Page 25 of Feral

Rhett ambles off to clean, and Tiago returns carrying three crates of liquor. If a mortal saw him, they’d think my friend was the strongest man in the world.

“Man, the mortals are putting away the liquor lately,” Tiago says, setting the crates on the bar. “The increased prices haven’t slowed them down at all.”

“Likely because the vampires and demons typically foot the majority of their bills.”

Tiago nods. “Eh, good point. I think we should up our weekly order by twenty percent. Whatcha think?”

I nod, glancing at the total revenue for last night. “We can certainly afford to and still rake in massive profits. The intake is at an all-time high.”

He nods with a smirk on his face. “Yves loosening the restrictions was a game changer.”

“For all of us.”

“Damn straight. Damiano changed that man’s mood. I always admired him, you know, but seeing him happy? It’s nice.”

“Agreed. He deserves it.”

“For sure.” Tiago opens a crate and starts stocking bottles. “Did you find anything good with Thorn last night?”

“Bunch of street criminals. There’s more activity on the south side the guys are gonna keep an eye on. You know how Thorn hates trafficking and taking advantage of the weak.”

“Yeah. He’s a softy for underdogs. I like that about him. For all his chaos, he’s got a heart of gold.”

“He does. I thought his mate might tame him, but nope, he’s still Thorn. He doesn’t go on drug-fueled feeding binges anymore, but he’s still the same guy at his core.”

“That’s what fated love is about. Amplifying your best self.”

“True.” I stack my papers. “Does that interest you? Finding a mate?”

He shrugs, arranging several bottles of tequila. “I don’t think about it because it’s not up to me. When fate is ready, I’ll be ready too.”

“Good attitude.”

“Until then, I’ll have fun.” He turns to me, giving me a pointed look. “So should you.”

“I feel like there’s unspoken meaning in your words.”

He chuckles. “You should let loose, Hale. Have fun. Yes, hunting is a good way to let some of our baser instincts breathe, but carnal pleasure is equally important. When’s the last time you indulged?”

I shake my head, avoiding his gaze.

“Exactly,” Tiago continues. “Now you’ve caught a pretty mortal in your web. Wouldn’t you love to know how he tastes?”

The question makes my skin tingle and my gums throb. “As I’ve said numerous times, Yannis doesn’t date men.”

“First time for everything. Besides, you’re a fucking vampire, dude. You can get him to do whatever you want.” He grins. “But your insistence on consent is cute.”

I end up laughing. Tiago always appeals to my humorous side. “I like him,” I admit. “He’s not just someone to fuck and leave. Besides, all civilized vampires know consent matters. Even you.”

Tiago nods. “Yeah, yeah. I talk a big game but I’m not an asshole.”

“I know you’re not.” Fortunately, none of us who live in this city are sexual deviants. It’s the ones visiting we have to keep our eyes on.

“I can’t wait to see what happens,” Tiago continues.

“Glad I can entertain you.”

“What can I say? I’m easily amused.”

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