by Riley Cross
Leaving the wolves to deal with the rogue, as pack law allowed.
Dominic had skipped town when everything was still up in arms with the police.
Unable to hold myself together any longer, that night I had been ready to succumb to my need for him. Ready to spill the beans on the supernatural world and to hell with the consequences.
But he had already left. It sent me into a spiral of hurt and confusion. Luckily, my wolves' nature wouldn't allow me to wallow in my self-pity for long. Not when our pack needed me to be their Alpha.
“Nothing that I couldn't handle, I promise.” Dominic chuckles before sobering. “What have you been up to? Any men I need to scare off?” His words shock me enough that I barely register the car in front of us stopping.
“Shit.”
Hitting the breaks, a little too harshly, brings us to a hard stop. Thankfully missing the car in front.
Blinking my vision clear, I let the silence just hang in the air for a few seconds. Trying desperately to organize my thoughts. What is with this man and why does being in his presence make me feel so human? Long ago, that used to be my only wish. I rejected this life. Resented it from keeping me from my first love.
I was an idiot back then.
I could practically feel Dominic’s eyes on me, waiting for my answer.
What was he expecting me to say?
It’s been non-stop since the last time we saw each other. I stepped up into the role of Alpha and spend my time monitoring and ensuring the pack is running smoothly. Unfortunately, because of all my time being spent on being a single pack Alpha, I haven't been able to do the no-pants dance in a really long while.
Mainly because the only man who's been openly sniffing around me recently is another Alpha, who’s been pretty hell bent on mating with me and joining our packs.
Fuck that.
“Kitten?”
Keeping my eyes plastered on the road.
“Just dealing with family stuff, mostly. Nothing too entertaining.” I smile around my little white lie, hoping Dominic doesn't catch on or question me more.
“And?”
Glancing around to Dominic, I repeat. “And?”
“Men, Kitten.” Dominic says tensely.
Oh, bloody hell.
Why is he asking me about that? Is he interested in me? In a more than friendly way? My wolf perks up at the thought. Horny bitch.
“Yes. I’m seeing someone.” I throw the lie out there casually, pissing off my wolf at the same time.
It’s better this way, for both of us. I tell the animal. Not to mention, I’m. Pissed. At. Him.
Liar. My wolf growls back.
He abandoned us! I remind her.
The animal chuffs at my words.
Dominic goes eerily quiet next to me. Which has both me and my animal on edge for the rest of the car journey.
By the time we arrive back in town, the tension in the cab is thick. Pulling into the car park diner, I park us out the front. Dominic turns on me abruptly as I turn off the engine.
“How long?”
Turning to face him, I ask slightly annoyed still by my wolf. “How long, what?”
“How long have you been seeing this other man?” Dominic clarifies.
Good God almighty! He’s like a dog with a bone.
“What business is that of yours, Dom?”
Leaning into my personal space, his scent surrounds me and sends my wolf into a near frenzy for more.
“Because Rae. I need to know how much trouble he's going to cause when I tell him to kick it to the kerb.”
Breathing shallow, trying my best not to take in anymore of his scent. I ask in a voice that comes out in a near whisper.
“Why would you do that?”
Giving me a toothy grin, Dominic tells me.
“Because Kitten. You belong to me.”
God, how long have I dreamed of hearing Dominic say those words? My eyes fall to his lips of their own volition. Sucking in my bottom lip, I bite on it nervously.
Is he gonna kiss me? Do I want him to?
Just when I think my body’s about to burst from the heat, he’s causing to ignite in my veins. Dominic pulls away, exiting the car completely. Without looking back, he heads straight into the front of the diner. Leaving me sitting there in a stupor, wondering what the hell had just happened.
Chapter Two
Lies for the better.
Belong to him? What the hell did that even mean?
Growling, I hop out the car, storming into the diner where Dominic disappeared to. It doesn't matter what he meant. So there is no reason to sit on that egg. I’m a single Alpha female leading her pack. The last thing I’ve got time for is complicated relationships.
Least of all with a human.
Pushing open the glass door, I easily spot Dominic’s tall form being tackled by a blonde woman half his size. Unable to hide my smile at Becca’s antics. I return to the empty seat I’d vacated earlier that morning.
Thankfully Cally has arrived for her shift, meaning I don't have to wait for Dominic to claw himself free from Becca’s bear hug to get me a coffee and order some much needed food.
“Hey Rae!” Cally’s cheerful voice snags my attention from the family reunion in the corner.
“Hi Cally.”
“Gods, I’ve not seen her this happy in a long while.” Cally comments, motioning to Becca and Dominic.
“Likewise.”
Smiling, she shakes her head. “What can I get for ya today?”
Even from across the room, Dominic’s scent is making my wolf restless. Pinching the bridge of my nose, trying to concentrate on the task at hand.
“Only a burger and fries today, Cally. I’m just passing through.”
Writing down my order, Cally turns towards the kitchen. Annoyingly, I notice the slight wiggle in the girl’s hips when she passes Dominic. Lucky for everyone involved Dominic doesn't even look the other female’s way.
You're Jealous. My wolf growls in approval.
The hell I am. I argue back.
Feeling my phone buzz against my leg, I pull it from the front pocket. Unlocking the screen has Greyson’s face staring back at me.
Perfect.
Swiping to answer, I keep my eyes on the humans in the diner.
“Who is this?” I answer, careful to keep my voice down so no one can catch on to the conversation.
“Do you have any idea what that husky voice of yours does to me?” Greyson purrs into my ear.
Rolling my eyes. Really can’t be arsed with this man today.
“I’m sorry, but it appears you have the wrong number.” Sarcastic? Yes. Immature? Definitely. Fucks given? A big fat zero. “Feel free to go fuck yourself and have a good day-”
“Fuck. Such dirty words coming from that smart mouth of yours, Rae. Do you have any idea what I could do with it? But unfortunately, now’s not the time for foreplay. You know why I’m calling. Are you ready for the run tonight?”
How could I forget?
“Yes-” Movement catches my eye. Keeping my gaze locked on Dominic as he makes his way over.
“I’ll see you tonight.” I mutter to Greyson before quickly hanging up the call.
Eating up the space next to me, Dominic leans his arms on the bar. Becca makes her way to the other side and serves her son a cup of coffee. “I’ll get the kitchen to make you your favourite. Chilli and potatoes.” She tells Dominic with a smile still on her face.
Nodding his head in agreement, he watches as his mother disappears into the kitchen.
“She’s missed you.” I murmur quietly, desperately needing to break the ice.
“She has. But she understands why I had to go.” Dominic agrees.
She’s the only one. I wanted to say, but decided to let the silence descend upon us.
Nursing my drink, it doesn't take long for Cally to return. A plate of food in hand. Placing in on the bar in front of me. She jumps at the chance to bombard Dominic with her questions
instead of asking if I would like any sauces.
“Hey Dominic! Glad to have you back-” Cally beams. “How was your trip? Bet you missed home.” Rolling my eyes at her upbeat tone. I lean over the bar and swipe a ketchup bottle. Dumping a healthy amount in my burger and next to my fries.
“It is good to be back. I did miss parts of home.” Dominic responds, wearing his sexy smile..
I bet!
The flirtatious laughter coming from Cally has jealousy rearing its ugly head. Trying my best to ignore the two flirts next to me, I dig into my burger.
“Are you seeing anyone lately? Or are you free for a drink after my shift ends?” Cally’s words have me choking on my food. Dominic’s face flashes with concern as he lightly pats my back.
Reaching for my drink, I down half the cup, desperately trying to clear my throat.
“Cally, can you check on table nine?” Becca’s order is a godsend. Thank god, because I doubt, I could have stopped my wolf from biting the poor girl's head off if she managed to secure a date with Dominic.
“Um, sure! -” Cally affirms, before turning back to Dominic.
“Won't be a tick.” At that, she hurries from behind the bar to take another table’s order.
Quickly swallowing down my meal, I hail Becca.
“Can I grab the check?” I’m so done with this little outing.
Pulling a bunch of keys out of my back pocket, I twist off the spare one for the house. Planting it on the bar next to Dominic, along with some cash for the meal.
“I'll take your luggage home, I’ve got to get ready to head out.-” I know I’m being immature, but I can’t help adding. “I doubt I’ll be back tonight, don’t wait up.”
Satisfied with the pissed off flash in his eyes, I hop off the barstool, heading back out to the car. Before my she-wolf tempts me into dismembering the other female who dares try to lead our man astray.
Wait. Back the hell up.
Our man? Oh, hell no. Not in a million years.
Pulling out of the car park, I drive straight home to get ready for tonight's run.
It’s time for me to get my head back on the pack and what they expect from their Alpha. And off of the male who's been haunting my dreams since I was old enough to notice him.
An hour later, I’m washed, dried and ready to head out and meet up with my pack mates.
Brunette hair hangs loose over one shoulder, I’ve left my face clear from makeup. Tonight I’ve chosen a loose fitting dark blue dress and some simple flats. No need for anything fancy when I'll be spending most of the night in my wolf form.
I make my way down the stairs just in time for Dominic to enter through the front door. His expression looks anything but pleasant.
Guess his lunch didn't go well with Cally. I muse.
Good. My she-wolf growls.
Seconding my animal’s sentiment, I grab my bag off of the kitchen table, throwing in the car keys and my cell phone. Checking, I also have my purse and credit cards, just in case.
Once I’m all set, I throw the strap over my head, letting the bag rest against my hip.
"Where are you going?" Dominic questions from the leaning position he's taken against the kitchen door.
"Out." I answer, unwilling to give him any more information.
"Rae." Dominic's voice is rough and does many delicious things to my libido. Which just pisses me off more.
"I know it's your first night back, but I can't get out of this at such short notice. The kitchen is fully stocked, so make yourself at home. Cam’s gaming console is in the living room if you fancy playing something." I tell him on my way out the door.
Unimpressed by my attempt at brushing him off. Dominic grasps my wrist. Bringing me to a stop in the doorway.
Our bodies press together in the tight space. His warmth and scent surrounding me. Drugging my system and scrambling my brain of any rational thought.
"Just tell me this isn't a date. I meant what I said to you in the truck. I want you, Rae, and fuck anyone who tries to get in my way." Dominic’s determined tone sets me on fire and piss me off at the same time.
Coursing my body to go to war on itself.
Licking my suddenly dry lips, I refuse to back down, keeping my eyes locked with his.
“Why are you doing this, Dominic? Can’t you turn your charms towards Cally or something?” My animal snarls, not liking that advice whatsoever.
“My charms?” His lips curl into a sexy smile. “You think I’m charming?”
“Don’t play dumb, Dominic, its unbecoming.” Keeping my feature as neutral as possible, I carry on against the growling wishes of my wolf. “We both know you could charm your way into most woman’s panties. So why don’t you go do that and leave me alone.”
His thumb rubs tenderly over my rapid pulse on the inside of my wrist.
“While I do have my charming moments, rest assured I have no interest in the rest of the female population or their panties.” Leaning down, I have to lockdown my muscles when I feel his warm breath tickling the shell of my ear. “The only panties I’m interested in are yours.” Did he just lick me? Shivers rack my body, and not because I’m cold.
He lost any chance of us happening when he abandoned me at my most vulnerable time. Something I’m not in a rush to forget.
Staring at where his fingers are still curled around my wrist, I give a slight tug.
Dominic releases me instantly but refuses to move out of my personal space.
"What and who I do, Dom, is none of your damn business. What ever thing you are imagining happening between us is just that. Your imagination. We come from different worlds." Speaking the truth hurt more than I’m willing to admit. But I have to nip this in the bud before one of us gets hurt. Again.
He doesn't stop me from leaving this time. The instant I’m away from his warmth, my wolf cries for him to comfort her.
Not understanding her human counterparts' resistance.
Locking myself into the driver's side of the truck. I let some tears fall silently.
Hating that we are cursed to this life. And wanting nothing more than to lose myself in his embrace. But the pack laws are there for a reason.
This is bigger than the two of us.
If he ever found out our secret, the whole of the supernatural world would come down on him. On me. On my pack. Something I refused to let happen. So instead I accept my fate, denying him and the feelings he brings out in me and my animal. Cally would be a much better match for him, even if seeing them together breaks my heart.
Let’s just get this night over and done with.
Pulling myself together, I pull out of the parking spot and head to my Grandparent’s house to pick up Ben for the pack run.
The drive seems to take a lot longer than usual. After what feels like forever, the turning for my grandparent’s cabin comes into view. Thank god, because sitting in my own company was not proving fun this evening.
Parking up, I hop out of the driver's seat and head towards the brightly lit porch. Knocking on the door before entering. I catch the loud laughter of my Grams coming from the kitchen.
Jenni is standing in front of the sink with her hands in the soapy water, while Ben nuzzles her neck from behind.
A flash of Dominic holding me pops into my mind.
My wolf whines for him.
Will you shut it. I growl at the animal.
“Hey guys.” I greet, causing Jenni to jump in fright. Ben only laughs, already knowing that I was there. No doubt the engine of the car gave me away.
“You could have told me she was here! Scared me half to death.” Jenni chastises.
“You have no reason to be afraid, love. You know I’d let nothing happen to you.” Her mate responds with a smile.
Turning away from his mate, Ben nods in greeting. “Already for the run, kiddo?”
Smiling at the endearment. “All set.” I confirm.
Jenni towel dries her hands and begins grabbing containers filled with food from t
he fridge. Handing them to both me and Ben. “I know how hangry you get after a pack run.” She smiles.
“C’mon now, shoo.” Hating the thought of anyone being late for anything, Jenni practically pushes us out the door.
Ben just chuckles at his tiny mate. Loading the food into the back of the truck, I spot Dominic’s luggage in the truck bed.
Damnit. I must have forgotten to drop it off when I got home earlier.
Checking my watch quickly.
Shit.
No time to go back now.
“I’m sure he will survive for one night.” I mutter, shutting the door.
Getting back behind the wheel and buckling in. I shake my head. Ben is back on the porch with Jenni in his arms.
God’s, if I left it up to him, he would spend the rest of the night saying goodbye.
Honking the horn gets their attention.
Once Ben settles in the passenger seat and strapped in. I pull away from the house and drive to the woods that belong to the pack.
“So?” Ben says.
Glancing towards Ben in the passenger seat, I raise a brow.
“So? What?”
Folding his arms and pinning his best, Spill it glare, on me. I let out a deep breath.
“We don't know anything else yet.” I admit. Trying not to let Ben hear how much of a failure I am.
“God damn it. Are you planning to tell the rest of the pack?” Ben questions.
“Tomorrow. We need to get through tonight first. The Bloodmaw pack is joining us and I do not want to give Greyson anything to hold over me.”