Page 10 of Claimed By the Band

It'd be suicide.

I stuff the bag of pills into my backpack, zipping it up with more force than necessary. "We'll see," I mutter.

Mira shrugs, already turning back toward the door. "Whatever, man. Just text me when you need a refill."

The door slams shut behind her, leaving me alone in the alley once more. I take a deep breath, trying to calm the churning in my gut.

It's fine.

Everything's fine.

I've got enough suppressants and blockers to last me for months now since I stockpile them. Plenty of time to figure out my next move.

My phone buzzes in my pocket, and I fish it out, heart rate spiking when I see Ace's name on the screen.

ACE: Given any thought to my offer?

Fuck.

I stare at the message, thumb hovering over the keyboard. This is it. Decision time. Do I take the job and risk everything I've built over the past nine years? Or do I play it safe and stay in my comfort zone?

The smart thing would be to say no. The part of me that wants to say fuck you to my past is screaming to do the opposite.

I close my eyes, take a deep breath, and decide to air on the side of having a brain.

Sorry. Can't do it.

ACE: No problem. Figured that'd be your answer.

I let out a breath, some tension unspooling from my limbs. That was easier than I thought it would be. Maybe I just need to take some time off. Go through a normal heat, as much as the thought tortures me. I'm way too jumpy.

My phone buzzes again.

ACE: Got something else that might interest you, though.

Goddammit.

What is it?

A moment later, a photo pops up on my screen. It's a face I've seen plastered all over newsstands and social media for weeks now.

Asher Wilde.

ACE: Recognize him?

I roll my eyes.

Yeah, he's all over the news. What about him?

ACE: His band's rhythm guitarist is an old friend. Called in a favor. They're looking to find out who's targeting Asher, get some proof since the cops aren't helping.

I snort. What else is new? Cops and their "investigations" are about as useful as tits on a bull when it comes to omega-related crimes.

Still... I'd be lying if I said I wasn't intrigued. I've never been hired by a rock band before.

ACE: Different kind of gig than usual. Would require you to go on tour with the band. Be part of their security detail.

My blood runs cold. I send my response immediately.

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