Page 106 of The Thief

After we’d gotten a handle on orders in the kitchen, Bear had sent Melody and Lakota out to eat so he could prepare for the next wave.

“Africa” by Toto played on the jukebox, and the clamorous noise from earlier had settled down.

Outside customers came in to pay but not before showering Calvin with praise that the belligerent old Mage scoffed at.

“Thank you! Be sure to come back tomorrow!” I called out to them as they left.

Archer gnawed on a corncob, melted butter running down his wrist. Lucian, who sat quietly to my right, was the only one who had dressed up. Not only did he have on a long-sleeved grey button-up and oxford wingtip shoes, but he also wore an expensive watch. Joy had dolled up the girls with the help of her expensive makeup collection. Melody’s fun pink and silver eyeshadow complemented her new hair color.

Eventually, the families cleared out. Kids could only sit still for so long, and we had nothing in there for them to play with.

Despite their leaving, it was never empty. Just as they left, new customers would arrive. Word had gotten out, and some people remarked that the smell of barbecue and our packed parking lot had piqued their curiosity.

A round of applause made me turn around. Bear emerged from the kitchen, wiping his ruddy face with a rag. He lowered his eyes, a tight smile showing that bashful side of him I adored. Lucian gave up his seat for the man of honor.

Bear took a load off, and I pushed my glass of water in front of him. After a long sip, he pressed the glass to his cheek. “I underestimated how much work it was gonna be.”

“You just need help on the lunch hour,” I informed him. “Maybe we can hire a part-timer to plate the food or help you out with the little things you don’t have time for.”

He nodded. “Did you eat?”

“It’s for the customers,” I said.

Bear looked like he wanted to fight me on it but instead replied, “I’ll save you a plate.”

Tak suddenly rapped his knuckles on the table, drawing everyone’s attention. I followed the direction of his gaze to Eden, the local Councilwoman. I’d met her once when she came by the house to make our pack official. It was hard to forget her. I’d seen some unusual eyes in the Breed world, but hers were the prettiest—like a Mexican fire opal in Hope’s jewelry collection.

“I couldn’t leave without complimenting the chef.” She smiled at Bear, revealing her perfect teeth. “I made sure not to wear white today just in case it was barbecue. I was hoping. It’s one of my favorites. Outstanding job…”

She left her sentence hanging as an invitation for him to introduce himself.

“Bear,” he said with a curt nod. “Thank you, ma’am. I’m honored you came.”

She walked around to his chair, and Bear quickly stood. Eden took his hand and praised his skill, explaining how people like him were the reason this town might thrive.

“Keep up the good work,” she said before casting her gaze to Tak. “I love to see people using their talent.”

Bear’s chest puffed out as he returned to his seat.

“You too, Mercy.” She winked at me. “I’ve heard nothing but praise about Calvin’s new server. It’s wonderful to see business finally picking up in here. I’m only sorry I waited this long to see for myself. Truth be told, I only come in for the private rooms. It’s easy to get in and out. Dragonfly’s has too many elevators, staircases, and long walks. And I’m a lady who likes her heels.” She observed the lively room with a proud smile. “Things are changing for the better around here. Yes, they are. You’re doing a great job.”

“Thank you.”

She steered her attention to Lucian, who stood behind her. “And what’s your talent, Mr. Lucian Cross?”

“Pissing people off,” Virgil offered matter-of-factly. “He can also peel an onion in eight seconds with his bare hands.”

Everyone laughed because it was true.

Lucian bowed his head. “I set up security.”

“Is that right?” She touched his arm and gave it a soft stroke. “I’ll pencil you in my little contact book. Would that be all right?”

“Whatever you desire, female.”

“Well then, Mr. Cross, I’ll see what I can do to send work your way.” She looked at Tak. “I’ll give you a ring tomorrow.”

He nodded in understanding. Packmasters always had important meetings with not only other Packmasters but the Council. I wasn’t sure what kinds of issues they discussed. Every major city had a Shifter Council composed of a handful of Shifters of any animal type. They expected groups such as packs and prides to handle their own disputes, but they often intervened in larger matters, especially crimes. Shifter Councils also distributed land, officiated mating ceremonies, and worked with other Breed Councils to resolve issues.

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