Red Widow

By Rebekah Shelton

Logan has fallen into a deep coma and is fighting for his life after being attacked by Katia. While Delilah becomes human to be with Boone, what will Boone sacrifice to save Logan? Is Boone willing to endanger the identity of his family and friends to save him? Whenever Boone thinks he has closed a chapter of his life, it circles back to haunt and torment him. While their personal lives are in constant turmoil and upheaval, the bounty hunters search for four military members who have gone missing in different parts of the world. Have they been kidnapped, or have they come together to execute a devious plot? Who will be the Red Widow? And will there be more than one?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Rebekah Shelton
• Release date: Sep 26, 2014
• ISBN: 9781311224590

Rebekah Shelton

Rebekah Shelton, originally from Northeastern Ohio and now residing in Middle Tennessee with her husband, is an empty nester who found her passion for writing through her love of reading. Her literary journey began with her first book, "Emerald Eyes," which started as a tragic romance but evolved into a captivating paranormal romance. Captivated by the characters she created, Rebekah continued to delve into their world, crafting the ongoing series known as the "Legend of the Snow Wolves." Expanding upon her storytelling prowess, she ventured into the realm of the supernatural with a mythological twist in her spin-off series, "The Red Wolf Chronicles."Driven by her addiction to sci-fi movies and her boundless imagination, Rebekah embarked on her third series, titled "The Battle for Zarcon," immersing readers in an exhilarating science fiction universe. Displaying her versatility as an author, she co-authored a book alongside her husband, Jeff, entitled "Operation De-ICE - The Battle for Earth," delivering a collaborative tale filled with thrilling adventures and epic battles."Address for Murder" draws inspiration from a real-life incident that sparked the author's imagination. The story revolves around a woman who faces difficulties receiving packages at her post office box, which had previously been rented by an FBI agent. Intrigued by the possibilities, the author began contemplating what would unfold if the box came into the possession of a CIA agent entangled in a dangerous web of deception and betrayal. Thus, "Address for Murder" was born, weaving a thrilling narrative that explores the consequences of a double or even triple cross, putting the life of an innocent girl in jeopardy.

Book preview

Chapter 1

Katia and Logan finally set a wedding date and rejoiced atop Red Mountain. Logan purchased only one bottle of champagne for their celebratory dinner, knowing Katia rarely drank. But Katia decided to partake of the bubbly. She was elated knowing she and Logan would soon marry. Depleting the champagne by the end of dinner, they drove to Boone and Delilah’s cabin at the foot of the mountain, where there was an ample supply of wine.

Reaching the cabin, Logan and Katia realized they were too inebriated to return to Raven Hill. They decided to continue their merriment at the cabin. Boone and Delilah were out of town, so Katia and Logan had the house to themselves.

After drinking too much of Delilah's favorite wine, a sweet red wine made by Delilah's father, Katia and Logan fell asleep in front of the fireplace in the cabin.

Katia slipped into a deep sleep, and her mind instantly began reliving the worst memory of her life, a nightmare she had many times before. It was a nightmare that plagued her for two decades since she was a small child.

Logan tried to wake Katia from her hellish dream and comfort her. As a new wolf, turning just weeks before, Katia couldn’t control herself. With her heightened senses, Katia immediately smelled the scent of the animal skin rug she was sleeping on.

Katia thought she was being attacked by a wild animal. She started turning wolf and lashed out. But instead of defending herself from a perceived animal attack, Katia connected with the only living thing in the room. Katia attacked Logan.

By the time Katia was cognizant of what she was doing and who she was attacking, it was too late. She had torn Logan’s chest open with her long, razor-sharp wolf nails. The wounds were many and deep.

Regaining control and becoming aware of Logan's condition, Katia tried feverishly to contact her sire for help. However, Boone was on his impromptu honeymoon with his new mate Delilah. Delilah's father and her family and friends had arranged a surprise wedding for them. Afterward, Boone and Delilah were swept away for their honeymoon to a mystical place by Delilah's father.

Katia's attempt to get assistance failed.

When Katia couldn’t reach Boone or Delilah by phone, she called out to all the gods she could think of, begging for help. Only one God answered her prayer. Delilah's father, Odin.

Just as the sun began its ascent the following day, Delilah's father delivered Delilah and Boone to their cabin in Colorado with little explanation other than they were needed at home. Entering the cabin, Boone and Delilah found Logan on the couch, covered in blood and makeshift bandages. Katia was on the floor beside Logan, crying hysterically.

Katia was too afraid to call anyone except Boone and Delilah for help. She was scared she had turned Logan into a wolf and more fearful of the consequences of taking Logan to a doctor or the emergency room.

Delilah was turned into a wolf by her father just hours before the wedding. Now there were three wolves in Boone's cabin, including Boone. The three had already tried to heal Logan.

Delilah forced blood from an open vein on her arm down Logan's throat, much like a vampire feeding a human. Boone, a healer, licked and closed all the wounds, but Logan had lost too much blood and had been unconscious for nearly seven hours when Boone and Delilah arrived home.

Logan was still in shock and now in a coma. He regained consciousness just long enough to hear the story behind Katia's nightmare. The story of how she was raped by her step-grandfather when she was a small child. The story of how he had threatened to chop off her head with an ax if she told anyone.

When Katia relayed her story to Delilah, she feared Logan would no longer want her. Katia wasn't a virgin.

Logan heard Katia tell her horrific tale to Delilah. Logan couldn’t stop his tears as he listened to Katia repeat the nightmare. However, nothing could dissuade the way Logan felt about her. With the infinitesimal bit of energy he had, Logan whispered he still loved Katia and wanted to marry her before he died. Katia agreed to become Logan's wife, if only for a few minutes.

As Boone completed the knotting ceremony for Katia and Logan, Mr. and Mrs. Lamb kissed each other. Just seconds later, Logan slipped into a deep coma. Logan was breathing, just barely. His heart rate was slow and shallow.

As soon as Logan's eyes closed, Boone knew he had to move quickly. He didn’t know where he would go or who he would find, but he knew Logan needed help, and Boone would get it regardless of the dangers or the consequences.

I’ll be back, Boone exclaimed seconds after Logan’s eyes closed. I’ll be back with help.

Boone ran out the door without hesitation or further explanation.

Chapter 2

Boone ran to his SUV and jumped in. He barreled down the dirt road toward town as if his life depended on it. Actually, Logan's life did. Boone's mind was bombarded with possible solutions, and he was conflicted. He wanted to get Logan medical assistance. He already knew Delilah's father wasn’t going to help them. Odin had done all he was going to by bringing Boone and Delilah home. The rest was up to them.

As Boone neared town, he knew there was only one doctor's office, so he continued to the next largest city. He drove several hours to the regional hospital and pulled into the parking lot.

Boone sat there for several minutes, trying to decide what to do. Did he have a viable option? It was just after the evening shift change, and he noticed several nurses walking out of the hospital together. They were all happy and joking, relieved their twelve-hour shift was over. Boone watched while the group left the parking lot.

Boone saw a solitary nurse walking alone, a thirty-year-old woman with dark hair. She was lonesome and sad. Knowing he had no other recourse, Boone made his move.

Boone pushed his mind to the unaccompanied nurse and read hers. She was a recluse with no family and no friends. No one would miss her. Boone pulled out of the parking space and drove near her.

Excuse me, miss, Boone called out to the nurse. I’m looking for Louise Nichols. She’s a nurse at this hospital. Do you know her?

The woman stared at Boone. Like most women, she was mesmerized by Boone's emerald-green eyes and striking good looks. Even sitting in the SUV, Boone looked tall. His muscular arms bulged through his shirt, and his smile was captivating. While she stared, Boone was able to make eye contact with her and push her.

You are in no danger. I need you to come with me, Boone told her telepathically. My friend needs your help.

The woman was now close enough for Boone to read her nameplate, 'Nurse Jane.' Jane, please get into the vehicle. Boone commanded.

Jane's face was blank and devoid of emotion. She silently complied as if hypnotized, absent of conscious volition.

Once Jane was in the SUV and Boone had driven away, he pushed one last thought to her before releasing her from the trance. Please, don’t scream or try to run away. I promise you with my own life, I won’t bring you any harm. You are safe.

Jane smiled and nodded.

Then Boone released her mind and restored her free will. My name is Huxley Boone, he told Jane. My friend needs your help. I’m going to take you to my home. Once you help us, I will bring you back. You have to trust me.

I do, Jane replied, staring at Boone. I don’t know why but I do. What do you need?

My friend needs blood, Boone answered calmly. Lots of blood.

I can’t get you blood! Jane exclaimed. And you can’t have mine!

I have blood donors. We just need someone to help with the transfusions and monitor his vitals. I can get you whatever you need. Price is no issue.

Someone will notice me missing, Jane chuckled nervously. Am I being kidnaped?

Technically, yes, Boone replied with a regretful smile. However, it will be more like a hiatus. You should call the hospital and tell them you had a family emergency and will be away for a week, maybe two. Don't worry about money. I will properly compensate you for your time and wages. Will twenty thousand dollars be enough?

For two weeks? Jane gasped. Yes.

Boone laughed and smiled his big sexy smile. I was willing to pay more.

I have some medical supplies at my apartment we can use, Jane suggested. Plus, I will need some clothing. While we are there, I will make the call.

I’m grateful you are helping me, Boone smiled. Thank you.

A calm expression came over Jane's face, and then she smiled. I suspect this will be the best adventure I’ve ever had.

Do you spend a lot of time alone? Boone asked.

Yes, Jane frowned. I’m not a people person.

The expression on Boone's face clearly displayed confusion, his eyes narrow and his brow furling. How can you be a nurse if you’re not a people person?

Jane shrugged with a tight grin. I love the patients. They are my family. But I have never been able to make friends with my co-workers. I’m a bit of a loner.

But you’re a good nurse, Boone stated as fact, not a question.

Jane didn’t comment. Why didn't you bring your friend to the hospital? Is he wanted by the law? Is he a fugitive?

It’s nothing like that. My friend is unique. Different. Taking Logan to the hospital could put him in danger. Most people don’t understand us. Boone didn’t want to reveal too much, too soon. He would wait until they were back in the cabin.

Jane was intrigued. She was a little frightened. However, she was more curious than afraid. She was excited. For the first time in her life, she felt needed. Sure, the patients at the hospital needed her, but this was different. She didn’t know why or how, but she knew.

Chapter 3

It was after midnight when Boone and Jane came into the cabin. Delilah ran into Boone's arms. Boone hadn’t contacted anyone after he left. Delilah had no idea where he had gone or what he was doing.

This is Jane Caprin. She’s a nurse. She’s going to help us.

Delilah smiled at Jane. Katia looked at Jane as if pleading for Logan's life. Katia's eyes were still filled with fear and remorse. She couldn’t stop feeling guilty about the attack. Despite what everyone told her, she refused to believe it was an accident, not an intentional attack.

Jane, this is my mate Delilah, and this is Katia. She is Logan's mate, Boone stated as an introduction. My friends call me Boone.

Logan needs your help, our help. He was injured quite badly a little over twenty-four hours ago. We have healed the injuries and fed him some blood, but he needs a transfusion, Delilah explained.

"You fed him blood? What the hell are you, a bunch of vampires?" Jane stammered as she backed toward the door, about to run for her life.

No, Boone quickly called out. Logan is human, or at least he is for now. The rest of us are wolves.

Werewolves? Jane quavered, with her hand on the doorknob.

No, Delilah stated with a friendly smile. We’re not monsters. We’re not going to hurt you. We just need you to help us. Logan is in a coma. He has lost lots of blood. We want to give him our blood, to heal him.

Won't it turn him into a werewolf too? Jane queried, still perplexed.

Wolf, sweetie, Delilah stated in a firm but calm voice. Let me show you.

Boone moved closer to Jane to keep her from running. Go ahead, he told Delilah.

Delilah moved to the center of the room. This is only my second time turning. My first time doing it myself, so I don’t know how it’s going to go, so... Delilah didn’t finish her thought.

Delilah’s father had facilitated the first turn. She had turned back human on her own. Still, Delilah was a bit apprehensive. She looked toward Boone for reassurance. Boone smiled lovingly and nodded. Delilah took a deep breath and connected with her wolf. Seconds later, the tall, dark-haired woman was a light beige wolf standing in the middle of the room. The wolf’s eyes were pale icy-blue, nearly devoid of color, much like her human eyes,

Damn! Jane shouted while staring at the oversized wolf in front of her.

What the hell? Katia snipped. She gets to turn without undressing?!? That’s not fair!

Sorry, Boone laughed. I guess she takes after me. Boone lied, not wanting to reveal Delilah’s daddy had given Delilah the ability to turn dressed. Odin didn’t want anyone to see his baby girl naked.

But you sired me, and I still have to strip first. That’s fucked up!

Katia, Boone scolded. He needed to change the direction of the conversation. Your language has become atrocious. You used to be so sweet and innocent.

Sorry, Katia apologized, filled with contrition. It’s a difficult time for me. Logan isn't any better. He hasn’t opened his eyes. Not even for a second.

Yes, let's concentrate on Logan, Boone suggested. Delilah.

Delilah turned human and smiled smugly. She was thrilled she was able to turn on her own.

Logan is in the bedroom, Delilah stated as she ushered Jane out of the living room.

Jane didn’t say anything. She was still in shock from what she had just seen. She had a million questions but was just as curious about the man she was to help save.

We will set up another bed here, so you will have a place to sleep, Boone told Jane. Delilah and I will sleep in the living room. We like sleeping on a fur blanket in front of the fireplace.

Logan was lying on the king-sized bed. His chest raised slowly, taking in each shallow breath. He looked peaceful, painless.

I healed his injuries, Boone explained to Jane. There is no infection or fever. With our blood, he should have improved and awakened by now. We’re not sure what is wrong.

Jane looked at Logan, and something tugged at her heart. Her patients always touched her heart and soul in a way she couldn’t describe. It wasn’t the stereotypical feeling of getting attached to her patients. It was more like she felt responsible for their care, well-being, and recovery. She took care of her patients with pure love and respect.

Jane checked Logan's vital signs. His heart rate and respiration are slow but steady. It’s normal for people in a coma. His eyes are responsive, so there is brain activity. He just seems to be in a deep sleep so he can heal. But if he lost as much blood as you say, a couple of pints wouldn’t hurt.

I’m ready to donate, Katia called out as she extended her arm and moved toward Jane.

No, sweetie, Delilah replied. We know my blood won’t hurt him, so I will go first. I want you to be physically strong. You will need it to get through this ordeal.

Katia nearly cried. She felt responsible for Logan's condition. Katia was responsible though it wasn't deliberate. She wanted to contribute to his recovery. She needed to atone.

Boone could sense her emotions. He was her sire. You hold his hand. Don't let go. Let him know how much you love him. Let him feel your body next to his. You are his mate. Curl up next to him and let him feel your warmth, your heart, and your love.

Katia had always been a model of decorum. She was raised Mormon. Eight weeks before, she had never worn makeup or casual clothes. Her long, medium brown hair was always worn in a prairie braid, and she had worn the classic Mormon attire that disguised her figure. Boone, Delilah, and Logan saved her from being sold to a Middle Eastern prince as his third wife. Logan had been working for the prince and recognized Katia as the girl he had fallen in love with four years earlier during a visit to an art museum in St. Louis.

Boone and Delilah were working on a missing person assignment, and Katia was helping them. The job turned into a human-trafficking case, and the four were united forever. During a second rescue mission in the Middle East, Boone's blood mixed with Katia's. A truck exploded at the refugee camp they were visiting, courtesy of a suicide bomber. Boone had knocked Katia to the ground and covered her body with his to protect her. But both were injured by flying shrapnel. Boone's blood seeped into Katia's wounds, and she became a wolf.

Boone had never wanted to sire anyone. However, now there were about to be four wolves living in Red Mountain, Colorado.

Katia moved toward the bed and, without blinking, started removing her clothing. Boone fought not to watch. Delilah was the love of his life and had a perfect figure, tall with a tiny waist and hips, a firm ass, and large pert breasts. Katia's body was equally incredible.

When Katia was wearing only her matching pale pink panties and bra, she crawled into the bed next to Logan and wrapped her body around his. I’m here, baby, she whispered into his ear.

Delilah smiled. Let the bleeding begin, she suggested, extending her arm. Let's start with a pint. It will take a day or two before I donate again. Boone can donate tomorrow. We will take turns.

Jane pulled out the equipment she needed to draw Delilah’s blood. Thirty minutes later, she had the IV set up, and Delilah's blood was entering Logan's vein through a direct transfusion.

Let's decide on the sleeping arrangements, Boone offered. We all need to sleep.

We have extra beds on Raven Hill, Delilah suggested. It won’t take long to bring one down and set it up.

I’m exhausted, Jane sighed. I’ve been up for nearly twenty-four hours. I can sleep anywhere, on the floor, on the couch. I don’t care.

I will set up the couch here in the bedroom, Delilah offered. Do you want to shower first?

Just a quick rinse, Jane decided. Then my jammies.

Five minutes later, Jane was stretched out on the couch. Five seconds after, she was asleep.

You have taken a big chance bringing her here, Delilah whispered to Boone as they lay on a fur blanket in front of the fireplace.

I had to do something, Boone sighed. I couldn’t let Logan die. We owe him so much, and I couldn’t let Katia become a widow before they even got a chance to start their life together. I will push Jane when I take her home. I will make everything right.

Chapter 4

Everyone woke up a little before noon the following day. Boone rolled over and pulled Delilah snugly into his arms. It was the second morning after their mating. Boone was feeling a little frisky. He started nibbling on Delilah's ear and softly licking her neck and shoulder. He could feel the unseen indentation where he had bitten Delilah's shoulder and had bonded with her.

Delilah felt the rough texture of Boone's tongue on her neck. As his tongue reached the spot where he had bonded with her, her body shuddered with delight, covering every inch of her body with goose bumps. She was highly aroused. She moved her lips to Boone's face and grazed her teeth along his jaw.

Boone rolled onto Delilah and started kissing her deeply and passionately.

Harrumph, Jane grunted as she tried to get their attention as she walked out of the bedroom, wrapped in a blanket.

Oops, Boone laughed. I forgot we have guests. Sorry, Jane. We have only been married two days.

And Boone refused to have sex until we married, so I guess he is trying to make up for lost time, Delilah giggled.

Jane's eyes nearly popped out of her head. How long have you known each other?

About ten years now, Delilah laughed. We both used to be bounty hunters. But we didn’t fall for each other until last autumn. I got shot by a serial killer, and the rest is history.

You’ve been shot? Jane asked, holding her blanket up to her neck in a defensive pose filled with trepidation.

I’ve been shot, kidnaped, held hostage twice, knocked unconscious, and that is only since Boone and I started working together, Delilah mused. It’s all in a day's work.

I’m going to check on Logan, Jane replied, not knowing what else to say. She knew her time at the cabin would be short, and she didn’t want to know more than she needed. She still wasn’t entirely convinced if she was safe.

I’ll put on some coffee, Boone offered. Then we’ll have breakfast or lunch. It’s late.

Brunch it is, Delilah giggled.

After Jane had left the room, Delilah pulled Boone into a tight embrace. You can make it up to me in the shower, she cooed seductively.

Boone smiled, and his eyes twinkled. Delilah was his addiction. He couldn’t get enough of her. He loved how she smelled and tasted, like the sweet red wine she drank fermented with honey. It was her scent that captured his soul.

Jane, Delilah, and Boone ate while Katia stayed with Logan. She didn’t want to leave him alone. Once Jane had finished eating, she sat with Logan while Katia ate. They agreed never to leave Logan unattended.

After brunch, Delilah pulled Boone toward their extra-large spa bathroom. The shower was big enough to hold at least ten people with a dozen shower heads. Boone loved that shower. Typically, Delilah soaked in her oversized soaking tub with whirlpool jets. Today she wanted to be with Boone in the shower. She had dreamt of this moment for a very long time.

Delilah giggled the entire way to the shower with Boone in tow. Boone was smiling the whole way. They pulled off their clothing as they rushed across the room, leaving a trail of clothes behind them. Boone turned on the water and pulled Delilah under it with him. The water was hot, and the steam quickly filled the room. Boone pulled Delilah against him, and she could feel his desire against her abdomen. She moaned with delight, knowing soon he would be inside her. She pushed against him to let him know she was ready. Boone had wanted to wait, wash Delilah from head to toe, and explore every inch of her body, but the thought of being inside her took away all his willpower.

Boone backed Delilah toward the smooth, cold tiled wall and lifted her up until her legs were wrapped around his narrow waist. Then she lowered herself onto him. Forgetting they weren’t the only ones in the house, they both growled in ecstasy. Realizing how loud they were, they laughed. Delilah wrapped her arms tightly around Boone's neck and started moving. As she lowered herself again and again onto Boone, he pushed his hips forward to meet hers.

Delilah could barely restrain herself from screaming. Boone filled her entirely, and each thrust pushed her closer to the brink. She tried to hold out so they could reach their rapture together. Delilah buried her face into Boone's shoulder to stifle her groans. Delilah knew she was only seconds away from exploding around Boone. Boone could feel Delilah warming around him, almost burning him. He tightened his grip as he felt the muscles in Delilah's stomach tightening. He knew she was close, very close. Delilah opened her mouth to call out and then lowered her teeth to his shoulder. She wanted to bite him, to bond with him again. As Boone felt Delilah's teeth graze his shoulder, he let go. Delilah felt Boone's release, and she joined him. Replete, they fell to the tile floor and let the hot water wash over them.

Boone sat, trying to catch his breath. Damn, woman, you are going to kill me.

Back at you, sweetie, Delilah laughed. Now, I guess we should actually take a shower.

Boone stood and pulled Delilah up with him. I love you so much, he whispered and kissed her passionately. Boone picked up a bar of soap and started washing Delilah's back. He pulled her back toward him, feeling her back on his chest. Boone reached around and ran his soapy hands over her breasts, her stomach,