Moonlight Revenge

MOONLIGHT REVENGE

By

Russ Kaylin

* * * * *

PUBLISH:ED

and EDITED By:

Russ Kaylin

Moonlight Revenge

Copyright © 2012 by Linda Russell

This book is a work of fiction. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, or places, events or locale is purely coincidental. The characters are a production of the author's imagination and used fictitiously.

Adult Reading Material

A heartfelt thank you to my friends and family and all others along the way who supported me. Special thanks to Cheryl and Loretta for keeping me positive. And of course Emily, my Yorkie, for giving me unhalting attention while trying to write. Couldn't have done it without her!

From The Author

I would like to thank all my readers for downloading the Moonlight Series. A special thanks and appreciation to all of those that left a review. I read all that I find and take into consideration your comments. I tried a different approach to writing in this series and, by your comments, have found that it tends to be a bit confusing. Unfortunately, Revenge already had a copyright so I could not change the content. I will amend this issue in upcoming books. Tip: when Jenson is in the scene, she is telling the story. Thanks again and I hope you enjoy!

Chapter 1

Not long ago I had no idea where my life was going or how I was going to get there. I didn't work, go to school or even have a plan. Today, I work in a little country store out near the lake. We sell everything from fishing line to sleeping bags, and somewhere in between you'll find thermal underwear and Styrofoam coolers. My boss is a real good guy. Handsome, brave and smart. And he's got a pretty cute behind too. Why is it okay for me to say that? Because he is my boyfriend. That's right. I work for my boyfriend. Not only that, I live with him as well. I still don't have a plan but I'm working on that. For now, I'm happy just being me, Jenson Bennett.

My summer was a strange one. I encountered things that I never would have thought existed. I faced danger that I never would have imagined could happen. I discovered true friendship among people I never would have thought could accept me. I know, sounds a little weird but you'll get the gist of things soon enough. Now, summer is ending and fall is right around the corner. Maybe with the change in weather, things will calm down a bit.

William, the man I am head over heels in love with, has a special trait about him. Not only is he gorgeous and totally devoted to me, he is also a werewolf. No, for real. He's a werewolf. I thought it was crazy too when I first found out but he isn't that much different from you and me. He lives in a beautiful house overlooking the lake and is the Alpha male of his pack. That means he's the top dog. They would do anything for him. Anything. No matter what. There he is now, with his fine self, bringing in the last of today's delivery. When his muscles flex like that, it makes me crazy inside!

That's the last one. I think your father will love this!

When I looked up, he had on one of those crazy fishing hats, covered with feathery lures and hooks. The annual Smith Lake fishing tournament is this month and William promised my dad that they would be partners this year. My parents aren't aware of William's 'special' abilities. Although I'm sure it wouldn't make much difference even if they were. He quickly won their hearts and they are anxiously awaiting the wedding date. He did propose and he did give me an engagement ring. His lifestyle doesn't require such a union but he chose to do it the customary way for my benefit. I accepted his proposal but we have yet to set a date. This relationship is still quite new. I think it's best that we get to know one another a little better before making the final plunge. I truly love him and very much want to spend my life with him. I mean, it can't be all that bad waking up next to a warm and furry man every morning!

I think you're right. It's definitely his style.

I would love to be a fly on the wall, or on the water in this case, when those two are in a boat all day together. I'm sure my dad will drive him crazy but William is too much the gentleman to show it. By the time my dad gets home, he will have had the time of his life. Let's hope they win or else he will make a scene and swear that somebody has cheated. You have no idea how embarrassing my dad can be when he gets riled up.

He placed the hat on my head and kissed the bridge of my nose. Those lips send tingles down my spine no matter where he puts them.

I purchased a permit for a booth on tournament day. Would you mind helping out?

Notice how he kissed me first before asking. How could I turn down such a romantic offer?

Of course I will.

The wolf existence must remain unknown to humans. This is because the fear of werewolves would cause humans to destroy and drive their kind to extinction. Humans recognize the werewolf as a killer, a danger to the human race. In reality, they are people just like you and me. They have no intention of taking over the world or driving humans out. They simply want to live their lives without issue and be happy. And regardless of public opinion, they don't eat people.

During our ordeal with the wereleopards, yes there is more out there than what we think, Chris became aware of the werewolves as well. He has been a really good friend of mine for quite a few years. And I mean really good. It never took more than being in one another's presence and we would end up bumping uglies between the sheets. That was before William came along of course. We've developed a more grownup relationship now. With the exception that he's still completely immature and I am the adult. Although I'm sure we differ on that opinion. Anyway, they all think he's one of them now. Defend a wolf once or twice and you're adopted. Go figure.

Time tends to fly when a good book takes me away to fantasy world. Yep, I'm an avid reader. I think the greatest thing ever invented was a book. No matter what might be going wrong in my life, a fictional story is the cure. I sat up half the night engulfed in a mystery series that I had been reading for months now. When the alarm clock screamed in my ear at four o'clock in the morning, I wanted to throw the blasted thing across the room. William, on the other hand, jumped from bed refreshed and ready to go. Nothing like a good fishing tournament with your future father-in-law to get your day going!

I whined and complained for about fifteen minutes but in the end I got myself ready to go. He would pick up my dad while some of the pack members and I set up our booth at the park. It would be my job to rent storage slots for boats at our store and convince folks to make reservations for a one-on-one day of romping in the woods with my boyfriend. He knows everything about hunting and with open season right around the corner, people would be more than willing to pay good money for a better chance at nabbing one of those defenseless deer. I still don't get the part about hanging their heads on the wall and calling it a trophy. That just seems sick.

Look here, William. Don't you listen to any of those stupid stories that Dad likes to tell about me. Besides, none of them are true.

He kissed my cheek and patted my behind on his way out. I'm not sure if I like this bonding thing with my parents. He gave a little chuckle as he disappeared down the hallway. I suddenly got lost in the moment watching those blue jeans walk away. He certainly does know how to wear a pair of blue jeans, yes he does.

Wow, not even a biscuit today?

Usually the smell of bacon or sausage hits me before I even reach the kitchen. Today, just coffee.

Sorry, Jenson. I didn't have time. But we have plenty for the road!

Abbey gestured toward three massive coolers she had packed full of food for the day. Apparently a werewolf's appetite is never-ending. Abbey is a hyper little thing and also the pack's Alpha female. She's adorable, cute and can hold her own against any of the wolves, with the exception of William of course. Did I mention I'm extremely jealous of her? Not only does everyone think she should be the one to mate with William, now she's crushing on my best friend, Chris. I keep this a hidden emotion because she's been nothing but nice to me. Still, I can't help but wonder if William would have taken her for his mate had I not come along.

No big deal. I don't think my stomach is awake yet anyway.

I threw some things in a small backpack and headed out. It was still dark outside, this being because no one else in the world would find it necessary to be out of bed yet. The guys had already put everything in back of Malcolm's truck and headed out. I followed behind in my trusty, dated Honda Civic. Not the best looking car on the road but it gets me around. If it weren't so early I'd turn on my favorite rock song and sing at the top of my lungs. The factory stereo still installed doesn't allow for that ear-splitting bass to come through as it is meant to do. One day I will invest in a proper system.

The air outside was already warm and I wasn't looking forward to spending the next ten hours in the sun. I drove through the gate, showing my vendor's pass to get in for free. People were walking about here and there, others were busy setting up their own booth while the professional fish-hunters squared away their little boats for the day's event. I'm sure that each one of them deemed themselves 'the best fisherman in these here parts' but truth be told, fishing was mostly a sport of luck, not skill. I mean how hard can it be, persuading a brain smaller than the size of a pea to grab a metal hook with its mouth? Seems logical enough.

William had arranged everything neatly in the boat. Thanks to Abbey, they had plenty of food and water to last three days if necessary. My dad was proudly showing off his new hat to a group of other old men. My boyfriend probably didn't know he was signing up for a day with the senior citizen assemblage. Sure there were younger guys participating as well, but he was obligated to enjoy himself with the elderly.

You sure you really want to do this?

I couldn't help but to smirk when I saw the look on his face. He responded in a polite manner.

Sure. It'll be...fun. Then he secretly squeezed my behind. Besides, I have to stay on your father's good side if he is to allow me to take advantage of his only daughter's femininity.

Dad looked over just in time to catch him.

You two cut that out now. There'll be enough time for all that mushy crap once you're married. After a few years, it'll all be hangin' toward the ground anyway and you probably won't even want her no more.

Dad!

Well, that's nature, little girl. Ask your mama. She'll tell ya. I haven't seen my butt cheeks for quite some time now. She says I scratched it all away!

He got a good laugh out of himself but I was mortified. I decided to leave before he embarrassed me any further.

I'll see you two at the weigh in.

I kissed my wolfman passionately and pranced away. I think I even heard a little rumble in his throat. I love it when that happens. This little show wasn't meant for my father, but instead for the teenaged redhead that seemed to have her eyeballs frozen in his direction. I gave her that 'don't mess with my man' look as I passed by. Jealousy has never been my style yet I sure seem to be experiencing a lot of it here lately.

An awning was standing erect with a table full of items from the store. Great, now I have to watch for thieves as well as being a salesperson.

What is all of this stuff?

The few who were standing there appeared dumbfounded.

William wanted us to bring a few things from the store. You know, promote business and all. What do you think?

Abbey can't seem to control her enthusiasm over anything.

I think somebody better be planning on helping me watch over this crap.

Wow, you really are a grouch in the morning.

She pouted and plopped down in a folding chair at the other end of the table. Maybe it was just PMS but something exciting better happen or else I was going to have a very long day. Then something did happen but I couldn't exactly call it exciting. My mother showed up.

Oh honey, isn't this thrilling! Your father and William in a fishing tournament together. The son he never had. That wasn't my fault, mind you. It's not like we didn't try enough.

Mom, please! I really don't need another naked visual of you and dad today.

Abbey giggled. I suppose that was my payback for being rude to her.

And who is this pretty little thing? I'm Jenson's mother, Joan. Isn't that cute? Two Js in the family.

Oh God, is it her goal in life for everyone to know just how eccentric she is? Abbey didn't seem to notice. She introduced herself with a smile, eyeballing me again for being rude. She ooed and aahed over all the items until she noticed one of her friends in the distance.

Yoohoo! Graaaaaacie! You girls have fun. I'm going to mingle.

She dashed away, waving her arm endlessly through the air. I seem to be the only one bothered by her display. She is generally a big hit at social gatherings. Maybe I should learn to be a bit more like her. Enjoy life. Overlook the crud. Nope. Not gonna happen this time. It's too early in the morning. I took the folded contraption from a bag and spread its plastic legs into a square, creating a portable chair. Isn't that amazing? I prepared myself for the upcoming torture and took a seat. Thing is, I missed the chair completely, landing abruptly on the ground. A burst of laughter immediately erupted.

Jenson, I'm sorry. If you could only have seen yourself!

She reached to lend a hand.

Are you hurt?

Just my pride.

I brushed off the backside of my pants and tried it again. This time testing the weight of the chair with my hands first. Once I was comfortable that it would hold up, I sat. Now I was the one pouting. This day couldn't get any better.

The traditional blowing of the foghorn sounded to kick off the tournament. Cheers and applause echoed throughout the park. I looked around at all the different people's faces and demeanor. They were all talking, smiling and generally enjoying themselves. Maybe being an old stick in the mud was the wrong attitude. After all, I grew up here. I should know how to take pleasure in all the things that make this place special. A hint of a grin made its way to my face when I watched an elderly couple pass by holding hands.

I saw that.

Abbey doesn't miss anything.

Okay, you caught me. Maybe this stuff isn't so bad.

I decided to wake myself up and stretch my legs.

You mind holding down the fort for a bit? I'm gonna take a look around.

~ ~ ~

William pulled the cord on the tiny trolling motor and they were off. There was a fine mist of fog floating on the water, creating an eerie sense of being. They moved along at a slow pace toward their destination.

I found this great spot about three miles out.

I don't think my dad anticipated such a long boat ride. He just thought they would spend some quality, male-bonding time on the lake catching enormous fish and winning a trophy.

Well, guess I better eat something then. Want some jerky?

He held out a strip of dried beef toward William. He graciously took the piece of meat and shoved it into his mouth. It didn't take as long as expected and once they reached their destination, the party began. They both took up their rod, loaded a wriggling worm onto the hook and cast out the line. This is the part where you sit and wait, and sit and wait, and...sit and wait. For the life of me I can't figure out the entertainment value of this sport. Just then, William's line tugged toward the water.

Ooo, reel him in!

Shh, wait. You have to be patient. He's just nibbling a bit. Once he grabs hold I'll snag him.

The line bobbed a few more times and then stopped. They sat staring at the same spot for minutes and nothing else happened.

I told ya to reel him in. Now he got away. Sit back and watch the master at work. I'll show you how an expert catches a fish.

Is that right? Well, watch this.

William removed his t-shirt, folded it neatly and set it aside. He placed his rod in its holster and then removed his jeans. Once stripped down to his underwear, he cautiously stood, taking extra effort not to rock the boat, and peered over the edge. He stood that way for just a few minutes before diving directly into the lake.

What the hell!

My dad was frantic. He looked all around but couldn't see William beneath the murky water. Just as he started to panic, William emerged from the surface with a flopping bluegill hanging crosswise from his mouth. He pulled himself into the boat, opened his mouth and dropped the fish in a bucket.

That's how it's done.

My dad was ecstatic.

Well, by God, that's how you do it right there! Woohoo! You're gonna have to teach me how to do that.

I think we better stick with the rod and reel. Jenson would have my hide if anything were to happen to you. Not to mention your wife.

~ ~ ~

There were many tables and booths set up in the general area. Didn't take me long to begin browsing through some of the items for sale. I came upon one that was selling Indian jewelry and knickknacks. The vendor was a middle-aged woman of Native American descent. She was plump around the middle and had long, black hair pulled tight in a braid down her back. Every extremity was adorned with one piece or another from her collection.

I make them myself. There is a story behind each piece. Here, try this on.

She placed a bracelet made of jade on my wrist. Hanging from the center was an animal tooth. An incisor maybe. I ran my finger along the length of it.

It is gray wolf. Said to be taken from the beast killed by a mighty warrior. It will protect you from danger.

I looked into her eyes and saw wisdom. She believed what she was telling me.

You keep this one.

It was beautiful but I couldn't take it. I started to remove it from my wrist when she clutched my hand in hers.