Page 132 of Fangs and Fudge

“Focus on the road,” I said.

She gave me a wounded puppy look but got in and started the car, adjusting the rear-view mirror to see Anchor. I leaned over and fixed it.

“I’m going to remember this,” she said but left the mirror alone.

On the way to the pack house, Anchor asked, “What happened at the challenge, and why does everyone smell like vampire?”

“The vampires broke in during the fight,” Shepard said. “There’s an infestation beyond what any of us expected. It was three to one for a while. We’re meeting at dawn tomorrow to discuss.”

“Was anyone hurt?”

“Many. Most will recover.”

But there were some who would not. That fact lingered in the air, causing everyone to remain quiet during the rest of the ride.

When Vena pulled in front of the large housing complex, we weren’t the only arrivals. At least half the people getting out of their vehicles were still naked. Too many were limping or leaning on someone.

We got out and made our way inside.

Lisa, who was there with more clothes for anyone who needed them, handed Shepard a hot washcloth from a pile as she greeted us.

“I’m so glad to see you.” She tugged Anchor into a quick hug. “Are you okay?”

He gave a nod. “No harm done, just cooped up. A jog on the trails tomorrow and I’ll be back to normal.”

She gave a nod. “The kitchen’s running full steam for those who need food. Are you girls hungry?”

After all the bloodshed, neither of us wanted to eat, so we shook our heads.

“All right. I’ll bring up some clean pajamas in a bit.”

Vena and I followed Shepard to the suite with Vena keeping an eye on Anchor as he walked the halls with us.

Before we reached the suite, Anchor stopped at a door. “See you tomorrow.”

Vena looked at him and then me. There was a plea in her gaze.

I shook my head. “Not a smart move tonight.”

She gave him a sad little wave and walked the rest of the way to the suite. Vena went straight for the bathroom, leaving me alone with Shepard. He cleaned the blood off his face and neck. Only hints of MC’s bite marks remained.

He tossed the washcloth into the kitchen sink and reached for me, bringing me in for a hug I really needed. His hand brushed against my hair in a soothing motion. I wrapped my arms around his waist.

“Are you okay?” he asked.

“I’m fine,” I said. “Might have a nightmare or two.”

He leaned back enough to gently grab my chin and tip my head so he could look at my neck.

“I’ll be fine,” I said again.

He nodded. “I’m sorry you had to go through that. It was just supposed to be a simple fight.”

“It’s not your fault.”

“I should have known about the infestation. It’s my job, and I failed.”

Guilt hit me hard, and he saw it in my eyes.

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