***
“Someone’s scent is getting stronger,” Sawyer says as he climbs behind the steering wheel.
I don’t meet his gaze. Instead, I peer out the SUV passenger window. “I didn’t take the scent suppressants today.”
He cups my chin, turning my gaze to lock with his. “I wouldn’t ever hurt you, little omega. I’ll always keep you safe. I hated that I didn’t reach Lionel before he attacked you.”
My mouth falls open, and I grasp his hand, pressing it to my chest. “Thank you. When he didn't try to break down my door, I thought maybe someone spotted him in the hallway and scared him off.”
“Nope. I dragged his pathetic ass out of the building and beat him nearly to death. I don’t shy away from murder, Harper. I’d kill for you anytime.” He winks.
I laugh softly. “That’s not necessary, Sawyer.”
“It’s necessary if someone tries to hurt you. Doesn’t matter who—they’re all fair game. Even my father’s no exception.” He nibbles at my lips before deepening our kiss. With Sawyer, I feel protected and cherished.
It still baffles me that their fathers don’t want us together.
I pull away, locking eyes with his gray gaze. “Will you sleep in my nest tonight?”
He grins. “Absolutely.”
“Just sleep, Sawyer.”
He presses his lips to mine once more. “Just sleep… after you ride my tongue.”
I collapse back into my seat, laughing. “You’re so damn naughty.”
“Only for you, little omega.”
***
Sawyer squeezes my hand as we step inside the movie theater. Growing up, the guys and I would go to the movies a couple of times a month. Tonight, Sawyer made sure I knew this was a date—movie and dinner.
It’s been ages since I last went on a date. It feels good, to be noticed, to be valued.
We stop at the concession stand. Even though Sawyer knows my favorite snacks, he still asks what I want. It feels like we’ve been given a second chance. Is it just going to be me and Sawyer, or will I find a way to forgive the other alphas and build a pack?
We collect the snacks, popcorn, and soda.
“Theater nine,” Sawyer announces.
I scan the area and see women eyeing Sawyer with longing. He doesn’t even notice them; all his attention is on me.
There’s a killer on the loose, yet Sawyer still carved out time to take me on this date.
***
After an incredible date with Sawyer, we stand together at the foot of my bed. It feels so odd calling this my nest. But that’s what it is. Tomorrow, Dustin, Thatcher, and Archer will be painting the room, and Sawyer has arranged for a cozy sofa and rug to arrive on Monday.
“Sawyer, I’m supposed to live in my dorm room.”
His teeth brush against my neck while his large hands settle firmly on my hips. The heat between us ignites, and I ache to climb his body and take his knot. This is exactly what I feared—losing myself in the swirling mix of our scents, driving us both wild.
“I want to bond with you, omega.”
I lift his t-shirt up his back and pull it over his head. His hands immediately seek my breasts beneath my sweater.
“Rut now,” he growls.