Page 101 of Shifter Marked and Claimed

“Kelsey, my treasure.”

His fingers twitched on the back of my head, but he released me and grabbed the clothes I’d wanted him to wear. I had to turn away and fan my face as he dressed. Things were moving too fast with Vedar. Less touching in the foreseeable future would be better for both of us. Yet, even as I had that thought, something inside of me cried. I wanted all the touching.

As soon as he was dressed, I led us to the nearest bus stop. It was the quickest, non-dragon way to reach my house. A few other people were already waiting when we arrived.

One of the men glanced at the backpack I now carried, stuffed with my winter gear for the trip home. Vedar stepped between us, blocking me from the man’s sight. I set my hand on Vedar’s back.

“Don’t be weird,” I said softly.

He turned to me and started clicking. My eyes went wide.

“Stop that. It’s weird.”

He stopped clicking but pulled back his lips, showing his annoyance and his inhumanly sharp teeth.

“Don’t do that either.”

“I am not a pet to scold.”

“No, you’re not. But you are a man who made a promise. I’m trying to ensure you keep it. Blend, Vedar.”

He huffed a sigh just as the bus rolled to a stop in front of us. It wasn’t crowded given the time, and we picked seats away from the other passengers. However, the man who’d looked at my backpack sat in the seats across from us and winked at me.

“Remove your eyes from her, or I will,” Vedar said, leaning forward.

The guy didn’t look away from me.

“My sister dated a guy who would beat the shit out of her if he thought she looked at another guy. He’s not around anymore. Your guy reminds me of her guy.”

I grabbed Vedar’s hand and played with his fingers.

“Mine’s possessive but not abusive. The former is a little annoying at times, but I think he’ll learn to tone it down. The latter won’t ever happen. I have friends who will ensure it.”

The man nodded and relaxed in his seat, finally turning his attention to Vedar.

“My sister has more screws in her face than a piece of drywall. Possessive isn’t okay, man. It messes with your head until you find yourself hurting the one you love. Get some help.”

Vedar’s fingers curled around mine, and he brought my hand to his mouth as his golden gaze locked with mine.

“I hurt her once in ignorance,” he said, brushing his lips against my skin. “It won’t happen again.”

That gripping need returned, hitting me hard in the middle.

“Have I ever told you that I’m not a fan of PDA?”

Vedar gave me a slightly curious look.

“It means public displays of affection. Like kissing my hand while someone is watching.”

Vedar huffed out a sigh and reluctantly released my hand. The lack of contact brought a small measure of clarity. At least, enough to keep me in my seat instead of crawling into his lap like I wanted to.

“I’m sorry,” I said. “I know I started that one. I shouldn’t have grabbed your hand.”

“I don’t mind PDA. Touch me as you will.”

“Or how about I just don’t?” I asked with a raised brow that had Vedar scowling harder and me grinning.

The guy across from us laughed.

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