Page 31 of The Shadows of Excess

Despite the homey ambiance, Justice’s restlessness was obvious. He glanced at his watch, a small frown creasing his forehead, clearly aware that every minute spent waiting was a minute lost from our mission. I could sense his urge to move, to act, especially since there wasn’t any blood at the diner.

My lips curved into a delicate smile as I watched him continuously look out the window. “You’re not hungry?”

“Not really.” I could barely hear him over the bustling sounds of the cafe.

I leaned closer, my voice hushed and urgent. “You can’t indulge yourself here.”

He smirked and glanced at the other patrons before turning back to me. “But there’s so much temptation,” he teased in a low tone.

I shook my head. “Justice.”

“Unlike you and Damon, I satisfied my hunger with the blood bags at the hospital. Maybe I should go investigate alone.”

I clasped his arm. “I don’t think that’s a good idea. Remember what happened last time.”

Our eyes locked, and for a brief moment, I saw a hint of vulnerability in his gaze before a mischievous gleam replaced it. “And you care?” he challenged, sending a shiver down my spine.

Before I could answer, Damon motioned. “Hey, come on, we’ve got a table.”

Justice gestured for me to go first, so I slipped in front of him. As we walked, I could feel his presence behind me, his body heat radiating onto my back. My thoughts drifted to what his lips would feel like on mine, and a sudden warmth flooded my body, making me blush.

God, I have to get my mind out of the gutter.

The hostess led us to a booth, then handed us the menus.

I dragged my gaze away from Justice’s alluring figure and turned my attention to the menu. My stomach grumbled in anticipation as I scanned the options, but I already knew what I wanted. The Twilight Tavern’s black and blue burger was legendary, and their crispy seasoned fries were the perfect side.

I folded my hands over my menu.

Damon glanced at me. “You getting the same thing you always get?”

I bumped his shoulder. “If I don’t get it, I’ll regret it.”

Justice looked at me. “So what do you always get?”

Before I could answer, Damon blurted, “Black and blue burger with seasoned fries.”

“What can I say? It’s the best, and I’m starving.”

Damon put down his menu. “I want a combination of breakfast and lunch. Fried egg burger with onion rings.”

Justice chuckled. “That’s your idea of breakfast and lunch?”

Damon grinned wryly and tipped his head toward the menu. “Eggs and meat, right? The classic hunter’s breakfast. Can’t go wrong with the basics. It’s the fuel for every good adventure. Simple, no fuss, and keeps you going.”

The waitress came over and took our orders.

Justice handed the waitress his menu. “I’ll have steak and frites. Please make my steak rare.”

The waitress bustled away, and I raised my water glass for a sip. From the corner of my eye, I saw Justice’s gaze trail over me. I smiled teasingly. “I thought you weren’t hungry.”

His head lowered, hiding his face behind a curtain of dark hair before he lifted it again. A faint blush tinted his cheeks, making him even more handsome in my eyes. “Just a light snack for me,” he replied.

I chuckled, but then my gaze caught on a figure at the bar that reminded me of Dad. My laughter died in my throat, and I cleared it awkwardly. I glanced at my brother. “Damon, maybe we should call Tim again about the coins and see how Dad’s doing?”

“Sure.” Damon pulled out his phone and dialed the number with a sense of purpose, his brows furrowed in concentration.

“Tim, it’s Damon. You got anything for me on those coins? And what about Dad? Any word?” His tone was direct with an undercurrent of concern.

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