Page 18 of Help Wanted, Vampires Inquire Within
“Jack?” When Jack looked over his shoulder at Mason, the gargoyle gave him a gentle smile. “Walk with me?”
Jack’s expression turned happy, and he moved to stand next to Mason, holding out a hand. When Mason wrapped his large hand around Jack’s long, thin fingers, a spark of awareness ran through his body.
“You’re mine,” Mason marveled.
Jack nodded. “Yes. And you’re my flock. I thought you might be, but I wasn’t sure.”
“I’m happy for you Jack,” the remaining wolf said. “But I’m upset you went out without telling us. We got home, and you weren’t there, and you weren’t answering your phone. That’s why we tracked you here.”
Mason glared at the wolf. “You found him and attacked him?”
“Remy and everyone weren’t attacking me,” Jack said, squeezing his hand reassuringly. “They tackled me. It’s how they play and show affection. I’m used to it.”
“I can see how it might look bad to a bystander,” Remy said with a chuckle, then eyed Mason. “I guess we don’t have to worry about protecting Jack anymore.”
“No, you don’t,” Mason agreed, drawing Jack close to him.
Remy nodded and gave Mason a languid two finger salute. “Got that. See y’all inside.”
Anatoly followed Remy, leaving Jack and Mason to follow. As they walked into the bar, Skyler gave them a watery smile.
“I was scared for you,” she said.
“I’m sorry we worried you,” Remy said behind her.
She ignored the wolf, her eyes bouncing between Jack and Mason. “I’m so happy for both of you. I hope you invite me to the alighting ceremony.”
With that, she turned and ran, moving quickly between the wolves, now all in their human form. She disappeared upstairs before Mason was even able to process what she’d said.
“Everyone stay down here,” Mason said to the wolves, moving to follow Skyler. “Jack and I need to talk to Skyler.”
Zan had shifted to his human form also and assumed his normal spot behind the bar with a big smile. “Who wants a drink?”
The wolves cheered behind him as Anatoly groaned. Mason ignored them all as he rushed up the stairs, pulling Jack behind him.
Skyler
Tears started streaming down Skyler’s face the moment she closed the apartment door. Of course Mason would find his mate! Of course it would be the handsome and charming Jack. Of course she’d be left alone.
“Skyler?” Mason’s voice on the other side of the door made her take a step back, as if he’d burst through the wood. “We want to come in. Please, let’s all talk.”
“No, I’m fine. Everything’s fine. You guys can leave. I’ll be safe here.” She was proud at how steady her voice sounded, even if her words jumbled out in a rush.
“I’m not leaving,” Jack said. “Not until I get to talk to you.”
“You know I can’t walk away,” Mason said. “I’d never leave you alone.”
That was the problem. Mason would sacrifice his own happiness for her, and Jack would do anything to keep Mason happy. It’s the way vampires were with their flock.
Skyler rubbed her tears away. “Um, okay.”
The men walked in cautiously, as if she was a danger to them. If her heart didn't hurt so much, she might’ve laughed.
“Nothing needs to change,” Mason said, making both her and Jack shake their heads.
“Everything has changed,” Skyler said before Jack could say anything.
“Yes, but no,” Jack said, holding his hands up with his palms out as if trying to placate her. “It’s true that Mason is meant to be my flock, but that doesn't mean you aren’t. It’s common for vampires to have two or three flock members.”
