Page 85 of The Alpha's Protective Mate

“Terrence?” Robert’s gaze turns sharp. “You knew one of them?”

I don’t like talking about my past. Eight years isn’t enough time to sufficiently disconnect with who I once was.

“Terrence was a couple of years older than me, but he used to be my friend, even after I became like this. His father used to bring him around to our home a lot, and Terrence was always kind to me. When my own family started turning their backs on me, he still stuck with me. He never let anyone bully me when he was around. But now…” My stomach twists as I recall the expression on his face. “He went away for school, and we lost touch. But he was in contact with my father. Beruth trusts him. Terrence was here tonight, outside. That can’t be a good thing for me.”

Robert studies me. “But he let you go?”

“Shelby—She called out, and he told me to go inside. I thought he was going to follow me into the cafe. You’re usually here at this time. I don’t—Why weren’t you here?!”

“I got sidetracked.” He reaches into his coat and brings out a small, black case. “I had ordered this for you, and I went to pick it up.”

He hands it to me, and when I open it, it’s a small, compact-looking gun.

“I can teach you how to use it—”

“I know how to shoot.” I pick up the gun, weighing it in my hand. It’s quite a bit lighter than what I’m used to. “I practice at the shooting range. My old friend Edgar taught me. He was a fanatic about guns. I never got a license, though.”

When I lift my gaze, Robert has an intrigued look on his face. “I never took you for someone who could handle a gun.”

My lips twitch slightly. “I’m a very good shot. But how is a gun going to help me against vampires?”

“Silver bullets.” Robert reaches into his coat once again. “I’ve gotten you 20 bullets. I’m arranging for more, but for now, these should hold you. Aim at the forehead or the heart. One clear shot. That’s all you need.”

I’ve heard of silver bullets. They’re lethal to both vampires and shifters. The fact that Robert is giving me this gun and these bullets is a testament to how much he trusts me. However, there’s no happiness in my heart at the moment. These bullets are a means to kill, an act I despise, even though I know it’s a necessity.

Robert seems to be able to tell what I’m thinking because he says, “This is just for emergencies, Charlotte. In case I’m not able to make it to you in time.” Then he wraps my hand around the gun, his tone becoming firm. “I need to know that you’ll be able to protect yourself.”

I raise my eyes to meet his. “I don’t want to be a burden, Robert. From the moment we met, you always seem to be helping me one way or the other. How long do you think you’ll be able to keep this up?”

“You’re not a burden to me.” Robert’s expression is serious, and the sincerity in his voice pierces my heart. He really does believe that.

But I don’t. Sooner or later, when he has to keep rushing to my rescue, to fight for me, to defend me in front of his pack, he’s going to start wondering if I’m worth so much disruption in his life. If he and I were on equal standing, financially or at least strength-wise, perhaps things would be different. But I’m well aware of my shortcomings.

It’s just a matter of time before Robert catches on.

Shelby reemerges with her bag just as a car pulls up outside. “My son’s here. I’m going to go. Robert, will you stay until Charlotte is done closing up? Or I can stay. My son will be with us.”

“No, go.” I smile at her. “I’ve got it.”

She hurries to the car, and I start switching off the lights. “There was no one in the alley when you went to check?”

Robert shakes his head, holding the gun case and the small box with the silver bullets for me. “I smelled blood, but the vampires were long gone.”

“They all know where I am, Robert.” I turn to face him as the light we leave on overnight glows dimly. “I’m beginning to think I shouldn’t stay here in the city any longer. It’s one thing to be attached to a place, but I would rather not put myself in danger.”

“Nothing is going to happen to you,” he assures me yet again. “I’ve made arrangements. There will be someone watching the cafe at all times. And you will be armed. Carry this gun with you wherever you go. I’m going to help you apply for a permit. Normally it takes over a month, but I know somebody who can fast-track the process for you.”

He seems to have thought everything through.

My hand reaches out to take the gun from Robert.

Having it is a little reassuring even though it signifies having to kill someone. It does give me a sense of safety. However, I have to be realistic. Angie’s vision revealed to her rivers of blood in Portland. She claimed that I would be in the center of the chaos that is soon to arrive, and yet that my future is unclear.

If I take myself out of the equation altogether, I might be better positioned to protect myself.

“And then there’s this,” Robert says, cutting off my train of thought. He reaches into his pocket and takes out a thin bracelet. It’s plain-looking, not very fancy.

“You got me jewelry?” I ask hesitantly.

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