Page 116 of Fangs and Fudge

“Shepard,” I said. I had no doubt about it. But the key word was “fair.”

“Cross, how did you find out about ‘The Howl’ app?” Vena asked.

“A vampire I met mentioned it. I borrowed the login information from him.”

As soon as Cross mentioned the vampires, a shadow settled on Vena's face, and I knew why. If the vampires were reading the discussion threads, they knew exactly where the werewolves were looking and how to avoid them.

“We need to tell Shepard,” I said.

“I agree,” Cross said. “However, I hesitate to tell him on the day of his challenge. I fear distracting him. The werewolves cannot afford to lose him as their leader.”

Vena nodded. “I’m with Cross. We should wait.”

“Fine. Once the challenge is over, we’ll talk to Shepard then focus on finding Anchor and the master,” I said.

Cross brushed his hand over my hair. The look he gave me while doing it set my pulse racing.

Vena stood and wedged herself between Cross and myself.

She smirked at me. “Consider me your roadblock. We should be able to get through the episode now without any bumpy rides.”

Rolling my eyes, I scooted over so we all had room. I watched the TV, willing the nervous energy coursing through my body to settle. It wasn’t all due to Cross. I was worried about Shepard’s upcoming challenge, too.

We spent the rest of the day binging The Other House reruns, eating takeout, and being as lazy as possible.

I enjoyed seeing Cross in this different light. The uptight vampire that used to speak old English could now relax and even tease. It was as if he was rediscovering himself in this new world. And it was sexy as hell discovering Cross alongside him.

Unfortunately, our time came to an end as Vena and I got ready for our shift at Blur.

Cross walked us to my car.

“Will we see you later tonight?” I asked, remembering that Shepard had asked Cross to keep an eye on things while the wolves were busy doing their furry fight club.

“Not if everything goes well,” he said, leaning in to kiss my forehead. “Tell Shepard to watch his back.”

Vena snorted. “You’ve been very interested in Shepard’s backside lately.”

Cross winked at her and opened my door for me.

“Text me if you need anything.”

“Same,” I said, getting in.

As soon as Vena pulled into the employee parking lot behind Blur, I knew it wasn’t going to be a typical night.

“Why are there so many cars?” she asked.

I shook my head, not having an answer.

Gunther was once again in his usual spot in the kitchen. However, Jaws stood shoulder to shoulder with him, helping with the dishes.

“Hey, Gunther,” I called, pausing by the door to the lockers.

Gunther glanced over his shoulder at me and nodded, looking more grumpy than usual. His gaze flicked to Jaws, who’d turned to look at me as well. Then he shook his head slightly.

“Everly. Vena,” Jaws said with a curt nod at us.

“Didn’t know you aspired to be a dishwasher, Jaws. Was that something you dreamed of becoming since you were little?” Vena asked.

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