Page 22 of Pack Scratch Fever
This isn’t the first time Blair and I have made a late-night visit somewhere. We’ve answered calls at all hours, and we’ve been overdue for cat chaos for a while.
A backyard in a residential area is child’s play compared to where we’ve rescued and trapped animals from.
“Pick me up,” I say, pulling my hair into a ponytail and sighing. “There’s at least eight kittens where we’re going.”
“Okay. I’ll be there in fifteen.”
Blair won’t stop laughing.
“It’s not funny,” I mutter, staring out the passenger side window as she navigates us through town.
“It’s hilarious,” she says. “Of coursethe cat colony is at their place.”
“Yeah, well, I’m not there forthem,” I say. “I’m there for the cats.”
“I’m just saying,” Blair murmurs. “It’s an interesting turn of events.”
I make a face. I’m no longer tired. Instead, anticipation of what’s to come keeps me awake and alert.
I’m going to see Maddox and Avery at their home.
I’ll be able to enjoy their scent again.
It shouldn’t matter.
They’re just Alphas, and I encounter those almost every day of my life.
Yet, this time feels special. I tell myself it’s because of my hormones, and that I’m due for a Heat.
“Hey,” Blair says after a moment of my sulking. “If you’re really uncomfortable about this, we can tell them that we’ll have Mari and other volunteers come tomorrow. You don’t have to bethere. Or I can go on my own. We are doing them a favor by showing up like this.”
I shake my head. “I’d rather get it done with now,” I say. “Get the traps set up as soon as possible so this doesn’t turn into something worse.”
“Are you sure?” Blair asks softly. “I know I’ve been teasing you, but if I’m being cruel about it, please let me know.”
I almost smile. Blair has a talent for being hyper-aware of other’s moods, especially mine. She’s playful, but she’s also considerate.
“I don’t mind the teasing,” I admit. “I need the push. But this time feels...different. I’m nervous.”
She turns off the freeway. “What about?” she asks gently.
This isn’t our first time showing up at someone’s home in the middle of the night, and it’s not the first time we’ve been around Alphas.
Yet I have a strange feeling.
“Don’t laugh,” I start, “but it seems like everything is about to change. Like if we go to that house, there’s no going back.”
“Uh, that sounds pretty ominous, Pipe. I’m not sure I like where this is going.”
“No, I mean this is a pivotal moment.” I wave my hands frantically. “It’s not a bad thing. It just seems like change is coming, for me,” I ramble. “It doesn’t make sense. I haven’t slept enough,” I add quickly.
Blair yawns. “Me either,” she agrees. “But hey, maybe you’re right. We can all use a little change.”
“Or maybe I’m just perfuming everywhere. I haven’t had a Heat in forever, and I’m finally losing my mind,” I say.
“Honestly? That sounds more likely,” Blair confirms. “By the way, you finally stopped taking those suppressants, right?”
I hesitate. “…yes?”
