Shieldbrothers: Pride of the Kodiak

Chapter Six: Family & Other Relations

Mobius wakes. He remains still for a moment, curling close around Harper. He is reluctant to move, to wake Harper and bring their interlude to a temporary end. He has never been so satisfied, so sated by any partner. Harper seems to see nothing but beauty and pleasure in him.

The members of his own pride see the beauty and desire it but they fear him too much to be at ease with him. It is hardly surprising that few are willing to be alone and vulnerable with Charlemagne’s favorite assassin. He cannot blame them for being wary; for wondering if he truly desires them or simply seeks to be alone with them for other purposes. Then there is his own need to remain detached so that he can fulfill Charlemagne‘s security needs. But Harper had been so freely giving, so openly sensual with him…Harper had fallen asleep in his arms. No one else had ever dared to do so. There is something intoxicating in that willing vulnerability.

Möbius stretches languidly. His body is wonderfully sore. Never has he had a lover who had the courage to be so excitingly fierce; so demandingly determined. The few lovers that he had allowed had constantly watched him for cues. None had dared demand anything of him. His ass aches delightfully from Harper’s demands. His body leaves him in no doubt that he has been thoroughly possessed. Every ache and bruise is proof of Harper’s desire for him. Even the skin around his bone blades is tender.

That Kodiak old man had best look sharp. Already he lies sated and satisfied in the Kodiak’s place, next to Harper. Harper has taken him and yielded to him. Harper wears his marks and scent and he wears Harper’s marks and scent. Möbius smiles in smug satisfaction. His seduction has succeeded. A little more of this and the human is his.

Möbius sighs as his comlink beeps softly. He glances at the time. The dinner has begun and he knows who is demanding his attention. He leans over and picks the comlink up. “Yes?”

“Sir, the Archduke is interested in your location.” A subordinate’s voice reports.

“Inform the Archduke that I am in the compound.” As if Charlemagne does not have an excellent notion of where he is. He has been Charlemagne’s friend since childhood and knows better than most just how brilliant the Archduke is.

“The Archduke is requesting your presence immediately at his dinner.”

Möbius snaps, “On my way.”

Möbius drops the comlink back on the bedside table. He wants to linger with Harper despite the lure of a fun-filled evening of taunting that toothless old Kodiak. He has never been one to linger once his desire is satisfied but his time with the human had been exceptional. He strokes a pale flank and snuggles closer, enjoying the way Harper fits into the curve of his body. He leans over, rubbing his cheek against the blond spikes, breathing in Harper’s scent.

Dinner is going to be so much fun. Everyone will have arrived by the time he and Harper make their entrance. He is certain that the old Kodiak has noted the fact. He and Harper will not have the time to shower. They will display each other’s scent and marks. And Harper’s favorite lube has a most distinctive scent…one that the Kodiak will know as well as Harper’s own scent. He might as well put a sign on Harper’s back announcing his possession of the human. Oh, yes, the old Kodiak will be wonderfully enraged at such a successful challenge for his shield brother’s affections.

Harper rolls over and blinks sleepily. “Möbius?”

“Yes, Harper?” Möbius nuzzles the pale throat and softly kisses a purple mark just below the dataport. “You’re awake at last.”

“Ummmm.” Harper stretches, uncurling. “You stayed.”

“Of course.” Möbius takes the human’s mouth in a long kiss. “I could not leave you.”

“How late is it?” The blue eyes brightened hopefully. “Have we missed the dinner?”

Möbius grins. “Don’t sound so hopeful. We haven’t missed much.”

“Oh, shit!” Harper sits up. “It’s already started?”

“Only just.” Möbius strokes a hand down the human’s back.

Harper’s eyes half close as he leans into the caress. “I suppose we need to get ready.”

“May I dress you?” Möbius kisses his way up the line of Harper’s spine.

“Ah…no. I can dress myself.” Harper grins over his shoulder.

Möbius claims the human’s mouth for a long moment. “As you wish.”

***


Tyr sits beside his wife at the head table. His amber gaze sweeps the room yet again. Everyone is here except for his Harper and…that Möbius. He has been in a slow seething simmer since Harper turned from him and walked off with that callow youngling. Where are they? Are they together? How successful has Möbius been with his challenge?

Tyr trembles with rage at the image of Möbius touching Harper. Would Harper allow things to go that far? Is Harper punishing him or is his shield brother seriously considering the attractions of another? An icy trickle of uncertainty pools uneasily in his stomach. Surely, Harper cannot be serious about that gaudy, hair-tossing upstart. He will admit that some might…consider the jumped-up errand boy to be…reasonably acceptable looking. But he is much better looking. And bigger. And more heavily muscled. Still Harper did like long hair.

Tyr touches his dreads and frowns. He misses Harper stroking his hair as they lie in bed together. He misses Harper’s scent. He misses Harper’s conversation and company. Diana is pleasant enough and will be a good ally but he longs for Harper. Soon, this will be over and he can reinforce his claim to his shield brother. He will not yield Harper to anyone. His gaze restlessly sweeps the room, passing over Dylan and lingering for a moment on Bellerophon and Chimaera.

“He’ll be here.” Diana pats his arm consolingly.

“He’s with that Möbius,” Tyr hisses. His bone blades flutter. “I can feel it.”

Diana glances at Cerys chatting merrily next to Sophia. Her gray eyes darken with anger and sadness. “It could be only coincidence that they are not here. It could be anything.”

Tyr cups her chin and turns her face to him. He brushes a comforting kiss over her lips. “You don’t actually believe that, do you?”

Diana shrugs and glances back at Cerys. “What other reason could there be?”

“I can only think of one.” Tyr growls. His eye is caught by a flash of motion. He looks around. Harper? No, it’s one of the Jaguars. A slim, redhead in cream and bronze silk hurries to an empty seat at the main table, dropping down next to a blonde in white and pale blue.

The blonde scowls. “It’s about time, you got here, Tiberius. Where have you been?”

“Did you miss me, Lucian?” Tiberius glances slyly at Tyr and Diana. “You won’t believe what news I have.”

Lucian leans closer. His blue eyes are bright and curious. “What are you talking about?”

“Mr. Untouchable.” Tiberius smirks.

“What about Möbius?” Lucian asks eagerly.

Tyr stiffens as Lucian’s excited voice catches his attention. What has Charlemagne’s pet killer done now? If any harm has come to Harper through that prancing genetic mistake, he will personally and slowly shred Möbius into something fit only for the compost heap.

“What is it?” Diana whispers.
“Quiet.” Tyr whispers. “Listen.” Tyr tilts his head slightly in the direction of Lucian and Tiberius.

Tiberius leans back in his chair, spreading the linen napkin over his lap. “It’s amazing the things one can find out when one is attentive.”

A blond woman who closely resembles Lucian drapes herself over the back of Tiberius’s chair. “What are you and my brother gossiping about?”

Tiberius grins up at her. “Möbius.”

She licks her lips and leans forward. “Really. Has he killed someone else?”

“Christa,” Lucian hisses, “lower your voice, you silly thing! The Archduke will hear.”

Christa glances at Charlemagne. “He’s entertaining the kludge captain. He’s not listening.”

Tiberius snorts. “That’s what you think.”

Lucian squeezes Tiberius’s arm. “Will you just get on with it? What has Möbius done?”

“It is perhaps more correct to ask, ‘who’ has he done?” Tiberius sniggers.

Christa gasps. “Oh, don’t tell me he’s bedded the kludge.”

Tiberius pouts. “You’ve spoiled my surprise.”

“I don’t believe you.” Lucian sniffs and carefully arranges his napkin. “He hasn’t had time. The little kludge only returned a few hours ago.”

Tiberius sips his glass of wine. “I’m telling you what I know. He bedded the human as soon as the kludge returned.”

“No!” Christa stares wide-eyed at him.

Tiberius nods importantly. “He met the little human on the terrace and allowed the human to fondle him.”

“Oh, please.” Lucian rolls his eyes. “He was just outside and happened to run into the kludge.”

Tiberius huffs. “Like he just ‘happened’ to be on the terrace at breakfast two days ago and ‘happened’ to kiss the kludge?”

Lucian frowns thoughtfully. “I see your point.”

Tiberius spears a tiny crustacean. “It was obvious to anyone with eyes that you-know-who was on display for the human.”

Christa nods. “Dora saw him earlier. She said that he looked like he was on display. I told her that she was imagining things. Möbius never displays for anyone. He doesn’t have to.”

“Why would he display for a human when he can have his pick of any one of several willing members of the court?” Tiberius scowls at his salad.

Lucian pops a grape in his mouth. “Are you speaking of yourself?”

“Well,” Tiberius straightens in his chair. “I certainly wouldn’t be opposed to the arrangement.”

Lucian grins. “I’m sure you wouldn’t. But how do you know that he bedded the kludge?”

“I happened by the kludge’s quarters.” Tiberius sips his wine.

Christa giggles. “That’s rich, Tiberius! You are never in that area of the compound.”

Tiberius continues with great dignity. “Nevertheless…I was in the hallway and you could hear Möbius’ moans and screams as plain as if you were standing in the room.”

“What!” She leans closer.

“You can’t be serious.” Lucian licks his lips. His bone blades quiver with interest. “What was the kludge doing to him?”

“I’m not sure. All I know,” Tiberius pauses to sip his wine, “is that whatever he was doing was something that Möbius enjoyed because he kept moaning ‘more, more, more’ and begging and screaming the kludge’s name.”

“Möbius?” Christa asks in amazed tones. “Begging?”

“Oh, yes.” Tiberius nods.

Tyr growls, low and fierce. Harper has given what is his to that…that…long-haired waste of genetic resources. He cannot abide the image of that pompous youngling with his Harper. Of Harper sharing himself with that useless popinjay. Harper cannot truly desire that shallow, callow boy. Surely whatever happened between the two of them was merely Harper taking revenge. Harper cannot possibly be seriously challenging Tyr’s rights to him. Möbius has gone too far. Much too far.

His bone blades snap out as he stares at Möbius striding into the room. The upstart is wearing the same navy leathers that he had been wearing earlier. Tyr’s breath catches painfully in his chest as Möbius shoves the long hair back to expose passion marks on his throat and chest. Tyr’s eyes narrow in cold fury. He can make out the edges of bite marks on the upstart’s shoulders. If Harper has marked Möbius then this is serious. It is not merely revenge; Harper is seriously considering replacing him with this…this…hair-tossing vainglorious errand-runner. He will not lose Harper. He will not yield his shield brother’s affections. Harper is his. Tyr half-rises from his chair.

“Tyr,” Diana digs her fingers into his arm, leaning heavily against him. “What are you doing?”

“I’m not going to tolerate this challenge. I won’t.” Tyr growls.

Charlemagne turns away from Dylan at the sound of Tyr’s low growl. He follows Tyr’s murderous stare to Möbius. His eyes widen as he takes in the passion marks and bite marks that Möbius is flaunting. He sighs. He will have to speak to Möbius. This baiting of his new brother-in-law must not be allowed to continue. He needs Möbius and Tyr. And if things go badly, he will need for them to be able to work together. He turns a bright smile on Tyr, “Brother, let us walk on the terrace for a moment, shall we?”

Tyr looks slowly away from Möbius to Charlemagne. “Of course…brother.”

Charlemagne smiles winningly at Dylan. “My apologies, Captain; this should only take a moment.” He turns to Diana, “I’ll have your husband back to you before you can miss him.”

Diana smiles at Tyr and caresses his cheek. “I’ll be counting the moments.”

Tyr follows his host out of the room into the cool, night air. Several Jaguars are chatting and laughing and drinking on the terrace. “Why are we out here, Bolivar?”

“The stars are awfully bright tonight, aren’t they?” Charlemagne rests his elegant hands on the balustrade as he stares up into the night sky.

Tyr glowers over his shoulder as Möbius struts by. “Answer the question, Bolivar.”

“Do you know how many of them are under my control?” Charlemagne glances sidelong at Tyr. “I suppose you do. Did you know that around one of those stars is the system that will hold your pride? The pride of the Kodiak reborn at last.”

Tyr looks up at the stars sprinkled across the sky like glitter on velvet. A whole system for his pride to call home. He has dreamed of such a place. “That is a gracious dowry for Diana.”

“Isn’t it?” Charlemagne turns a stern gaze on Tyr. “We want the same things, Anasazi. We will have them as long as we don’t lose sight of our goals…as long as we remember what is really important.”

“I understand,” Tyr speaks quietly. He forces his bone blades to settle back.

“Do you?” Charlemagne turns to face him. “You’re behaving as if my sister has displeased you? Is this true?”

Tyr shakes his head. His eyes are wary. Charlemagne’s gravity hints that more is at stake here than the marriage or grumbling in the Jaguar pride. “Your sister is very pleasing to me, Bolivar. I am glad that you suggested our match.”

“Yes, I thought that you would. I realize that in the heat of…the moment one can forget the prize originally sought.”

“You are a shrewd man.”

Charlemagne smiles with warm charm. “Wouldn’t be much of an Archduke if I weren’t, would I? Be patient. You will have time to…exercise your rights soon enough.”

“I will try to be patient,” Tyr reluctantly agrees. Everything that Charlemagne has said is only good sense. However his heart longs for the satisfaction of spreading that Möbius’ entrails all over the compound, he must refrain for now.

Charlemagne guides him back inside. “I can ask for nothing more than your effort. Now, let me get you back to your wife before she has my head.”

Charlemagne sighs as Tyr stalks back to join Diana. One fire out or, at least, temporarily banked. His jaw tightens as Möbius heads for Tyr. No. Not after he just talked Tyr into a calmer frame of mind. Charlemagne intercepts his Chancellor of Protocol. “Möbius. Glad you could tear yourself away from the little kludge to join us.”

Möbius smiles slowly. “What makes you think that I was with the kludge?”

“You bear his scent. Could you not have washed before showing up here to taunt my guest?” Charlemagne laces his tone with disapproval.

“I suppose I could have…if it had seemed important.” Möbius shrugs and runs his fingers through his long hair. His dark eyes are amused. “I rushed to your side because I knew you wanted me in attendance, my friend. I dare not disappoint you.”

Charlemagne sighs. “Where is the little human?”

“He’ll be along. He had to dress for dinner.” Möbius eyes Tyr and moves toward the head table again.

Charlemagne shifts to block the move. He will not have all his calming efforts undone. His eyes are cold and full of warning as he meets Möbius’ sobering gaze. “Don’t.”

“As you wish, Archduke.” Möbius sweeps a graceful bow and retreats.

Charlemagne turns and walks back to his seat. He sighs as his gaze moves over the doorway. Wonderful. The trouble-making kludge has arrived. That’s all this dinner party needs.

Harper stands uncertainly in the doorway. He can see Tyr and Diana talking at the head table. He touches the stiff collar of his white dress shirt. A navy silk tie that matches his pants is draped carelessly over his shoulders.

“Harper!” Chimaera calls.

Harper grins. Alright. His boys are here. He walks over to them. “Hey guys, I’m glad that you decided to come.”

“We were not going to at first because of the whole marriage thing. Father has not talked to us about it once. We were going to stay onboard Andromeda but we realized that we needed to talk to you so we came.” Bellerophon smiles at him.

Chimaera sends a glower at the head table. “Father introduced us to his new wife. She’s blonde.”

“She is that.” Harper shrugs dismissively. “Did they tell you that you’re going to have a new sibling?”

“No.” Chimaera grimaces. “Well, I guess Father’s really happy. A fertile, perfect, Nietzschean wife to give him perfect, full-blooded Nietzschean children.”

Bellerophon’s shoulders droop. “What is going to happen to us? Father will have his perfect Nietzschean family. There will be no place for us in his life. He won’t need us.”

“I’ll bet that’s why he’s making us stay with the Jaguar.” Chimaera glances suspiciously around at the Jaguars. “He’s trying to get rid of us.”

“No.” Harper places an affectionate hand on each of the boy’s shoulders. “That’s not it at all. Your father loves you both. He’s not trying to replace you.”

Bellerophon shoots Harper a sullen look. “Why not? He replaced you.”

Harper lowers his gaze before the boys can see the pain that he is trying to conceal. When he looks back up, his eyes are calm and reassuring. “Well…I haven’t replaced you. You’re still mine.”

Bellerophon’s lips lift in a tentative smile. “You mean it?”

“Of course, I mean it.” Harper squeezes the boys’ shoulders. “You guys need to understand that I am not trying to get rid of you. You are my boys! You’re very important to me.”

Bellerophon lowers his eyes as a flush of pleasure covers his cheeks. “Thanks Harper. We…we really needed to hear that.”

Chimaera asks eagerly. “When are you coming back to Andromeda?”

Harper catches Möbius’ dark eyes on him. “Soon. I’ve got a few loose ends to tie up.”

Chimaera touches Harper’s arm. “Do we have to stay with these Nietzscheans? Why can’t we stay on Andromeda with you and Trance and Beka and the Magog?”

“Rev…his name is Rev.” Bellerophon corrects with a sigh.

“Oh, yeah.”

“We’ll talk when I get back to Andromeda,” Harper promises. He frowns as he looks at Tyr and Diana. They look awfully chummy up there. “Now, I’ve got to say my hellos to the head table.”

“Want us to come with you?” Bellerophon offers. His face is grim as he stares at the couple.

“No, I’ve got this.” Harper offers a reassuring smile. He sees three curious Jaguar youths drifting closer. They are covertly eyeing the twins with fascination. Harper tilts his head toward the Jaguars. “Go ahead. Talk to them. You may like some of them.”

Chimaera and Bellerophon warily glance at the trio of Jaguars. One blond kid offers a tentative smile. Chimaera smiles back. “We’ll talk…for a while.”

“We want to talk to you before we go back to Andromeda.” Bellerophon leans down to whisper in Harper’s ear.

“No problem.” Harper watches as his boys join the trio of Jaguars and walk, chatting, out to the terrace.

Harper glances at Tyr holding Diana’s hand and kissing her shoulder. Harper scowls as he stomps closers. Tyr’s amber gaze goes straight to him and then Tyr stiffens. The Nietzschean’s nostrils flare and Tyr goes very still, staring at Harper. The anger and pain in the amber gaze seems to reflect his own feelings. Harper rips his gaze away and looks at Dylan and Charlemagne. “Hey, boss. Evening Archduke.”

“Thank you for joining us.” Charlemagne’s tone is very dry. There is a fine line between his brows. He looks like he has a headache.

“My pleasure.” Harper shrugs. This dinner would be enough to give anyone a headache. He glances at Tyr and Diana but turns away without speaking. Harper walks straight to Möbius and stands beside him.

Möbius smiles triumphantly at Tyr and bends to whisper in Harper’s ear, “Something troubles you Harper?”

Harper shrugs. Even if he could put all his complex feelings about Tyr into words, this is hardly the place to discuss it. Nor does it seem right to discuss Tyr with Möbius. He strokes back the black silk of Möbius’ hair and smiles with affection. “No…not really.”

“Come sit. We may as well enjoy ourselves since our presence here was demanded.” Mobius leads Harper to a table occupied by several young Nietzscheans. They pale at his approach and smile nervously. Mobius turns cool dark eyes on them. “Do you mind if we join you?”

A dark-haired boy shakes his head vigorously. “We…we…we…were just leaving.” He and his companions grab their drinks and move away.

Möbius and Harper sit down at the deserted table. Harper smiles. He supposed having an assassin show up for dinner is one way to clear a table fast. It’s kinda nice having the table to themselves instead of being surrounded by snippy Nietzscheans. Harper sighs with remembered pleasures as Möbius strokes his arm. He can feel the warmth of the Nietzschean’s hand through the thin fabric of his dress shirt. Möbius signals a servant who hurries over.

The servant eyes Möbius uneasily. “Sir, is there something you require?”

“What would you like?” Möbius whispers in the human’s ear as he nuzzles Harper’s throat.

Harper shivers and arches his throat encouragingly. If Tyr is gonna slobber over Diana in public then there is no reason not allow Möbius to caress him in public. “I guess I’ll have to drink the wine although what I’d really like is a beer.”

The waiter clears his throat. “Er…sir. We have excellent ale that is perfectly chilled if you’d like to give that a try.”

Möbius smiles with pleasure at being able to provide something that Harper wants. He orders, “Bring ale for Harper and a glass of Nivean Chardonnay for me.”

“Very good, sir. Right away, sir.” The servant hurries away.

Harper chuckles at Möbius’ air of satisfaction. “You like that don’t you?”

Möbius frowns, his dark eyes puzzled as he looks down at Harper. “What?”

“Having people bow and scrape for you. Wait on you.”

Möbius nods. “It does have its usefulness.”

The servant returns, carrying the drinks on a silver tray. He sets a chilled tankard of ale in front of Harper and a bubbling glass of the Chardonnay beside Möbius. Möbius cups his hand around Harper’s cheek, tilting the human’s head back. He kisses Harper slow and deep.

“What was that for?” Harper sighs against the firm warmth of Möbius’ full lips.

Möbius brushes a light kiss softly across Harper’s lips before sitting back. “I wanted to.”

Harper takes a testing sip of his ale. He smiles at the rich, robust flavor. Now that is more like it. “This is pretty good stuff.”

“I’m glad you approve. Should I order another?” Möbius offers. His fine eyes gleam with mischief.

Harper laughs. “Are you trying to get me drunk so you can have your way with me?”

“The idea had occurred to me.” Möbius traces the line of Harper’s jaw. He leans over and kisses Harper, lingering over the curve of the human’s smile.

“Too late.” Harper runs his fingers through the warm silk of the Nietzschean’s hair.

“I know that…but I want more of you.” Möbius’ voice is husky and dark with arousal.

Harper glances over his shoulder. He knows why Tyr is staring at him with dangerously cold eyes but why is everyone else so interested? A lot of Nietzscheans are covertly watching them and whispering. He turns back to Möbius. “What’s with everyone acting like we’re the main attraction?”

Möbius lightly strokes the back of Harper’s hand. “We are.”

“Why?” Harper takes another sip of his ale, savoring the flavor.

Möbius glances quickly around, assessing who is watching. “Some are merely curious about you because you know the Kodiak. Others are trying to figure out what your relationship to the Kodiak is. But most are wondering about the human who bedded and claimed the ‘untouchable’ Möbius.”

“Really?” Harper leans closer. His lips quirk with amusement. “They call you ‘untouchable’? Why?”

“Because I don’t take many to my bed.” Möbius runs a finger over the line of Harper’s cheekbone.

Harper grins, flashing his dimples. “Technically it was my bed so your reputation is still intact.”

“I plan to rectify that tonight.” Mobius murmurs in seductive tones as his finger slides down to circle the dataport.

Harper’s bold gaze belies the teasing coyness of his voice as he whispers, “I don’t usually go into strange men’s bedrooms.”

Möbius grins. “Will you make an exception this once?”

Harper tilts his head, pretending to consider. “Maybe. How big is your bed?”

“What do you plan to do in it?” Möbius growls. His bone blades flutter with anticipation.

“More of what we did this afternoon.” Harper runs a hand over Möbius forearm, his fingertips grazing the bases of the boneblades. “Until you’re sore.”

Möbius shivers in response. “I’m already that.”

Harper laughs. He reaches for his ale. “Oh, yeah. The Harper is good.”

“I disagree. I would say that The Harper is excellent.” Möbius glances up to see Charlemagne signaling him. He frowns at the Archduke who frowns back and signals him again. Now what? Möbius sighs wearily. He grows tired of Charlemagne’s interference in his courtship of Harper.

“What’s wrong?” Harper sets his ale down as he notices the sigh. He looks curiously at Möbius.

“The Archduke wants to speak with me.” Möbius glances at the frowning Archduke and turns to Harper. He defiantly takes the time to kiss Harper thoroughly. “Will you be alright…this may take a few moments?”

“I’ll be fine.” Harper replies breathlessly.

“Don’t let their stares bother you.” Möbius swaggers over to meet Charlemagne near the head table. They walk out on the terrace, talking softly.

Harper takes a sip of his ale and glances at Tyr. Well, what do you know? Now, the big guy wants to look his way. Tough. Where’s Cerys? He cranes his neck, looking around. There she is with that the hot dark haired babe. What’s her name? Sophia. They look kinda cute together. Whoa! Looks like Cerys got a little action too. There are marks on her breast and on her throat. No wonder the Ice Maiden looks like she’s been sucking on a lemon. Harper grins. Way to go, Cerys.

Harper stares down into the dark liquid. How long will Charlemagne keep Möbius? It’s kinda boring sitting here by himself like unwanted merchandise on display but what the hell! Harper leans back in his chair and assumes a look of bored indifference.

“He is just a human, what’s so special about him do you suppose?” A feminine voice muses from behind Harper. Harper rolls his eyes. Here we go. This is the biggest nest of gossips in the known worlds. He raises his glass to his lips.

A male voice joins the woman’s. “Möbius seems quite taken with him. Did you see the number of marks on his throat alone? It looks like the human tried to tear Möbius’ throat out by his teeth.”

“You don’t have to look so interested.” The woman snips. “Although he is not unattractive.”

“Did you notice the bite marks?” Another female voice. “He must be quite aggressive. I like that in a man.”

“Möbius took him.” The male voice announces in interested tones.

“How do you know that?”

“That scent must be the lubricant that Möbius used. I’m surprised the little fellow can sit comfortably.” The woman snickers.

“Don’t forget he belonged to the Kodiak.” The male responds. “I’m sure he’s used to a partner who is…endowed.”

“Were they lovers?” A younger woman’s voice joins in.

“Couldn’t you tell by their scent?” The male voice is patient. “They also bore marks. The marks were a bit faded…but there all the same.”

“I didn’t notice. The Kodiak was so virile during the coupling that I didn’t have time to focus on anything else.”

Harper frowns. Virile huh? Tyr had fucked Diana into the mattress and he still had the gall to sit at the head table and glare at Harper. Some nerve. He sets the empty glass down on the table with a clink.

“He must be a little dynamo.” The feminine voice whispers. “Did you notice that Möbius didn’t want to leave him alone? He couldn’t stop touching him.”

“He looked like he wanted the human right there. I thought Möbius was going to take him on the table.” The male laughs.

“I’ve never seen Möbius like that with anyone.”

“Not even his wives?” The younger woman asks.

“Especially not either of them. Those were just alliances, dear.” The older woman speaks patiently.

Harper has heard as much as he cares to hear. More than he wants to hear. Don’t these people ever have anything else to talk about? He stands up. Hmmm. Just a tad unsteady but not enough for anyone to notice. It’s just a short walk down the hallway to the bathroom. Harper walks slowly out of the room, ignoring the flurry of murmured conversation that flares up in his wake.

Tyr glares after Harper. This is it. He’s going to make Harper listen to him. He will not have this. It was all he could do to see that errand-boy touching and kissing his Harper and not set about shredding Möbius down to his molecules. Tyr waits a few minutes then rises and stalks toward the doorway.

Tiberius grins and raises an eyebrow at Lucian. Lucian nods and they casually amble after Tyr.

Harper glances up as Tyr storms into the bathroom. Harper elaborately ignores the angry Nietzschean, giving all his attention to carefully washing his hands. He picks up a towel gives equal care and attention to blotting water from his hands. He finally looks over at Tyr. “Forget your manners since you’ve been here?”

Tyr stands between Harper and the door. His amber gaze is hot and hungry on Harper. His voice is icy cold. “I’m not the one who’s forgetting himself.”

Harper tosses down the towel and glares. “What the fuck is that supposed to mean?”

“You’re making a fool of yourself with this…this boy.” Tyr folds his arms across his chest. He glowers back.

“Oh, and you’re the expert on what’s best for me, right?” Harper leans back against the counter, scowling.

“You’re just trying to make me jealous.”

Harper laughs. “Not everything is about you, Tyr.”

Tyr steps close to Harper. His hands settle on the counter on either side of Harper. His nostrils flare at the mingling scents of Harper, Möbius and the ocean scent of Harper’s favorite lube. His bone blades tremble. “How could you give what is mine to that pompous little prick? How could you give him your ass? He doesn’t appreciate you like I do.”

“Appreciate me?? You turned it down, remember?” Harper leans back, away from Tyr. His blue eyes are dark with anger. “What are you bitching about?”

“You’re mine.” Tyr’s hands clench on the marble counter. His eyes are hard and determined.

Harper glares up at Tyr. “Am I? I’m your property now?”

“That’s not what I mean and you know it. I can’t bear knowing that you gave yourself to that Mobius…before you gave yourself to me.” Tyr growls. His bone blades flutter in agitation.

“At least I didn’t make you watch.” Harper snaps as he stares up into Tyr’s dark face. “Which is a lot more than I can say for you.”

“I needed you with me at the coupling.” Tyr sighs. He leans closer, his body brushing against Harper.

“Why?” Harper hisses. He presses hard back against the counter so that his body no longer touches Tyr. “So you could show me how well you can fuck your wife? So you could rub my nose in the fact that you turned me down because you were saving yourself for her…and her perfect Jaguar uterus?”

“Is that what you think?” Tyr bends down. His lush lips hover over Harper’s mouth. His breath warms Harper’s face.

“What else am I supposed to think?” Harper’s voice softens as his gaze lingers on Tyr’s lips. His hand rises to touch the long dreadlocks.

“Don’t do this to me, Harper. Don’t take him to our bed.” Tyr whispers. His lips move softly over the human’s, pleading and persuading.

Harper wavers, relaxing enough that his body brushes against Tyr’s tall frame. His blue eyes darken with desire and a plea of his own. “Where will you be sleeping tonight, Anasazi? With your perfect wife or with me?”

Tyr slowly straightens. He steps back and looks away from Harper. “You know I must stay with Diana.”

“Oh yeah, that’s right.” Harper glowers, covering his hurt with anger. He rubs his chin, pretending to consider. “Hmmm. I guess it’s my business who I bring to my bed then isn’t it?”

Tyr grabs Harper’s arms and pulls the human close to him. His voice is urgent. “Don’t Harper. Don’t do this. I’ll try to make some time for you soon.”

“You’ll make some time for me? Well, thanks for nothing. I’m not some drift whore, Tyr. Thanks so much for treating me like one. Now get out of my way.” Harper yanks away, scowling.

“You stink of that Mobius.” Tyr growls savagely. His bone blades snap out.

Harper glares up at him. “And you smell just like that Diana. I guess that makes us even.”

“Why did you let Mobius seduce you?” Tyr demands furiously.

Harper raises an eyebrow and asks coolly, “What makes you think Mobius was the seducer?”

Harper stalks from the bathroom, taking a dark pleasure in the look of stunned shock on Tyr’s face. He almost collides at the door with the same redhead who had been staring at him and Möbius in the garden. The guy was always underfoot…and look, he brought a friend. Harper glowers at the pair of them and strides back to the entrance to the dining room just as Möbius is leaving it.

Möbius glances from the stormy expression on Harper’s pale face to Tyr glaring from the bathroom entranceway. Möbius touches Harper’s cheek, offering comfort. “Are you alright?”

“I’m tired of this party.” Harper grumbles.

“We don’t have to stay here. Where would you like to go?” Möbius links his arm with Harper’s and leads him away down the corridor.

Harper grins up at the Nietzschean. “I understand there’s a strange man who wants to have his way with me. Does his offer still stand?”

Möbius laughs. “It does.”

“I promised the boys I’d walk them back to the Maru. I won’t disappoint them.”

“Of course. I’ll meet you when you return so we can continue what we began this afternoon.” Möbius kisses Harper’s cheek.

****

Tyr and Diana sit together in their room, on a small couch by the row of windows overlooking the garden. Diana leans forward, burying her face in her hands. Her bone blades quiver with her distress.

Tyr strokes her back, soothingly. “I know seeing Cerys with…with….what is her name?”

“Sophia.” Diana responds dully.

“No one else realized how difficult it was for you to see them together.” Tyr presses a kiss to her short, blond hair.

“You do.” Diana turns gray eyes brimming with tears to Tyr. “You know. You had to sit and watch Möbius with Harper.”

“Yes. I know.” Tyr’s voice is grim.

“I can’t do this any more, Tyr.” Diana sighs. “I miss sleeping with Cerys, talking to her, arguing with her. I miss watching her brush her hair before bed and…other things.”

Tyr continues stroking her back. “I, too, miss sharing pleasures with my shield brother. That long-haired pest is determined to challenge me for him. I’m not going to stand for any more of this.”

“Harper loves you, Tyr.” Diana pats his knee. “He’s just hurting right now.”

“He didn’t seem to be hurting with Möbius pawing him.” Tyr stares out into the garden, brooding. His lips still tingle from that too brief kiss. His body aches with frustrated arousal from the fleeting contact with Harper’s lithe frame. All his instincts scream at him to take Harper, to replace the foul stench of Möbius with his own scent.

“Cerys looked quite content with Sophia.” Diana sighs. “She didn’t stop giggling all evening.”

“There has got to be a way we can get both of them together so we can explain.” Tyr looks over at his wife. He cannot bear to watch Harper walk away from him with that Möbius one more time. “We have to take care of this soon or we’ll go insane.”

Diana nods. “They were not in their quarters when we checked. Where can they be?”

“Harper was so angry. I have a good idea where he is. He’s with Mobius.” Tyr growls. Perhaps once Harper’s anger eased, the human would see that Möbius was not worthy. Perhaps the marks that Möbius flaunted were merely signs of Harper’s fury rather than signals of a wish to claim.

“Cerys is with Sophia.”

“We’ll try again tomorrow.” Tyr promises, squeezing his wife’s hand.

“We’ll have to tell them the truth, Tyr.” Diana insists. Her gray eyes are determined. “Subterfuge has not worked.”

“Agreed.”

Diana looks at Tyr. She strokes back his braids and studies his face. “Is there something else on your mind?”

“Charlemagne mentioned a star system to serve as home for Kodiak Pride. I don’t want to jeopardize that dream.”

“We won’t.” Diana promises.

“Are you familiar with the system Charlemagne spoke about?”

“Yes. The Cabochon system. Tyr, you will love Atrus. It’s a wonderfully rich planet. Pristine. Glorious rainforests, Oceans teaming with life. Jaguar pride acquired it some time ago.” Diana smiles as she continues to stroke her husband’s hair. “Cerys and I visited it once and decided that’s where we wanted to live.”

“Is it populated?”

“No.” Diana shakes her head. “Just wildlife.”

“If it’s so wonderful; why has no one moved there?” Tyr frowns in suspicion.

Diana kicks her shoes off and curls comfortably back against the couch. “It’s a bit out of the way. Most of the planets in that system are habitable. However, Atrus is the only one that offers the best resources to sustain life…us.”

“Atrus…home world of Kodiak Pride. I like the sound of that.” Tyr smiles. His amber eyes are full of schemes and dreams. “Charlemagne implied that the only way we’ll get it is to stay focused on this ruse.”

“My brother is mainly concerned about his own neck. He doesn’t care about what happens to Cerys and me…or to Harper and you. His goal is to keep Jaguar pride intact. He’s using all the gossip about us to distract his enemies.”

“To what end?” Tyr asks.

“Who knows with Charlemagne? It’s always puzzles within puzzles.” Diana shifts her position to snuggle against Tyr’s warmth. Her brother found her a mate who is perfect for her. Tyr understands her and wants what she wants…a child and to live life with his lover. She admires his love of Harper and his loyalty to his shieldbrother. Diana sighs.

“What is it?” Tyr strokes her back soothingly.

“Cerys must come with us to Atrus.”

“Of course. Harper as well.”

“Yes.” Diana sits up. She may as well get this out of the way now. “Tyr…I want to raise the child with Cerys.” She glances at him. “You and Harper are welcome as visitors, of course. But the house will be for Cerys, the baby and me.”

Tyr considers and nods slowly. “That is acceptable. My sons will also be welcome, yes?”

“Of course.”

“All will be well when we find our wayward lovers and explain.” Tyr smiles hopefully.

****

Cerys grooms Luck with a brush. She smiles at Lucks’ pleasure in the slow stroke of the brush. She pats the horse’s warm, glossy coat. She always feels better after spending time with her horse. Cerys glances over her shoulder at Sophia lounging on a blanket on top of a pile of hay. The dark green fabric provides an attractive background for Sophia’s dark good looks. “Sophia…this can not be more than what it is.”

“What is it? What are you saying?” Sophia removes the jeweled combs from her hair and shakes the dark locks loose around her shoulders.

“We can only be friends, Sophia.”

“Why? Why can we not be more?” Sophia pleads softly. “You feel the tug of deeper emotions with me. I know you do.”

“I love Diana.” Cerys says firmly as she finishes brushing Luck. She gives the horse a final pat and gathers up her grooming supplies.

“I love you, Cerys.”

Cerys steps from Luck’s stall. She neatly puts away her supplies. “I like you, Sophia…but I don’t love you.”

“That could change with time. I’m willing to wait.” Sophia pats the space next to her in invitation.

Cerys walks over to Sophia and sits on the blanket. She looks down at Sophia. “Would that be fair to you?”

“It’s what I want, Cerys. You. You are what I need.” Sophia stretches in slow provocation.

Cerys sighs wearily. “Diana…”

“…is with Tyr Anasazi. She’s not with you. She has hurt you. Let me help you feel again.” Sophia loosens her silk blouse, sliding it off her shoulders.

“Sophia…” Cerys caresses Sophia’s cheek.

“What?”

“I’ve never imagined life with anyone other than Diana.” Cerys leans down to kiss Sophia.

Sophia twists and presses Cerys back on the blanket. She takes Cerys’ mouth in a deep, hungry kiss. “Try imagining a life full of passion…with me. Cerys…love…it’s time you considered what’s best for you and not what’s best for Diana.”

Cerys shivers as Sophia spreads her green leather vest open. “You can be pretty persuasive.”

“Of course…with the right partner. You are right for me…and I’m what you need.” Sophia spreads warm, damp kisses over the satiny skin of Cerys’ breasts.

Cerys moans and threads her fingers through Sophia’s long hair. “I’m not sure of what I want…what I need.”

“I am.” Sophia laughs softly and slides her hand up Cerys’ thigh. “Let me show you.”

****

Bellerophon and Chimaera walk slowly along the path back to the hangers where the Maru waits to take them back to Andromeda. They had lingered at the dinner, hoping to speak to Harper again but he had not returned to the room. Bellerophon and Chimaera turn as they hear footsteps hurrying up the path. Bellerophon grins as he recognizes the quick, light step.

“Guys!” Harper calls as he rounds a curve. “Hey, wait up!”

“Harper! We looked all over for you.” Bellerophon’s grin widens as Harper catches up with them.

Harper frowns briefly as he falls into step between the two tall kids. “Yeah, well, I had a little talk with your father.”

“What is going on with Father?” Chimaera asks warily.

Harper snorts. He wonders that himself but his boys are looking to him for the answers and reassurance that Tyr has not provided. “It’s complicated. Your father has a lot on his mind. He’s trying to juggle several things at once.”

“Will there be a place for us in the future he’s building for himself and his new family?”
Bellerophon asks sadly.

“Of course, there’ll be a place for both of you!” Harper studies their expressions in the soft glow of the dim lights outlining the path. The boys will always have a place with him regardless of how things go between him and Tyr. They must know that but as unsettled as things have been, perhaps the kids need to hear the words. “You do know that there will always be a place for you with me, right?”

“We know.” Bellerophon relaxes. He glances at his brother over Harper’s head as they enter the hanger and walk to the Maru. “But with Father’s new wife and everything…we sort of thought that you wouldn’t want to have anything more to do with us.”

Harper grabs the kids’ arms and pulls them close. His blue eyes are grave and stern. “Listen to me, both of you. You are mine. Do you understand me? No matter what my relationship may, or may not be with your father…you are still mine.”

Chimaera smiles at Harper they pause at the Maru’s hatch. His brown eyes sparkle with glee as he glances at the ship. “Captain Hunt let me pilot the ship down.”

“Cool!” Harper grins. He hugs Chimaera. “You’re a natural, kid.”

“Harper.” Bellerophon returns Harper’s affectionate hug. “We’ll see you soon.”

“I love you, too.” Harper calls at they turn to board the Maru. He watches until the hatch closes then turns to walk out of the hanger and back down the path. He doesn’t particularly want to go back to the main house yet. The night air is cool and refreshing. The soft breeze is rich with the mingling scents of night-blooming flowers.

He didn’t get a chance to talk to Cerys at dinner. Maybe she’s visiting her horrid horse in the stables. It will be worth giving the four-legged menace another shot at him if he can talk to Cerys for a while. He still can’t believe that her horse bit his shoulder on their way to the cabin and Cerys tried to claim the creature was merely being affectionate. Right. He saw the look in that menace’s eyes. Affection was nowhere on that beast’s agenda.

Harper walks up to the stables. He pauses as he hears a soft cry. Is someone hurt? Or is something else going on? He eases silently into the stable. A few horses stick their heads out to stare at him but most ignore him. Harper walks quietly down the aisle. The soft muffled cry sounds again. Closer this time. Something lunges at him, snapping big yellow teeth and Harper steps quickly to the side. He glares at Luck. Is that damn horse smirking at him?

A motion catches his eye and Harper freezes in place. Cerys is sprawled naked on a dark green blanket and Sophia lies between her spread thighs. Cerys arches and moans loudly. All right, Sophia. The girl has skills. No wonder Cerys is singing like a choir. They are so intent on each other they are unaware of him. Harper eases out of the barn and starts back down the path to the main house. Möbius glides out of the shadows and plants himself in the middle of the path.

Harper starts. “Whoa! Where did you come from?”

“You took longer than anticipated. I became concerned and thought I’d walk out to meet you.” Mobius smiles as he runs a hand over Harper’s blond spikes.

“I decided to take the long way back. I sort of have a lot on my mind. The boys were worried about some things that I tried to reassure them about.” Harper yields to the gentle pressure and leans closer.

Möbius kisses the arching line of Harper’s throat. “What worries them?”

“They’re kids.” Harper strokes back the long, black hair. “They wonder if they’ll be accepted by the Jaguars.”

“They were a bit…hesitant around us.” Möbius murmurs absently against Harper’s throat. His hands slide down the human’s back, urging Harper closer.

Harper wraps his arms around the Nietzschean’s narrow waist. He presses into the pleasant heat of the hard muscled frame. “I suppose that’s only natural. They were raised by their mother and step-father in a human settlement. The only Nietzscheans they ever met were trying to kill them. I can understand why they’re twitchy.”

“What does the old man say about it?” Möbius nibbles on Harper’s earlobe.

Harper chuckles. His hands glide down to explore the hard curves of Möbius’ ass. “You’re talking about Tyr, right? He thinks they’ll adjust with time. But I’m not so sure about that.”

Möbius gasps as the human’s explorations become bolder. His hands move possessively over Harper’s shoulders. “He seems more concerned about his new wife and unborn child.”

Harper frowns. His hands hesitate. He doesn’t want to think about Tyr right now. He doesn’t want to think at all. Just to feel. “Those things are important to him…they should be important. Tyr has a chance to make his dream of rebuilding Kodiak pride a reality.”

“You defend him…after all he’s done to you?”

“Can we talk about something else?” Or better yet, no talking at all. Harper wraps his hands in the dark hair and pulls Möbius down for a long kiss. He nips the full lips.

Möbius is breathing quickly when he finally raises his head. “What did you have in mind?”

“Anything…just not Tyr and Diana.”

“What about us?” Möbius murmurs against Harper’s dataport

Harper tenses. He has only known Möbius a few days. How much us could the Nietzschean expect there to be? “What about us?

“Have you considered my offer?” Möbius’ big hands move down to spread possessively over Harper’s ass.

“Kinda…sorta….” Harper hedges breathlessly, squirming under the caress.

Möbius kisses the human long and hard. “I want you, Harper. And…I will have you.”

“Mobius….I’ve got a lot on my plate….”

“Shhh.” Möbius drops down to his knees and unzips Harper’s pants. His lips crimp in a smile as he eases the boxers down, freeing the human’s swollen shaft. Harper’s words and voice might hint at a troublesome attachment to the old Kodiak but the human’s shaft is eager for his attention. Möbius kisses his way up the quivering shaft and then takes it in his mouth. Harper moans at the damp heat and skillful, determined caresses. His hands fist in the dark silk of Möbius’ long hair as he yields to the Nietzschean’s silent demands.

“Maybe we should take this inside.” Harper suggests hoarsely. Already his shaft is rising again as Möbius teasingly caresses it with his long hair.

Möbius lavishes kiss over the human’s stomach. “Will you come to my bed, Harper?”

“Oh, yes.”
TBC