Page 26 of The Scent of Seduction

She looked up to see Jaryn striding through the diner. She stood and sank into the comforting arms that surrounded her. Her head rested on Jaryn’s chest. For a moment, she simply let the steady beat of his heart calm her agitated nerves.

“Are you okay, love?”

She nodded her head. Her cheek rubbed against the soft cotton of Jaryn’s shirt. It was chilly outside today, but her mate had rushed to her without taking the time to grab a coat, and the fact made Nicole smile. “I’m fine.”

“Sit, tell me what happened.”

She slid back into the booth and let the warmth of her coffee mug warm her chilled hands. “I was on my way to the bank to make the deposit like you asked, and I heard voices. They were talking about watching a woman and reporting her movement to their Alpha.”

“Did you see anyone?”

“No, that was the weird thing. I looked around, but there was nobody anywhere near me. But I swear I’m not lying. I know I heard two people talking.”

Jaryn frowned. “They specifically said ‘Alpha’?”

Nicole nodded and looked back out towards the street. Even the scent of Clint’s apple pie didn’t seem to settle her nerves.

“Well, I can guarantee that I don’t have anyone watching over you. So that means…”

Nicole looked across at her mate and whispered, “Adam. He knows where I am.”

She kept the bit about them watching her for weeks to herself. She knew if she told Jaryn, he would flip out.

“Fuck. I’d hoped we’d have more time.” Jaryn ran his hand over the top of his head. He looked across at Nicole. “Don’t worry, love. I promised you I’d protect you, and I will.” He picked up her hands and held them between his. “Do you trust me?”

Nicole nodded.

“Good. Shaun, Cooper and I have got clearance from the council to go to the Northwoods. We’re taking a collaborative team of shifters from other packs, dens and flocks from around the country. Everyone is meeting here in the next couple of days. While we’re gone, I’m going to leave Cooper here as your protective duty.”

“Oh, Jaryn, you can’t do that to him. He’ll be so disappointed. He’s worked as hard as any of you on this investigation.”

“Foremost, my duty is to my Alpha and his mate. I’m honored to be chosen to protect you,” Cooper said from behind Nicole.

Nicole jumped and looked over her shoulder. “I didn’t even hear you walk up.”

“If I wanted you to hear me, you would have.”

“Okay, that’s both a little creepy and impressive at the same time.”

“Cooper, it seems that Broyles may have eyes and ears in town. You are to stay with Nicole at all times while we are gone. I will have my mate safe, and you are the most qualified.”

Cooper bowed his head. “Thank you, Alpha.”

“If you detect a threat to her safety, I expect you to take it down. We’re not playing games here.”

Cooper nodded silently.

“Unfortunately, love, I have to get back to the office. Shaun and I have a comm link scheduled with the chancellor in a few minutes. Cooper will accompany you to the bank, then I want the two of you to go back to the house. I’ll be home as soon as I can.”

Nicole stood, then stepped into Jaryn’s arms. “I love you,” she whispered.

“Love is too pale a word for my feelings for you, my mate.”

Nicole tilted her head up as Jaryn’s lowered. Their lips met. When they touched, it was as if a circuit opened between them. The heat they shared blasted Nicole, and when Jaryn’s arms tightened around her, she knew he must feel it too. Jaryn slowly backed away and Nicole let out a little whimper of disappointment.

“Till later,” he whispered.

Nicole watched as Jaryn walked backwards out of the diner, keeping his silver eyes on her the entire time. At the last possible second, he turned and walked through the glass door. Nicole sighed and looked back at Cooper.

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