Lycan's Prey by Jessica Hall

Chapter 3

“Boss,” someone says behind him, and he clears his throat, stepping back. The man before me exudes a more powerful presence than any alpha I’ve ever encountered. Despite his apparent concern for his son, he radiates an aura of authority that I can’t help but be drawn to, and yet, it also fills me with a deep–rooted fear.

His guard motions toward the paramedics, and he sighs, a sound that carries a weight of responsibility I can’t

comprehend.

“Really, it’s nothing,” I lie, my voice more steady than I feel. I need to go meet my mate, and I am already late, and Rhett hates having to wait for anyone.

“Thank you,” he repeats, the words carving themselves into the space between us.

I brush away the discomfort nagging at my limbs, trying to mask the pain as he reaches out a steadying hand when I pick up my discarded handbag. His touch is light but firm as he grips my arm, waiting for me to steady myself as I sway slightly.

“Soren,” he says, his name rolling off his tongue with a slight accent I can’t place. Why does that name sound familiar, like I‘ ve heard it before?

The men who had been in pursuit now stood back, making me glance around nervously when I realized the crowd we had

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gathered was now gone, and only men in suits stood in a circle around us.

skin prickles with unease, wondering who this man is, that he has this many security guards following him, and to think. one small child escaped the lot of them; I try not to snicker at the

he speaks. “Or, at the very least, let me buy you a coffee; there’s a café just around the corner.” I can’t help but feel

slipping away. I am supposed to meet Rhett for lunch and don’t want to be late. “I really should be going. I’m meeting a friend,” I say, the words. feeling awkward

need to know about my complicated mate bond, and no one wants to admit they are the unwanted mate of an alpha;

Soren urges, his voice filled with genuine concern. “It‘ s the

I should decline, I find myself agreeing. His concern is rare in a pack where I often feel unwanted. As we make our way through the crowd, Soren places his hand gently

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Chapter 3

toward a nearby booth. I follow the boy only to see his security remain outside. Once again, I try to recall

seat next to Max while his father orders drinks. I sit awkwardly, debating if I should just get up and leave while the man isn’t looking, but I quickly toss. the idea away when I find Soren approaching us. He holds a tray with three cups and

a fun day at the park,” Soren said, his voice tinged with a father’s guilt

to them. Rhett’s accusations, his insinuations that I was

over him again,” he says, his voice tinged with regret. Shadows play across his face, revealing a

upper lip. The fear

boy’s probing gaze; he is a child, yet he has an aura? Soren notices,

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worry. “Are you sure you’re alright?” he asks again, his voice low

let out a breath, checking my ribs and hip. Relief floods me, knowing I won’t be a