Page 3 of Untamed Crow

I nod, not trusting my voice. As we walk in together, his hand still warm on my back, I can feel the eyes of my former classmates on us. Let them look, I think. Let them see this beautiful, dangerous man who chose to be here with me.

Tonight feels like a beginning. And if the way Crow keeps looking at me is any indication, it's going to be one hell of a ride.

Chapter 2 - Crow

I guide Emma into the ballroom, hyperaware of the silk of her dress beneath my palm and the way she fits perfectly against my side. The space is crowded with civilians dressed in their Friday best, but my eyes scan the room out of habit, checking exit points and potential threats.

"Crow Harrison, as I live and breathe!"

I suppress a groan as Jessica, Emma's best friend, approaches us with a knowing grin. She's been trying to play matchmaker for months, not so subtly pointing out how perfect Emma and I would be together. As if I needed anyone to tell me that.

"Jessica," I nod, keeping my tone neutral. Emma shifts slightly beside me, and I fight the urge to pull her closer.

"I was just telling everyone how you're the best mechanic in Cedar Falls," she continues. "Remember that time you fixed my transmission for free?"

"Club takes care of its friends," I reply automatically, though the truth is I only did it because she's Emma's friend.

The club's friendship with Emma might have started through Wrath, but she's earned her place in our circle. Everyone loves her, and even Butcher's stepchild lights up when she brings him children's books from her store.

"Speaking of the club," Jessica lowers her voice, "is it true what they're saying about the Outlaws?"

I feel Emma tense beside me. My jaw tightens. "Not the place for that conversation."

Jessica takes the hint, raising her hands in surrender. "Right, sorry. I'll leave you two to enjoy your evening." She disappears into the crowd, leaving us in a moment of awkward silence.

"I'm sorry about her," Emma says softly, turning to face me. "She can be a bit..."

"Much?" I finish, allowing myself a small smile.

The lights catch the subtle highlights in her hair, making me wonder how long it took her to style it so perfectly.

She laughs, "Exactly."

The DJ switches to a slower song, and couples start moving to the dance floor. I debate with myself for a moment before deciding to take a chance.

"Dance with me?" I hold out my hand, watching surprise flicker across her face.

"You dance?"

"I'm full of surprises."

She places her hand in mine, and I lead her to the dance floor, keeping a respectful distance as I position us among the other couples. One hand settles on her waist while the other keeps hold of hers. The scent of her perfume - something floral and subtle - catches my attention.

"You look nice tonight," I say, keeping my tone casual despite how the sight of her in that dress has been driving me crazy all evening.

A blush spreads across her cheeks. "Thank you. So do you. I don't think I've ever seen you in a suit before."

I chuckle, guiding her through a slow turn. "Don't get used to it. Cut and jeans are more my style."

"It suits you, though," she says, immediately blushing deeper at her unintentional pun.

I'm extremely aware of her hand in mine, the way her dress rustles with each step, how perfectly she fits against me. ButI keep my thoughts in check. She's Wrath's best friend, and tonight, I'm just her backup date.

The song changes to something faster, but we keep swaying slowly. I should be more alert, more aware of our surroundings. The Outlaws could have eyes anywhere. But with Emma this close, smelling like flowers and looking like a dream, it's hard to focus on anything else.

"Thank you for coming tonight," she says softly, looking up at me through her lashes. "I know it's not exactly your scene."

"Anytime," I reply, meaning it more than I should. "Besides, couldn't let you face all these people alone."

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