Athumpfrombelowstartles me awake, my gaze going to the alarm clock beside my bed, 2 a.m. I hold my breath, trying to calm my racing heart, and strain my ears, listening for any noise out of place. All while trying to pull my brain from the fog it seems to be in, it feels like I’ve been dragged from a deep sleep. Blinking my eyes, I move them over the room, my brain trying to focus on what I heard. Another thump sounds below, and I swing my legs off the bed, a cloud of unease rolling in the pit of my stomach.
Adrenaline courses through me as I slowly tiptoe to the door that leads downstairs and into the bar. Someone is down there. As I carefully flip the latch on the door and pull it open, a cold chill washes over me, and I feel my skin pucker, the tiny hairs on my neck standing on end.
After a moment’s hesitation, I turn and quickly swipe up my baseball bat that’s behind the door and tiptoe down the stairs. I know which steps to skip, ones that will give my presence away. My eyes are quick to adjust to the dark, my shifter genes kicking in. I don’t smell anything out of place, and I prick my ears to listen. Nothing.
I make my way down the hall, past the bathrooms, and pause where it opens up into the bar. I hear bottles clinking and frown. I close my eyes, tilting my head, trying to pinpoint where exactly they are. I feel a slight movement in the air, and I can sense them behind the bar. I snap open my eyes, ready to step into the light, when Ghost winds through my legs and meows loudly. I shriek out of surprise and curse the damn cat as I rush from my hiding spot out into the now empty bar. I swing an accusing gaze back at the cat and move around the bar. Nothing looks out of place, I sniff the air, and there is a fresh scent. My brows lower as I inhale again. Declan?
It’s an hour before opening, and Felix is here helping me get ready. Declan called in sick. I can’t say I’m surprised. I have some questions, and I think he knows it.
My brothers now refuse to leave me alone until whoever’s threatening me is found. I don’t need a babysitter, but they sure do like to remind me that I’m important and worth protecting.
The front door to the bar swings open, and I sense an unfamiliar shifter. I spin, my eyes flashing and claws extending instantly. Felix is by my side in a second. The tall man raises his hands.
“I come in peace,” he says calmly.
I eye the newcomer. He is tall with a military look about him, close-cropped brown hair, and his eyes are a soft brown and hold a kindness to them, an easiness. I relax instantly, recognizing him as no threat.
“We’re closed,” I say, retracting my claws.
“I know. I just wanted to stop in and see the alpha of this territory, and announce my presence in town for a week, maybe two.”
I get busy with pouring myself a whiskey, I take a shot, and pour another, taking it as well. I relish in the warm liquid burning my throat and settling in my stomach. I hold the bottle up to the newcomer who shakes his head.
I clear my throat and raise my eyebrow. “Okay, and why are you here?”
“I’m visiting a friend who has asked for my assistance.”
“Do I know this friend?” I ask.
The man shrugs. “Probably.”
Felix gestures to the stool in front of us. The newcomer slowly makes his way forward and takes a seat.
“So, what’s your name, and who is this friend, and what are you helping him with?” I ask, crossing my arms over my chest.
“That’s more information than you need. I only need to announce my presence in your territory, and I come peacefully.”
“Well, we’ve been having some trouble as of late. Can’t be too careful,” I shrug. “If you want to stay, you’ll answer my questions.”
The man studies me for a long moment, neither of us breaking eye contact. Finally, he relents.
“My name is Sander, I’m from Lukas Black’s pack. I’m here visiting Logan Sinclair, and helping him with a case.”
My mouth pops open and closed several times. All words have fled my mind. Lukas runs the largest and strongest pack in America. He is well respected, and his luna’s rumored to be a Legacy. A descendant of a goddess and a shifter.
Felix chuckles under his breath and pats me on the back before he takes his leave. “I will go tap the kegs and do a stock count. Call if you need me.”
Sander watches him leave, confusion on his face. I walk around the bar and take a seat next to him. I hold out my hand to him. “I’m Salena. The alpha of the Crescent Moon pack here in Boulder.”
He takes my hand, smiling. “Nice to meet you, Salena.”
“So, how well do you know Logan?” I ask, unable to help myself.
“Very well. We grew up together, and then we work together occasionally.”
Huh.
“Do you know Logan?” he asks curiously.
