Page 62 of Poet & Protector

“Why?”

“Because if I win, we both lose.” He huffed with indignation. “Unless you don’t want me to kiss you, and I know you do.”

“Of course I do,” I replied. “But I know I won’t lose.”

He bared his teeth at me and shrugged on his jacket. “Tonight, you lose. I’m leaving. No kiss.”

“Whatever you say, Mason.”

The sound of a throat clearing drew our attention to Caleb, who stood behind the couch. “Not to interrupt…whatever this is, but it’s last call.”

“No worries, Caleb,” Mason said stiffly. “I’m on my way out. Have a good night.”

“’Night, Mason,” Caleb replied, his brow pinching with puzzlement. “Be safe.”

Mason spared me a withering glance and headed for the stairs.

Caleb looked at me and frowned. “Are you two actually fighting? Because I’m going to give you advice whether you want it or not. Most fights aren’t worth it.”

“We’re not fighting,” I said, watching Mason climb the stairs. Frustration poured off him with every step.

“But I do have a problem I need to talk to you about.” I looked at Caleb, who continued to eye me with a skeptical expression.

“A problem with Mason?”

I shook my head and returned my attention to my boyfriend’s imminent exit. “Not Mason. Mason related.”

The wolf in question paused when he reached the landing. I could see him muttering to himself, his fists clenching and unclenching. He took a few steps toward the door. Stopped again.

“What’s the issue?” Caleb asked.

“Hold that thought,” I replied. “Talk to me about something else for a minute.”

“What?”

“Talk about anything you want,” I said.

Mason had turned around and was sullenly making his way back downstairs.

Swiveling toward Caleb for a moment, I asked, “Do you and Tom have plans for the holiday?”

Caleb cocked his head and his brow furrowed. “Are you feeling okay, Nev?”

My gaze returned to the stairs and a smile spread across my lips as Mason stormed over. “I’m great.”

Mason stopped beside the couch and glared at me. “You’re evil.”

“Sometimes,” I agreed.

Casting a sidelong glance at Caleb, Mason said, “Sorry, Caleb. This will just take a sec.”

“Only a sec?” I lifted my eyebrows.

“Shut up.” Mason growled and fisted my shirt, dragging me forward as he bent and kissed me. It lasted much longer than a sec.

Caleb was laughing when Mason finally released me.

“Goodnight, Mason,” I said softly, touching his cheek.