Page 112 of Pucking Feral: Part Two

"I just found out today." The lie comes easier than it should. "I would have told the rest of the pack before, but there wasn't exactly an opportunity. What with the game and everything, considering I had to hide from my fucking ex."

I don't know why I said it. And I don't know if Valek almost put Wade in the ground for his own vendetta or for me.

But I feel in my heart of hearts it was for me.

The official's eyes narrow. "You're claiming Mr. Carter as a scent match?"

"I am."

"Mr. Carter? Is this true?"

Valek isn't looking at me. His jaw is still working, the muscle jumping beneath his skin. Finally, he draws in a deep, ragged breath and meets the official's eyes.

"Yes," he says flatly.

Beneath me, Wraith rumbles low in his chest again. His arms are still wrapped around me, but his eyes—bloodshot enough they look bluer than ever—lock on Valek with lingering feral intensity.

"Holy. Fucking. Shit," Whiskey breathes.

For once, no follow-up joke.

Thane just sighs, heavy and bone-deep. "Of course he is."

The officials exchange surprised glances. More scratching on clipboards. Then the lead one nods, apparently satisfied.

"We'll need you to stay in town. All of you. There's a shitload of paperwork to process and formal statements." He tucks the clipboard under his arm. "But for now, we're done here."

They file out, suits and uniforms disappearing through the door, leaving the locker room suddenly, oppressively quiet.

Valek pushes off from the wall.

"Hold it."

Thane's voice stops him at the door. Valek doesn't turn around.

"Is it true?" Thane's not looking at him. He's looking at me. "Is he actually your scent match, or did you just lie to the cops to save his ass?"

I open my mouth to explain.

It was instinct. I was protecting him. It didn't mean⁠—

Then Valek turns.

His silver eyes meet mine across the room. And whatever I see in them makes the words die in my throat.

Then he's gone, crossing the room in two long strides and disappearing through the door without looking back.

"Ivy?" Thane presses.

I close my mouth.

What if it wasn't a fucking lie at all?

Chapter 22

Valek

Ipace the tunnels like a caged beast.