“Interesting. Good, but also interesting,” Hail said.
“Tell me, how is he as a mission lead?” Athena asked.
“He’s good. He’s fun, and lighthearted, and breaks the tension frequently, but focused and all business when it’s time to work. He has faith in his team and allows them room to do their jobs. I really enjoyed working under him.”
“Go, Frenzy!” Athena said, pumping her fist in the air.
Hail smiled.
“And what’s with you?”
“Hmm? What do you mean?”
“You’re off balance.”
“No, I’m not. I’m fine.”
Athena canted her head and smirked at Hail. “What kind of lead would I be if I didn’t know my team well enough to know exactly when they’re off balance?”
“It’s nothing. It’s just different day, same shit.”
“What does that mean? We have had shit almost every day of our lives. What shit are you referring to?”
“Alright, but I really don’t want to discuss it with the whole team.”
Athena looked around herself. “Do you see anybody here other than me?”
“Fine. I met somebody.”
“On mission? You met somebody? Is he Variant?”
“No. He’s a Lion shifter.”
“Oh, baby! Now we’re talking! Wild, unpredictable and sexy, I’m guessing!”
“He’s about six and half feet tall, shoulders wider than a damn door, bald but I think he shaves it, a goatee kind of tuft thing. He’s not pretty, but he’s so rugged and masculine, very handsome.”
“Just your type. You don’t like pretty.”
“And he likes me. I mean, really likes me. He asked me not to go on mission. Wanted me to stay with him and his Pride. When I said I had responsibilities, he froze up. Just shut down on me.”
“Did you know in advance that he was attached to you?”
“I knew that we liked each other, but I had no idea he’d go from let’s spend the night together to live your life here with me.”
“Is that what he said?!” Athena asked excitedly.
“Not exactly, but I’m pretty sure that’s what he meant. He didn’t want me to leave — ever.”
“How do you feel about that?”
“Like shit.”
“Because you didn’t want to hurt him?”
“Because I didn’t want to hurt me! Or him. I’ve second guessed myself every minute since leaving him standing there watching me drive away.”
“You don’t even know if their leader would have allowed you to stay.”
