A Toast to the Mates

Theron

I got to the party early, hoping to have an early exit. I knew I needed to support Rune but didn’t want to see Reed with her. Knowing he was trying to be with her hurt more than it should. Besides, I wanted to be at the guard posts, like I have been the last week every night, keeping watch and staying distracted from my thoughts. I hadn’t had a dream all week, which was strange. I had them so often for so long that I almost felt lonely without them, without at least being near my mate if it was only in my dreams.

Dean’s Pub in town was where Rune decided to have the party since it was his and Dani’s favorite hangout spot. It had pool tables and an old jukebox; the twins were already taking up one of the tables to challenge anyone feeling gutsy. Before long, the bar filled up, crowded with the team and squad. At the bar, I felt someone slide their hand down my back. I cringed, knowing who was working for my attention from her strawberry vanilla scent alone. I turned to see Olivi