Page 179 of Knot What I Expected

One of her friends gives me a semi-apologetic smile and shakes her head.

“Coffee for me, please.”

“Same, and some fries,” the other murmurs.

Lindsey stomps toward a booth.

I watch her go.

Something feels wrong. That strange feather scent I noticed last night clings to them again.

Still faint beneath the perfume and hairspray. But definitely there.

My other nature stirs uneasily.

Vulture.

I stiffen.

No.

Lots of Avian Shifters exist. The Suicide Cliff Wake doesn’t own the entire fucking species.

And these women aren't Shifters. They just smell like they've been around them.

Still, an uncomfortable prickling starts between my shoulder blades.

I take their order, then glance at the clock. Megan should be here any minute.

Thank God.

I want to go home.

Now.

I want Matteo. And suddenly I really, really want Rowan.

The thought stops me.

Because yesterday danger meant running. Today, my first instinct is to find him.

My mate.

I don't know how I feel about that yet. The kitchen finishes their order just as Megan walks through the door.

Thank fuck.

“These are the drinks for table six. They got fries coming out in a minute. Thanks, Meg.”

“Sure thing, Gabby,” the younger woman says and smiles.

I start grabbing my things. Then Lindsey’s voice carries across the restaurant.

“Not you! I want her to bring it to me!”

I close my eyes.

Of course she does.