Angels & Sinners: The Motor City Edition

by Ashley Suzanne

  Quite frankly, it unnerved her to have Kendrick so close. A small part of her wanted to knock on his door each night. The wolf in her craved a proper mate—not that he was proper—he was hot and… No. No. No. Stop thinking about him! He’s your ex’s brother. I should move. Who knows what is going on? No. I’m not moving. Tuscany is my home.

  Not seeing him made it easier. It appeared, however, her luck had ended as Kendrick was climbing out of his car as she was pulling into her parking spot. Sighing, she shut off the ignition and climbed out of the car.

  “Hello, Astrid,” Kendrick greeted as he walked to their building. “How are you this evening?”

  “Fine,” she quipped. She wanted to get away from him, but he wanted to have idle chitchat.

  “Have you been to any local vineyards?” Kendrick asked conversationally.

  What was going on? Why was he talking to her? “I don’t really see how it matters to you what I do in my free time,” she answered warily studying him. He wore dark wash jeans that hugged his sculpted ass perfectly. The tee he wore stretched over his chest, accentuating his muscular pectorals.

  “Did you know my family owns a lovely vineyard about an hour from here? Perhaps you could come and see it sometime,” Kendrick offered.

  “Why would I want to go anywhere your family owns?” Astrid asked annoyed. His family owned a vineyard here? How did she not know that? She’d do some digging to see if he was telling the truth. Maybe she should move. Killian could show up at anytime. She paused, glancing at Kendrick. But why is he here? He’s avoiding them too.

  “Well we are neighbors,” Kendrick grinned. “Shouldn’t we get to know each other?”

  “How long are you going to be here?” Would she have to endure his company for long?

  “Will you be sad to see me go?” He smiled at her.

  “Actually, no. I’ll probably throw a party,” Astrid replied rolling her eyes. A tinge of something coursed through her at the thought of him leaving, but she shook it off. She would be happy when he left. Kendrick Johnson was dangerous.

  ***

  Kendrick watched as Astrid’s chest heaved with anger. Her pouty, pink lips puckered and her green eyes dodged his. She ran a hand through her long brown hair, causing her natural vanilla scent to waft off of her. Beautiful. He took a step forward, his hand stretching out to push a wisp of hair from her face. Astrid swallowed and for a second, he thought she would lean into his touch, but instead she recoiled. He wished there was something he could do to get her to be a little less hostile toward him. To get her to trust him. Start by answering her question. “There was a small mishap at my vineyard, so I’ll be here until it is rectified,” he explained not giving her any specific time frame. Kendrick could understand her apprehensiveness; his brother had been cruel to her.

  “Your vineyard? Or your family’s?” she asked with narrowed eyes.

  He beamed. “Did I say it was my family’s? I’m sorry. It’s all mine. I like to delve into my own things from time-to-time. The pack and my family can be a little . . . restrictive.” He’d used his family’s money to purchase the vineyard and had gone to great lengths to cover the paper trail leading back to him. Regardless, the apartment in Tuscany was far enough away that if anyone suspicious showed up, he’d have enough time to escape before he was found.

  Astrid scoffed, but her shoulders relaxed and she let out a long breath. “I see, well let’s hope the situation is rectified soon,” she replied as she tried to move around him.

  “What about you? How long are you going to be here?” Kendrick asked smiling as he cut her off, causing her to glare at him haughtily.

  Astrid tucked a strand of her straight brown hair behind her ear as her green met his. “I live here Kendrick. This is my home, and I plan to be here for a few more years. If you don’t mind, I would really like to live here in peace, and would prefer not to have any drama, or issues that your family and the pack might bring. Now if you’ll excuse me, it is getting late and I have work in the morning.”

  “I suppose I’ll see you tomorrow morning, Astrid,” he called after her, as she mumbled something he didn’t quite catch. What would he have to do to earn a few minutes of her time, without her ready to run away at the first sight of his face? He was willing to find out. Much to his chagrin, she turned around again and walked towards him with a purpose.

  “Look Kendrick, your family has caused nothing but trouble for me; I don’t know what this is…,” She said flailing her arms wildly as she motioned to him. “… but I would prefer if for the duration of your stay, you stayed away from me. I don’t care about your vineyards or anything you’re doing, just leave me alone,” she told her jaw set and her eyes blazing with anger.

  “So you don’t want to come with me to the vineyard?” he asked mocking hurt as he held his hand close to his heart. “Because I could pick you up at three tomorrow.”

  Her eyes narrowed at him. “Let me make this clear, I hate you and your family, and I want you to leave me alone,” she hissed in a low tone. “Stay away from me.” She turned on her heel again and stomped away.

  “But I’m so much fun,” he called after her as he watched her stride angrily away from him. He took a step forward, wanting to chase after her, wanting to take her in his arms—in his bed. But he couldn’t. It was the domineering attitude that had chased Astrid away from Killian. If he were going to have a taste of the beautiful wolf, then he’d have to earn Astrid’s heart first. He could already tell by the blush of her cheeks and the scent of her arousal her wolf was interested. But after Killian, he doubted she would follow her primal instincts again. Astrid Mason would be a challenge.

  ***

  Astrid sighed; the day seemed to be dragging. It was a cool, late fall day, and the weather was a mix between rain and snow. Most people were staying indoors today, and the café was unbearably slow. In fact, they had absolutely no customers at the moment.

  “Giovanni wants one of us to leave since we are so slow, I can handle the place if you want to go,” Rosa offered as she came from the kitchen and started to wipe down a table and chairs.

  Astrid smiled warmly at her coworker and friend, Rosa needed the money, and she didn’t. “You sure you’re okay by yourself?” Astrid asked.

  “Of course I’ll be fine.” Rosa smiled as she stood up and took her long brown hair down and redid her messy bun.

  “Okay,” Astrid acknowledged. “I’ll see you tomorrow.”

  “Try not to have too much fun,” Rosa winked.

  “In this weather?” Astrid laughed shaking her head. “I think I’m just going home snuggling under a blanket and watching some movies.” Perhaps she would talk to Marcia and check up on the gossip in the states. Marcia was the only member of the pack she spoke to.

  Her friend had fled the same time Astrid had. Together they had made new lives for themselves. Neither woman had been willing to submit to the barbaric mating rituals of the pack. To avoid detection, they alternated between living together and separately. It got lonely without close friends and family, especially dreary days like today.

  Astrid stepped outside the café opening her umbrella and walked the short distance through the parking lot to her car. The back of her neck prickled. She whipped her head around, looking around, unsure what was causing her hackles to rise. Shaking the unease off when she saw no one there, she unlocked her door and climbed in.

  It was a short drive home, and she was thankful that she got home before Kendrick, another day that she didn’t have to see him. Once inside she changed into her comfy pants and sweater and grabbed a blanket going to the couch.

  Settling into her plush couch she pulled up her Netflix account. A giddy smile spread over her face. Friends popped up in the recommendations section. I love that show. Astrid shifted on the couch, sprawling out over the large leather cushions.

  She rested her head against the armrest and pulled the throw down over herself. As luck would have it, a loud knock grated against the door. Su
re wait until I’m comfy, then knock.

  Groaning, she shoved the covers off, paused her show, and padded to the door. Kendrick’s magnificent cologne wafted beneath the door. She inhaled sharply. God he smells awesome. Her wolf bristled beneath the surface, heat shot through her and she trembled. What? No. He is my enemy.

  Anger brewed in her as she strode to the door. Switching over the deadbolt, she hauled the door open. No one was there. Odd. Astrid stepped outside and looked both ways; there wasn’t a soul in sight. Frowning, she stepped back in and re-locked the door.

  If this was Kendrick’s idea of a prank, she was going to have his head. She did not enjoy being toyed with. Regardless, she wasn’t going to let him ruin her afternoon, sighing she went back to her couch and clicked the TV back on.

  ***

  Kendrick was famished. He wanted food and a beautiful woman to sate his wolfs insatiable libido. Why not get both at the same spot? He smirked as he pulled into the quaint little café’s parking lot. Wasn’t that the illusive Astrid’s car? This little excursion could be interesting.

  Astrid had successfully been avoiding him since the day she’d made him smitten with her. Kendrick had a thing for pretty and feisty women with character. Astrid definitely fit the bill. She was gorgeous and strong. The female wolf called to his in a way no other ever had. He needed her. But he had to be careful too. Killian had hurt her, beaten her, nearly broke her.

  Anticipation rolled through him as he saw Astrid’s brunette locks swept up into a ponytail. He groaned at the familiar curve of her ass. He’d grown quiet fond of her perfectly plump bottom since she was always walking away from him.

  Without even realizing it, he walked the short distance of the parking lot and had his hand on the metal door handle and was pulling it open. A loud jangle announced his arrival, causing the object of his affection to turn around. The smile that had lighted her face quickly turning into a scowl.

  He grinned at her keeping his eyes locked with hers as he walked the short distance to one of the cream colored booths and sat down. He saw the determination in her eyes as she strode up to him paper and pencil in hand.

  “You know it’s already bad enough that you’re stalking my every move, now you’re here where I work too,” Astrid growled, tapping her pencil on the pad of paper. “What can I get for you?”

  Kendrick picked up the menu, pretending to be interested in it. He contemplated saying a smart aleck remark but thought better of it. He was after all trying to win her affections. “What’s good here?”

  Astrid pursed her lips and sighed before leaning in closer to him her sweet vanilla scent invaded his senses. He inhaled deeply. Her perfume was amazing. Need coursed through him and he suppressed a whimper as her arousal seeped into the air. She might not like you, but she is attracted to you.

  “This is my job and these are nice people here, you better not be here to stir up trouble,” she hissed before straightening. “The scones and tea are great,” she said plastering on a smile as another slightly older brunette woman appeared from the back.

  “I’ll take some of those, and perhaps you could join me,” Kendrick suggested raising his eyebrow.

  “I’ll put that order right in for you,” Astrid said curtly, clearly ignoring his invitation. Turning on her heel, she strutted away from him. Her magnificent rump swayed tauntingly at him. Does she know what she’s doing? Astrid was probably unaware, but the wolf inside her knew exactly what it was doing. It wanted him just as badly.

  “Who is that hottie?” the older brunette asked. “He looks really into you.”

  Kendrick suppressed a smile. The shop was empty and his supernatural hearing was good. He held his breath, watching the pair out of the corner of his eye, impatiently waiting for Astrid’s reply. The wolf seemed to pause; probably knowing he could hear and was awaiting her response.

  “Ugh, just someone I use to know awhile ago. I am so not interested,” Astrid replied with a heavy sigh.

  “Well he is some serious eye candy,” the woman continued.

  “He might look good, but his attitude leaves something to be desired,” Astrid replied grabbing a few scones and pouring some hot water into a mug; she placed the items on a tray and pulled out the box of tea bags.

  “He seems nice from here,” the lady teased gawking at him.

  “Humph. That’s because you haven’t met him,” Astrid grumbled.

  “I for one would be happy to take your table,” she offered.

  Please don’t. Nothing against the woman, but he’d come here for Astrid.

  “No,” Astrid said quickly. “It’s okay, I have it,” she said as she hurried back out to the booth.

  Astrid’s face reddened, and her cheeks turned a beautiful scarlet as her eyes met his. She averted her gaze and fussed with the items on her tray as she approached.

  “So you think I’m good to look at?” Kendrick smiled his brown eyes beaming at her with amusement.

  “It’s really rude to eavesdrop,” she commented with a roll of her eyes.

  “It’s really rude to talk about someone behind their back. I’m hurt,” Kendrick said placing a hand to his chest. He smiled at her, but a part of him was hurt by her remarks. Why? She hadn’t really said anything. “I’m not that bad Astrid, I know my family left their mark on you, but me and you didn’t really have scuffles.”

  “I vaguely remember a bat,” Astrid said setting his stuff down in front of him.

  Kendrick chuckled. Damn I forgot about that. Surely she has to know that wasn’t meant for her. I’d never hurt her. “Right, that’s water under the bridge, nobody got hurt. I thought you were Killian,” he said waving his hand dismissively.

  Astrid slapped his check down on the table. Her eyes met his as her lip curled up with disdain. “Is there anything else I can get for you?” she asked sweetly despite her anger.

  “Only you darling,” Kendrick said locking eyes with her. Need tumbled through him and he shifted in his seat as his cock hardened.

  “Well… “ Astrid stuttered unsure of herself. She opened her mouth, but didn’t say anything. Her tongue darted out to wet her perfect lips. “I’m not available,” she finally muttered. “You can pay at the register.” Astrid blinked, looking at him one final time before spinning around and retreating to the back.

  ***

  Astrid sighed as she listened to Antoine go on and on about his car. Yet another horrific date. She didn’t know how to break it to him, but his vehicle was not as fascinating as he made it sound. Why couldn’t she meet a guy she liked and find a connection with them?

  If this was what the next few centuries would be like, always alone, she wasn’t sure she could handle it. She gave a small smile and nodded her head when she noticed her date was looking at her.

  He was an attractive man in his early twenties blonde shoulder length hair and green eyes, but she just didn’t feel anything. There were no warm tingles or sparks. It was funny, she felt more connected to Kendrick, then she did to someone she was actually trying to spend time with.

  Why am I thinking about Kendrick? I’m on a date for crying out loud. The wolf had been pestering her nonstop for nearly four weeks. It was annoying and maybe a tiny bit flattering. Astrid had to admit; it had been a while since someone had put effort into wooing her.

  “Do you want some more wine?” Antoine asked the tip of the bottle already on her glass.

  “Sure,” Astrid said forcing a smile. If she were to continue this date, she was going to need it. It’s not like she could get drunk anyway—werewolf metabolism and all.

  “Fancy meeting you here.”

  Astrid sucked in a breath and turned at the familiar voice. “Kendrick,” she gasped. Why is he here? Her heart sped up and her breath hitched in her throat. He looked good. His brown hair was mussed. The suit he wore fit his muscular physique perfectly. I just want to . . . don’t you dare finish that thought Astrid. Her gaze slid to the right and her heart dropped. He wasn’t alone.

&nb
sp; “Hello, Astrid. How are you this lovely evening?” Kendrick asked as he pulled the gorgeous redhead closer.

  “Fine thanks,” she forced out. Jealousy surged through her. Why was he out with someone else? All the flirting was a game. He was never into you. It was a sick twisted game--just like with Killian.

  “I’d like you to meet Cassie; she is helping me to oversee the vineyard,” Kendrick said motioning towards the striking woman.

  Cassie held out her well-manicured hand. A large diamond ring encased her ring finger. “It’s lovely to meet you,” she smiled warmly.

  Wait, she wasn’t his date? Why do you care? Astrid shook herself forcing her mind to focus. Astrid took Cassie’s soft hand in hers and gave it a firm shake. “This is . . . Antoine,” she managed to squeak out. “My date.”

  “Lovely to meet you,” Kendrick greeted, his dashing smile appearing on his face. “Well come along Cassie, shall we, it was nice seeing you Astrid.” Kendrick’s eyes lingering on Astrid for a few more moments before he escorted the woman away.

  Astrid smiled shyly at her date. Pretty sad the highlight of their get together was bumping into Kendrick. Antoine seemed none the wiser. He instantly began prattling on about his Lamborghini again. Astrid lifted her glass to her lips. She was going to need more wine—lots of wine.

  Three glasses of wine later and she was finally able to make her escape. Good thing she couldn’t get drunk. With a sigh, she got into her car and bent her head down resting it on the steering wheel. Why couldn’t she find a handsome and stimulating guy? Not that looks were everything, but there had to be some attraction to each other.

  Frustrated, she banged her head on the wheel. I need to talk to Marcia. Slowly she sat up and dug through her large purse in search of her phone. Where did the damn thing go? I really need to condense to a smaller purse.

  Aha found you. Triumphantly, she zipped through her contacts and dialed Marcia’s number. The phone rang several times before going to voicemail. So much for that idea. Dropping her phone onto the seat, she started her car, and eased onto the road.