Page 46 of Alpha Hunt

He nods, his expression turning serious. “I get that. But still, it’s a big change.”

I don’t respond, focusing instead on the crumbling buildings around us. We move in silence for a while, the only sound the crunch of our boots against the debris-littered ground.

As we approach a dilapidated warehouse, Tarkin lifts up a hand. “Hold up. I smell something.”

I inhale deeply, catching the scent of stale beer and cigarettes. “Teenagers,” I mutter, moving closer to investigate. “Human.”

We find the remnants of a party scattered about – empty bottles, discarded wrappers, and a few smoldering embers in a makeshift fire pit. I let out a sigh of relief. At least it’s not the Leadmills pack.

“Looks like some kids had a little too much fun out here,” Tarkin remarks, toeing a crushed can with his boot.

We divide up and move around the wreck of the buildings until we regroup in front of the warehouse.

“No sign of wolf spoor,” he confirms what I’ve found. “I’m pretty sure it’s all clear.”

I nod, already turning toward Steel Lakes. “Let’s head back. There’s nothing else to see here.”

As we walk, Tarkin bumps my shoulder with his. “Seriously though, Casey. You doing okay? I heard Jagger speaking to Gage yesterday. They’ve been wondering about this mate bond of yours. If it’s not working out…”

I bristle at the concern in his voice. “I’m fine, Redburn. Drop it.”

He holds up his hands in surrender. “Alright, alright. But if you ever need to talk…”

“I won’t,” I snap, quickening my pace.

He matches my stride easily, a knowing smirk on his face. “Okay, Stone. Whatever you say.”

I grit my teeth, annoyed at his perceptiveness. I don’t need anyone prying into my personal life, especially not when I’m still trying to figure it out myself.

We walk the rest of the way in silence, the tightness in my shoulders building into a knot. As we pass back through the gate into Steel Lakes, I can’t help but wonder where Edirn is and what he’s doing. The thought unsettles me more than I care to admit.

Why do I care?

I don’t. It’s normal to be concerned about another team member. Who happens to be my mate. Even though we haven’t sealed the bond yet. Or even tried.

Aside from last night. That came close. If it had been left to me…

Why did he stop?

I grind my teeth, shoving the thought out of my head. This is getting ridiculous. I’ve never been this unsettled by a man before. Why now?

Because this one’s my mate.

In name only, dammit!

“Ugh!” I yank off my vest and shove it in the steel cabinet alongside the others, then stow my weapon in the gun safe.

“Okay…I’m not even going to try to offer any help,” Tarkin says drily. “You’re supposed to be glowing or some shit like that. But right now, you look fit to blow.” He backs away. “I’m gonna give you some space.”

“Good!” I bark, then heave out a sigh. “I’m sorry. Just got a lot on my mind.” My mood has nothing to do with him. I’m still stewing, trying to figure out why I’m reacting like this. “I need to get cleaned up.” I manage a tight smile before heading to the changing rooms. I march in and stop short.

Edirn is near a bench at the far end, peeling out of a damp black T-shirt.

Fuck.

How can he make me so mad and still look so damn good?

“You’re back.” I stop a few feet away, set my jaw, and fold my arms over my chest.

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