Raffe didn’t pause, coming to my side and taking my hand in his. His jaw worked as he linked,No, it’s not. But you’re not willing to listen to your own son.With that, Raffe and I turned and headed toward the apartments where we’d be visible to humans.
I’m sorry,I linked, letting my remorse flow toward him.I wish our relationship wasn’t the cause of the rift between you and your dad.
He smiled sadly.Like I am with your parents.
True.
Still, that didn’t mean either one of us had to like it. I stepped closer to him, letting our sides touch, and replied,But you have to give up your future.
No, I don’t.You’remy future and the only one I care about.Raffe kissed the back of my hand.Sure, I’d love to lead the shifters, but there’s no way in hell I’d do it without you by my side. I’d rather be poor and work hard every day for the rest of my life, as long as we’re together.
Even though it should have been impossible after our day, I laughed.Spoken like a rich kid who's never had to struggle.
We’re spreading out and staying in the woods to keep an eye on things,Adam replied.If we see anything strange, we’ll let you know.
Uncle Jovian is heading back toward the student center,Lucy added.I’m surprised he didn’t try to alpha-will you.
Oh, he did back in Seattle. I was able to fight it.Raffe grimaced.He knew better than to try again, especially with Sky’s and my completed bond.
We stepped out of the woods, the lights of campus on for the night.
I hoped that being a shifter would make things better.That was why I’d wanted to show him after all.
Me too, but I’m not shocked.Raffe released me and wrapped an arm around my waist. He said, “Dad’s old school, and he doesn’t like women who are stronger than him. And that’s exactly what you are.”
I rolled my eyes. “More like I’m someone who might implode and take the world out with her.”
“As long as I go with you.” He scrunched up his nose and smiled. “That’s all that matters to me.”
“Stop.” I stuck out my tongue. “This world needs you in it.” The apartments were fifty feet away, and my footsteps quickened. We needed to get inside before something else happened. We’d dealt with enough drama.
No,Josie linked, sounding scared.Guys, I need you here now.Her tone turned frantic.I’m farther back, but I can hear Dave, and he’s in pain. I can smell his blood.
Dave.
The vampire who’d drugged me. He could give us answers.
Releasing me, Raffe gestured toward the apartments. “Go. I’ll be there in a minute.”
“Like hell I will!” I didn’t pause; I just ran toward the woods.
Dammit, Sky,Raffe linked, his frustration slamming into me.This is what happened last time when you got separated and hurt!
I’m a strong woman, remember?I tossed his words back at him.
We kept pace with each other, and he groaned.Stay close to me, and let me stay in front, so if we meet a barrier, you won’t run through it.
That’s no problem.I didn’t want to get into a situation like that again either.
A broken howl rang through the woods.
Josie.
I pushed myself harder, keeping pace behind Raffe.
He faltered, and my gaze shot in the direction he was facing.
My heart lodged in my throat.