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.

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 thought. Soren turns to tell the paramedics they aren’t needed before returning

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 feel torn. On one hand, I don’t want to impose on him or make him feel obligated to help me. But on the other hand, I’m curious about who he

of the time 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 as they tumbled out.

complicated mate bond, and no one wants to admit they are the unwanted mate of an alpha; how embarrassing.

filled with genuine concern.

concern is rare in a pack where I often feel unwanted. As we make our way through the crowd, Soren places his hand gently on the small

2048

D

Chapter 3

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

is quaint, and I take a 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 takes a seat across from me instead of the other side of his son.

with a father’s guilt as

I murmur, more to myself than. to them. Rhett’s accusations, his insinuations

his face, revealing a torment that resonates with my own inner turmoil. “I’m trying to make it right. Thank you

his tiny fingers curled around the paper cup, chocolate mustache painting his upper lip. The fear from earlier in his

probing gaze; he is a child,

288 (ouchers

alright?” he asks again, his voice low and laced with an

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