Page 11 of Mercy

Through the thinning crowd, I spot Meghan and Starla huddled together by the bar.

They're deep in conversation, drinks in hand.

As I watch, Starla throws back the rest of her whiskey, swaying slightly.

"I need to go see my man," she slurs, patting Meghan's arm before stumbling off towards Ivar.

Meghan's left alone, looking a little lost.

Before I can think twice, my feet are moving, carrying me toward her.

Our eyes lock, and I feel a spark of electricity run through me.

I try to keep my expression neutral, but I can feel the heat in my gaze.

As I approach, she gives me a small smile. "Hey, Tor. Some party, huh?"

I lean against the bar next to her, close enough that I can smell her perfume. "Yeah, it's something all right. You holding up okay?"

She nods, taking a sip of her drink. "I'm good. It's... a lot, you know? Being back here after everything."

I feel a pang in my chest, remembering what she's been through. "I can imagine. If it gets to be too much, just say the word. I'll get you out of here."

Meghan looks up at me, her sage green eyes searching mine. "Thanks. I appreciate that."

We fall into easy conversation, talking about nothing and everything.

I find myself leaning in closer, drawn to her like a magnet.

She laughs at something I say, and I feel a rush of pride.

"You know," I say, my voice low, "I'm really glad you're back, Meg. It wasn't the same without you around."

She bites her lip, a slight blush coloring her cheeks. "I'm glad to be back too. I missed... this. The club. Everyone."

There's a pause, and I swear I can feel the air between us shift.

Our eyes meet again, and suddenly, I know.

This is it.

"Fuck this," I growl, unable to hold back any longer.

My hand slides to the back of her neck, fingers tangling in her soft hair as I pull her to me.

Our lips crash together, and it's like a dam breaking.

The kiss is passionate, desperate, filled with all the longing and tension that's been building between us.

I can feel things shifting, transforming, and I welcome it.

This is what I want.

It’s what I fucking need.

Meghan responds with equal fervor, her lips moving against mine like she's starving for it.

Her hands grip my shirt, pulling me closer.

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