Page 15 of Alistair

She was human. She clearly felt connected to him, but she wouldn’t understand just how deep that connection was until she knew the truth.

And that wasn’t going to happen tonight.

After the gelato, which they both agreed was the perfect sweet ending to the progressive dinner, he drove to her townhouse and walked her to the door.

He stared down at her, his heart and mind clashing with his elephant, wanting to ask to be invited inside, to see where the night went.

Instead, he leaned down and kissed her. Gently, sweetly, with just the edge of his desperation for more, and then he said goodnight.

She chewed on her bottom lip, and he was fairly certain she wanted to invite him inside, but she didn’t.

“Sleep well, sweetheart,” he said, his voice gruffer with the arousal that was singing in his veins.

“I will. Will you let me know when you get home?”

“I’ll send a text.”

She smiled at him, and he walked to the SUV and watched until she went into the house and he heard the click of the deadbolt. He sent a text to alpha lion Caesar, who had been following them discreetly in an SUV with Jasper, a wolf who was also a member of the security team.

Heading back to the park now. Did you guys need to stop anywhere?

Caesar replied,We’re good. She looked smitten. I bet she falls for you fast.

I hope so, because I’m falling for her fast already.

He put his phone in the cupholder and headed home to the park.

Well, not home exactly…the empty apartment that was his faux home for the foreseeable future.

He dropped off the vehicle in the employee lot and thanked Caesar and Jasper for their help. Since their people didn’t go anywhere alone, he’d needed an escort and his friends had stepped up to lend a hand. He’d done it himself over the years.

Their people just didn’t take any chances when it came to the safety of their own, and even the alphas had to abide by the rules.

As he made his way through the park to the apartment, he sent a text to Maggie.

I’m home, sweetheart.

I’m so glad to hear it.

I had a great time tonight.

Me too. It was so clever and fun. It was the best first date ever.

His elephant trumpeted happily in his head.

I’m glad you had a great time, because I thought it was the best first date ever too.

There was a pause while he debated whether he should ask her out again right now or wait until tomorrow. What did humans do?

I’m hanging out at my parents’ tomorrow afternoon to help my sister with some final stuff for the wedding, but I’d love to see you again if you’re free.

He blew out a relieved breath.

I’d love to see you tomorrow night. Would you like me to pick you up?

Sure. Let’s say seven so I have time to get ready.

What would you like to do?

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