Page 32 of Feels Like Home

There was nothing good about seeing Nolan. Ian’s panther was still snarling, ready to break free. Not a damn thing felt right about the situation.

Ian’s skin prickled with foreboding as Nolan slipped into his SUV. Observing Nolan drive away was like watching water recede from the coast, exposing the ocean floor.

“I shouldn’t have come outside,” Jace said from behind him.

“Did you get a good look at him?” Ian asked without turning around, his focus still on the driveway even after Nolan’s taillights disappeared.

“Why?”

“Did you?” Ian unclenched his jaw. He hadn’t meant for those two words to come out so sharply.

“Yes,” Jace said stiffly.

“Remember his face,” Ian said. “He’s not a friend, so be wary if you see him again.”

Finally, Ian turned around. His mate stood there with his thin arms wrapped around his stomach. His hazel eyes were darting around but refusing to land on Ian.

It was clear the entire scene had unnerved his mate, but Ian’s harsh tone hadn’t helped matters.

“I’m pissed at him, not you, kitten. I’m sorry for my gruffness.” He walked across the lawn. “His name is Nolan Toolie. He’s a coyote shifter, and he’s not to be trusted.”

“Coyote?” Jace’s brows shot up.

“Black panthers aren’t the only species of shifters.” He wanted to move away from the subject. Right now, it wasn’t as important as making sure Jace understood the danger Nolan might represent.

“How do you know him?”

“We used to compete in my snowboarding days. We were never friends. I don’t know how he got my number or found out where I live.” He touched Jace’s back to coax his mate inside the house.

Ian was livid that Nolan had seen Jace. Whatever the guy was up to, he now knew of Jace’s existence. Ian honestly hoped Nolan didn’t have ill intentions. Aside from competing, and sometimes mingling with the same societal circles, the two of them had rarely interacted.

The only reason Ian knew that Nolan played head games was from the coyote’s reputation.

“I think I should go home,” Jace said. “My mom texted me while you were outside, asking if I could swing by the bakery.”

Was that the truth, or was Jace making up an excuse to leave? Ian wanted to ask, but his mate already looked upset, and offending him wasn’t a bright way to help settle his nerves.

“I’ll drive you to your car.” Ian took a few steps toward the car when he remembered his keys were on the counter. He turned around, and Jace ran right into him.

“Ouch!” His mate bounced backward then rubbed his nose.

“Sorry.” Ian gently gripped Jace’s upper arms, afraid his solid chest had done some damage. “You okay?”

“I’m fine. I just bonked my nose against you.” Jace dropped his hand.

“I forgot my keys.” Ian kissed his mate’s nose. “All better?”

“I’m not a toddler.” He grinned. “You don’t have to kiss my boo-boos.”

That gorgeous smile loosened the tension in Ian’s chest. The easiness between them returned.

“I like kissing your boo-boos.” Ian smirked. “Got any more of them on your body that need my attention?”

He loved how Jade blushed at the drop of a hat. “No.”

“Consider me your official boo-boo kisser.” Ian grabbed his keys, for now, putting Nolan to the back of his mind.

Chapter Ten

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