I answer what I need to, redirect when I can, and keep us moving. And then I spot Finn, my research partner and complete introvert.
He’s half-turned toward a local reporter, shoulders a little too tight, one hand shoved into his pocket. There’s a bead of sweat on his brow that tells me exactly how much he’s enjoying this. Not at all.
“Excuse me,” I say to the group in front of us, already shifting direction.
Lark goes with me easily. Silas and Saint fall in behind.
Finn glances up as we approach, and I watch the exact moment he realizes he’s being rescued.
“Finn,” I say, stepping in beside him. “I see you’ve been cornered.”
He exhales quietly. “Just a little.”
I angle slightly so Lark is brought into the space. “Finn, this is Lark Jensen,” I say. “Lark, this is my research partner, Dr. Finn Gaudreau.”
“Nice to finally meet you,” he says.
“You too,” Lark replies easily.
I gesture toward the edge of the crowd where Silas and Saint stand. “You’ve already met Saint and Silas,” I add.
Finn nods in their direction. “I have.”
I glance toward the entrance. “Let’s go inside,” I say. “I think we’ve given them enough soundbites for one night.”
He doesn’t even pretend to argue. “Please.”
Inside, the low buzz of conversation replaces the chaos of cameras and journalists.
Saint and Silas peel off. “Drinks,” Saint says over his shoulder.
“Good plan,” I reply.
Finn adjusts his cuff slightly, scanning the room. “You didn’t seem to be bothered by that,” he says to Lark.
“I’ve dealt with the press before. Plus, it wasn’t me they wanted to speak to.”
I huff out a quiet laugh.
Lark tilts her head slightly. “Tell me about yourself. Do you have a pack?”
Finn nods. “I do,” he says. “Unfortunately, our schedules didn’t line up tonight.”
“That’s a shame. It’s a big night for you. Maybe we can have you over one night for dinner. Silas is an excellent cook.”
Finn smiles, “I would love that.” He looks around the room. “I’m going to circulate,” he says.
“Good luck,” I say, then huff a laugh when he rolls his eyes and trudges off like he’s going to war.
We watch him go.
“Does he have an omega?” Lark asks.
“Not yet. Why?”
Lark hums, thoughtful. “We should introduce him to Cammie.”
I physically recoil. “Absolutely not.”
