slowly, his anger dissipating. “No.”
She crossed her arms and tapped her foot.
He grinned. “God, you’re cute.”
“Not what I want to hear.” She jerked her head, holding his gaze.
He rubbed his whiskered chin. “I know. Here’s the deal. I have a job, I take orders, and one of my orders is to keep undercover. I can’t tell you who I am or who I work for. As a cop, one who perhaps has been undercover, you understand that, right?”
She lifted her chin. “I do. However, I also know that if you are from law enforcement, and you’re conducting an investigation in my town, you need to let my superiors know about it. We can work together.”
“No.”
Jackass. “What’s your angle, Kell? Apollo seems to be specific to Seattle right now. You’re from very far away. What the hell do you want with the drug here?” She spoke softly, her mind spinning.
He shook his head. “Fuck. You’re smart.”
Why did that not exactly sound like a compliment?
“So level with me.”
He shoved his hands in his back pockets. “All I can tell you is that we believe Seattle is a test area, and my people are next. There are ties between Seattle and Dublin, and we’ve been sent to ferret out the manufacturer and distribution chain before the drug is unleashed in Ireland.”
“You work for the cops there?”
“No.” He shook his head. “We’re not affiliated with the garda, and we’re bigger than that.”
“Interpol?”
He chuckled. “No. Similar, but no.”
Was he full of shit? Somehow, she didn’t think so. Or maybe she just wanted to believe him. Who knew?
“Have I heard of your organization?” she asked.
“No.” He tugged her closer, and she allowed it. Leaning down, he brushed a kiss against her lips, sending sparks flying through her body. “I have work to do, Alexandra. It’s Sunday, and I know you don’t need to go into the station. But if that’s where you want to go, I’ll go and make a statement with you. Yer choice.”
She stepped back, and he released her.
What the hell was she going to do?
Chapter 14
Kell finished tossing items on the drugstore counter, fighting the urge to hit something. Fucking condoms. He was an immortal witch who couldn’t contract a disease, and he’d never worn rubber over his cock. It had taken him precious minutes to figure out what kind to buy, and he’d felt like a dumbass reading the back of the packages. Thank god there were extra-larges.
A chipper teenager popped purple bubblegum behind the counter, humming softly and not seeming to give a shit that he was buying condoms. Her pink nails tapped easily on the old-fashioned cash register as she rang up condoms, gum, shampoo, and a six-pack of beer.
He’d only needed the condoms but felt as if he had to buy something else.
The outside door opened. Hair stood up on the back of his neck, and tension spiraled through the oxygen.
Damn it all to hell.
Bear stopped at the doorway, one eyebrow raised. His bushy hair curled over his shoulders, reaching his battered cut. His ripped jeans were so old as to almost be threadbare, and his dinged boots had seen better days. He glanced around the store, his gaze returning to the counter and Kell’s purchases. His bear-like snort echoed against a rack of potato chips.
Kell kept his gaze on Bear while the cashier bagged his purchases. He slid a hundred across the counter. “Keep it.” Without looking back, he grabbed his bag and sauntered toward Bear. “You lookin’ for me?”
Amusement still lit Bear’s brown eyes. “No.”
Kell brushed by him and shoved open the door, his boots echoing hollowly on the worn wooden steps.
Bear followed Kell outside into the windy day. “Saw your bike and wondered why you were in my territory.”
Kell paused and turned around to face Bear completely. Mild irritation filtered through him, and he settled his stance, banishing any embarrassment in the hope of a good brawl. He’d never gone
head to head with a bear shifter, so maybe it was time. “Thought we were welcome here.”
“You are, but some warning would be, ah, polite.” A rare grin split Bear’s rugged face, and he tipped his head toward the brown bag. “Although, considering I own the store, I do appreciate the sale. I hope you bought the ribbed ones for her pleasure.”
“You’re about to get hit in the face, Bear,” Kell said slowly, anticipation lighting his veins.
Bear pursed his lips. “Might be fun. Wanna go a round?”
Kell lifted a shoulder. “We could. You ever fought a witch?”
Bear rubbed his scruffy chin. “Hmm. No, I don’t believe I have. You ever grappled with a shifter?”
“Wolf and cat, yes. Bear . . . no.” Kell eyed the massive shifter. “Could be fun.”
“Yes.” Bear sighed and relaxed his stance. “I’m kinda busy right now, though.”
Kell nodded. “Me too. Maybe next time?”
“Sure.” Bear lost his smile. “Wanna tell me why the king’s nephew and the demon ruler’s brother are in my neck of the woods?”
Kell didn’t question Bear’s intel. It had to be good for him to have risen to leader of all bears, a subspecies of Multi-shifters. Of course, only bears seemed to exist any longer. Kell sighed. “Fucking king.”
“Yeah. That’s what I figured.” Bear shook his shaggy head. “I don’t like it.”
“You don’t?” Kell kicked a rock out of his way. “What about me? I’m supposed to keep those kids safe while trying to find out about the drug, and so far, all they’ve done is eat me out of house and home. I’d forgotten how much kids their age fucking eat.”
“Why are they here?” Bear’s irritation sizzled on the breeze.
“They got in trouble and needed an assignment. I figured the king thought they’d be safe enough with me, and well, you—you being in the vicinity—and maybe they can help. As prospects, perhaps more people will talk to them.”
“I don’t like it,” Bear repeated.
Well, no shit. If anything happened to Garrett Kayrs, the entire world would descend on Kell and Bear’s heads. Vampires were never good-natured, and the king had one hell of a wrath when riled. “They’re both trained, and Logan has seen combat.” Shit. A hell of a lot of combat. “Garrett has been in war, nearly losing everybody and almost stepping up as leader of the Realm.”
Bear lifted one eyebrow. “You think he could do it?”
Kell paused, his mind focusing. “Yeah. If needed, the kid could do it.” Thank god it hadn’t been needed. “Why else you seek me out, Bear?”
“The cop.” Bear poked the paper bag. “Your cop.”
Kell’s shoulders went back. “What about her?”
“There’s a reward for capturing her. One of my club members was approached late last night.”
Fire lashed through Kell so quickly, blue flames wavered between his fingers. “Who?”
“Don’t know yet. The second I do, I’ll send the name your way. Apparently they think she has some kind of information.”
“She doesn’t.”
“I figured.” Bear glanced at the flames, his eyes lightening. “How serious are you?”
“I like her. She stays safe.” Kell’s life consisted of missions, hunting, wounds, and killing. Although Alexandra was a cop, she was female and delicate. “That’s it.” A voice whispered deep in his head that she was more than that, and he was fooling himself.
“Fair enough.” Bear hadn’t reached his position in life by arguing about personal matters, even if amusement did lift his upper lip again. “Why is there a bounty?”
“I don’t know.” But Kell would damn well find out. “Her apartment has been searched a couple times, too. Somebody thinks she knows something.”
“Maybe she does.” Bear angled to the side and clomped down the steps. “Perhaps you don’t know her as well as you think.”
Kell followed him and turned toward his bike. Dust billowed up from a gust of wind, and he tuned in to the quiet surroundings. “I know her well enough, and she is unaware of her importance. We have to figure out what’s going on.” He hadn’t wanted to read the file on her given to him by the king, but it appeared as if he’d have to break the seal. “Thank you for the information.”
Bear shrugged. “I have a good relationship with the Coven Nine.”
Kell swung a leg over his bike and paused. “You agreed to our investigation in your territory, but you haven’t asked any questions.”
“I know why you’re here, Kellach.” Bear straddled his Harley. “Planekite isn’t the big secret you witches believe.”
Well, double shit. “Phenakite. Hell, we’re calling it PK now.”
“Whatever.” Bear grinned.
Kell frowned. “Why do I think there’s a third reason you sought me out today?”
“There was, but you answered my question.” Bear gunned his motor.
Kell raised an eyebrow. “How?”
“By buying condoms for a sexy cop.” Bear turned his bike and rode west without another word.
Kell blinked. The idea of Bear wanting to date Alexandra didn’t surprise him as much as it should. The woman was exquisite and intriguing. A rush of energy rolled through him, unusual and difficult to identify. But the one word that escaped his lips said it all. “Mine.”
Lex patiently handed her mother a handkerchief, one of her favorites. “And then, it looks like Kate Middleton decided to play a jumping game in wedge heels.”
“Oh, my.” Her mom’s eyes lit up, and she sat back in the plush floral chair. “How did she do?”
“She was the epitome of grace and fun.” Lex smiled. “As always.”
“I do love that girl.” Jennie clapped her hands together. “She’s so refreshing and good for the monarchy, you know?”
“I know.” For some reason, her mother had always been nearly obsessed with the royal family, and it felt good to bring her some news. Or at least information. “How are you feeling?”
“So much better.” Jennie squinted and glanced around the cheerful room. The color had returned to her face, although physical therapy seemed to zap her energy. “Although I should go soon. This is costing way too much.”
Yeah, it was. “No, it’s no problem. I get a good deal since I’m a police officer and a state employee.” Not. Nowhere near, but she couldn’t allow her mother to worry. “This is a nice place, and you’re doing so much better.” If Lex had to find another job, she’d do it. But considering her schedule was sporadic, basically based on murders, it was difficult to find another job with such flexible hours.
“Oh, honey. I know that’s not true.” Jennie frowned. “I wish I had more savings. It’s my fault you’re struggling right now.”
Lex shook her head. “Are you kidding me? You raised me and Tori all by yourself, and you worked your butt off to do it.” For years, her mother had worked as a waitress, giving her daughters everything. “I love you, Mom.”
Her mom smiled, new wrinkles moving near her eyes. “I love you, too. Soon Tori will be home, and we can have some good family time together. Where is she, again?”
“On tour in California.” Pride filled Lex’s voice. Her baby sister was the lead singer in a pretty damn good band.
Jennie smiled. “My family is the best.” She cleared her throat, her gaze dropping to her hands.
Awareness pricked through Lex. “What is it?”
“Nothing.” Her mom’s lips trembled.
Heat flushed down Lex’s chest. “Mom?”
Her mom bit her lip and then slowly drew an envelope out from behind her back. “I, ah, got this yesterday.”
Lex froze. Damn it. Her hands somehow remaining steady, she reached for the envelope, clearly stamped with WASHINGTON STATE PENITENTIARY on the outside. “How does he know your address?” she asked, turning over the envelope, which had already been opened.
“I don’t know,” Jennie whispered. “He’s always been able to find me.”
Lex
nodded and drew out the college-ruled sheet of paper. The scent of smoke wafted around. Taking a deep breath, she began to read.
Dear Jennie,
I’m sorry to hear you’ve had a flare up and are having trouble walking. I loved those hips. Just kidding. Well, not really. But I am sorry you’ve had problems. I really must get in touch with Alexandra. She’s in trouble, and I have to speak with her. Please try to talk her into a visit. Just one. Her life depends on it.
I’ll always love you and my baby girls.
Love,
Parker
Lex managed to keep her expression serene as she folded up the paper and inserted it in the envelope. “I’m sorry he found you.”
Jennie shrugged. “It’s okay. I did love him, you know, even after I discovered who he was and what he did. All that money didn’t matter.”
“I know.” Lex rubbed her eyes. She’d been twelve years old when the cops had taken her daddy away in handcuffs for being one of the biggest cocaine dealers on the west coast. That moment had scarred her for life. To the point that the only career choice she could make was to get drug dealers and bad guys off the streets. “But he was a bad guy.”
Jennie drew a deep breath. “He’s up for parole again.”
“He killed three people.” Lex tried not to let concern enter her voice. “He won’t get out.” She’d make damn sure of it. Again.
“He might.” Jennie’s dark brown eyes sobered. “Would it be so bad? I mean, he’s definitely done his time.”
Lex’s mouth dropped open. “Are you kidding? Do you still want to see him?”
“I loved him, Lexi.” Jennie shook her head. “You haven’t felt that yet, so it’s hard to describe. I think he’s done his time, and it’d be nice for him to be able to start over.” She cleared her throat. “He’s changed in prison, and he regrets how he treated me. People do change.”
A chill swept over Lex’s arms. The only reason her father wanted her to visit was so he could talk her into either advocating for him at his hearing or ask her not to show up and testify against him. She wasn’t in any danger. “You can’t seriously be thinking of helping him?”
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