Chapter 8
A blush creeps up my cheeks at his touch. Everything about this scene feels just right. I sense myself falling for him, even though it’s illogical. I barely know him or his pack. My feelings are definitely treading dangerous ground. I need to rein them in. But as I gaze into Elijah’s eyes, my worries seem to dissolve, at least for now.
Lucas clears his throat, interrupting the moment between Elijah and me. “So, uh, did that important call go well?”
Elijah’s hand falls away, and the smile vanishes from his face. “Oliver has agreed to a meeting, but only under one condition.”
“Don’t say it,” Lucas mutters, shifting uncomfortably.
Elijah confirms with a nod. “Unfortunately, it’s true.”
“What does he want?” I ask, feeling left out. “If it’s going to be a problem, don’t go through with it. I’m not worth the trouble.”
Elijah furrows his brow in reaction. “You mean everything to me.”
Lucas rises from his seat and starts edging toward the door. “That’s my sign to make an exit.”
I barely register Lucas slipping out. My chest is fluttering from Elijah’s declaration. “I just don’t want to make things complicated for you. I also hope you won’t come to regret this.”
Elijah gently places his palm on my face. “I realize you might not sense the connection as intensely as I do, probably because of your own situation, but I want you to hear me clearly. You matter to me. I’m willing to do whatever it takes to show you that.”
“But you hardly know me,” I respond, my voice dropping. “You don’t know what I like or dislike, or the little quirks I have that might annoy you. What if, as you get to know me, you end up liking me less?”
“There’s no way that could happen,” Elijah replies, his confidence unwavering. “But if you’re open to it, I’d really like to take you out on a date. It could give us a chance to get to know each other. We have a few days before my former pack meets, so there’s time.”
“A date?” The thought appeals to me. I’ve gone out a handful of times before, but never more than once with the same person. “That sounds nice.”
“Perfect! How does tomorrow sound?” Elijah’s face lights up with enthusiasm.
“I have work in the morning, but my evening should be free.” The idea of a date makes me feel almost giddy. “Actually, I should be heading home soon. It’s getting late.”
Elijah hesitates for a moment. “I was really hoping you’d stay here tonight. There are plenty of guest rooms, so you’ll have privacy. I’m just uneasy about you going back to your apartment before we’ve checked it out. I’d also like to have someone watch over you. We still haven’t figured out who poisoned you, and I don’t want to risk anything.”
I feel unsure about his proposal. Sleeping in my own bed would be more comfortable, but Elijah’s concerns make sense. I’d probably be safer here at the pack house than alone in my apartment, though it’s strange to break my routine. “I guess it wouldn’t hurt to stay one night. But is the guard really necessary?”
“Until we understand who targeted you and their reasons, I think it is. You’ve already been through a lot, and I’d hate to see you face more danger.” Elijah takes my hand and leans in slightly. “Will you, please?”
I nod, unable to refuse him. I know he just wants to keep me safe, and somehow, that only draws me
closer to him.
Relief washes over Elijah as he smiles. “Thank you. I swear this won’t be permanent. I’ll do whatever I can to resolve things.”
I return his smile, almost in disbelief at how good this feels. “So, do you have anything I can wear to sleep? I’d rather not go to bed in this.”
“I bet Emma has something you could use. She’s sort of like the group’s protective mother. Go ahead and finish your meal-I’ll check with her. I’ll be back soon.” Elijah leans in briefly before pausing. With a grin, he spins around and leaves the kitchen.
I finish my food and bring my plate over to the sink, wanting to tidy up after myself. I don’t want to create extra work for anyone. Just as I’m wrapping up, Elijah walks in carrying a stack of clothes.
“You really didn’t need to do that,” Elijah says as he comes over.
“I wanted to,” I reply, drying my hands. “I’m grateful for everything you’re doing, but it still feels a bit strange depending on others. I just want to make sure I’m not being a total inconvenience.”
Elijah gives a nod, showing he understands. He passes me the clothes. “Emma sent these. You’ll find pajamas and an outfit for tomorrow in there. She hoped to meet you, but I thought it might be too much to introduce you to a lot of people right now.”
I take the clothes from him. “Thank you for thinking of that. I’m not sure I have much energy left today.” I let out a nervous laugh.
Elijah extends his hand. “Come on, I’ll take you to your room.”
I accept his hand, and he guides me up to the third floor. The hallway reminds me of a hotel, with doo rs lined up along each side. Elijah stops at one of the first doors and opens it for me. I step inside, while he remains in the hallway.
“The bathroom is right across from here. If you need anything, my room is at the very end of the hall on the left. Please don’t hesitate to let me know if you need anything.” Elijah leans on the door frame,
watching me.
“I won’t,” I say, hugging the clothes to my chest, both thankful and anxious. “Have a good night.”
“Good night, Charlotte,” Elijah replies, a gentle smile forming as he says my name.
