Talon IV: The Family Way

by Nan Strebeck

The implications of what he said chilled Karli.  The blood drained from her face.

“But...that means someone tried to murder me.  Why would anyone want to do that?  I’m not an important person.  I don’t think I have any enemies who hate me that much.  You’ve gotta be wrong.  I must have fallen and hit my head.”     

“Karli, you cannot close your mind to this.  I understand that this must be very difficult for you to accept, but you must realize the possibility of danger and act accordingly.”  He walked to the dining table and indicated a document.  “I have decided the only way I can adequately protect you is to take you as Temporary Companion.  This will fulfill your contract and I will eliminate the threat to you long before the contract ends.  Come.  Sign here and the registration will be complete.”

Lord, he was arrogant.  Karli felt her hackles rise.  She stood and walked over to stand in front of him but made no move to take the pen he offered.

“I can protect myself, thank you.  You’re not obligated to burden yourself with this unwanted duty.  You’ve already made it quite clear that you have no intention of being shackled with a Temporary Companion, so I do not see the need for you to change your mind.  And besides, what makes you think that I want you for a Temporary Companion?  I don’t.”

Bn’Avrom set the pen down and took her by the shoulders.  He pulled her against him until she could feel the entire length of his muscular torso.

  “You do want me, Karli McLeod,” he said with quiet conviction.  His mouth took hers in a kiss of blatant possession.  His tongue swept in to taste and lay a claim she couldn’t deny.  His heat melted her resistance and made her face the truth of his arrogant claim.

He released her long enough for her to sign the registration contract, then picked her up in his arms and carried her into his bedroom.  He gently placed her on the bed.

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