Wild Witches of Beaver Bay

By Kate Hill

The Wild women know no one can resist the person they were born to love.

Mysti and Starr: A blazing trail only he can see leads demon-hunting biker Starr Johanson to his destined mate. A blessing placed on her family’s ancestral land summons Mysti Wild to the cabin where she’ll meet the man fated to share her life.

Spirits of Christmas: Twenty-five years ago a brutal murder was committed at the house where Christa Wild works. This Christmas she stays behind, hoping the spirits will help her regain her psychic powers. Action star Joel Connor is plagued by flashbacks of a gruesome attack that destroyed his family. This Christmas, Joel returns to the house where it happened to face the ghosts of the past, but finds he is not alone.

Trinity and Jeff: Trinity believes the Wild family magic has called her home to meet her soulmate. Instead she finds danger at every turn, but she won’t have to face it alone. Jeff faces the supernatural to protect Trinity and convince her once and for all that they belong together.

Amelia and Orion: Demon. Vampire. Human. Orion is all three. From the moment he met Amelia Wild, his heart has belonged to her, but he doesn’t have the luxury of falling in love. Amelia Wild has loved Orion for years. But when his emotional restraint becomes too much, Amelia heads home to get in touch with her magical roots. Lost without her, Orion follows Amelia to her family cabin. Will the irritable demon and his brilliant witch finally surrender to the powerful attraction they share?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Changeling Press
• Release date: Jun 17, 2023

Kate Hill

Kate Hill is a vegetarian New Englander who started writing many years ago for pleasure. When she’s not writing, she enjoys reading, watching horror and action movies, working out, and spending time with her family and pets. She also writes under the name Saloni Quinby.

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Wild Witches of Beaver Bay

Kate Hill

All rights reserved.

Copyright ©2023 Kate Hill

BIN: 010816-03517

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Publisher:

Changeling Press LLC

315 N. Centre St.

Martinsburg, WV 25404

www.ChangelingPress.com

Editor: Sheri Ross Fogarty

Cover Artist: Bryan Keller

Adult Sexual Content

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Table of Contents

Wild Witches of Beaver Bay

Mysti and Starr (Wild Witches of Beaver Bay 1)

Prologue

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Epilogue

Spirits of Christmas (Wild Witches of Beaver Bay 2)

Prologue

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Epilogue

Trinity and Jeff (Wild Witches of Beaver Bay 3)

Prologue

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Epilogue

Amelia and Orion (Wild Witches of Beaver Bay 4)

Prologue

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Epilogue

Kate Hill

Wild Witches of Beaver Bay

Kate Hill

The Wild women know no one can resist the person they were born to love.

Mysti and Starr: A blazing trail only he can see leads demon-hunting biker Starr Johanson to his destined mate. A blessing placed on her family’s ancestral land summons Mysti Wild to the cabin where she’ll meet the man fated to share her life.

Spirits of Christmas: Twenty-five years ago a brutal murder was committed at the house where Christa Wild works. This Christmas she stays behind, hoping the spirits will help her regain her psychic powers. Action star Joel Connor is plagued by flashbacks of a gruesome attack that destroyed his family. This Christmas, Joel returns to the house where it happened to face the ghosts of the past, but finds he is not alone.

Trinity and Jeff: Trinity believes the Wild family magic has called her home to meet her soulmate. Instead she finds danger at every turn, but she won’t have to face it alone. Jeff faces the supernatural to protect Trinity and convince her once and for all that they belong together.

Amelia and Orion: Demon. Vampire. Human. Orion is all three. From the moment he met Amelia Wild, his heart has belonged to her, but he doesn’t have the luxury of falling in love. Amelia Wild has loved Orion for years. But when his emotional restraint becomes too much, Amelia heads home to get in touch with her magical roots. Lost without her, Orion follows Amelia to her family cabin. Will the irritable half-demon and his brilliant witch finally surrender to the powerful attraction they share?

Mysti and Starr (Wild Witches of Beaver Bay 1)

Kate Hill

A blazing trail only he can see leads demon-hunting biker Starr Johanson to his destined mate. A blessing placed on her family’s ancestral land summons Mysti Wild to the cabin where she’ll meet the man fated to share her life.

Each fears the other will be frightened by magic they don’t understand, but they quickly learn to trust each other because no one can resist the person they were born to love.

Prologue

New Hampshire, 1883

It’s finished, Jude Wild said, placing his shovel aside and wiping sweat from his brow.

He had finished filling a hole not far from his family’s ancestral home -- a mid-sized cabin -- on their woodland property. He and his wife Ruth intended to keep the cabin, though they had recently bought a home in town, since their publishing company had become more successful than they’d imagined. Their company specialized in books about the supernatural, both fiction and non-fiction. Upon their uncle’s advice, they had taken on some less obscure projects to sell to a wider audience and they had been profitable.

You need a bath. Ruth grinned and handed him a glass of lemonade.

He took a long drink. Ruth stepped closer and unbuttoned his sweaty, dirt-stained shirt.

I’m filthy, he said, his gaze flickering toward her.

That’s why you should take a nice swim in the bay. I’ll join you.

I like that idea. He wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her close for a kiss.

Ruth took the glass from him. Go on. I’ll meet you there.

She turned to walk away and he lightly smacked her bottom. Glancing at him over her shoulder, she smiled.

Jude strolled to the bay behind their cabin while Ruth went to the house.

He undressed and left his dirty clothes on top of a large rock before wading, naked, into the water. He ducked under to rinse his hair and surfaced to see Ruth walking toward him, not a stitch of clothes on her beautiful, curvy body. The setting sun shone through the trees, casting shadows on her pale skin. Jude swam closer to shore and stood, waist-deep in water. Ruth walked toward him, her hazel eyes fixed on his. They reflected the love and arousal he felt.

You’re so beautiful, Ruth, he said, reaching out to trace her cheek. His fingertips trailed over the tops of her breasts before he gently cupped them. They were soft against his calloused palms. Her nipples tightened beneath his touch.

So are you, she murmured, running her fingers through his dark hair.

He leaned down and covered her mouth in a passionate kiss. Their tongues mated and their hearts beat faster.

Ruth couldn’t resist touching him. Tall with a fine, strong build, Jude was powerful, both in body and in his magical gifts. Together, they had battled many supernatural forces -- vampires and shapeshifters gone bad, creatures few mortals knew existed, and worst of all, demons.

She ran her hands down his broad back to his buttocks. It was firm and felt so good in her hands. Jude continued kneading her breasts and teasing her nipples. She moaned softly, her nipples so sensitive that his touch was almost overwhelming.

Then he tugged her deeper into the water. Cool waves lapped their bodies. Jude bent and kissed her breasts. His lips fastened on her nipple and his tongue flicked it.

Jude, that feels so good. I almost can’t stand it, she murmured, clutching his head.

He growled playfully and straightened, gently grasping a handful of hair at the back of her head and tilting her face toward his before kissing her. His erection pressed against her and Ruth reached down to curl her fist around his hard cock. She stroked and he groaned, the guttural sound arousing her even more.

For several moments they stood, kissing deeply while she fondled him, her soft hand stroking him to full mast. Jude caressed her shoulders, back, and buttocks. His thumbs gently pressed and stroked her hips. He found a spot that tickled and she tensed, laughing softly into his mouth. Drawing her even closer, he lightly thrust his cock against her and she grasped handfuls of his hair, kissing him hard, thrusting her tongue into his mouth.

I want to go to our bedroom, Ruth said breathlessly against his lips.

Jude picked her up. Still kissing her, he strode out of the water and carried her toward the house.

What about your clothes? Ruth murmured, catching sight of his shirt and trousers on the rock.

I’ll get them later, he said absently and kissed her before she could protest.

When they reached the house, he put her down only to open the door, but before she could step inside, he picked her up again.

I feel like we just got married.

It wasn’t that long ago, and I’ll never get tired of holding you.

I’ll never get tired of it, either, she admitted, brushing the tip of her nose against his.

He carried her to their room and placed her on the bed. Neither cared that they were still wet from their swim. He loomed over her, covering her from lips to toe with hungry kisses. He knelt between her spread legs and grasped her bottom as his cock thrust into her.

Moaning, Ruth closed her eyes and enjoyed the sensation of Jude inside her. He slid a hand from beneath her to gently fondle her clitoris while he thrust. It wasn’t long before Ruth climaxed. She panted and softly cried his name.

Watching her heightened Jude’s arousal. Nearly overcome by his desire, he shifted position, covering her body with his and thrusting faster and harder.

Jude, oh, my love, she gasped, clinging to him hard as a second climax approached.

His eyes closed, Jude continued thrusting. Just before he lost control, she came again. Groaning and gasping, Jude finished. He managed to move aside enough to avoid crushing her before collapsing, his body half draped over her.

* * *

The image of the loving couple faded and the ghosts of Ruth and Jude faced each other. In the afterlife, they didn’t exactly see each other, but felt each other, almost as if they were one.

It’s funny how we revisit moments of our past and I can almost feel the physical sensations again, Ruth said.

And the sensations we feel now, the touching of our souls, is somehow just as strong, Jude said. Stronger, even.

We felt it at certain times in our mortal lives as well.

I’m only glad that the power that rules the universe gave us such a wonderful gift and allowed us to share it through our blessing on our family’s land. It has touched so many of our descendants.

The universe has let our family rest for well over a century. Now it seems our family’s magic is needed again.

But the universe is as kind as it is cruel. The joining of Mysti and Starr will guide the Wilds to Starr’s strange but honorable family. Our hope for the other pair hasn’t worked out like we thought, but these two will bring the families together. His will allow ours to awaken the sleeping witch warrior magic of the Wild line. At the same time it will bring together two more souls who were made for each other.

Jude smiled, his spiritual force wrapping Ruth in his love. Just like we were.

It’s beginning again, my love. I pray that our descendants have the courage and strength they’ll need for whatever battles might lie ahead.

They will. After all, they’re Wilds.

Chapter One

New Hampshire, 2019

The road Starr traveled wound along the tree-covered mountains. He had been riding for too long and felt almost lulled by the rhythm of the bike. By the look of the darkening sky, he’d need to find a place to camp soon, but he had a little longer to go. He was almost at his destination.

A flash of lightning in the distance prompted him to give the bike more gas. He finally pulled over and walked the bike down a narrow path into the woods. It didn’t look like a manmade path, but it was meant for him. The drizzling rain had turned into a downpour before he found a place to camp.

It wasn’t the first time he’d been alone in the middle of nowhere. Starr liked being on his own sometimes, but he rarely had time for that luxury.

The woods were nearly dark as night now, except for blinding flashes of lightning. Starr was thoroughly soaked from rain and had been nearly deafened by thunder. Storms always seemed worse in the mountains. He hurried to unpack his meager equipment.

Lightning flashed and a nearby tree crashed to the ground. Starr’s heart pounded and he backed away fast. That was too close for --

Starr slipped and tumbled down a rocky, leaf-strewn decline. For several seconds he could only grunt and try to roll with the fall. He landed on his stomach, the wind momentarily knocked out of him. He tasted blood and spat a mouthful while pushing himself to his hands and knees. From what he could tell, he had cuts and bruises, but no breaks.

Blinded by rain and wind, he glanced around, dazed. He started climbing up the slippery incline, but fell again. Maybe it was an optical illusion, but he thought a path led off to his left. Starr tried to calm his mind and listen for guidance. Instinct told him to try the path, illusion or not, and he had long ago learned to listen to his instincts.

He took a step and his ankle nearly buckled.

Great.

He pushed forward as quickly and carefully as he could with a sprained ankle.

Something too warm for rain trickled down the back of his neck. He swiped it and looked at his bloodstained hand. Rain pelted it, diluting the blood. Dragging his hand along his denim-clad thigh, he limped on.

Squinting through the storm, he noticed a clearing in the distance, surrounding a lake or bay.

Hey!

That wasn’t a spirit voice, but human.

Hey, you! Dude!

Starr turned and saw a woman approaching. She wore a yellow fisherman-style raincoat and hat that left half her face in shadow.

She approached and Starr hobbled toward her.

Hi, he said. When she tilted her amber gaze to his, Starr’s heart skipped a beat.

He smiled faintly.

So she’s why I’m here.

Still staring at him, she swallowed and drew a deep breath through parted lips.

We’d better get inside before we get struck or something, she said, glancing around and jumping a bit when sheet lighting illuminated the woods.

Inside where? Starr demanded.

My cabin. This way. She left at a run and Starr hopped after her. Pain shot through his ankle and up his leg with every step.

The woman turned, looking frustrated, and ran back to him. Sorry. You’re hurt. The cabin is right up there. Shit! She jumped again when more lightning struck.

Go ahead, he said. I’ll catch up.

Lean on me. She stepped closer, wedging her firm little body against his and wrapping an arm snugly around his waist. He draped his arm over her shoulder and she said, Let’s go.

Hopping on one foot was easier with her to steady him. Before Starr knew it, they’d reached the cabin. It was warm from the fire burning in the living room hearth. To his right was a pantry and kitchen and to his left a wooden staircase leading to a loft.

Come and sit, she said, slipping away from him to remove her hat and coat and hang them on a nearby hook. I’ll get my first aid kit.

Starr took off his jacket and hung it on another hook before limping to the couch. It was soft and covered with a plaid quilt. Soaked and bleeding as he was, he’d mess it up.

Why are you still standing? she asked, approaching with towels and a first aid kit.

She was cute. No makeup. Big amber eyes. A longish nose and lips that he already wanted to kiss. Her dark, curly hair was tied in a loose bun on top of her head.

I’m wet and bleeding, Starr said, again reaching for the back of his neck where blood still trickled steadily.

Which is why you need to sit your butt down. Now.

She was sort of bossy, and that could be both fun and annoying. Starr did what she told him and asked, What’s your name?

It was almost stupid, that he didn’t know her name, but he knew she was meant for him.

Mysti, she said, snapping on plastic gloves and standing over him to inspect the back of his head. And yours?

Starr.

She smiled. Is that your real name?

Yeah, it’s my real name. Is Mysti yours?

I wasn’t trying to be a smartass. You have a nasty cut right behind your ear. Mysti pressed a towel to the spot. Hold that so I can check out your ankle.

It’s probably just a -- ah. Fuck!

She’d yanked his boot off, shooting pain up his leg.

Sorry, Mysti said, placing his boot aside and gently touching his ankle. This is seriously swollen. I’ve got ice. What happened to you?

He curled his lip in annoyance and embarrassment. I slipped on wet leaves and rolled down a hill.

Other than your ankle, do you think you broke anything or have a concussion?

No. I’m fine. Clumsy, that’s all.

My truck is parked around back. Do you think you need to go to the ER right now?

More sheet lighting flashed outside the window across the room. Hell no, he said.

Okay. When this storm passes I’ll take you to get checked out. Be right back with the ice. Mysti stood, and Starr glanced after her, noting that she was small but curvy.

Despite being distracted by the storm and his ankle, Starr hadn’t missed how good she’d felt, pressed against him when she’d helped him back to the house.

He was pissed that he’d been injured for their introduction. So much for how he’d imagined them meeting -- maybe with him sweeping her off her feet and riding into the sunset with her on the back of his bike.

Sometimes Starr thought his family was right. He was a certifiable dreamer.

That was fine, though. It had gotten him this far.

What are you doing out here? Mysti called from the kitchen.

You probably wouldn’t believe me if I told you, Starr said.

Try me.

I just… I wanted to be alone for a while. I had some vacation time coming.

That was only a partial truth. He had more than enough vacation time, considering he rarely took them, but that was part of the life he’d chosen. There was no way Starr could tell her that he’d left his secretary and his family and associates open-mouthed and overworked so that he could ride out here to meet his romantic destiny, or in the words of his stepfather, his old lady.

Starr chuckled.

What’s so funny about a swollen ankle? Mysti asked, approaching with a stool and ice bag. Kneeling by his feet, she gently removed his sock. Starr was glad his socks were clean and his boots fairly new and made of good leather. The only thing more humiliating than meeting his dream woman while covered in blood and mud would be knocking her out with eau de stinking feet.

Starr chuckled and shook his head. This is a great first meeting.

I’ll say. You could have been knocked out or broken your neck.

I hadn’t thought of that, he said.

Put your foot up here.

Starr eased his foot onto the stool and Mysti placed the ice bag over his ankle. Hopefully it would take the swelling down. With any luck, he’d just sprained his ankle and not broken it.

Mysti climbed onto the couch beside him to inspect the cut behind his ear.

The bleeding has slowed down a lot. I’m going to tape some gauze to it, but you should be okay.

What a relief. I’m going to live, Starr said sarcastically.

Very funny. Hold still. She gently cleaned the wound.

I am.

You’re not.

Starr made a conscious effort not to move, but said, Pushy, aren’t you?

You might as well know that straight away.

Funny how Mysti said that. If not for Starr’s premonition, it might have made him nervous that a total stranger was acting so familiar around him. Yet Mysti had no inside information about their destined mate status, so he wondered why she was so comfortable around a strange man.

What were you doing out there? Starr asked.

I saw you from my bedroom window.

Do you always invite total strangers to your place?

Only if they’re dripping blood and about to get struck by lightning. Mysti finished bandaging his wound, and then she gathered the wrappings and the bloody towel.

What if I’m a bad guy?

Those amber eyes stared unflinching into his. Are you?

No.

I didn’t think so.

Starr glanced at her archly. But can you believe me?

I don’t know. Can you trust me? For all you know I might be a hatchet murderer, and you’re in no condition to run for your life.

Starr grinned. Yeah. He already liked this girl.

So, bad guy, do you want some tea or coffee?

I’ll have what you’re having, hatchet murderer.

Mysti laughed and returned to the kitchen.

Starr leaned back on the couch and tried to relax. It felt good being in a warm, cozy cabin with a cute babe who was meant for him, whether she knew it or not. His gaze drifted around the room.

Several colorful sun catchers hung in the window. A group of small, hand drawn portraits covered the wall over the stone mantel. An antique chest of dark wood stood against one wall. Several candles rested on top of it. They looked handmade and even from a distance Starr caught their vanilla scent. He shifted his gaze toward the coffee table. It was simple, but sturdy and polished. A small fountain rested on top of it. Water ran soothingly down the polished rocks into a little pool. Starr stared at it for a moment or two and found the tension easing from body and mind -- rare for him. He hoped he hadn’t sustained a concussion after all. That thought roused him and he looked away from the fountain toward the fireplace.

No, he didn’t have a concussion. These emotions were inspired by the house itself. Some people and places emanated upbeat feelings, like some emanated gloomy ones.

Here we go, Mysti said, approaching with two steaming mugs and a plastic container tucked under her arm. Starr sat up and took the mugs from her to place them on the coffee table.

She tugged the lid off the container and tossed it next to the mugs.

Chocolate arrowroot cookies, she said. Gluten free. Dairy free. Nut free.

Taste free? he teased.

She narrowed her eyes at him. Nice. Real nice.

Don’t you have a sense of humor?

I guess you’ll have to find out. How are you feeling? Other than sarcastic, I mean?

I’m fine, except for this stupid ankle.

You’ve got a big bruise on the side of your face. I should get you more ice for that --

Before Mysti could leave again, Starr grasped her hand. You’ve done enough. Sit. Drink your tea. Eat your healthy cookies, and talk to me.

That might be a good idea, she said softly, and for the first time looked uneasy.

Hey, I know you weren’t expecting company. I appreciate everything you’ve done for me.

Mysti offered him a melting smile. I’m glad to help. Have a cookie. They really do taste good. To prove it, she plucked a cookie out of the container, broke it and offered Starr half while she popped the other half into her mouth.

He took a bite and shrugged. It wasn’t bad. You live up here? Starr asked.

Not exactly. My family owns this cabin and several acres of land. I came here to -- take a break.

I get how that is. Again he glanced around. This time he accepted the feelings of warmth and relaxation. It was not only the place, but the woman. This is a beautiful house.

Mysti’s brow furrowed. It’s not much, really. Just a log cabin that’s been renovated and expanded for generations.

That’s not what I meant. I’m talking about how it feels here. There’s a lot of history. Most of it’s good.

A faint smile tugged at her bow-like lips. Yeah. That’s true.

It’s… beautiful. That’s definitely the word. Starr’s voice drifted to almost a whisper, and he fixed his gaze on Mysti. She was beautiful, too, but it wasn’t the right time to tell her. She’d probably think it creepy for a dude she’d just met to compliment her good looks. He needed to be careful with this one. She was too important.

Mysti glanced at her hands, and Starr sensed that she hadn’t told him the truth just now, but he wasn’t too concerned. They had just met and she didn’t owe him any explanation about why she was here. After all, he hadn’t told her the truth about why he was here, either.

I hope my bike and my stuff is okay where I left it, Starr said.

Like a mountain bike? she asked.

Like a Harley, he said.

Oh. Damn. Where did you leave it?

At the spot where I was setting up camp when I rolled down the hill. Hey, I was probably about to squat on your property. Sorry about that.

Well, since I’ve invited you to my cabin, I’m not going to be upset about you pitching a tent on my land. Mysti glanced toward the window. It looks like the storm is passing. Let’s get you to urgent care to make sure you’re okay, and then we can go find your bike and your camping stuff.

Starr almost argued, but she was probably right.

He pulled on his sock, but there was no way his boot was going on over his swollen ankle. Mysti helped him to her pickup and he climbed in.

Luckily there was an urgent care center in the touristy little town about twenty minutes up the road. As Starr had guessed, other than the cuts and bruises, he was fine. His ankle was sprained, not broken, and the cut behind his ear required a little more cleaning and some skin glue.

Take it easy for a week or two, the doctor’s assistant instructed. Ice. Elevation. Pop a couple of ibuprofen for the pain. If your ankle doesn’t improve, see an orthopedic doc. No hiking or anything until you heal. I know it probably ruins your vacation plans. Sorry about that.

Starr had hoped to get in some hiking and running, but that hadn’t been his main plan. Besides he was positive he wouldn’t need an orthopedic doctor. He was a fast healer.

Okay, let’s go pick up your stuff, Mysti said on their way back to her truck.

At least the doctor had given Starr a crutch and wrapped his ankle so that he didn’t need to lean on her. Not that Starr had minded being close to her hot little body, but he’d rather it be in a different way, preferably with Mysti hugging his waist while they cruised on his bike or eventually wrapped in his arms in bed. That would happen later, when she realized, too, that they belonged together.

He hadn’t gotten off to a very good start proving that he was the man for her, but that was about to change.

Chapter Two

Mysti tried to remain cool and keep from ogling Starr. While she hadn’t been expecting a particular type of man, she hadn’t believed he would be this adorable. It was almost too good to be true, and in the back of her mind she expected another guy to show up to fulfill her destiny. Yet all signs pointed to Starr being the one.

She glanced at him from the corner of her eye. Starr sat in the passenger seat of her pickup, one hand resting on his muscular thigh outlined perfectly in his snug jeans. His other hand was hooked on the upper frame of the open window. Eyes the color of a clear morning sky fixed on the road. He furrowed his brow and his full, kissable lips were set in an annoyed line.

Sorry your vacation is ruined, Mysti said.

Starr turned to her, and those lush lips turned up in a slight smile. It’s not ruined. This is a little bump on the road of life, that’s all. Hey, I got to meet you because of it, right? That’s been a pleasure.

Funny, but you don’t talk how you look.

Sorry?

No, I’m sorry. Sometimes I say things out loud that are better kept to myself.

Well, since you said it and roused my curiosity, why not elaborate?

Roused his curiosity. Mysti could think of something else she’d rather rouse, like his libido. Maybe she had already stirred it. There was no mistaking the warmth beneath the cool blue of his eyes. There’s nothing to elaborate on, Mysti said, slowing the truck so that she could park on the side of the road. Is this the spot?

Starr looked out the window. Yeah. I think so. He turned back to Mysti and their gazes locked. Her heart beat faster and she tried not to imagine kissing him and feeling his hard body against hers like when she’d helped him to the cabin. Thanks for your help, Mysti.

For a moment she thought Starr might kiss her. Damn, she was so ready.

Then Starr turned and climbed out of the truck. He reached for his crutch and closed the door. Leaning in the window, his gaze intent on hers, Starr said, I’d like to see you again -- under better conditions.

Good, Mysti said, more to herself than to him. Then she smiled. Yes. I’d like that.

Can I have your number?

Yes. Of course. Mysti reached into the glove box for a pen and notepad. She wrote her cell number and offered it to him.

He took it, his rough fingertips deliberately brushing her hand.

Talk to you soon, Starr said.

Wait. I’m not going to just dump you here. I can at least wait with you until the tow truck comes for your bike.

Tow? There’s bound to be a motel around here. I can make it without a tow.

Mysti curled her lip. Are you crazy? You shouldn’t ride like that. You could get into an accident.

The ankle is no big deal --

No way. I won’t let you do that.

Starr laughed, his eyes widening. You’re giving me orders?

Of course Mysti had no business telling him what to do. Yet. Starr had no idea that he was meant for her and one day Mysti would have every right to give him orders, regardless of whether or not he followed them.

I’m suggesting you don’t take an unnecessary risk, she replied, trying to sound diplomatic. Unless you’re sick of my company and would rather ride off with an injured ankle than wait here with me. I mean, we didn’t exactly plan this, right?

Sometimes unplanned is better. I wouldn’t be holding you up?

No. Mysti smiled and shook her head.

Listen, I’ll be right back. I’m going to get my bike and my gear.

Let me help. She stepped out of the truck and joined him on the way down the path to the site Starr had picked to camp.

You’re awfully trusting, aren’t you? Starr asked on their way through the woods.

Mysti grinned. I thought I was the hatchet murderer?

I’m serious this time.

I don’t make a habit of walking into the woods with strange men.

Then why me?

You wouldn’t believe me if I told you. If Mysti said that they were destined to be together, Starr would probably panic and she wouldn’t blame him.

Don’t be so sure, Starr murmured.

Mysti turned to him, again noting his good looks. She guessed Starr was around six feet tall with a sturdy build. He wore his tawny hair fairly short, but not enough to hide soft-looking waves that she desperately wanted to touch. If not for the scruff covering his jaw, Starr would have been boyishly handsome. Mysti couldn’t decide how old he was. He looked in his early twenties. She had just turned twenty-five and didn’t relish the idea of being with a younger guy, but he seemed relatively mature. She told herself that since they were meant to be, age didn’t matter.

When they reached the campsite, Mysti glanced around. A large tree had crashed too close to Starr’s soaked, wind-tossed gear. Damn thing could have killed me, Starr muttered.

Mysti felt sick at the thought. She numbly walked to the edge of a surprisingly steep drop. Is this where you fell? she asked.

That’s it.

You seriously could have broken your neck. Mysti’s stomach twisted again when she considered that Starr might have been killed before they met.

Didn’t happen, so there’s no point thinking about it, he said, collecting the few items that were strewn around the area.

Mysti helped him gather his belongings and push his bike to the street. Surprisingly, it didn’t take long for the tow truck to arrive.

Where to? asked the driver, a short, robust man with a giant brown beard.

Where’s the nearest motel? Starr asked.

Loon Brook Motel is about three miles up the road, Mysti said.

That works. Starr instructed the driver to take the bike there.

Mysti drove Starr to the motel, and before he got out, he said, I’d like to take you to dinner tonight.

That sounds nice, she said.

Pick you up around six?

She winked. Why don’t I pick you up, considering you’re injured.

Yeah. I’m still not used to this. See you at six.

I’m looking forward to it. Mysti impulsively reached out and swept her thumb across his full lips. She could hardly wait to feel them against hers, but she couldn’t just go ahead and kiss him. They hadn’t even been on a date yet.

Starr took her hand and kissed the back of it. His mouth was warm and firm, but soft. His short, scruffy beard tickled her skin. Mysti nearly closed her eyes from the pleasure of his touch.

So this is what it feels like to meet my soulmate. Finally, the Wild family magic had touched her love life. See you at six, she said, more breathlessly than she’d intended.

I’ll be here.

Mysti gazed into his eyes and warmth flooded her. Starr stepped out of the truck and Mysti drove off. She wished she had kissed him after all, but if the Wild family magic proved right, there would be plenty of time for that later.

During the drive back to the cabin, an emptiness she’d never felt before tugged at Mysti’s heart. She’d just met Starr, but already she missed him. Mysti hadn’t dated much in her life. She’d never wanted to. Mysti had a close-knit family and enjoyed working and socializing with them, but she also valued her private time.

When she’d felt the pull of the cabin -- the magic that had lured members of the Wild family to their ancestral land where they would meet their destined mates, she’d had mixed feelings. Part of her anticipated meeting her soul mate, but another part of her worried about sacrificing her freedom. She wondered if he would understand her need for solitude or if he’d be hurt by it. Even worse, she had no way of knowing how possessive he might be. She liked the idea of having someone in her life who