Page 3 of One True Mate

She smiled like she was expecting that one too.

“I'm doing college online. As long as I have internet connection, the location doesn’t matter, so I was free to find some place I enjoy, someplace to call home, and San Marco is it.”

I considered that for second.

“No friends or family in the area drawing you here?”

“No. No family. No friends really.”

“But.” I almost said, 'what about your pack?' but caught myself first. Something seemed off. My wolf recognized her as our mate. Heck, I recognized her before even setting eyes on her, but she didn't seem to give any inclination that she was a wolf at all.

“But,” I started again, “how can someone as lovely as you be such a lone-er?”

I had to catch myself because I almost said, 'lone wolf'. Since she seemed so determined to ignore pack protocol and try and hide the fact that she was in fact a wolf, then I would wait her out until I discovered the reason behind it.

She shrugged, “When you have no one, you have no one to worry about. I don't really think about it. It's just the way it is.”

It doesn't have to be. I'm here. I'm right here.I wanted to yell, but I held back.

“So, no friends, no family. Tell me, what do you do for fun?”

“For fun? What does that have to do with the job?”

“I just like to get to know my employees, or potential employees, first.” I gave her a huge smile and even leaned in when I said it. Nothing. I gave her the lean. Even as just a woman, she should have recognized my interest. But nothing.

I sat back and cleared my throat. Fine. She wants to be professional, then that's what I'll give her.

“Ms. Adams, what is it you like to do for fun?”

“Well, I suppose I like to read. Oh, and run.”

“Okay, read and run. Got it. Well, looking over your paperwork everything seems in order. Your evaluation went great. How soon can you start?”

This was the first sign of interest in anything that I had received. Her poise of perfection finally slipped as she lightly bounced in the seat.

“Really? Sorry, I'm a little excited to get this job. I can start immediately, today even, or whenever you want.”

She was genuinely happy, and that made my wolf very happy and gave me a peace I hadn't realized I was missing.

“How about I call Elise back in here and she'll go over the contract and paperwork with you and you can start first thing tomorrow. Eight, okay?”

“Eight AM, is perfect!”

She stood and crossed the distance quickly before I could brace myself for the full force of her smell that came with the sudden movement. I couldn't help myself. I took a deep breath and let her scent fill me. I slowly met her outstretched hand and welcomed her to the team.

“Thank you for this opportunity, Mr. Westin. I promise you won't regret it.”

“Kyle, please.”

“Oh, I couldn't possibly.” She brushed me off. “I'll see you tomorrow morning bright and early, Mr. Westin.”

Kelsey

Chapter 3

I sat in the car outside the Westin Foundation and stared back at the building in shock. Oh my gosh, I got the job! It wasn't a hand out for once in my life. It was all me. I did it and it felt great. Then fear crept back in as I remembered the brief meeting with one Kyle Westin.

I really hoped he didn't notice me staring too much. But oh my gosh, how could I not? I had never seen such an incredible man in person. And his smell. Oh, I could die happy surrounded by that smell.

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