Whatever you're reaching for in Belladonna. . .I'll try to reach it first. And when I close my fist around it, you'll feel it all the way in Paris.
I held a meeting with my Roar, Claws, and Fangs next going through weapons inventory, strategy, and battle points so there would be no more casualties in the fights to come.
We were halfway through finalizing entry routes and kill zones when the door slid open without permission.
A lower guard stepped in, bowed once, and spoke fast. He knew he was interrupting something that could get him buried. "My apologies, Dragon. The Tiger has finalized the details for tonight's gathering."
Every head at the table turned.
Reo went still and his gaze sharpened.
I stared at the guard. "Go on."
The guard swallowed. "The Tiger has chosenThe Great GatsbyandIn the Mood for Loveas the party’s aesthetic direction. She has requested all men wear black in their own style. She has opened the evening to any guests that they may want to bring. And she has also added a Best Dressed Competition."
He bowed and left.
I sighed.
Silence came for one full breath.
Then, the ridiculousness began.
Kaoru leaned back in his chair. "Hey, guys. No need to go too crazy with your outfit selection. I’m winning the competition. I do black very well, and I’m bringing my girlfriends."
Yoichi grinned. “I wouldn’t bring them, if I were you.”
Kaoru quirked his brows. “Why not?”
“They may want to go home with me.” Yoichi winked.
Everyone laughed.
"You think a Fang will win at the Claws’ party?" Toma called from the end of the table. “Think again. Everyone in Japan knows that we’re the best dressed.”
I rubbed my temples.
“If you have to say that you’re the best dressed, then you’re probably not.” Rin set his tea down with two fingers. The porcelain made no sound. His other hand brushed the white silk of his sleeve. "By the way, I'll be bringing a guest."
My stomach dropped.
Damn it. Please don’t let it be the hairstylist.
Nyomi still didn't know that Rin had kidnapped Deja. I would have to tell her before the party.
Hiro clicked his lollipop against his teeth once. “I don’t think any Fangs should bring guests. You all should be happy that the Tiger is even letting you all come.”
“What the hell does that mean?” Satoshi eyed him. And to my delight, he had not scratched once during the entire meeting. “The Tiger loves the Fangs. We didn’t have to whine for her food. We got it immediately—”
“What did you say?” Hiro rose from his chair.
The Claws followed.
Reo sighed. “Everyone sit back down. We were having a meeting about strategy.”
Hiro glared at Satoshi and lowered back into his seat. The Claws did the same.
“Sorry, Reo.” Kaede nodded. “We will focus on the task at hand.”
