Chapter Four

CHAPTER FOUR

The High council of was gathering in the Great Hall awaiting the kings arrival. The Lords and Ladies mingled amongst themselves making idol conversation and catching up on old news. Upon entering the King greeted his subjects. "Thank you for coming this evening on short notice."

Gesturing for them to have a seat. King Finnbheara sat down in the thrown positioned in the middle of the two rolls of elegant golden chairs. Decorated with each Lords and Ladies house crest. Seating themselves one Lord said, "We are here to serve you Your Majesty."

Once they where seated. Finnbheara noted everyone was present before he began. "Not but a whisper ago. I returned my latest indulgence to her bed. While I was there. I felt that the world's magic had changed. I thought it was just a fluke and thought nothing of it. I just ventured back to earth before joining you here and I have found that the fabric of magic on earth has strengthened ten fold in the short amount of time I'd been away."

Gasps and whispers started around the room as the Lords and Ladies looked around at each other in disbelief. Upon settling the King continued. "I looked into the fabric myself. The strands of magic weaved in the making of that world have not only grown in strength. They have grown in number and seem to hum with it's new vigor."

"Yes Your majesty. When I ventured there not but yesterday. I did since a change in the worlds workings," called one of Ladies.

"I do not know what to make of this and for this I worry. That world has not seen such magic since our leaving. What I want you to do is ask among your subjects if they have been interfering with the workings of the earth."

Again more whispers went up for it was against their laws to interfere in the life of the humans. "Do not worry. I do not think it is thus for one Fae could not cause such dramatic change as I have felt. It would take a great number of us to change the fabric in the severity that it has. Those are my wishes you are all dismissed."

Standing the King nodded to his subjects as they all adjourned discussing the matter in which they were summand. " Aisling," called the King.

Making her way through the mass of people a lady with white blonde hair, and silver eyes stopped in front of the King with a curtsy. "You called Your Majesty."

"Please walk with me a while."

"Yes my king," replied Aisling fallowing Finnbheara out the King's door and into his private study.

"Do you know why I have asked you into my study Aisling?"

"No you're Majesty I do not."

"As is such. When I looked into the fabric I found it was like a web. It's center was so tightly woven that it glowed with the brilliance of the sun and stars. The farther I got from the center the less strings of magic where weaved into the fabric that covers the world. Do you happen to know where this center is?"

"No My king."

"It happens to be smack dab in the middle of you're little experiment. Though I have to say. I never believed so many supernaturals as the humans call us could live together in harmony, but you're little town thrives."

Aisling was at a loss for words and she feared the Kings wrath for she didn't know that he had a clue about her dealings on Earth. "Oh yes Aisling. I have always known what you where doing. Nothing happens without my knowledge. Until now that is. I want you to spend some time with that werewolf you're so found of. See if anythings has changed in town. I have found multiple weds on the Earth. Two others to be exact, but they are dimensioning in power. The weakest in located in the state they call Kentucky. The other is in the state they call Virginia. I know many of the lesser Fae have sought refuge in your experiment. See if maybe that gathering of so many Fae has caused the change. I will expect a full report at the start of the next lunar cycle."

Nodding Aisling bowed, "As you wish You're Majesty."

*******

Sweat was rolling down Elizabeth's back as she finished mopping the living room floor. Where she'd just sanded the charred paw prints off of it. Opening the front door she hung the mop over the porch railing. Before propping the door open so that the outside air would help dry the floor faster. Grabbing her cup of tea Elizabeth ventured over to her porch swing. Watching the birds flit about she sighed. Winter was ruff and spring was cold. It was fun but she missed her home state. People where breaking out there shorts back home. Here it was May and she still stoked a fire at night to heat her room. Not to mention doing that saved her on her power bill.

Enjoying her break. Elizabeth had to talk herself into getting off the swing and finishing the job she'd started a couple of hour's ago. If she didn't hurry up her floor would still be tacky by the time Black decided to show up. If that happened she'd have dog hair preeminently stuck to her floor.

Elizabeth was kneeling on the floor with her butt stuck up in the air when Brom walked up the porch steps. "Good evening Miss Marshall."

"Even'en Brom," said Elizabeth continuing with her activities.

Holding onto the door frame, Brom leaned over her trying to see what she was doing. Not having any luck at any angle he broke down and asked, "If I may be so bold, what the hell are you doing?"

"I sanded the floor where the paw prints where. Which I'm not even going to ask why there where charred paw prints on my nice wooden floors. Then I varnished the floor where I sanded, and I was seeing how tacky it was. It's been drying for a bit now, and I found one of my hairs has decided to stick to it. I'm trying to get it out without ruining my finish. Ha! Got it!"

"Okay, do you obsess a little bit," asked Brom in a should I worry voice.

"It's attention to detail Brom. Something you wouldn't know anything about," laughed Elizabeth before getting to her feet and stepping away from her F.O.D free floor.

Closing the front door Elizabeth turned to her guests. Holding up the bags he had so Elizabeth could see them Brom smiled. "I brought supper if you can cook."

Looking form the several bags in his hands to the ones in two other peoples hands. She scratched her head. "Man how many people are coming over? You brought enough food to feed an army."

"It's just us plus you're other guests. Shifters eat a lot. It comes with having a high metabolism. You'll get us to it after a while"

"How much is a lot," asked Elizabeth takings some of the bags that where loading Donna down.

"I can eat three stakes, a heaping of potatoes, and a couple of roles myself," said Donna with a slight blush.

"Alrighty then," said Elizabeth leading the way off the porch.

Reaching the ground. Elizabeth paused and spun around as the mental image of the other person finally registered. Looking up at the questioning faces due to her abrupt stop. She starred at the third person of the group. If a Roman God could be found walking the face of this planet. He would rank among them. Her heart rate decided to run a marathon as her brain sent a signal straight to her womb. Her face flushed as the realization of how wet she got just looking at the man.

His hear was jet black and was neatly tied back in a pony tail at the nape of his neck. His jaw was strong, and he had a face you would find chilled on a statue in the Smithsonian.

He was nicely dressed in black dress pants, and a pristine white button down as if he'd walked straight out of a GQ magazine.

Loosing all thought processes, and knowing she'd stood there dumb founded for too long. Beth turned back around and headed for the back door of the house. "So how many new people are you going to invite into my house Brom?"

Opening the door for her Brom shrugged his shoulders, "No body. Everyone here has been here before."

"If you say so," growled Elizabeth dumping the bags on the kitchen table. "Doc and Nicole are back in the guest bedroom, and stay out of the living room."

Placing his bags beside her, Elizabeth could feel the heat radiating off the strangers body. Electricity shot through her body at his nearness. If she wasn't in her right mind. She would be half tempted to rip that nice shirt off him and have her way with him. Stepping away from him and his warmth, her body screamed at the loss of his nearness.

Unpacking the bags Elizabeth began pulling out the things she was going to need to prepare supper. Even though she pretended not to notice the new guy. Her senses we're all to aware of his presence, and she kept stealing glances his way. "So her name is Nicole," asked Donna breaking the silence in the kitchen.

Thanking the lord for the distraction from the eye candy that was leaving the room she answered, "Yep. She shifted about an hour ago. Doc's been back there with her since then. Not sure what they're talking about, but I guess it's not any of my business."

Gathering all the bags up Donna shoved them all into a cloth holder Elizabeth had hanging on the pantry door. Where she stored them for later use. "To be honest Beth. It is kind of is your business considering you're in the middle of it."

"That might be true, but I figured it's like the Mafia. The less I know the safer I am," said Elizabeth somberly scooping a spoon full of butter out in a pan.

Handing her a steak Donna leaned on the counter next to her. "You can say we're like a mafia, but in this since what you don't know can kill you. The more you know the better off you are really. I'm not telling you this to scare you or anything, okay."

Patting Donna on the shoulder Elizabeth grabbed a plate and turned on the exhaust fan. "Honey I've been in the Navy to long for much of anything to scare me any more. An if you don't mind me asking um what are you?"

"I told you a minute ago. I'm a shifter like the lady in the other room. What did you say her name was, Nicky?"

"Nope Nicole, but you were close. I mean what type. Like, Nicole's a mountain loin?"

"Oh," laughed Donna taking the bag of potato's and the knife Elizabeth was handing her. "No I'm a lion, like the ones in Africa, as is Chris."

"And Brom?"

"He's wolf. He's the pack alpha and pretty much controls this area. The Mayor is our Felix Who's like a head cat of the area. We tried to get Brom to take it but he said no. He didn't want to have to dress up everyday," laughed Donna dragging the trash-can over to were she was sitting.

Thinking back about the conversation Mac had with Cleo. Several more pieces fell into place. "So what is Mac and Cleo?"

"What makes you think they're any different then normal people?"

"Because the other day Mac was talking about a strange cat in town. Whom I'm guessing is Nicole. He said that she's probably running away from a felix. Who you just told me is the alpha in the cat world. So I just assume their in on the game. If not part of it."

Shaking her knife at Elizabeth, Donna paused and then shook her head. "You know. I knew you were too smart, and would figure things out quickly. Brom didn't think so, but I knew you. Mac and Cleo are both wolves."

"Okay so is Jack a wolf too since he really likes Cleo?"

"Yep."

Peeling the last potato, Donna packed the full pot over to the sink. "So do you know what Daniel is," asked Donna as she began washing and cutting up the potato's

"Yes, Brom said he was a vampire. Are their any more Vampires in town? Do they have alpha's like you shifters do?"

"Vampires have what is known as Ancients. Theirs not many of those left, but they don't have a governmental system like the shifts do. At least that I'm aware of. Vampires don't talk much about stuff like that. Well at least Daniels doesn't. Every once in a while we'll get one that passes through, but they don't stay long."

"Why not," asked Elizabeth as she placed the plates of steaks in the oven to keep warm.

"Well because Daniel has rules that the vampires must abide by. See he doesn't let them feed off the town folk, because he believes in keeping pets. You cant hide medical records. When people keep showing up at the hospital with bite marks on them. Most of the town cops are of the supernatural persuasion, but the county cops are all human. We can't afford for them to be looking to closely at the town, or we're all in trouble. Daniel believes in keeping pets like most of the old ones do. Almost all of them are street trash or run always. People no one will miss. It's disgusting if you ask me, but that's how they survive. So I can't think badly of him really.

Most don't stay long or Daniel kills them. Either way."

"Why does he do that?"

"That I'm not really sure, but I'm sure he has his reasons. I do know that quite a few have come to drain his blood and take his powers. No one comes close to being as old as he is. Vampires will kill to be able to walk in the daylight, literally. To tell you the truth. I'm surprised the Fae High Counsel hasn't tried to off him by now. He's got to be as powerful as they are by now, but I think they're afraid of Shaw. So they haven't even dared."

"Why would they be afraid of Shaw? What is he?"

Placing the potato's on the back burner Donna sat back down at the table. "Now that I'll leave to Shaw to tell. I don't like telling other peoples stories.

Putting a pot of peas on. Elizabeth turned the burner on before finding the courage to ask the question that's been in the forefront of her mind. Since it walked out of the kitchen. "So um... Who's Brom's friend?"

Busting up in laughter Donna beat her hand on the table holding her side. Glaring at her, Elizabeth placed her hands on her hips and tapped her foot on the ground. "What's so funny?"

"I can't say I've ever seen you blush even when most girls would, and here you are blushing about a guy. Aren't you to old to be doing that," wheezed Donna between fits of laughter.

"I'm glad you find it funny, forget I even asked," said Elizabeth turning back to the stove.

"Oh come on Beth, don't be that way? But I can't believe you don't know who he is. You've met him several times already."

"I'm good with faces. It comes along with a photographic memory, but I've never met him. I would remember him. It's not often a man who could have walked off a Chippendale calendar, enterers my house."

"I know he does look good doesn't he, but that's besides the point. Okay think about it," said Donna getting out of her chair and walking to Elizabeths side. "Who do you know around here who has jet black hair and green eyes."

"I don't have a clue."

"He's friends with Daniel?"

"And?"

"Oh come on I just bragged about you being smart."

Grabbing plates out of the cabinet. Elizabeth sat them down on the table wondering how everyone was going to fit. "I'm telling you I don't know."

Laying the silverware out. Elizabeth backed into someone as a waft of warm air brushed her neck. Looking at Donna who was biting her lip, all of Elizabeths muscles tensed. "Ya doona recognize me? I have'na changed that much, have I," came a deep burr close enough to her ear that goose bumps raised on her arms.

Facing him Elizabeth said, "You're in my personal space Shaw," a little more breathlessly then she wanted to.

Even to her ears it sounded more like take me right here, right now.

"That I am lass."

"Um that's my polite way of saying move."

Leaning forward Shaw inhaled deeply. "Now why would I want to do that?"

Trying to steady her week knees. Elizabeth scolded herself for getting turned on by being in such proximity of Shaw. This wasn't like her, and who gets turned on by a man sniffing them? No one! That's who. She could feel herself getting wet as Shaw's nostrils flared and she preyed to God he couldn't tell.

Digging down deep she tried to muster a commanding voice as she said, "Because I said so. Didn't you're mother ever teach you, it's rude to enter a woman's personal space without asking first?"

Smiling at her Shaw shrugged as he stepped back. "I never had a ma. If I did maybe she would'a, but from what I ken she dumped me in the woods to die."

All Elizabeths built up anger blow out of her like a burst ballon. "I'm so sorry Shaw. I didn't know," said Elizabeth ready to pull her foot from her mouth.

Kicking herself for her rudeness. Beth looked at the floor ashamed of her actions. Rubbing the backs of his fingers down her jaw leaving a trail of warmth and tingles. Shaw lifted her chin with a finger. "Doona worry lass. Twas to many moons ago. She must have had her reasons whether good or bad. She did me a favor. For I'm the last of my kind. So in turn I thank her for that."

Before Elizabeth could ask what that meant. Dr. Carlson cleared his throat before asking, "I was wondering if me and Nicole could have some more tea, and whatever you're cooking smells wonderful!"

"Yeah sure," said Elizabeth taking the glasses out of his hands.

Grabbing the tea out of the refrigerator. Beth poured the last of it into their glasses before handing them back. "Supper should be done in a couple of minutes."

"Thank you Miss Marshall. Just yell for us when it's done okay. I'm pretty sure Brom is going to be interrogating your guest for a while longer."

"That's fine," added Elizabeth taking a pan out of the cabinet so she could make a new batch of tea.

Shaw graciously stayed out of the way. As Donna and Elizabeth scurried around the room getting the food laid out. The tiny table was set for two more people then it was made to hold. Which made for tight quarters, but everyone would have to deal with it.

Once everything was ready to go. Beth walked back to the guest bedroom and knocked on the door. Sticking her head in she looked at the occupants. "Supper is ready and on the table. I'm going to start a fire in my room, and then I'll be in the kitchen."

"I was wondering how you kept it warm at night. It's freezing in there," asked Dr. Carlson.

"Yeah, I think it use to be like a sun room considering the whole thing is windows. I'm kind of worried what it's going to be like in the summer. From what I hear, it doesn't get to hot here. So I should be fine."

Closing the door behind her. Beth headed back to her room, and out the back door. With each trip out the door. Elizabeth looked around the back yard hoping to catch a glimpse of her new found friend. Hoping he'd show up. She left the door open as she lit her fire starter, and sat down on the floor with the fireplace door ajar. Listening to the crackling as the fire fought for life. She jumped when Shaw appeared at her side. "You know lass a fire does no good when you keep you're back door open."

"Yeah I know." replied Elizabeth dusting herself off and locking the back door.

Closing the fire place door, Shaw asked, "You waiting for someone?"

"Not really someone, but yeah. I'm kind of worried. He's normally hear by now. I guess it's all the strange people about today. He might show up later."

Opening his mouth to say something. Shaw closed it, thinking better of it. "Everyone's waiting on you."

"Alright then, lets go eat shall we," replayed Elizabeth before quickly exiting her bedroom.

So she didn't have to spend any more time, then she had to with the man who seemed to turn her on by only being present.

It unnerved her that any man could have such power over her body. On top of that her last several boyfriends hadn't been the best choices. Now she had to contend with the sex god himself. Who, from his comment earlier wasn't even human himself.

Entering the kitchen. Elizabeth mentally cussed when she saw that her uninvited guests left two chairs open. Those two chairs just that happened to be next to each other. It wasn't bad enough that Shaw started a blaze inside her just by being in the same room. She had to sit close enough to him she knew he'd be touching her throughout the meal.

Waiting for her to be seated. Shaw took his seat and for spite he sat on the edge of his seat so that their entire right side was touching.

Passing the food around. Elizabeth watched in wonder as all of her guests piled enough food on their plates to feed three people. Even though she could put food away. Her plate looked like a child's portion compared to theirs. "Anyone for a glass of wine for supper," asked Daniel walking into the kitchen.

"Where the hell did you come from," choked Elizabeth before cleaning up the tea she'd sloshed out of her glass. "You better not have walked on my living room floor!"

Placing glasses down in front of everyone from a bag that was on the counter. He said, "Nope I was taking a call in your library, and no I came in the back door. I could smell the varnish as soon as I got to the front. So I went around to the back. I figured you redid your floor." Pouring everyone a glass he sat the bottle in the refrigerator before continuing. "I do have to say you do have an impressive collection of books. Have you read them all?"

"Almost all of them, yes."

"I might have to borrow a few if you don't mind. It's been years since I've read the Hounds of Baskerville."

Moving a bit of food out of the way. Elizabeth did an unlady-like thing, talk with her mouth full. "Be my guest. I've already read it."

Moving her attention back to her plate. Elizabeth preyed no one would notice that her ears were on fire. For they where all looking her way. She wondered if they knew that the heat off Shaw's leg seemed to be burning through her jeans. By the looks on their faces it seemed they did. Reaching for her glass. Shaw chose the exact time to reach for his as well. Grazing his hand with hers. She jerked her hand back as fire raced up her arm and the butterflies in her stomach took flight. "Are you okay," asked Shaw taking his glass of wine.

"Yep," said Elizabeth suppressing a shiver that ran up her spine.

It reminded her of when you get out of a hot tub in the winter and the freezing air brushes your skin. That's how her arm felt now that it was away from his. She could feel the pooling moisture between her thighs. Making her wondering if he turned her on this much doing nothing. What would it feel like if he tried. Suppressing that thought, she forced it into the back of her mind for further annuluses. Taking a deep breath. Beth rolled her shoulders trying to covertly shift her chest within the confines of a bra that suddenly felt to small. On top of the tightness she could feel that her nipples where now standing at attention, and painfully brushing against the suddenly rough fabric.

Supper went quietly. For everyone was to busy devouring their meal to speak, but once the scraping of forks quite and all fell silent. Brom was the first to speak. "Tomorrow if you would Elizabeth. Can you and Donna take Nicole to Betty's so that she can get some clothes? She's going to be staying a while."

"Wow hot shot! I already missed one day of work. I can't afford to be missing another," snapped Elizabeth snatching her plate up.

Scooting her chair out of the way. Elizabeth went to take her plate to the sink, but as she turned the plate clipped Shaw's wine glass spilling the red liquid down his shirt. "Oh my God Shaw, I'm so sorry," exclaimed Elizabeth setting her plate down quickly and grabbing a napkin. "It's fine lass," said Shaw watching her blot at the stain. "Really."

"No it's not. That'll stain. Here take it off I'll clean it."

Standing up Shaw backed away. "It'll be fine. I can clean it later."

Placing both hands on her hip Elizabeth said, "Don't be silly. It'll stain for sure, and you wont get it out if you wait. You've got a shirt on under it, take it off."

"You heard the lady," laughed Brom.

Huffing Shaw unbuttoned his shirt. Ever conscious of Elizabeth watchful gaze fallowing his hand to every button.

Watching Shaw take his shirt off, was like watching the best strip tease ever. Even though the white tank top covered the chiseled chest that lay behind it. It was tight enough to give her a preview of what was under the rapper. It was like Christmas came early! All she had to do is wait for the right night to rip that rapping paper off for the surprise underneath, and what a surprise it would be!

Not wanting to make her drooling obvious. Elizabeth took his shirt and disappeared into the laundry room as quick as possible. Reading the Label she saw it was a dry clean only but a spot clean wouldn't hurt it. Spraying a stain remover on it. Elizabeth scrubbed at the stain under the sink. Once she was satisfied. She placed it on a hanger and hung it on a chair in front of the fire place in her room. So it could dry. Taking a minute to look out the back door. She still didn't see Black, and she was beginning to worry.

Going back into the kitchen. She found that someone had cleared the table and the dishwasher was going. "Like I was saying before the wine fight. You can put Nicole's clothes on my account." Holding his hand up to stop Elizabeth from speaking he continued. "I already talked to Mac, and you've been paid for today and tomorrow. Whether you like it or not. You're pretty much apart of the pack now, and this is how it works. On top of that. Even though your Navy sweats are fashionable, I doubt Nicole wants to wear them everyday for weeks on end."

"I will tell you this right now Mister! You might be top dog around here, but I'll be damned if I bark every time you say speak."

Taking a toothpick out of the holder on the table. Brom suppressed a laugh. "I don't expect you to Elizabeth, but I would very much appreciate it."

"No affiance Nicole," said Elizabeth looking a her before looking back at Brom. "So am I expecting a roommate, or are you going to give her accommodations else where? Because I really don't like sleeping with people in the house I don't know."

"No I've already got a room prepaid at the house for her, but you're still going to have a roommate."

"What!"

Patting the air Brom said, "Calm down Elizabeth before you give yourself a heart attack. You and that horse of yours have pissed off the felix that's after Nicole. Since you're human and to speak honestly, a weakling compared to shifter kind. I'm leaving Shaw here as a body guard. I don't want you hurt. That's the only reason why I'm doing this."

"Why not Donna," exclaimed Elizabeth as her face when scarlet.

"Because I wanted to watch you're face turn red," laughed Brom heading toward the back door. "So is everyone ready to head home?"

"You're leaving now?"

"Yep, and thank you very much for the supper. It was the best stake I've had in a while."

And just like that everyone left without another word, or a second glance. Leaving her alone with the sex God and Daniel.

Grabbing the wine bottle out of the fridge. Daniel asked, "What do you say we take this party into the library since we can't use the living room?"

Without waiting for her reply Daniel and Shaw left the kitchen. Leaving Elizabeth to fume about how her house has been taken over by freaks of nature. Refilling her glass with tea. She fallowed them down the hall and into the library where Daniel was already browsing through her books. Pulling a book out. Elizabeth froze at the sound of plastic hitting the shelf. Extracting a cd Daniel held it up. "Well that wasn't a good hiding place. Is this where you hid your porn?"

Trying to snatch the cd out of his hand. Elizabeth blinked when Daniel was no longer standing in front of her. Looking around the room quickly. She found him sitting down in a chair half way cross the room sipping his wine. "So I take it I'm right."

Storming over to him she tried for it again, but again found it wasn't where it was seconds before. "Now what did you do with it?"

"You mean this," asked Shaw holding it up.

"This is childish. May I have that back now," asked Elizabeth not bothering to chase it again.

"Only if you tell me what's on it," asked Shaw taking the disk out of the case.

"How about no."

"Is it anything important," asked Shaw lifting the top to her laptop.

Jumping over to the desk she slammed it shut before snatching it out of his hand and breaking it. "Wow was that really necessary. We were just playing," said Daniel clearly shocked.

"Yes, I'd forgotten all about it. I meant to destroy it, but with all the happenings I'd forgotten all about it," stated Elizabeth breaking it in quarters.

Tossing the pieces in the trash she eyed Shaw as he opened her desk draw and started snooping around. "Nosy much?"

"Nope not at all," said Shaw without a hit of humor.

Watching him dig in her bottom draw. She noticed a flash of silver swinging from his neck. Once he closed the drawer and righted himself she looked closer. Seeing two leather necklaces and two small round silver plates she couldn't believe it. No way, thought Elizabeth. Stepping around the desk she looked closer. Shaw jerked when out of nowhere Elizabeth yanked the necklaces closer to her face. Before he could move. Elizabeth smacked him so hard his ears range with the force. Rubbing his cheek he watch her storm out of the room, and slammed the door behind her. "What was that about," asked Daniel chuckling under his breath.

For he'd never seen Shaw take a hit like that and keep his composure.

Opening is mouth to speak he sealed it when Elizabeth stormed back in. Charging straight over to Daniel. He moved his glass just in enough time catch her hand, but he missed the second hand that struck his right cheek. "I can't believe you," screamed Elizabeth right in Daniel's face. "You knew didn't you! You knew Black wasn't a dog! You son of a Bitch! And you," continued Elizabeth whirling around on Shaw. "You, You, voyeur! I can't... I don't know whether to be more pissed that you pretended to be a dog. Or worse, that you knew I was worried about him, because he wasn't here yet. But he was standing beside me the whole time. I hope the both of you get rout gut from that wine!"

Storming back out of the room she slammed the door again, and within seconds they heard the slamming of her bedroom door.

"Well that was fun," said Daniel rubbing the red mark on his face. "I wish you didn't get me slapped in the process. At least I now know the lass is quicker then I give her credit for. On top of that. I told you when she found out she'd be pissed, but no, don't listen to me."

Flopping down in a chair across from him. Shaw gave a gusty sigh. "Well I didn't know what else to do. I want her Da more then I've wanted anything else in life. More then food, more then water. More then air or life itself."

Shaking his head Daniel refilled his wine glass and handed Shaw his. "You've got it bad my friend."

"Bad is an understatement. I've had a raging hard on for almost the last week. An every time I touch her it's like the Gods have set a fire underneath my skin. I can feel my beast ripping at my skin every time I smell her excitement."

"Pause, stop, to much info," interrupted Daniel waving his hands in the air. "I don't need to know all the details."

Taking a long drink from his glass Shaw sat it down and looked at his friend, the closest thing he knew as a father. "Daniel do Hell Hounds have mates the same as shifters?"

Debating on what he was going to tell him, Daniel took several drinks of his wine to give him more time. "To be honest I don't know. I know the shifter are a by product of the Hell Hound race. But I don't know if you will experience the mating heat the same as they do when they find their mates or not."

"Does anyone know?"

Rubbing his face Daniel sighed, "You're serious about this aren't you?"

"As serious as a heart attack for a human."

"Some day's I swear you'd make me turn grey if it was possible," joke Daniel.

"Can you be serious for once Daniel?"

Setting forward in his seat. Daniel clasped his hands in front of him on his knees. "I'm trying Sèitheach, but it's hard when you're putting the cart before the horse."

Growling Shaw jumped out of his chair throwing his hands in the air. "Sapevo che avrei fatto questo! Lo non so nemmeno perché ho anche preso la briga!"

"Shaw calm down. I don't know why you're so pissed."

"I'm agitated Daniel not pissed," snapped Shaw sitting back down and finishing his glass of wine.

"If you yelling at me in Italian isn't mad. Then the glowing red eyes say other wise. Would you like me to explain why you're putting the cart before the horse?"

"Yes, please father, enlighten me."

Ignoring the father comment that Shaw always seemed to through out whenever he's was angry with Daniel. He refilled his glass. "Shaw you hate the human world, and if you haven't noticed Elizabeth is human. Wait until I'm finished, and then you can say you're peace," said Daniel holding a hand up.

Once Shaw was settled back in his chair. He began again. "You've spent the last several centuries running around on all fours. I mean hell Shaw, you don't even know how to tie your own shoes," said Daniel pointing at Shaw's shoe laces that have spent the entire evening untied. "You've never wanted to fit in, in this world. If you want to be with her you'll have to. Which means bathing at least every other day. On top of brushing you're hair and teeth everyday if not multiple times a day."

"Well I can do that, and I can learn to tie these useless boots," interrupted Shaw.

"It means you spend more time in this form then in your wolf form. Is he willing to give up his freedom?"

"If that is what is required. He is willing."

Rubbing his chin. Daniel looked over at his friend, his pup, trying to find logic in this. For Shaw's wolf has never willingly given up control. He has always ruled the man. That is why Shaw has spent more time in that form then in any other. "Tell me of your wolf Sèitheach. What is his take on this?"

"He's fine. Content really. It's been kind of nice not having to claw at my skin, because he wants out."

"When you're with Elizabeth, what is he like then? Other then his normal ruling shelf?"

"He wants her for his mate. Every time I see her or smell her, he wants to claim her as his."

Emptying the bottle into their glasses. Daniel processed the information he was just given. "When he curled up with her in bed. How did he feel?"

"Why all the questions," asked Shaw taking his glass back from Daniel.

Sitting back in his chair. Daniel repositioned himself, crossing his legs. "I'm just trying to understand what's going on. Like you asked me too."

"He's the happiest he's ever been. I've never slept as well as I did next to her. It's like I don't have a care in the world." Rolling his glass in his hands he watched the liquid swirl around deep in thought. "To be honest when she holds me for that small bit of time before I'd force myself to leave. I don't feel alone. When she's running her fingers through my fur. All the sadness disappears, and the world is a brighter place. When I'm with her the world sings and comes alive at her feet."

"Well then, it looks like you need to get back into her good graces. From her, I hate everyone attitude, you've got a job a head of you."

Setting his glass down Shaw moved to the edge of his seat with an excited puppy like expression. "Does that mean you're okay with it?"

"If it means you bathe regularly. I'm all for it," laughed Daniel taking up the glasses and the empty bottle. "Have a good night Shaw, and if you would. Burn that CD. I don't think anyone can get anything off it, but that security footage doesn't need to be lying around either way."

Elizabeth lay in her bed tossing, staring out the window, to angry to sleep. She couldn't believe Black wasn't a dog, but was Shaw. No wonder he got all touchy when I was cleaning his underside, thought Elizabeth. Tossing and turning for several more hours, sleep finally over came her.

Again she found herself sitting by the river in the middle of town. Thinking she had to repeat the night before. She walked toward the dinner, but somewhere along the way she'd taken a wrong turn. Walking down a street in the small suburban neighborhood that sat on the east side of town. She stopped and looked around. The houses were all blurry as if looking through smoke, and they ran together like someone had thrown lacker on an oil panting. Lost and turned around she wondered between the houses, and streets until she stumbled upon Bryan. He was standing in a yard talking to a woman. She had white blonde hair wearing a lavender dress made of what looked like pure silk, and much to thin for this weather.

The woman was tall, very slender, and her skin was very pale. Oddly she almost seamed to be a living china doll. Walking closer to the couple for a better look at her. The woman shushed Bryan and turned in her direction. Something about the woman's face was off. Whether it was her silver eyes, or the angelic face. Something screamed inside Elizabeth that she wasn't human. Every cell in her body was on high alert. Heart pounding ready for a fight, her blood seemed to boil at the sight of the woman. Elizabeth didn't care much for people in general, but this woman she despised. Even unnaturally loathed.

Not knowing what the do. Elizabeth watched the lady move her hands through the air like a blind person walking through a room. Her skin crawled the closer the woman got. Until she was within spitting distance, and the sound of growling could be heard. Stopping the woman looked around the yard. Wondering where the sound had come from. Elizabeth looked for the source of the sound only for the growling to stop. When the woman started her searching again. Did the growling come back this time with a more threatening rumble. It wasn't until she felt her chest vibrating. Did Elizabeth realize that it was her, making the sound. Shocked that she could even mimic such a sound. She stopped as the woman's fingers came inches from her. Reaching out her hand. Elizabeth poked the woman in the forehead just to see if she was real.

Screaming like a Banshie the woman through her self backwards like she'd been struck my lighting. Not knowing what to do Elizabeth high-tailed it out of there. Running through the woods she finally stopped in a field to catch her breath.

Placing her hands on her head. Beth continued on through the clearing when she caught the glimmer of something on the far side. It glowed with the iridescence of the lighting bugs, but never seemed to fade. It floated from one corner of the field to the other with a dancers grace. Drawing closer she could see the glow came from the forehead of a horse that looked remarkably like Jurisdiction minus the lion like tail.

Trotting up to her the unicorn snorted before tossing his head from side to side. "I wondered when I might see you wondering threw my meadow," said the unicorn stopping just out of reach.

"You've been expecting me," asked Elizabeth looking around to make sure she was the only one in the field.

"For many-a-season," replied the unicorn nodding his head. "You are as your name implies, a gift from God. A gift for a dyeing breed. Just remember when you awake to use your power wisely. For you are to bring peace and justice to the world as you're name sake implies."

With that the unicorn turned on his hunches and took flight across the field kicking his heals up as he went.

"That was a bit strange," said Elizabeth watching the black unicorn fade into the shadows.

Shrugging her shoulders. Elizabeth turned to head back the way she came when she saw the beast from the night before that pounced on her. Looking it up and down. She still thought it was the oddest shaped wolf to ever walk the face of the planet. His head came to her chest and it's ears to her head. Even it's paws were disproportionate to its body. His legs where long and graceful like that of his smaller counterpart. But its paws looked like that of a big cat with nails leaving deep grooves in the soil beneath them. They looked like they were built not only for speed, but also taking down prey. His glowing red eyes starred at her like a hunter sizing up it's pray, but through all of this she was not worried. Her brain told her she should be scared and to run, but her soul almost called out to the beast to not be afraid of her. Like something so lethal looking would ever find her intimidating.

Timidly the wolf approached her and as it grew nearer. His outline seemed to shimmer and blur until Shaw stood in front of her in all of his glory. She traced the line with her eyes from his collar bones across his erect nipples on she bronzed chest. To the valley and hills of his rippling abs. Continuing down over macular thighs to his calfs that bunched and flexed with each step he took toward her. When he reached her, he placed one hand on her lower back pulling her closer to him. She could feel his erection pressed against her stomach. Cupping the base of her head Shaw pulled her head toward him. Wetting her lips in anticipation. Shaw gave a shot laugh before laying siege to her mouth. Knowing this was a dream. Elizabeth surrendered herself to his on slot. When his tongue dover into her mouth she lavished the taste of him. Running her fingers into his hair she held him to her. Unwilling to give up the taste of him. He tasted wild and untamed. Breathing in his sent of pine and man. It set her body ablaze with a passion she'd never believed shed ever felt. Trailing kisses across her jaw. She gasped for air. Her body shook with the intensity of her want for him, and the growl that emitted from Shaw's throat. Seemed to reverberate through her, settling in her womb.

Her willingness pooled between legs causes Shaw nostrils to flare, and his eyes to glow a brilliant red. But this surprisingly only excited her more, and stirred something within her she'd never felt before. Her skin began to crawl like something was under it trying to get out. But all was forgotten, when Shaw bit down on the cord of muscles that joined her neck to her shoulders. Pleasure racked her body causing her to jerk with the ferocity of it. Letting loose a scream. Her head fell back as her legs went out from under her.

Laying her down Shaw let loose another deep growl before ripping her shirt down the front. Using his teeth to undo the clasp of her bra. He moaned as the cups fell to the side exposing her perfect breasts. Lathing one erect nipple. He nipped at it causing Elizabeth to moan and wiggle below him. Suckling her breast to the point of pain he released it with a pop before turned his attention to the other one. Bringing ripe cherry peek into his mouth. He crushed it against the top of his mouth bringing another moan from Elizabeth as she raked her nails down his arms.

Trailing kisses down her ribs. Shaw dipped his tongue into her belly button before tugging at her jeans with he teeth. Panting Elizabeth watched as he pulled her jeans and underwear off torturously slow. Once they where gone he tossed them over his shoulder. Before kissing his way back up her legs. Spreading her legs Elizabeth gasped when he nibbled the inside of her thigh. Growling again Shaw inhaled the womanly sent that was all Elizabeth. He could see that she was wet for him. The drive to take her right here, right now was almost unbearable. His dick was so hard it hurt just to touch it, but he wanted this to be slow. He wanted to please her. So that she would forget all others before him. She was his, and he wanted to make sure she knew it. Running his thumb from her ass he parting her labia. Watching Elizabeths head thunk back in pleasure. He ran his thumb across the small bundle of nerves at the top.

Running his fingers through the mass of wet curls. Shaw marveled at the beauty of the woman before him. A woman he knew would not summit so easily outside the dream world, but he'd take what he could get.

Elizabeth jerked as a wave of hot air ran across her already sensitive nub. Just as Shaw's tongue darted across it causing her back to arch. Blinding light flashed behind her eye lids, as he suckled her sending her into a premature orgasm. Never has she gotten off so easily. He'd barley touched her. Grabbing a handful of his hair as he ran a finger inside her. The waves of pleasure stop didn't stop. Elizabeth arched into him choking on a scream that wouldn't come out. Sliding another finger into her spamming channel. Shaw probed them in and out searching for that one spot he knew was inside each woman. That spot that would send them over the edge repeatedly. Twirling his fingers inside her tight channel. He reveled in all the noises of pleasure she made.

It wasn't long before he found the fleshly mound that brought a scream to her lips, as Elizabeths body bucked in front of him.

Beth thought she was dyeing, or going insane. The pleasure was to much, and if it didn't stop. She thought she would for sure die of it. Lungs heaving, her body was racked with shivers from all the energy she had just expended. She could still feel her vaginal muscles gripping Shaw fingers. Trying to milk them for what they where worth. Moving back up her body Shaw licked, and kissed her nipples before claiming her mouth again. She could still taste herself on his lips, but it didn't seem to bother her like it had with all the other men in her life.

Her mind didn't recoil at knowing her fluids where on the lips, and tongue that was entering her mouth. Where before it would turn her stomach. On Shaw's lips, it was a turn on. Like that's where it was suppose to be, and she loved it.

Pulling away from her. Shaw looked up at the sky before looking down at Elizabeths bruised lips. Smiling like a Cheshire cat he looked deep into her eyes. "Well looks like my times up. At least I got to stay longer then I'd expected."

With that Shaw and the dream faded as she woke up with a strong urge of needing to pee. Stumbling to the bath room to do her business. It wasn't long before she was back in bed sleeping peacefully.