Page 13 of Mine to Claim

“I do,” I murmured before the guys appeared.

Chapter 7

Grayson

Complete. That’s how I felt the first time I held her in my arms. It killed me to put her down, to pretend every instinct didn’t demand I claim her. Every fiber of my being screamed for me to pull her closer, to mark her, to make her mine in ways she wouldn’t understand. But I couldn’t–she was human. My eyes fluttered closed as I inhaled as she passed.

Fuck.

I couldn’t have her, but I couldn’t help but look. I watched as she walked that pretty ass out of my pack house. Only when she was gone could I think clearly. It was best if she stayed as far away from me as possible.

I can’t have her.

Chapter 8

Lila

Wolfsbane was packed. It was shoulder to shoulder as Jace led the way to the VIP section. We’d just sat down in an almost full circle booth when Dani crooked her finger at Jace. He shook his head, but smirked as he slid out and followed her onto the dance floor. She pointed at me from where they stood—Jace glared at everyone within arm’s reach and they moved back. But there was no way I was going to go out there without a few drinks first.

There were three different platforms and each had people gyrating and swaying to the music. Lights flashed, music pulsed, and stars of different sizes and shapes hung from the ceiling. Covered in mirrors like crystal balls, they reflected the lasers, which stretched and shifted across the club as they moved up and down.

A waiter automatically came to our booth and placed a platter full of drinks in front of us. I didn’t hesitate. There was no doubt Dani would be back soon to drag me out of my seat. Downing the liquid courage I needed, it shot through me causing a shiver to run down my spine. Slamming the glass on the table, I flushed when I found Evander smiling at me.

“I know she’s going to come for me. Holy shit that’s strong,” I choked through the burn.

“You might need to slow down. Our drinks are stronger than what you’d find in the human realm,” Evander warned as he eyed the second glass I was already reaching for. He wore a white tank and an unbuttoned, gray short-sleeve button up. The color contrasted against his beautiful tanned skin. Long curly hair fell down his back and framed his face.Were all men here beautiful?

He laughed and I wondered if he could hear my thoughts. The alcohol was warm in my belly as he leaned forward. I gulped as he put his elbows on the table.

“Most shifters are good looking, yes,” he answered and I realized I’d said it out loud. I groaned.

“How would you know? Do you pass through the veil often?” I asked, ignoring my blunder and his response. He put his hand on top of my glass and held it down.

“A few times.” Evander tilted his head as if I was a puzzle he couldn’t figure out.

“You’re not going to have any?” I asked.

“No. We can’t drink when we’re shadowing her.”

“That kind of sucks.” I scrunched my nose before glancing over to Dani. I laughed as she twerked against Jace.He looks tormented. Like he wants to enjoy all that she is, but can’t help glaring at the men around them. As if daring them to look at her.

“She’s always been the life of the party.” Looking at him, his gaze darts from them dancing to me.

“On campus too. People can’t help it. She’s just… Dani. It’s hard not to love her.”

“Oh, I know. We grew up together,” he laughed.

“Did you just admit to loving my best friend?” I teased.

“Yes, I used to,” he admitted. I blinked. Caught off guard by the honesty.

“Hm. Well, this isn’t my scene. I usually go along to keep an eye on her, but now that I know the truth.” I shook my head. Dani never needed my protection.

“What is?”

I pulled the glass out from under his hand and downed another. He was staring at me intensely and I didn’t know how to handle it.Do I like it? Yes. Do I want to sleep with Evander? Maybe.Dani’s dad, Grayson, flashed to the forefront of my mind. Quickly, I banished the thoughts that threatened to bubble up.That can’t happen.Looking into Evander’s brown eyes, I knew the alcohol was having an effect because I was wondering if he could distract me from my best friend’s dad.It’s a shitty thought.

“What is what?” I asked.

---