Page 62 of Claim & Don't Tell

Don’t go there.This is already too much. But what if I pushed just a little more?

“Sleep,” he whispers, bringing his lips to my forehead and branding me with a kiss that breaks my heart. “I just want to sleep.”

Just. Sleep. That’s all this is. I’m a fool for thinking it could ever be anything more. I’m so desperate, so exhausted myself that I’m confusing my needs with his.

“Okay,” I say, unable to hide the tremor in my voice.

“Good night.” Those lips brush over my forehead again. Dylan doesn’t let me go. He holds me hostage in his hold, and even though it’s only sleep, even though when the morning comes he’ll be gone once again, I let myself imagine it’s more. I let myself fantasize about everything it can’t mean.

And when his breathing evens out and his jaw relaxes, I finally let the tears fall, breaking in the arms of one of the alphas who has my heart.

Dylan was gonewhen I woke up. I tried not to overthink it. I’m sure there’s some sort of ritual to prepare for a fight. To distract myself, I spent the day fulfilling orders for my store, packing a variety of scents, and ordering a pickup for Monday.

I’m so nervous for the fight, I can barely eat. I choke down some fruit and a protein shake. It would be embarrassing as hell to faint at Dylan’s fight.

My phone dings right as I’m pulling on a cute skirt that hits mid-thigh.

Daria

I’m so jealous you’re going to a fight. All those hot bodies dripping with sweat.

Quinn

And blood?

Daria

I can get behind that.

Chuckling, I snap a picture of my outfit. I paired the black skirt with a deep burgundy top that cuts low, showing off a respectable amount of cleavage. With black combat boots—I’m not trying to die in heels—it’s a little edgier than the softer colors and clothes I’m used to, but I kind of love it.

Daria

Holy. Shit. Yes, girl. Work that skirt. Fuck, you’re hot.

Quinn

Do I look like I’m playing dress-up?

Daria

Babe. I’d totally bang you.

Quinn

Daria.

Daria

*eye roll emoji* No. You don’t look like you’re playing dress-up. You look badass.

Quinn

I don’t feel badass.

Daria

I’m going to let you in on a secret. Are you ready?

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