Page 83 of Taming of a Wolf

My heart lurches with both nerves and excitement. “You’re making me a little nervous, puppy dog.” I check my phone. “The restaurant gets really busy soon. We should go over and grab a table.”

“Aye, will do.” Anders waves at Jess and Bailey, and we head to the car.

Taking his hand, I kiss his fingertips. “I’m a lucky guy.”

“Makes both of us,” Anders rumbles, and I think my heart will overflow with all the emotions he stirs within me.

We arrive at the restaurant just before peak hours, and since the patio has heat lamps and blankets, we decide to sit outdoors. Anders snatches up the menu and peruses it with a confidence he didn’t have only a month ago. A rush of affection sweeps over me. He’s different. Softer, more sure of himself. He’s blossoming before my eyes, and I can’t wait to show him even more of this world, experiencing it with him as if for the first time.

Somehow, before I was even aware of it, I fell so hard for Anders. My wolf’s instincts are singing through my heart, telling me this man is my forever.

But does he feel the same? Nerves make my stomach flip.

Anders coughs. “Ready to order?”

There’s a trip in his heartbeat. He’s nervous too, and that makes me even more nervous. “Y-yeah!” I haven’t even been looking at the menu, my eyes glazing over, only seeing the font.

“How is Jace doing?”

“He’s having fun.” I’d texted him before the reading. Shoot. I should probably check in again. “Do you mind if I call him, just to say good night?”

Anders’s soft smile is pure indulgence. “Of course. Can I speak to him too?”

God, what have I done to deserve a guy like him? Before Anders, nobody had been so supportive and loving toward Jace. He understands how important my brother is to me and cares for him like I do. I call Jace, tapping to put us on speakerphone. It rings and rings, then goes to voicemail. Anxiety grips my stomach. “Maybe he’s in bed.” That’s the most logical answer, of course, but my brain tries to tug me down paths better left unknown. Likewhyhe isn’t answering.

Our server stops by our table. “Ready to order?”

“I’ll have the… err…” Anders squints at the menu. “The filet mignon.” He butchers the pronunciation, but I’m pleased his reading skills have improved.

“And for you, sir?”

I order some pasta, then try and call Jace once we’re alone. Still no answer. Why won’t he pick up?

“Easy, pet.” A big hand settles over my palm and squeezes. Anders’s forest-green eyes catch me in their spell. “The lad is fine. Just try and enjoy yourself.”

I return his soft smile. “I am. Tonight’s been so amazing.”

Anders squeezes my hand. “I’m glad.” His gaze drifting away, Anders blows out a breath, as if he’s trying to calm himself down, then meets my gaze with determination. “Jamie… I never thought anywhere would feel like home. Not until I found you.”

I can’t wipe the smile from my face. I feel the same. Ever since Anders came along, he’s brightened my world and made my broken family feel so complete.

Taking in a shaky breath, Anders says, “I may have fought him, but my wolf knew at a glance that you were the one I was destined for. I wish to spend the rest of my life proving how I was made for you as you are for me. So…” His voice wavers, but Anders pushes on, and I know whatever he asks, my answer will be yes. “Jamie, will you—”

My phone rings, making us both jump. When Janet’s name flashes across my screen, my heart sinks. She’s the mother of Jace’s friend. Why would she be calling me unless something’s happened? “Just one moment, Anders. I’m sorry.” I snatch up my phone and swipe. “Janet. Hi, is everything okay?”

“Jamie, I’m so sorry, but it’s Jace. He’s hurt.”

And just like that, my entire world shatters to pieces.

The world blurs around me as I drive, foot glued to the gas pedal. Janet’s words keep running through my head.

…pushed him down the stairs.

Bile rises in my throat.

His arm, I—I think it’s broken.

My baby brother is hurt. Anguish thickens my throat, and I want to break down right then and there. Ever since we werekids, I’ve been looking out for him. I swore to myself I would protect my little brother.

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