Page 69 of Those That Don't Exist
“Ty, sit with us,” Adicious motions to the bench seat next to himself.
I swear Ty stumbles as he lowers himself into the booth. We both need to get our shit together if we’re going to be convincing at all. I pull the pack leader’s attention back to me by speaking up.
“So Adicious, Ty tells me you’re the boss of the group here in the city. That must be a lot of responsibility.” I keep my voice low because it's a busy cafe and any Fae would be able to hear us. I also alter my words to not raise any suspicion about the fact three vampires sit amongst them. Probably more if Adicious has guards around.
“It's one I don’t take lightly.” Adicious focuses on me again. “The safety of those under my protection is my top priority. I have carved out a safe space for us. Having you around will help keep it.”
“I don’t see how I can do that,” I say sweetly.Innocence and ignorance,I repeat in my head. I could know what was common knowledge but no more.
“You are going to secure the future for all of us in the city. With my help of course.” Adicious moves his drink and then lays his forearms on the table, interlocking his fingers together inches from mine. I force my fingers to remain where they are. “Together, Aurora, we could be unstoppable.”
“I’m flattered, honestly, but studying full time barely leaves time for anything else.” I pause as I see a flicker of annoyance in his petrol coloured eyes. I change tactics. “I’m so grateful your pack found me, really I am. Right now, however, I just wantto finish my studies. I’ll think about what comes next when I graduate.”
Adicious’s jaw ticks. His displeasure is palpable. He leans forward, and encloses my hands in his own. I can’t stop the uptick in my heartbeat this time.
As I wait for a response something brushes up against my leg. I tense as it wraps around my shin, like a cat seeking attention would do. Without looking down I recognise it as one of Ty’s shadows. He’s reassuring me in the only way he can, it's so sweet it has my confidence returning.
“I want you to be happy, Aurora, if finishing your studies means a lot to you, you can keep attending this university,” Adicious purrs, igniting a little hope inside me that I might be doing well in this negotiation.“You’ll be moving into the ranch though.”
Hope dashed.
“I already have a perfectly good place to live, thanks.” I square my shoulders and pull my hands away. Letting a little of my backbone show.
“But we can only offer you the protection you need if you live with us.” Adicious sits back, puffing up his chest, trying to intimidate me with his sheer size.
“I can take care of myself just fine.” I push down my anger to keep my voice firm but light.
“Is that so? Have your studies not enlightened you to the fact female vampires are rather coveted, fought over even? Could you handle a fight? You’re new to this, and vulnerable, don't be foolish.”
“Foolish?” I’m losing my temper now. The shadow at my feet pulls tight for a brief second in warning.
“I’m being generous Aurora, don’t push me. You’re one of us now, you need to be part of the group.”
“And I said I was willing to join in, but I won’t be moving anywhere until I’m ready.” I fold my arms across my chest. I can tell Adicious isn’t used to being denied. He can no longer hide the anger in his eyes.
Adicious takes a deep breath, and momentarily closes his eyes, as if he is trying to control his misogynistic bullshit. I take the opportunity to glance at Ty. He’s sitting preternaturally still. He gives an almost imperceptible shake of his head.Don't push further.I huff in answer.
“Fine.” I force out, through gritted teeth. Adicious’s gaze bores into me as he raises an eyebrow. “Give me a month. I won’t leave my friends in the lurch with the rent. I also won’t move in with strangers. Let me get to know the group, I will visit as often as I can. I’ll reassess in a month.”
“You will learn not to defy me Aurora. I’m going to let it slide this once and give you two weeks. But I will be watching over you. You will not be able to skirt the responsibility you have to this pack.”
“And what are they?” I interrupt him, needing him to say it. I haven’t had reason to doubt Ty and Adicious has already checked every box on the list of shitty personality traits I had compiled from the stories Ty has told me. Still, I want him to confirm it.
“You will join me to stabilise our future. You being by my side to grow our strength.” He says it in code, because we are in public afterall, but I see it clearly on his face. He looks at me like I’m being insolent.
“And if I refuse the role?” I can’t help pushing a little further.
“I’ll say it simply. You can't.”
I can’t stand being here a moment longer. I’ve heard enough, confirmed this asshole is as terrible as Ty said. I’m done. I slide out of the booth,
“Then you won’t mind if I go enjoy my freedom while it lasts,” I snark.
“I expect you at the Ranch tomorrow evening Aurora. Come willingly or I’ll send an escort.” That makes me pause.
“Why?”
“You need to meet the rest of the pack. Whether you like it or not you’re one of us now and they’re dying to meet you. It’s not up for debate.”
