Taken aback, Kraft thought about it. “I suppose.”
“None of us breed as fast as humans. We don’t multiply the way they do. Every one of us is important to our future. And berserkers most of all. We need Riley to continue our line. And admit it, vampire. She’s a strong, beautiful female. It’s no wonder so many are applying to win her hand.”
“Applying?”
“She issued a challenge, not that I think she meant to. Now, anyone who wants a chance at winning her for a mate can compete.”
“Like a game?”
“Yes, a game where she loses no matter who wins,” Ivan muttered before leaving, catching up to Riley and walking with her while several lycans followed.
Small claws dug in as Paz climbed up Kraft’s leg and torso to rest on his shoulder.Isn’t this fascinating? The berserker’s in a temper. I wonder if that’s part of her taking a mate. She’s got four suitors following her even now. Maybe five if Ivan joins in. Apparently, Riley is a rare prize. You know, back in my other form, I would have impregnated her without a thought.
Kraft snarled, and several lycans backed away. “Watch your mouth, feline.”
Honestly, you’re so touchy.Paz sniffed.I was just complimenting your prey.
That soothed him. “My prey. Of course.”
A few lycans nearby, including Max, gave him odd looks.
He hustled out of the conference room after her and saw Ivan leave her side as she turned out of view. Pleased the large contender had gone away, he nearly ran into Riley when he turned a corner.
Her brows arched. “Are you following me?”
“No.” Yes.
You totally are,the cat said.
“What do you want?”
“To know why you left in such a hurry. And to ask what you think we should do now that we know Sebastian Castle is our sorcerer.”
She paused. “Yes, we do need to keep our eyes on the prize.”
“Do you mean yourself?” a handsome young lycan asked as he joined them and looked her over. “I’m so glad to know all those allegations against you were bogus. My apologies for believing the worst, Riley.” The lycan bowed his head over her hand and kissed the back of it before handing her a bouquet of roses.
Kraft wanted to gut him like a dead deer, but he didn’t want to seem as if he cared about the loser.
Riley flushed, tugged her hand back, and pulled the flowers close. “It’s okay, Malcolm. Not your fault.”
“No, I should know better. You’ve always helped the Nightguard.” He frowned. “My father listens to lies and spreads them. Worse than a clucking hen.”
Riley and he laughed.
Kraft saw nothing amusing about their discussion. Such a lesser being shouldn’t be talking with someone of Riley’s status. He’d make sure to tell her that too.
“When the time is met, know I’ll be there to win your affection.”
“Ah, no. See, Malcolm, I’m not offering myself up for any challenge. It was all a mistake.”
Malcolm grinned. “Not what any of us heard. I look forward to the next crescent moon.” He bowed and left.
“Crescent moon?” Kraft asked.
Riley continued past him, glanced around and, seeing no one nearby, hurriedly ducked into her cabin.
He followed, and she yanked him farther inside, away from the door, and locked it. Then she matched up two runes over the doorframe. A wave of magic settled over the abode.
