Free New Species 12 Darkness by Laurann Dohner Page A

wouldn’t go. She was formidable and didn’t disappoint.
    “No. I came to teach classes. Shit happens. I’m good. I wouldn’t mind some clothes though.”
    He admired her spirit. Some females wouldn’t recover quickly from facing a difficult situation to dealing with a new one. The only flaw in her armor was the slight trembling of her legs. He noticed everything about her.
    “Of course. Stay here and I’ll retrieve your clothes. Would you prefer someone else bring them to you? I’m sure I’m not your favorite person.” He couldn’t resist baiting her.
    Color rose in her cheeks again. “I don’t care who brings them.” Her chin lifted and she held his gaze with determination.
    She was so appealing. He wanted to smile but kept the grimace in place. “Is there anything I can do to make it up to you?” He purposely lowered his gaze down her body. “I owe you.”
    He caught the quick intake of her breath and the way her eyes widened. He’d shocked her with his subtle sexual offer. She didn’t answer immediately.
    “It’s probably best for both of us if we leave it as is. Just get me some clothes. It’s cold in here. It would be nice to know if my suitcase survived so I have something to wear tomorrow. It was in the trunk of my car.”
    “I’ll look into that. Relax, Kat. Welcome to Homeland.” He spun and stalked to the door, picking up his discarded tank top on the way. “Someone will be in shortly with your things. Stay here. There are a lot of males outside who would enjoy the view of you in so little.”
    He walked out and closed the door behind him. He’d be keeping a close eye on that female and she’d be dealing with him often. First he’d have to change his current living arrangements. He looked forward to seeing her surprise when he became her neighbor.

Chapter Four
     
    Kat walked around the small home after her shower and appreciated how well the NSO accommodated guests though she wasn’t allowed to leave without picking up the phone and calling for an escort. Visitors weren’t permitted to roam Homeland without one.
    The two-bedroom cottage had charming furnishings and a comfortable feel. Her suitcase had been searched and delivered. Some new damage showed on the plastic case but she was grateful it had survived the explosion. All her clothes had been put away in one of the bedrooms that faced the cute little patio area.
    The doorbell rang and she tensed, not expecting anyone until morning. She opened it, though, feeling safe. NSO had security up the ass. A female stood there, one she hadn’t met before, and held out a covered tray.
    “Darkness asked me to deliver your dinner. I know you’re stocked with food supplies but he told me this is his way of apologizing for being mean to you.”
    Kat was surprised. “Thanks.”
    “Move and I’ll bring it in.”
    “I’m Kat, by the way.” She stepped aside and waved her arm. “Come on in.”
    “I’m Sunshine.”
    The tall feline New Species was pretty. “I love your hair.”
    The woman turned and flashed a smile. “Thanks. It’s natural.”
    That surprised Kat. The woman’s tresses had to be at least six different colors. She didn’t mention that it reminded her of her neighbor’s pet or that she could guess what breed of cat they’d gotten her DNA from. She’d never look at Calicos the same way again.
    “I know the layout. Most of these cottages have the same floor plan.” Sunshine walked into the kitchen and placed the tray on the counter. “Are you okay? I figured Darkness must have done something really bad to ask me to deliver food. He’s frightening.”
    “I’m great. There was just a little mix-up at the gate.”
    The woman arched her eyebrows. “We were attacked and you made the bad guys go kaboom !” She grinned. “Everyone is talking about it.”
    Kat had to admit she hadn’t thought about much else since she’d been shown to the cottage. Men had died. They had planned to do harm but that didn’t mean