NixOrtikal

CQ 2024 entry.
Zen seemed to be struggling, he was fighting not just his own need but the wolf's instinct to dominate. 
Then he was back again but this time the green was gone from his eyes.
Lithe stared into black bottomless pits but surprisingly he did not feel afraid because this was Zen's black wolf.
His face lowered towards Lithe, what sounded like a low growl escaped his lips before he pressed his mouth down on Lithe's lips. 
This kiss was different, mind blowing and possessive so unlike Zen's usual style something told him to run but he ignored it.
Choosing instead to stop thinking about anything else and just focus on the feel of Zen's mouth on his own. 
It wasn't just a normal kiss, he was also pouring pheromones down his throat.
Pheromones that tasted like sweet lemonade mixed with vodka, spilled into his mouth, down his throat, intoxicating Lithe.
Thanks to his wolf, Zen was finally letting go and giving himself over with an abandon that tantalized Lithe and was exactly what he needed.
When Lithe Hildebrand hires Zen Starke to retrieve stolen property belonging to the Maximillian Tribe nothing goes according to plan. 
Lithe, a workaholic and perfectionist, convinces Zen to let him go on the dangerous mission with him for fear that if mishandled it could ruin his reputation and career.
Intrigued, Zen is determined to keep his potential mate by his side at all costs.
For he’s never met anyone as captivating and sensuous as Lithe. 
When Lithe’s life is threatened, Zen makes a bargain to protect Lithe if he pretends to be his fiancé. 
Pressed for time, Lithe agrees since Zen is nothing like the media portrays him to be.
As a recessive omega he finds the dominant alpha irresistibly charismatic and fiercely loyal.
The problem is the feelings are mutual.
Despite their differences, the lovers embark on a dangerous quest that gets them more than they bargain for when they encounter murder, deception and the gift of everlasting love.

Zen's Gift

"I've already began to make inquiries about the gentleman's club," said Lithe briskly,

"You began to make inquiries about club Lucky69," repeated Zen dryly.

"Just let me finish what I have to say," said Lithe. He hated getting interrupted. "As I was saying I managed to get my hands on two tickets to a performance being held at that very same club tonight. My sources let me know that the leader of the gang that has been terrorizing communities in both the Allerdyce and Vallance Continent will be present tonight, that is the infamous Master Stryker," said Lithe excitedly.

Unfortunately Zen did not share Lithe's enthusiasm as a chill of foreboding stirred the hair lightly on the back of Zen's neck.

"Tell me one thing Lithe, if you were to go to the club tonight and happen to meet the notorious Master Stryker, what would you do next?"

"Demand my aunt's diary, isn't that obvious?" said Lithe with exasperation in his voice.

A lesson in futility