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

Chapter

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

following him, and to think. one small child escaped

gently. I’m about to decline again when 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

want to be late. “I really should be going. I’m meeting a friend,” I say, the words. feeling awkward as they tumbled out.

and no one wants to admit they are the unwanted mate of an alpha; how embarrassing. He’d probably think there is something with me.

concern. “It‘ s the least I

in a pack where I often feel unwanted. As we make our way

2048

D

Chapter 3

door open, and sets Max down. He rushes off toward a nearby booth. I follow the boy only to see his security remain outside. Once again, I try to recall where I have heard the name

toss. the idea away when I find Soren approaching us. He holds a tray with three cups and takes a seat across

to have a fun day at the park,” Soren said, his voice tinged with

more to myself than. to them. Rhett’s accusations, his insinuations that I was just being jealous,

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

his tiny fingers curled around the paper cup, chocolate mustache painting his upper lip. The fear from earlier in his eyes has faded, giving way to a child’s curiosity.

my spine at the boy’s probing gaze; he is a child, yet he has an aura? Soren notices, his

288 (ouchers

again, his voice low and laced with an accent

bleeding, to find it is healed now. I let out a breath, checking my ribs and hip.