Page 18 of Rafe

Rafe’s stomach growled as he looked to the spread of bagels on the dining table. Fucking vampire.

“We thought you were dead, my friend,” a familiar voice called to Rafe. “Yo! Heard the witch snatched your ass.”

Rafe jumped up from his seat as his friend, Xavier, entered the room. Wearing a steel-blue suit and tie, the good-looking vampire reached for him.

“Good to see you, dude.” Rafe nodded with a smile and patted his shoulder. He hadn’t known Xavier well, but they’d fought together in Japan. Trust was everything. “Glad we all made it out.”

“That was some fight.” A handsome man dressed in a black suit and tie entered the room and waved.

“Kenji. My brother.” Rafe brought his hands together and bowed, which was returned. “I’m sorry about Makoto. It was a difficult battle.”

“I’m sorry as well. He fought honorably,” Greyson added.

“He died with honor.” Kenji remained stoic, not discussing it further.

“How’s your sister, Sayuri?” Rafe asked.

“She’s back in Japan. Taking some time for herself.”

“Come have some bagels.” Greyson gestured to the kitchen counter.

“I’m here on business today.” Xavier wore a concerned expression.

“Please. Have a seat,” Greyson led them to the living room and slid into a leather chair.

“We’ve had a situation in Vegas,” Xavier told them. “Vampires. The coven is in crisis. Their leader died a couple of months ago.” He shrugged. “It’s not an easy situation.”

“Unfortunate accidents.” Greyson bit into his bagel.

“What happened?” Rafe pressed, his focus on Xavier.

“I’m not in full knowledge of all the details.” Xavier glanced at the ancient vampire. “There’re rumors of missing humans. The police contacted P-CAP who contacted Kade. There’s been no evidence to show who’s responsible. Kade has asked me to go to Las Vegas, and we’d like you to come.”

“I’m still failing to see why you need me to go along. I’m a wolf.”

“We’ve got wolf problems too,” Xavier countered. “Vegas has never been particularly stable. Hunter and Logan thought you might be the right person to help.”

“Me? No.” Rafe sighed. He looked to Greyson then back to Xavier, Kenji averted his gaze, looking to the floor.

“Just hear him out,” Greyson said, his voice stern.

“It probably won’t be for very long. There’re not many wolves, but you’re being recognized as an Alpha and⁠—”

“I just got out of battle,” Rafe protested, refusing to address his Alpha tendencies. As long as he was a hybrid, he’d never lead a pack. “Xavier. Please understand. I need a break. I just bought a new bike. I’m headed across country. I met someone.”

“What are you talking about? You met a human. She’s food. And she’s leaving. You need something constructive to do,” Greyson looked to Xavier. “Do you see what I’m dealing with here? The wolf doesn’t listen to his elders.”

“Come on now. You know I respect all of you. Julian. Viktor. Even you.” Rafe gave Greyson a pointed stare. “It sounds like Hunter’s involved. I’m sure he’s got it handled. He probably already has scouts sent to check things out. Hey, I get it. I feel bad for the stray wolves. I know what it’s like to be without pack more than anyone. Maybe Hunter can relocate them to other packs until they find an Alpha.”

“You’re going to be an Alpha,” Greyson pressed.

“But I’m not an Alpha,” Rafe countered. “I’m a wolf with vampire tendencies. And it sucks. Literally. In every way possible.”

Xavier glanced at Greyson then quickly focused on Rafe. “I’m sorry this happened to you, my friend, but we really need you to come with us.”

“I’m sorry too, but I’m not it. I’m not your person.” Rafe turned to Xavier and Kenji. “Look it’s great seeing you both. I know you guys can handle it. You’ve got an ancient. A dragon. And you, Xavier. You’re a skilled warrior.” His lips pressed into a tight smile. “I’m gonna go now, put on a podcast and chill. Listen to some music. If you really need me when you get there, shoot me a text.” Rafe sighed. “So yeah, that’s where I’m at with this.”

Greyson crossed his arms and shook his head in disapproval. Rafe brushed off the guilt. Everything he’d said had been true. He’d been through hell and back and needed a break from the fighting.