Read Online Soul of the Wildcat by Devyn Quinn - Free Book Online

honestly thought we had them. All the time we were tracking them, we had no idea they had backup.”
    Jesse grimaced and rubbed his injured forehead. “Yeah, well, the inbred brothers are sneaky like that. Rusty’s always got their back.”
    Dakoda snickered, glad for a bit of humor to lighten the heavy load they both carried. “Inbred brothers. I like that.” She’d believe it, too. “So crazy runs in the family?”
    Jesse’s hand dropped. “Sure does. These guys know no boundaries, either. If bad is to be done, they will be the ones doing it.”
    â€œSuch a charming bunch.” She frowned. “Is it true we’re being sold?”
    Jesse sighed “Yes. And I suspect where we’ll wind up isn’t anyplace good.”
    Dakoda felt the air drizzle out of her lungs. “Then they know you’re more than just a cougar—what you can do?”
    Jesse swallowed hard, then answered. “Unfortunately, they do,” he spat out bitterly. “The poachers sell us to collectors, people who want unusual animals for private zoos.” His mouth turned down. “Or to those who want animalistic lovers.” He laughed shortly, but with little amusement. “I guess one thing we can be grateful for is they don’t kill us off for our pelts, teeth, and claws. Those poor damn bears don’t have a chance.”
    Dakoda just stared at him, trying to fathom the reality behind his words. It didn’t take a rocket scientist to know uncommon objects were valuable on the black market, all highly prized by collectors. People made treks all over the world in pursuit of objects their hearts desired. Were willing to do anything, spend any amount, to make the dream of owning the rare prize a reality.
    Imagine wanting a person who could shift into an animal. What an exceptional trophy that would be. To possess something so unique would be like having the keys to evolution itself…
    A human being who could shift into an animal’s form. Live as an animal. Breathe as an animal. Be an animal.
    What an extraordinary gift .
    Dakoda’s pulse raced with each jarring beat of her heart. “These men have to be stopped. What they’re doing is wrong on every level.”
    Jesse Clawfoot speared her with a narrow look. “I’d have to agree on every level,” he said wryly. “Except we’ve got one problem: we’re the prisoners, not the other way around.”
    Dakoda tossed up her hands in exasperation. “But there has to be a way out of this mess for both of us. As long as we’re breathing, we’re alive. And as long as we’re alive, there’s hope.”
    Jesse took a step toward the wall and closed his eyes. “I’m afraid hope is wearing pretty thin for my kind.” He rubbed a hand against his forehead. “Our tribe numbers less than seventy. Those who remember the old ways are dying off. Add in the fact that more than a few tribe members have just vanished.” He snapped his fingers. “Just like that, they’re gone.”
    Dakoda felt a tug around her heartstrings. “Captured and sold off, no doubt.”
    Hand dropping, Jesse nodded. “It’s a given we males have to roam far and wide to establish our own territory and find mates. That’s why I was off the reservation. Through the last few months I could have sworn I’d scented a female.”
    Dakoda felt her pulse quicken. “You mean one of your race?”
    Jesse nodded. “Yes. I’d just gotten a fresh track on her when I stepped into a trap.” He lifted a hand, showing the deep rope burn around his wrist. “At least it wasn’t one of those claw-tooth traps. I’d have lost my hand for sure.”
    â€œThat means you lost her, I suppose.”
    Jesse angled his head, sending a spill of black hair down his shoulders. His hair brushed the tips of his flat male nipples. Dakoda couldn’t help