Skyler laughs, and it’s a sound I wouldn’t mind hearing regularly.
When we get to Emma’s office, she hands me a packet and promptly kicks us out. She claims it’s because Skyler andRazorjaw can show me more about the facility than she ever could. I think the universe is just conspiring to get me to spend as much time as possible with Skyler. We share soft smiles in the elevator down to the rehabilitation tanks, and it’s almost intimate. Of course, we’re not alone in this tiny metal box. The big shark guy is between us, and I thank the monster god he’s cockblocking me.
I mean, there’s nothing to cockblock. I’m so not dating material. And that’s assuming Skyler would be interested in a weirdo kraken shifter who can’t keep his hormones in check.
The pamphlets aren’t nearly as informative as Skyler’s tour. There’s so much the team does at MM Institute. Razorjaw is living proof that ocean-based shifters are able to learn about land life. Additionally, the team members tag and rescue at-risk marine wildlife. They consolidate their research on ocean life to work on conservation laws. This is in addition to a huge aquarium with regular children’s educational programming. I find myself in awe of all the exhibits, and I can’t wait to share them with my nephew.
The one hour goes by in a flash, and the three of us are back at the lobby. “This was all so amazing,” I say.
“We pride ourselves in our work,” Skyler says with a dramatic bow. “But thank you, sir.”
I chuckle, and if Razorjaw wasn’t here, I’d almost suspect he was flirting. I turn back to the tall shark, and his gaze darts between us.
“Um, I need to go…urinate. Goodbye, Reed Sung.” He runs away like his fins are on fire, and I snicker.Oh, now he wants to give us alone time?
In moments, it’s just Skyler and me at the door. We’re in our own little bubble, just like the day we met. “So,” Skyler says. “Have we convinced you?”
“I’d need to discuss it with Aisen, but…” I play with my watch. “I’d love to work with you.”
“I think I’d like that too, Reed,” he replies, almost breathlessly. He bounces on his toes in an endearing way. His face shines in the afternoon sun, and my tentacles itch to run through his dirty-blond hair.
My pheromones spike, I can feel them exuding down my neck. The tour has put me at ease in his presence, but I suddenly recall how embarrassing those first few minutes were.
“Listen, about those uh…pheromones…” I clear my throat and wave my hand. “That was nothing…”
“Oh, don’t worry,” Skyler says. We both chuckle and avoid each other’s gaze. “Consider it forgotten.”
“It’s like…involuntary.”
“Like morning wood!” Skyler remarks.
“Yes!” We both laugh, and he rubs his arm. “Just like, um…morning wood.” I clear my throat and picture Skyler with his morning wood. I bet his cock is a thing of beauty. I wonder if he’s cut or not…
Focus, Reed. “I should get going.”
“Yeah, for sure.” Skyler adjusts his glasses. “Email us anytime.”
“I most certainly will!” We both laugh again for no reason, and I open the door.
“Hey, Reed?”
“Yeah?” My one foot is outside, and I turn to him.
“I hope to see you again. We’re here to help however we can.” He gives me a soft smile, and my heart flutters.
“I will definitely see you again, Skyler. I promise.” With one last grin, I stride away. I’ve learned so much today, and I have no doubt the Institute can help Aisen. Regardless, I’m going to keep my promise; I want to see Skyler again, even as just a colleague.A smart, helpful dude like him is like a glowing sunrise on the ocean, and I want to witness him as much as I can.
CHAPTER 4- SKYLER
AFTER GETTING INTOmy car, I feel the vibration in my pocket, then check my phone. After reading the name, my smile falls, and I pick up the video phone call. “Hey, Gramps.”
“Skyler! Son!” My grandfather’s face is so close to the screen that I can almost see his nose hairs. “How’s it hangin’?”
“I’m well. To what do I owe this call?”
“I can’t check up on my precious little grandson?”
“I’m thirty-one,” I say through a titter. “Also, lean back, Gramps. You’re too close to the screen.”
