Markov #4

By JP Sayle and Lisa Oliver

When Markov finds himself in a life and death situation, can the man who rejected him be his true saviour?

Markov Thalassa is stubborn, however even he has his limits when it comes to being rejected. When his brothers need help he contacts the one man he believes can, Cassius his old Shadow Commander. Only things backfire and Markov leaves the security of his family and his ex-teammates, heading straight into the clutches of evil on a quest to help find missing dragon eggs.

Shadow Commander, Cassius hides a secret. A secret so big that it means he has to reject his fated mate. Then he finds out his mate is in danger and must make some decisions that could jeopardize everything he works so hard to protect.

His world falls apart while he searches for Markov and now he has nothing to lose. But is it too late for forgiveness as the two men fight against the clock to figure out how to keep the Thalassa’s growing family safe from Andromeda – the worst kind of evil.

Markov is a paranormal gay romance, with a hard-headed shark who struggles to share and a kraken who decides to shake things up. This is the fourth book in the Tangled Tentacles Series. Each book in this series will deal with a new couple, so while the HEA is guaranteed, the epilogue for each book will lead into the next title.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Jayne Paton
• Release date: Sep 22, 2022
• ISBN: 9781005782191

JP Sayle

Let me introduce myself, I’m JP or Jayne. I’m a lady of a certain age (cough, cough over 50 but I embrace my inner child often). I’m an identical twin and I was born in the Isle of Man; this makes me Manx (not British or English). I’ve lived in several places over the years but I returned to the island 1998. I love the sea and now it’s only a stone’s throw from my home.I quit my nursing career recently to follow my dream to write full time. I published my first book in 2018 and since then I’ve managed to publish further twenty-plus books. I gave myself a 12 book challenge for 2020, and I’ve written 14 so far!!My island is steeped in folklore and I have used some of this in my writing, particularly the Manx Cat Guardian Series, it’s paranormal with a twist. But I’m an eclectic girl and I’ve spread my wings a little. The tropes vary from Daddy Kink, BDSM, age gap, Billionaire romance, Smalltown friendships, friends to lovers, out for you, sweet romance, they all have a little angst (or a lot). I tend to write in series (shakes head). The list is below!Manx Cat GuardiansThe AppThe Flamingo BarBillionaire PlaygroundLa Trattoria Di AmoreDark River Stone CollectiveThe PlayroomPotter Creek(The app and flamingo bar are connected, as in the boys get a book in the app and their conclusion in the flamingo bar series)Writing has unleashed a beast in my mind and now I can’t switch it off. So with that, I now have to try and keep my unruly boys in check while they vie for my attention, and currently, it’s who shouts the loudest. But, I’m okay with that now that I have the time to let the words flow!

Book preview

Prologue

Markov

Can I have a word. Markov didn’t phrase it as a question as he glared at Cassius. Anger ran hotly through his veins. Having Cassius treat him without regard was one thing but to do it with Azim, Victor’s mate, that was a whole different kettle of fish.

Cassius nodded stiffly, his features betraying nothing of what he was thinking. Swinging around on his heel, Markov didn’t acknowledge anyone else in the room. The scent of his fated mate was torture as it wafted on the warm air surrounding Markov while he left the office with Cassius close on his heel. He could only hope that his brothers would put the obvious tension between them as a result of the situation and nothing more.

Up to now he’d been so damn careful to keep some distance between him and Cassius. Years of restraining himself while working with Cassius had helped him control his body’s reaction, something he’d not initially been able to do with how volatile their relationship or non-relationship was in the beginning.

How many fated mates were rejected by their mate?

Markov didn’t have the answer, but he’d bet Todd could find it ─ maybe. Who would really want the world to know that the universe selected them to get a fated mate, only for that mate to give a fucking half-assed reason as to why they shouldn’t be together?

Entering his apartment, the scent of sea teased Markov, leaving him equally hungry for a taste of his mate and disgusted with himself that he continued to torture himself in this way when his mate didn’t want him. Why had he done it? Why had he thought it had been a good idea to reach out to the one man that could turn his world upside down?

Markov didn’t need an answer, he’d always let his bleeding heart lead his actions. The missing paranormals Danik had been searching for deserved the best and Cassius and his team had been that! Had being the operative word. They were no longer that, not if they laughed at someone who needed protection, who needed their help.

Clearly, watching Alexi with Danik had messed with Markov’s head, and his heart. Hadn’t he promised himself when he’d left the Shadow Team he wouldn’t look back, wouldn’t think about things that couldn’t be changed ─ like the never-ending shadow of rejection.

His internal laughter at himself held bitterness as Cassius roamed his apartment like a trapped beast. It was the only place they could speak and not be watched or heard, so Markov had no options. Asking him to join him in his own space was done purely so Markov could vent without fear of revealing his past hurt in front of his brothers. He hoped and believed they’d no clue he was the first to find his fated mate, only to be rejected… for what? A team of men who couldn’t see the value of a mate. Was it that simple?

Fucked if he knew for real, Cassius wasn’t one to reveal his cards which he’d always kept impossibly close to his chest. Building a head of steam over his own issues and the hurt that had been once more inflicted on Azim by his kidnapper, one who shouldn’t have got anywhere near him, Markov glowered at Cassius, the anger bubbling furiously inside him much like a volcano readying to erupt. His kraken was watchful, there right under the surface waiting to see how things would go. They were both affronted and hurt by the man doing his best to look anywhere but at them. But, by the sea gods, we want him to.

Markov waited, even with the anger, he wanted Cassius to explain, to justify why he’d become this… asshole!

The seconds ticked by… the silence and tension between them deepening. Then, Cassius turned his back on him flinging Markov right back into the past, to a time he never wanted to visit again, but did with more regularity with Cassius right under his nose.

"Holy fuck!" Markov gasped, the door clicking shut behind him. The scent of the sea and a sense of belonging ran through him causing him to struggle to keep control of his kraken as it rose quickly. Our mate, it crooned.

Yes! The joy was overwhelming and for a few seconds, Markov didn’t notice that the Shadow Commander, Cassius, who was his new boss, hadn’t moved from his seat. We’re mates, he said stupidly, his bounding pulse and happy kraken making it hard to say much more.

Dark eyes held his and Markov’s instincts started to feel as if a conga eel was electrifying him. His breath got trapped in his chest as Cassius templed his fingers under his chin, a look on his handsome face that did not say he was happy about the situation. I’m not looking for a mate. The gruff, gravelly voice sent shivers, and not the good kind, through Markov. Cassius swept his hand around the large, familiar office Markov had been called to, to meet the replacement for Ralph, the previous Shadow Commander. We’re meeting because you’re part of my new team.

"What do you mean you’re not looking for a mate? Markov shook his head, trying to comprehend what was going on. For more centuries than he’d care to count he’d hoped one day to meet his mate. It’s a gift. We’re fated mates."

Is he rejecting us?

Markov wasn’t sure how to answer his kraken, because it fucking sure as hell looked like it.

Cassius’s jaw bunched, his eyelashes dipped and shielded his eyes from Markov. Some might think of mates like that, but I’m not interested in having one… I’ve got a career, men to command and a world of… people out there that require me to focus and keep them safe.

Markov struggled to pick his way through what Cassius was inferring. We can do that together. I work for the team. We have the same goals. I can work with you.

The head was shaking before Markov had finished. Cassius rose from the chair and there was nothing but a hard mask staring back at him. You can do all those things without the mate aspect. It’s important to keep our attention in the right area - mates don’t allow for that as they become the focus. Is this going to be a problem for you? His voice held no infliction, nothing to indicate any feeling.

Markov’s heart for several seconds refused to beat, refused to believe they were being rejected. He breathed deep, his fists clenching as he worked to control his kraken.

Does he think we are not worthy of him? Show him what we are, show him!

I’m not sure that would change anything. Markov eyed the rigid stance of the man who was meant for him. Maybe he needs to see we can be trusted. Markov inhaled Cassius’s scent. He’s a sea creature, but what, I’m not sure. We’ll make him see us, see we are worthy of him. He just needs time.

Cassius swung around and faced the window. I hope this isn’t going to be an issue. The team is the priority.

Those words rang through Markov’s head bringing him back to the present as Cassius reiterated them again. In the two years he’d tortured himself into believing that he could change Cassius’s mind, the man had stuck to that one fucking phrase like a mantra. A well-worn tune that gave Markov a fucking headache.

His body vibrating with all the years of pent-up anger, he stomped toward Cassius trying to reign in the hurt because, yet again, here he was, facing off with the man who was meant to be his. The team can go fuck themselves. What happened to you to make you like this? There was a flicker of something that looked like fear, but it was gone so fast that Markov passed it off as wishful thinking. What soured you to the beauty of mates?

The arousal came regardless of what Markov tried to do to stop it, with Cassius’s pheromones strong enough to alert anyone within a mile radius of their connection. You want me, I can scent it, he growled, his hands already dragging Cassius to him.

Mouths within inches of each other, Markov fought for his own self-control. Years he’d yearned, and hand action just wasn’t the same. Once he’d scented Cassius, he and his kraken wanted no one else regardless of the rejection. The pain was there buried deep inside, his own personal pit of hell where he went or was dragged when his kraken got pissed at him.

I didn’t get it then, and I don’t get it now. What the fuck is your problem? He shook Cassius, tasting his breath on his lips. The temptation to kiss caused him to shake.

He thrust Cassius away, but still made sure not to cause him harm. As much as he wanted to punch some sense into the man in front of him, Markov would never hurt his mate. He breathed shallowly. Fine. You might have issues with me, but Azim deserved protection. He deserved more than your icy contempt and superior attitude that your fucking team come first. I think it’s time you left. I hoped… Markov ran his hands through his hair and tugged hard enough to feel it, fuck if I know what I hoped. You never once changed your stance. I think it's finally sunk in, you mean it.

Cassius met his angry glare with one of his own, but Markov was convinced there was something lurking in the depth of his eyes. Something he was… protecting. I’ve apologized, Cassius said in a stiff tone that broke Markov’s heart once more.

Markov stomped to the door and opened it, needing to be alone to grieve. He met Cassius’s gaze. Great, that makes everything better. Now get the fuck out of my life and if I have another moment of madness and call you again, make sure to tell me to fuck off!

/~/~/~/~/

Cassius

Pain. Gut-wrenching, blade-twisting pain iced its way through his insides as Cassius forced himself to walk away from Markov’s door. Only his hand jammed in his pocket, holding the most recent photograph kept his feet moving away, instead of back into the room that held a promise he couldn’t keep. So much sacrifice… One day…

Shadow Commander. Perky fucking Percy, his PA and damn shadow, bounced in front of him, coming out of nowhere. Cassius hid his flinch, just. I was just looking for you. The weekly reports are due, and honestly, I’m not sure how long I can keep our illustrious bosses from knowing where we are and what we’re doing here... you know, taking private jobs on company time.

He peered up from under blond bangs that were probably meant to be sexy, but for Cassius, the boy was yet another example of what was wrong with his life. The bosses already know where we are, and if you didn’t know that, then you’re slipping, he snarled. Get the team together, we’re heading out today to base one…

Oh wonderful. Percy grabbed Cassius’s forearm with both hands. Can I travel with you up in front? Take any dictation? You know I’m the best navigator on the team.

For fuck’s sake. Cassius shook the hands off. Everyone in the team already knows where to go. Do your job. Get it organized. Tell Jacobs he’s in charge until I get there. I’ll make my own way there.

But… Percy frowned. The bosses said the team must travel together. It’s important for unity, and so that…

I know the fucking spiel. Cassius loomed over the persistent spy. It’s tattooed on my damn ass. But for now, let’s pretend you work for me, and I just gave you an order. I’ll see you back at base one… when I get there.

Percy’s mouth was already open, likely ready to deliver another annoying company line more suited to a corporate office than the military Cassius originally signed up to serve. Cassius wasn’t listening, he was on the brink of shifting, his pain mixing with his anger and the knowledge he’d hurt his mate, again. Pushing past, he ran for the main stairs, his boots clattering down them before he burst out of the main doors. Alarms rang out – the Thalassas had impeccable security, but Cassius was beyond caring. He ran across the parking lot as a taxi cruised past.

Stop! Luck, Fate, or whoever sat on his shoulder must have listened for once as the taxi stopped in the middle of the road. Pulling open the back door, Cassius climbed in, checking he had his wallet on him. The closest beach, he snapped. Fast as you can. He pulled a hundred-dollar note from his wallet and held it up.

Ten minutes later, Cassius was two hundred dollars poorer, his wallet, keys, and ID in a prepaid envelope already on its way to base one. The sand between his toes and the gentle roar of the sea greeted him, flooding his senses – the only thing that could calm his ragged soul. Tearing off his clothes as he crossed the beach, Cassius didn’t notice the photo that had fallen from his pocket as he dropped his clothes on the sand. He barely made it knee-deep in the surf before his shift came over him and the Shadow Commander disappeared under the next wave.

The photo flapped over in the light breeze, skipping down the beach, large black words printed on the back of it easily seen under the bright sun.

Follow Orders

This is your

Last Warning

Chapter One

Markov

The sunlight glinted off the water causing it to appear as if it was covered in glittering diamonds. Being this close to the sea should have eased the tension running through Markov, but no, him and his kraken were in accord something was off. Not that his kraken was actually on speaking terms with him at the moment. It varied from day to day after he’d not gone back for the first kraken babies in five centuries.

Alexi and Danik had been understanding about them not being at the birth of their two boys Marin and Zale, his kraken not so much. His brother was a father! It was still difficult for Markov to comprehend. The pictures he’d been sent of them all together left him with aching eyes and a hole in his heart knowing that was never going to be him. Even now… Markov swallowed back a cry of distress not sure who was watching him or listening in on him.

Markov shifted his arms on the railing he was leaning on pretending to be looking at the sea, when in fact he was watching what was being put on the large ship sitting across from him in the harbor. The name Andromeda was emblazoned in black on the sleek white hull. It was easier to think about what he was trying to achieve here than the pain he’d endured from the soul-deep pull when all his brothers had congregated in the pool for the birth of Zale and Marin. The connection he had with his brothers was unique, or so Todd thought. They were all connected through their krakens which meant they were never truly alone even when they put up a barrier between them.

It made keeping things from any of his siblings very difficult, but Markov had learned how to shut off a part of himself to mask how he was feeling. His pain from Cassius’s rejection sat in the secure part of him, almost like he had a box inside himself. What he’d added to the box was his pain at bringing in the Shadow Team which caused Azim and Victor to suffer. Now he had more to add, the fact he’d stayed away for the birthing.

At the moment Danik gave birth, Markov was in a meeting. He had to leave, urgently, nearly blowing his cover as he went and hid in his room until he could pull himself together and stop his kraken from taking over. Those he was working with, if they ever figured out what he was, he’d end up being one of the commodities they sold ─ paranormals.

Lucas asking him to help with searching for the missing dragon eggs once more had brought Markov full circle. Years ago, the Shadow Team including him had gone after Andromeda - at the time an unknown entity who turned out to be a ruthless businessman who dabbled in all sorts of things. Trafficking was one of the businessman’s major sidelines, but the case had never been resolved. Then, more recently, when Alexi had taken on the case of the missing paranormals that led to him meeting Danik, it had set off alarm bells for Markov. It was part of the reason he’d reached out to Cassius.

Was it really!

Please, can we stop with the snippy comments?

Why? I can sense what you’re planning and it’s not heading back home. Todd’s babies are going to be born any day. We need to be there!

Don’t you think stopping this bastard from stealing, killing, and cutting up babies to do whatever they do on that floating criminal palace should come first? They are using dead dragons for their magical properties. Cutting them up like they were a dinner to be ordered and consumed!

Stop! The kraken roared so loudly that Markov struggled to control his body from jerking and revealing his distress.

Please, Markov implored his kraken. We are so close. I’ve been invited onto the ship. It’s the in we needed to find out what’s happening and put