She lowered her gaze down his body. “You’re forgetting to mention your other generous qualities.”
His deep, throaty laugh was sexy. “Come on, Bat. We should be landing soon.”
“Really? How long were we going at it?”
“Longer than you think. I was making up for all the times we were rushed.”
She approached him. “Thank you.”
“For what?”
“Just being you.” She shrugged and stepped into the shower stall.
It was a tight fit when he came in behind her, closing the door. “I don’t seem to annoy you when I take off my clothes.”
She closed her eyes and tilted her neck, allowing warm water to pour over her head. Kraven pressed against her body, wrapping one arm around her waist and using his other to help wet all of her hair. She blindly reached out and gripped the curve of his shoulder to help steady her balance.
The jet dipped at that moment. She bumped against him. Her eyes opened, staring at his face.
“It’s just more turbulence.”
“More?”
“It happened a few times while we were in bed.”
“I didn’t notice.”
“Good. Don’t be afraid. I’m right here. Close your eyes and I’ll wash your hair. Just focus on me and nothing else.”
She allowed him to tend to her. It was nice that he’d do such intimate tasks. He wasn’t like other men she’d known. It made her think about the whole mate thing. She still wasn’t completely onboard with the concept but it was growing on her. So was he.
Bat relaxed as he used his fingers to massage her scalp with first shampoo, then conditioner. He rinsed it all out, turned her, and pulled her close. She wrapped her arms around his waist, holding on to him.
“It’s going to be fine, baby.”
“I know.”
“You’re being too quiet and that means you’re overthinking whatever’s on your mind. Do you want to talk about it?”
“Mates.”
“Still resistant to that?”
“More confused than anything,” she admitted.
“You’re never going to lose me.”
It wasn’t such a bad notion, spending the rest of her life with Kraven. She’d once feared dying alone, without ever knowing real love or happiness.
“Tell me what’s bothering you,” he urged.
“It’s kind of scary.”
“Look at me.”
She lifted her chin and opened her eyes, peering into his.
“There’s no pain here, Hellion. There never will be. What are your fears?”
A list of them streamed through her mind. Kraven released her waist and turned off the water. He shoved open the door, grabbed a towel, and handed it to her. She took it. He stepped out of the stall and used a second one to dry off. She did the same.
“I’m waiting. You really do need to work on your communication skills.”
She nodded. “I don’t know. What if you cheat? What if you decide I bug the living hell out of you in six months? What if your family goes nuts when they meet me and realize I’m the last person you should be with? We’re fire and water.”
“We’re fire and gasoline. You were right the first time. We burn together, not put each other out.” He wrapped the towel around his waist and removed a third one from the shelf near the stall. “Turn around. Let me get your hair.”
She did, holding still as he worked to get a lot of water out of her long strands. “I know you say it’s forever but that’s a tall order for two people who barely know each other.”
“You’re not completely human, and I’m not at all. Don’t hold us to the standards of the world you came from. You’re stuck with me.” He jerked her against his body, holding her from behind, and bent his lips close to her ear. “I’m trying to be patient with you because I realize this is new and foreign, but you’re all I want. I don’t give a fuck what anyone else says or does. You’re mine, Hellion. I’m never letting you go.”
“Promise?”
“I swear on my life. I always keep my word. I’d die before I’d hurt you in any way.”
She hoped he meant it. It would destroy her if he ever walked away or did something that broke her heart.
Kraven counted to ten to cool his temper. He really wanted to track and kill the human bastard who’d done a number on his mate. She reminded him of a skittish animal that had been abused at the hands of others. He finished drying her hair and led her back into the bedroom. The bags were in the other room so he retrieved them in case one of the Vampire pilots came into the main area of the cabin. He didn’t want them to see her in just a towel.
Bat thanked him and opened her suitcase. He threw his bag on the bed and removed comfortable clothes. He reminded her to do the same.
“It will be very early morning when we arrive. Most of the clan will be just waking and starting their day.”
“So jeans and sweater?”
“Yes.”
“No high heels?”
He was grateful to see a two pairs of flat-soled shoes inside her bag. “Definitely not. You shouldn’t have brought any of those ankle-breakers.”
“Don’t you people have social events?”
“Not where those would be welcome.”
“Fantastic. I guess I shouldn’t have packed a few dresses then. I repacked while you washed off the blood and changed clothes, before we left my place.”
He finished dressing and put on his boots. He leaned over, peering into her bag. “What did you bring?”
“Jeans and slacks. Some sweaters and short-sleeved blouses. I remembered you said something about picnics.”
“I’m surprised you own jeans.” He admired her in a pair of tight ones as she zipped them closed. “I like them.”
“Thank Dusti. She bought them for me last Christmas. She said I screamed ‘mugging victim’ when I visited her apartment in anything I bought myself. She’d always meet me at the street and pay some teenager to watch my car so it wasn’t stolen.”
Kraven hid his distaste. He didn’t like much about the human world. “I love how you look.”
Bat smiled. “They’re tight.”
“Your ass looks especially amazing.” He eyed it as she bent over to put on her shoes. “It almost makes me regret bringing your clothes.”
She straightened and turned to face him. “Flattery will get you everywhere. I’m going to take my makeup bag in the bathroom and spruce up a bit to meet the in-laws, or whatever I’m supposed to call your parents.”
“You can call them Mom and Dad, or their names, whichever you’re comfortable with. Mating is just like marriage. They’re family to you now.”
“So we’re official?”
“We need to share blood more. I wanted to wait until the danger has passed.”
“Why?”
“I’m hoping for a strong bond between us, but that will mean spending days in bed, if not weeks, once the bond snaps into place.”
She grinned. “Killer sex, huh?”
He grinned back. “The best.”
Bat came closer and held out her wrist. “What’s stopping you? Show me the fangs.”
He snagged her hand and yanked her onto his lap. “That’s not where I’m going to bite you, and I certainly won’t do it while we’re dressed.”
She wrapped her arms around his neck and seemed content on his lap. “Let’s not half-ass this. You said we’re mates so we should make it official.”
“I’ve been trying to give you more time to adjust.”
She licked her lips. “It’s better if you don’t allow me to stew over things. It just makes it worse.”
He understood. “Tonight, we’ll share blood.”
“Good. Is this going to be gross?”
“There will be lots of sex to keep you distracted.”
“You’re really good at that.”
“I’m motivated.”
A knock sounded at the door. Kraven lifted Bat and placed her
next to him, going to answer it. Ronnie stood there. The pilot smiled.
“Sorry for interrupting you, but we’re about to land. You’ll want to strap in tight.”
Kraven stepped out and closed the door behind him. He lowered his voice so Bat wouldn’t hear. “Do you think there’s any chance we’ll crash? Give it to me straight.”
“I’ve landed on worse. It’s just a shorter runway than is recommended for this aircraft. I don’t foresee problems but I’d hate for you or your mate to be flung out of your seats when we touchdown and lay on the brakes hard.”
“Got it. Thank you.”
Bat tried to open the door. Kraven let the handle go and spun to her.
“What in the hell was that?”
“Nothing. Let’s strap in. You heard Ronnie.”
She paled. “We’re screwed, aren’t we?”
“No.” He hooked her waist, leading her to the seats. “We aren’t.”
“Why did you shut the door? What else did he say?”
Kraven hated to lie but he did at that moment. “I just wanted to make certain my people are on the ground waiting for us. They are.”
“So it’s safe? We’re not going to blow up in a ball of flames?”
He gently deposited her into a seat and crouched, hooking her belt snuggly over her lap. “What did I say about our chances of being in another crash? Slim to none.” He took the seat next to her and put on his own belt.
“I see you’re not inviting me to sit on your lap this time.”
He twisted in his seat and leaned toward her, firmly gripping the armrest on her other side to pin her in place better. He picked up the panicked tone in her voice. “Look into my eyes. I can take away the fear.”
“You’re willing to go all glowy for me?”
“Only with your permission. I’ll never use this power otherwise.”
She gave a sharp nod. “Do it. I can feel we’re losing altitude.” She gripped his arm with both hands. “Please. Just don’t make me think I’m a cow. I’ll be pissed if I get the urge to eat grass or moo. Fair warning.”
“I would never do that.” He focused on her, allowing his Vampire traits to slowly ease out. “There’s nothing to be afraid of. I’m right here, Hellion. Just relax and remember the things we did in bed a little while ago.”
The tension left her features and she smiled. “You’re too good in bed. You blow my mind.”
“I feel the same way about you.” It was really tempting to implant that she could trust him, but he refused to take advantage of his mate that way. He’d have to give her time to get to know him better and earn her trust. “I think you’re beautiful, and I love you.” Those were things he’d already told her but he wanted her to hear it until she believed. He just had to choose his words carefully while he had the ability to control her mind. “You’re going to see your sister soon. Think about what you want to say to her.”
“I’m going to ask if Biker Bear is good to her. I’m worried about that. He’s not her type.”
“You’re a loving sister.” Kraven was aware of the engine noises changing and heard something along the belly of the plane. It was probably the landing gear coming down. “Are you going to discuss Dr. Brent with her?”
“I’m going to tell her everything. She’ll be relieved that our dad knew what Mom was. I know I am.”
“Brace,” Ronnie said over a speaker in the cabin.
“I want you to go to sleep until I say wake,” Kraven ordered. “Now, Hellion. Sleep.”
She closed her eyes and her body went lax. He ignored the belt painfully digging into his hips as he strained his body closer to her and tucked her head against his chest.
The jet hit the runway and bounced slightly. Kraven gripped the armrest tighter, his other arm wrapping around Bat. The wheels touched down firmly and the pilots applied the brakes. The engines grew louder.
Kraven hissed as his body lurched from the jarring pressure, and he cushioned Bat’s limp form. The belt held but he might have bruises later. They’d fade fast. The armrest he gripped made a popping noise but didn’t come loose.
The momentum eased quickly and the jet came to a halt. He took a deep breath and kissed her cheek.
“Wake up, Bat. It’s over. We’re on the ground safe.”
She stirred and her eyes opened. “Thank you.”
He released the armrest and straightened, unbuckling his belt. “Not a problem.” He slid out of his seat to his knees and got in front of her, unfastening her belt. “Anything hurt?”
“Did we overshoot the runway?” She looked around.
“No but the belt might have dug into you a little. I think I kept you in place fairly well, but I want to make sure.”
“I feel great.”
He climbed to his feet and helped her stand. “We’re back in Alaska…and we didn’t crash this time.”
“Oh, goodie. How thrilling.”
She amused the hell out of him. “Try to hide that sarcasm around my parents. They love this state.”
“Got it. Lie my ass off and pretend I’m in the Bahamas.”
He chuckled. “Exactly.”
“Does your mom really look as young as your father?”
“Yeah. VampLycans don’t age the way humans do.”
She grimaced. “Shit. Does that mean you’re going to look the same in say a hundred years and people are going to mistake me for some cougar grandma dating a hot young dude?”
“No. You already look younger than you really are, but sharing my blood will show your aging process down even more.”
“That’s a bonus. You should have mentioned that when you told me we were mates.”
He cocked his head, confused. “Why would that matter?”
“You’re such a man. Never mind.”
Ronnie came out of the cockpit. “Do you want to deplane now or do you want a ride to the hangar? Georgio is about to back up and drive us there.”
“Where are my people?”
“Outside. They’re leading us to where we’re supposed to park for the day.”
Kraven’s phone buzzed. He reached down and answered it. “Yeah.”
“Are you coming out?”
He grinned. “Hi, Red. Thanks for coming.”
“There are eight of us. Four will protect the Vamps until they can fly out tonight and my team will escort you home.”
“We’re heading out.” He hung up and nodded to Ronnie. “Just open the side door. We’re getting off here.” He spun, strode into the bedroom, and collected his bag and Bat’s suitcase. He carried them back into the main area of the cabin.
Ronnie had already unsealed the door and had it open. “Do you want me to extend the stairs?”
Kraven walked to the opening, looking down. “No need. Red! Head’s up.” He tossed out the bags one at a time.
“Dickhead,” Red yelled, but caught each one.
Kraven chuckled and spun around, scooping Bat up in his arms next. “Time to meet the family.”
“Don’t you fucking dare,” she ordered.
He turned sideways to avoid bumping her against the opening and jumped. Bat screamed and tightened her arms around his neck. He bent his knees a little, landing gracefully on his feet before straightening.
“You rotten son of a bitch,” Bat ranted. She fisted his hair with one hand and gave it a tug. “You suck ass. That was a horrible thing to do. What if you’d dropped me? What if you broke your legs and we both ate shit?”
He ignored her and lifted his head, staring up at Ronnie. “Thanks for the ride,” he called out.
“Good luck.” Ronnie closed the door.
“Are you listening to me? Don’t jump out of planes! What’s wrong with using the stairs?”
“This is why I’m single.”
He turned, grinning at Red. “You don’t know what you’re missing, cousin.” He held Bat’s gaze. “I’d never drop you. It saved time to just jump. Do you want down or should I keep carrying you? Our escort home is here.
You remember Red, don’t you?”
Bat turned her head. “Hi. Is he always this damn crazy?”
“It was only about twelve feet. That’s nothing.” Red shrugged. “I’d worry if it were fifty feet or so, since he’s carrying you. That can fuck up our balance a little.”
Bat buried her face against his neck and groaned. “Why did I even bother to ask? You’re all nuts.”
She always amused him. Kraven winked at Red. “It’s good to be home.”
“At least you didn’t toss her out at me.” Red had the nerve to laugh.
Bat jerked her head up and glared at him. Kraven grinned. “I’d never do that. She’s a keeper.”
“Let’s go.” Red bent and hefted up their bags he’d placed on the tarmac.
Chapter Twenty-One
Bat paced the living room of Kraven’s home, her gaze constantly straying to the front door. “Where is she?”
Kraven sat on the couch, watching her. “They were sleeping. Give them a few minutes to get dressed. They’ll be here.” He sighed. “All of them.”
That halted her. “What does that mean?”
“My parents will show up too. Try to remember they lead this clan, and are used to being respected, okay? Pretend they’re some high-end client or something.”
He actually seemed worried. She admitted some nervousness on her part too. “Kiss a little ass. I got it.”
The front door opened and Bat spun, spotting Dusti. Her sister entered first, with the big Biker Bear right on her heels. Their gazes locked and Bat rushed at her, grabbing her around her waist and hugging her tight. Relief that she looked fine, despite her messy hair and baggy clothing, brought tears to Bat’s eyes.
“I’m okay,” Dusti assured her.
Bat eased her hold enough to get a good look at her sister’s face. “You shot our grandfather? What were you thinking? You’ve never touched a gun in your life! You could have been killed!”
“It’s a long story.” Dusti squeezed her arm. “Come on, are you really surprised? You know how much I’ve always hated him. I only regret that he didn’t die. Who does that? I got him six times!”
Bat would never forget Kraven taking three bullets to the chest. “They aren’t human. Why would you go after him? That’s something I’d do.”