Enter The Lair: Cascade Cougars, #2

By Tia Didmon

When the huntress becomes the prey… 

Sarah Marksmen doesn't miss. As a Park Ranger, she is tasked with hunting down the cougar responsible for multiple attacks and kills. She expects the cold welcome of the Cascade family when she arrives on their land. She doesn't expect the blistering heat she experiences with Devon Cascade. As dark forces converge to annihilate everything she holds dear. Will she be able to trust in a man who was forced to harden his heart, or will she be the catalyst that destroys an entire species?

Enjoy the next book in the bestselling Cascade Cougar Series that readers are comparing to Jessie Donovan and Lora Leigh.

One click to continue this sizzling paranormal adventure today!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Bold Butterfly Publishing Inc.
• Release date: Oct 7, 2018
• ISBN: 9798215239056

Tia Didmon

Tia Didmon is a USA Today bestselling author of provocative paranormal romance and paranormal women’s fiction. When Tia isn't busy writing about sexy shifters and dreamy demons, she spends her time binge-watching The Order and reruns of The Vampire Diaries, cooking with her daughter, and serving her cat. Her love of writing stems from a self-diagnosed book addiction.  Subscribe to Tia's newsletter at tiadidmon.com for a free book and start your journey through Tia's supernatural world today! 

Book preview

CHAPTER 1

Sarah’s tires made a crunching sound as she rolled to a stop. Three men stood casually in front of her patrol vehicle as she turned off her SUV and radioed in. I’ve arrived at Galen Cascade’s property.

There was brief static before Sam replied. He already knows you’re there.

I thought you wanted me to explain in person? Sarah replied.

I do. I didn’t call them.

They’re waiting for me, Sam.

Yeah, they always are. You don’t get near any of the Cascade homes without a welcoming party.

What are they doing out here that they need that type of security system? Sarah asked while keeping her eyes on the patiently waiting men. One was ignoring the other two as they spoke to him. I guess I’m not the only one with family drama.

Just be careful Sarah, Sam said.

Sarah exited the vehicle with one hand on her gun. She approached the men, extending her hand to the eldest. Good morning. Mr. Cascade.

Galen shook her hand. Please call me Galen. These are my sons Talen and Devon. Talen shook her hand politely while Devon kept his hands in his pockets. While all three men were attractive, Devon gave her the impression of a sleeping cat opening one eye. She shook off the strange notion.

My name is Sarah. Sam sent me over to speak with you about a recent cougar incident.

Galen smiled. Sam’s a good man. He’s been a Park Ranger in these parts for almost thirty years. Is there some reason he couldn’t make the trip himself?

Sarah didn’t want to admit that Sam’s age was catching up to him. He had prior commitments.

Galen’s eyes narrowed. What brings you here today Sarah?

Two weeks ago, a cougar attacked and killed a woman just outside Portland. A week ago, there were two more attacks in Lacey. Two days ago, the cougar was spotted in Yakima. An hour ago, it was spotted on your property.

Where? Galen asked.

Kelsey Lodge.

How do you know this is the same cougar that attacked those women?

The animal is maimed. It appears to have some sort of flesh-eating disease. It’s in really rough shape. I’ve been tasked with putting the animal down.

The men appeared outwardly calm, but Sarah felt the change in their demeanor instantly. There was a hushed silence that extended to the evergreen forests that surrounded them. If there’s a threat on my land. I will take care of it immediately. Galen said.

I’m sorry Mr. Cascade, but I’m not here to ask your permission to hunt on your land. I’m here to inform you I will be.

Talen’s face hardened. Galen’s eyebrow went up while Devon had the makings of a smile. She got the impression a smile was a rare thing for the sexy Cascade sibling with a scar.

May I have your last name, Sarah? Devon asked in a low clear voice.

Sarah ignored the ripple of awareness that skittered over her skin. Her attention focused on Galen and Talen’s look of surprise when Devon spoke.

Sarah hated this part. She always tried to stay on a first name basis if possible. It’s Marksmen.

You’re Brian Marksmen’s daughter? Galen hissed.

Talen was mad. The Serengeti butcher is your father?

Devon looked furious, but remained quiet.

Yes, she said.

Talen stepped towards her. And you honestly think we are going to let you poach on our land?

Keep your distance Talen. Sarah’s hand tightened on her gun. She couldn’t blame them for their reaction. While her father’s mandate was to kill every large animal he could, hers was to simply do her job and stay alive.

Galen put his hand on Talen’s arm.

Devon glanced back at the log home in the distance. Talen, you have responsibilities at home. I will escort Ms. Marksmen while on the property. If we come across the cougar, I will take care of it.

Sarah got the impression there was a hidden meaning to his comment.

Talen and Galen looked at Devon like he’d grown a second head. There was definitely some kind of family issue here, but she wanted no part of it. Although she preferred to work alone, Devon knew the area better than she did, which meant she may be able to bag the animal today and be gone by nightfall. I’ll accept your assistance, Devon, provided you understand I’m in charge. If you fail to heed my instructions, I’ll arrest you.

Devon shrugged. I can assure you there will be no need for cuffs... at least not today. His eyes held a heat she found uncomfortable.

It wasn’t clear if Devon was joking or flirting, although, she was sure his brother and father thought he was insane. Galen shook his head, cutting off Talen. Just get in the truck, she ordered.

Sarah didn’t want anyone’s help, but she had only been in the area a couple years and Devon had grown up in the Cascade mountains. She started the truck. Your last name is Cascade. Were you related to the original settlers here?

Something like that, Devon replied.

So, he wasn’t the talkative type. That worked for her. She wanted to get into the bush, bag the cat, and start watching B-movies with her roommate by nightfall. Where should we start?

My place, Devon said.

Sarah tried to keep her voice even, not wanting to explain why an armed officer would feel uncomfortable stopping by the man’s house. Why? I have all the gear we need.

I need to feed my dog.

She couldn’t explain why she found it strange that he had a dog. It must be his tough exterior. He appeared all hard edges and masculine lines. A pet seemed too humane for him. They drove to his house in silence. He led her up the patio stairs of an immaculate log cabin. A small black dog rushed out as soon as the door cracked open.

Sasha. Devon’s voice was low, but commanding. The dog sat immediately, but her bottom wiggled on the floor.

I’ve never seen a Rottweiler with a tail before, Sarah said.

Sasha is simply a pet. No-one here will disapprove of her appearance. His tone gave Sarah the impression he assumed she was judging him for his decision not to crop the dog’s tail.

She crouched down. Sasha immediately went to her, pushing her tiny muzzle against Sarah’s hand, looking for attention. She’s adorable. What is she, about ten weeks old? The puppy’s presence made her feel more comfortable.

Devon nodded. Yes. She likes to play-fight so watch out for her teeth.

Sarah smiled. That’s okay. I usually only meet an animal when it’s at its worst and needs to be put down. This is a nice change. She hadn’t meant the bitterness in her voice to be so apparent. Her last name preceded her. Her hunting skills were as good as her father’s. The difference was, she didn’t enjoy killing. She was just good at it.

He kneeled down, petting the dog. Sasha was so excited that Sarah had to block her tail from hitting her in the face. Many people assume, due to her breed, she’ll be aggressive, bad-tempered, maybe even a killer.

Sarah froze. Is he referring to me or the dog? Animals learn what they live. If you are good to them. They are good to you.

Is that true of all species? His voice was low, forcing her to lean forward.

She faced him, looking directly into his deep green eyes. The jagged scar on his temple enhanced his dominant good looks. She found herself tempted to run her fingers over the old injury, curious as to its origin. Her lips parted slightly as her tongue ran slowly over her top lip. I’m attracted to him! She stood quickly. She’d always assumed she would marry Gerry. He was gorgeous and more importantly, her friend.

Devon stood too. Are you alright Sarah?

Fine. We should get going. I’ll wait here while you feed Sasha. Devon picked up the wiggly pup and went inside the cabin. Sarah’s eyes watched his ass as he walked away. Damn it! Why did his butt have to be so damn perfect? The way his jeans hugged his thighs as he walked made her look away in embarrassment. She didn’t like the warm feeling flooding her body. And she had to spend the whole day with him.

Devon appeared wearing a light jacket, and a backpack slung over one arm. He closed the door. You ready?

Sarah watched his shaggy brown hair brush his shoulders. It looked uneven as if he’d cut it himself. She raised her hand to touch it, but Devon grabbed her arm. She startled, pulling her arm away quickly. He stepped closer. She felt his body heat, without them actually touching.

Are you afraid of me Sarah?

No. I’m armed and I won’t hesitate to arrest you if you step out of line. She wasn’t afraid. She was concerned about her reaction to him. For the first time in her life, she didn’t want to tell Gerry something. For a moment she was sure Devon’s eyes glinted amber, then it was gone.

Shall we go? He asked.

She hesitated. His body continued to warm hers as his sandalwood scent tantalized her. She looked back at the truck, avoiding his gaze and pulled on her cap. Yeah, let’s motor.

As they drove, Devon was sure his chaotic emotions didn’t show. He’d had a long time to perfect his stony exterior, but like so many things in his life, it was a lie. He was burning for her.

He’d overreacted when Sarah tried touching him. If she had, he wouldn’t have been able to control his cougar. It was rumbling for him to take action. Yes, Sarah was his mate, but he couldn’t claim her. She was a Marksmen and a hunter like her father. Everything about her called to him and his cat: her tantalizing scent, clear blue eyes, and her soft blonde hair tucked under her Ranger cap. He was infinitely curious about her body. She wasn’t skinny, and he loved that, but her uniform and the bulky jacket should have been a turnoff. It wasn’t. He definitely needed to get her away from his cat. It had even purred when she threatened to arrest him, and it hated confinement. The stupid thing thought it would be locked up with her.

Devon should have suggested Talen take her on the hunt. He couldn’t. He needed to be with her. Ensure her safety. Then get her off the property so he could track down the cougar and put it out of its misery. They needed to confirm the cat was a shifter and couldn’t have an outsider around, especially a Marksmen. His cat wanted her away from danger. Devon wanted her away from his family. When it came time to walk away from her for good, his cat would go insane and so would he.

Her musical voice pulled him from his dark thoughts. The cat was sighted close to Kelsey lodge so we will park there and hike to the location. She parked, grabbing her gear as she exited the vehicle. Devon followed.

They silently wound their way through the dense forest before she held up her hand. Sarah scanned the surrounding area before speaking. The cougar was here this morning. Devon had already spotted the direction the cougar had gone, but remained silent. She kneeled down beside a small bush, moving a few twigs to look at the barely perceptible track. It went this way. She rose, following the faint signs left by the cougar. Devon didn’t want to feel proud of her. To think what an amazing cat she would be. Her family didn’t hunt for food. It hunted trophies. She could never be exposed to his world.

His gaze fell to her round ass. His cat rumbled its approval. Images of him taking her in both human and cat form assailed him. His cock hardened, making the stealthy climb on the ravine infinitely more difficult. Later he would admit that if he hadn’t been preoccupied with how many ways, he could fuck her, he would have sensed the cougar was hunting them. His distraction cost them.

Sarah crested the edges of the ravine when the cougar slammed into her. In seconds, she was over the edge, sliding to the cold water below. Devon was on the diseased cat instantly. The smell was awful as he fought the rotting animal. It was no match for Devon’s strength in its current condition and it sprang away. His duty was to the lair. To follow the maimed creature and put it down. In less than a second, he was sliding down the ravine edge.

Devon slid down the ravine in full control. He could have leapt, but he didn’t want Sarah aware of his heightened reflexes. She was struggling to get out of the water, hopping on one leg. He pulled her from the water and into his arms as soon as he reached her. He knew it was a mistake to touch her, needing to get her to warm safety then hunt the cougar alone. Are you alright?

I twisted my ankle. It’s not too bad. I just need to ice it and put it up for a few hours. I have a room at the lodge. Can you help me get there? Her glacial eyes held his in a form of trust he didn’t deserve.

He stood upright and supported her. Of course.

He picked her up, cradling her in his arms. He knew she wasn’t comfortable in such a vulnerable position. He noticed her hand resting close to her weapon. He felt her shiver and automatically pulled her closer. He gritted his teeth at his body’s reaction. His erection was back in force and it wanted relief. Her freshwater scent, pink trembling lips, and soft ivory skin were too much for any man to ignore. His head lowered as she winced in pain.

He watched her take a deep breath as her body shivered. We’re almost there Sarah.

I’m good, she said through clenched teeth.

He started jogging lightly as soon as the brush opened up. The lodge came into view. What’s your room number?

Two-forty-seven.

He was inside the lobby and up the stairs before anyone saw him. She already had her key out when he reached her door. He kicked the door shut, placed her on the floor, and helped her out of her jacket. When he started to undo a button on her uniform, she pulled back. What are you doing?

You’re a human popsicle. You can barely move your fingers. I’m helping you undress, Devon said.

I can undress myself. Go run my bath, she said with authority. His cat bristled at her dominance. It wanted to assert itself. Devon calmed his cat. This wasn’t the time. When he returned from the bathroom, she was still fiddling with the top button.

Let me help you, Sarah. You can get in the bath with your underwear on if you prefer.

She looked away and gave a slight nod. He quickly undid the buttons of her uniform, unzipping her pants and unbuckling her belt. He unlaced her boots and removed each one as she leaned on him for support. When she peeled off the wet shirt and pants her weapon fell to the floor. He tried not to notice how soft her cold skin was against his or how her pink nipples stood erect against her wet satin bra. How transparent her white cotton underwear was. How bare her shaved pussy was. Let’s get you in the tub, he grumbled.

He helped her to the bathroom and into the warm water. He looked away as she poured some shampoo under the spout for a bubble-bath. As the water level rose, the color returned to her skin. You can take your underwear off now, he said.

She looked at him sharply. You know I’m an officer of the law, right?

Yes, however you being a Marksmen makes you far deadlier than any uniform. He hadn’t meant for his comment to sound so bitter.

She lowered her eyes and crossed her arms over her breasts. Yeah.

Her quiet assent cut deep. His cat growled.

Devon did, something he hadn’t done in decades. I’m sorry.

When she shrugged her shoulders, remaining quiet, he kneeled beside the tub. Why did you become a cop?

She paused for some time before she answered. I had two best friends. Rachael and Gerry. We did everything together. School, shopping, and shooting. Devon raised his eyebrows. We both know I don’t come from a conventional family, but neither did Racheal nor Gerry. She moved the bubbles with her hand. "Gerry and I come from wealthy families, but Racheal was an orphan. She was brilliant. She skipped grades in high