Page 64 of The Vampire's Soul

“Give us a minute to go over your strategy, then we can make a call,” Ben replied.

Brayden nodded, glancing at Craig, who gave one sharp one in return.

Sixty-something minutes later, after a lot of debate, cursing, tossing around ideas, and rearranging plans, they all took a step back.

Mack blew out a long breath. “There are a lot of loose ends.”

Kurt slapped him on the shoulder. “Welcome to the big boy club, my friend.”

Idiot.

He’d been working with them for months.

“Are we comparing sizes?” He lifted his brow and grinned, while pretending to unzip.

“We can if you—"

“Put them away, you fucking idiots.” Craig shook his head. “Mack, you wouldn’t be going if I didn’t think you were capable. You’re fast, strong, and think on your feet. Paws, whatever. Fuck, don’t shift.”

Logan snorted.

“Yeah, fuck, that won’t be happening.” He’d been one of the first to shift and had excellent control of his wolf. Except when it came to Ella.

At no point while out in the field—even when shot with that fucking serum—had he been prompted to shift. It was like his wolf knew it wouldn’t help and was a survival mechanism.

Playing dead maybe.

“My team speaks Russian, so that will help you get around,” Ari said, referring to Oliver, Ben, and Logan.

“You speak Russian?” Mack asked them.

“Yeah man. Being an assassin is not just about aiming and firing,” Oli replied.

“Shame. I might be looking for a new job soon.” Craig shrugged, then laughed when Brayden glared at him. “It’s a joke.”

Bray took a step back and scowled.

Oh, boy.

“I’m sorry, is the job not exciting enough for you? Vampire rebels, experimentation on kidnapped vampires, narcissistic rogue human scientist, and now a psychopathic Russian mafia mob boss trying to kill us?” Brayden crossed his arms. “Let me get you a gym membership...oh wait, you have one of those!”

Craig smirked, thrilled he’d poked the beer.

“We could talk about shares...”

Logan snorted.

“We could talk about your end-of-life plan, too. I know Brianna has thoughts.” Brayden lifted a brow.

“Leave my mate out of this.” The huge vampire grunted.

Mack rubbed his forehead with his finger, trying not to laugh. You could always guarantee a bite from the commander when you brought Brianna into the conversation.

Every time.

“Jesus.” Ari turned the screen off and glanced at them all. “While these two kids continue bickering, let’s head down to the weaponry.”

“What did Bri say?” Craig asked.

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