My eyes lifted to the VIP wolf lounge at the same time Roman spotted me, pointing at the front exit to indicate it was time. Viktor grabbed onto my hips, more possessive than before. It felt like he was trying to keep me from leaving. When I attempted to tug away he didn’t let me.

“I have something else to do tonight,” I said a little less politely. A good fuck wouldn’t help the buzz of Greed under my skin and I was attempting to only use the fae vapor as a last resort. My paranoia began to increase when he didn’t move but luckily someone bumped into us and Viktor lost his grip.

I took the opening and went to the coat check, slipping them my number and waiting for them to bring the green faux fur out. I slipped it on, waiting for Viktor to get his own coat. He didn’t. He didn’t have one, I realized. Who would have an overcoat in this sweaty climate?

Viktor brought us over here because he’d been watching me the whole time. He knew my coat was checked, knew I was leaving with the wolf pack. He knew all that just from a few minutes. What else did he know? How long had he been following me? A shudder rolled over me.

I narrowed my eyes on Viktor. There was a broad smile on his face as he slipped the sunglasses back on in the dark club. He winked before pressing them up entirely. Then he turned and walked away, the crowd swarmed between us, making me lose sight of him.

Was he really gone though?

5

I went outside, where night had finally fallen and people were collecting near the bike row.

Chains brushed against one another and worn-in boots stomped on old concrete. It was the familiar sounds of the Lycan Stalkers. They smelled like cigarettes and pine forests, like musk and oil.

They were a strange pack, choosing to live somewhere with no woods. They made the city their urban forest, prowling the streets on motorcycles and creating their little kingdom inside old buildings they renovated into thriving businesses.

“I found a few idiots for you,” Roman said as he came closer.

“I’m not an idiot, I just don’t believe she’s unbeatable.” This came from a young guy sliding past Roman towards his bike.

“He must have never raced with me before,” I responded with a wide smile. I loved when they thought they had a chance.

“No, Duke has. All of them have but they still think they can beat you. Imagine the bragging rights,” Roman said with a laugh. “Come on, the race is at the normal place.” I swung my leg over my bike and buttoned up my coat. Engines started to roar to life.

“Is he coming again?” Duke asked Roman and I looked at them both, reading the strange vibe. Roman gave a jerky nod, making Duke look none too pleased.