It was always funny eating around humans. I didn’t do it often—it caused too much of a scene—but every once in a while it was kind of fun. But now that humans knew about us, maybe I could go out more often. That realization kind of made my day.

I sat down and pulled out my phone.

A man answered almost before it rang. “I told you, Mrs. O’Collins. I’ll be there, but it’s only been five minutes. I’m sure it’s just Robert and his friends again. I’ve a few things—”

I cleared my throat. “I’m not Mrs. O’Collins.” But now I was curious what was going on. Small-town drama was awesome.

There was a moment of silence. “Well, that’s right embarrassing. This is McTavish. Who’s calling?”

“I’m Meredith Molloney. I’m Donovan Murry’s mate.”

“Aye. Yes. I know who you are.” His tone grew serious but was still friendly.

That simplified things. “I wanted to thank you. I heard you hit the beast with your car?”

He huffed. “It was pure madness. I’ve lived here my whole life and I’ve never seen a thing like that.”

“It was a first for me, too.” And I hoped a last, but that was a pipe dream. Bhrunyz would be back. My heart picked up at the thought. I’d almost died getting away from him, and it could happen again. Next time I might not be so lucky. A cold sweat broke out on my forehead, and I pushed down the fear before it swallowed me whole.

“So, what can I do for you, Meredith, Donovan’s mate? I’m afraid I’m all out of cars if you’ve a need for me to hit another beast.”

Funny guy. “No. Actually, I was wondering if we could have a chat.”

“I think I could do that. Where are you now?”

“I’m about to eat lunch and have an order of lobster mac and cheese—”

“Aye. Sullivan’s. Be there in twenty.”

He’d already hung up. That was a lot easier than I’d thought it’d be.

A waitress came out with silverware and my tea. She gave me a good stare and then nodded. “No way.” She spun and quickly went back inside, but before the door could shut, I heard her voice again. “You’re on. No way is that little thing going to be eating all that food.”

Yikes. Poor girl was going to lose. I’d better leave her a good tip to make up for it.

By the time McTavish pulled in, I was surrounded by a sea of plates.

“Good Lord. Is that all for you?”