Page 125 of A Game of Love and Betrayal

“Hey, man.” Nikhail grinned. “Thanks for the invitation.”

Even though this was a casual club, the air fae was dressed like he was attending a business meeting with high-ranking Representatives. That was normal for him. Ryker had never seen this friend in anything less than slacks and a dress shirt, even when they got together to watch a game of laser. Nikhail worked in intelligence for the government, and his position was so classified that even Ryker didn’t know what he did.

“Of course.” Ryker gave a one-armed hug to Nikhil, then Atlas. He was glad they came since he wanted them to get to know Brynleigh. After all, they’d be spending a lot of time together in the future.

Like Ryker, Atlas wore jeans and a black sweater. The earth fae waved his hand, getting the bartender’s attention. “Two beers, please.”

“Sure thing. One minute,” she replied.

Atlas leaned against the bar top, and Nikhail moved to Ryker’s other side. “You’re looking beautiful tonight, River.”

River’s cheeks reddened, and she sucked on her lip ring before smiling. “Thank you, Nik.” Her gaze crawled over the air fae’s suit appreciatively. “You look good, too.”

Ryker’s mouth pinched in a line, and his gaze darkened as it darted between them. What the hell was going on here? He didn’t like it at all. The last thing Ryker needed was for his little sister to get involved with one of his best friends.

Especially Nikhail.

The man was like Ryker’s brother, but he was known for his dalliances and one-night stands. That was not the kind of fae River should be interested in, especially not so close to graduation.

Before Ryker could do something stupid, like punch a certain air fae in the face, the club doors opened once more. His gaze slipped to the entrance, and he exhaled as a blonde with black wings entered.

“I’ll talk to you guys later.” Ryker walked away from the bar, shooting Nikhail a look that he hoped conveyed, Stay the fuck away from my sister, or else.

To Ryker’s relief, the air fae nodded and stepped back from River, taking a swig of his beer. The problem, at least for now, was solved. Still, Ryker would be keeping a closer eye on Nikhail. He was a good man, but he wasn’t right for River.

No one was.

Ryker pushed his way through the crowded club, moving past hordes of fae grinding against each other to the sensual beat of the music. Most of the dancers’ clothes were severely lacking in the fabric department, but he barely noticed. He only had eyes for the vampire making her way towards him.

Brynleigh was a vision of death in her figure-hugging knee-length crimson halter dress and black wings. Her blonde hair flowed around her. As always, her only jewelry was her necklace and the engagement ring he’d given her.

The moment she was within arm’s reach, Ryker took her hand and pulled her towards him.

“I missed you, beautiful,” he breathed, his eyes sweeping over her before he claimed a kiss.

Their mouths fused, and Brynleigh melted against him. Instantly, none of his other worries existed. Not his sister and the looks she was exchanging with Nikhail, who was definitely off limits. Not the rebel activities or the report he’d received this morning about yet another riot that had resulted in three deaths in the Southern Region.

The only thing that mattered was Brynleigh and how she felt in his arms. It was like they’d been made for each other.

Eventually, he broke off their kiss and slid their fingers together.

She smiled up at him, her fangs peeking out. “I missed you too. Three more days.”

“Three days,” he echoed. Somehow, it felt like the longest and shortest seventy-two hours of his life. Pecking her cheek, he asked, “Are you thirsty?”

“I am.” She leaned against him. “I’m glad we get to spend time together tonight, Ryker.”

“Me too.” Already, he felt better than he had in two days. Her presence was a balm to his soul.

Ryker led Brynleigh to the bar, never letting go of her hand. The trio he’d left behind was engaged in a heated discussion, which grew more animated as they approached.

Atlas crossed his arms and frowned. “I’m telling you both, the Vlarone Raiders will wipe the floor with the Drahanian Dragons. No one can beat them. They’re the best laser team on the continent.”

“You’re wrong.” River glared up at the earth fae, who was more than a foot taller than her. “The Dragons have won every single game this year.”

“Only because the Southern Region hasn’t come against the Western one yet this season,” Atlas argued.

“Ugh!” River threw up her hands and huffed, “You’ll see. They’ll win, and you’ll eat your words.”

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