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Danny’s words were reassuring. Duke had an effect on me, but up to this point, it wasn’t uncomfortable. There was something here, between us. I wasn’t completely sure what it was, but I welcomed it. Andrius cleared his throat and I turned to face him. I giggled when I noted the side eye he was giving Duke. It made me happy knowing he had people he could be himself with. I loved that whatever was between me and Duke didn’t cause problems. None that I could see yet, anyway. The little jealousy between them wasn’t anywhere between the hate love vibes that Andrius and Levi had, but I’ve quickly realized that I love being between two men. I giggle to myself and Andrius raises an eyebrow at me.

“Duke is right. The pack’s opinion matters, but what we say is the end of it.” Andrius’ teasing gaze had turned as serious as his words.

“You said most will listen. Does that mean… he will be in danger within these walls?” I didn’t like the idea of Levi being in danger, or having to live a life of it.

Andrius’ eyes were on me again. So were the others still in the room.

“A vampire living among werewolves will always be in danger,” he murmured. As if I were a jittery animal he had to be careful with.

“I don’t want him to live that way.” Closing my eyes, I dropped my head against the back of the chair. For the first time since arriving here, I let myself envision how Levi would fit in here. I didn’t like what I saw.

“Hey,” Andrius’ gentle tone sliced through my thoughts before I could really spiral.

Sitting up, my chin dropped and I stared at him. He leaned in, his face closer. He grabbed my hand and held it while he pressed a kiss to my lips. Pulling back, he smiled at me, our hands rested between us.

“It’ll never work,” I whispered as my vision blurred.

“We’re not doing that today. Hey.” He pulled on my hand and I blinked the tears away.

“He chose this life. He chose you.”

“I know,” I rasped.

“And it will work,” he replied confidently.

“If he can’t be safe in these walls, how can I expect him to come? How can I live here?” My voice cracked hated that I was being weak in front of Danny and Duke, but they were part of his inner circle—our inner circle. Meaning they were part of mine. Gammas and Dukes usually know the inner workings of what goes on in their pack, but these two knew about Levi. I could trust them. Andrius laughed, pulling me from my quickly spiraling thoughts.

“Levi’s used to living where it’s dangerous. Look what he’s done! He stayed by your side, near enemy land just so he could be near you. With our protection, he can drop the disguise, and live with people who love him. I think you forget. Levi isn’t as weak as you think he is, baby. Give the bloodsucker a little more credit.” Andrius laughed and when I glanced at the others, they gave me encouraging smiles.

Duke pushed way from the table, the sound of his chair scraped along the floor. As he stood to his feet, he glanced at Danny and jerked his head to the side. The Gamma nodded her head and got up. They both dipped their chins and when they looked up, Duke spoke.

“We’re going to give you guys some space. This is a conversation for your ears only.”

“I agree. If you need us, just ring,” Danny said cheerfully as she lifted her hand and tapped her temple. Andrius nodded.

“It was so great to meet you guys. I know we have time to get to know each other better.” I dipped my head and with that they both left, but not without Duke throwing one last wink at me before they fully disappeared.

“He knows how to get under my skin,” Andrius growled.

“Mm… but I love it,” I giggled.

“You’re so far away. Come here,” Andrius huffed. He grabbed me and pulled me out of my seat and into his lap. I squeaked but remembered there wasn’t anyone in here. Wrapping my arms around his neck, I gave him a peck on the lips before deepening the kiss. It’s only when I hear the sound of the phone ringing do I pull away. Looking for the sound, find it in his hand. Turning around in his lap, we watch ourselves as Levi’s name flashes at the top of the screen.

Please, answer.

Please, please, please.

It rings three times before he finally picks up. We disappear and are replaced by Levi’s face. A sob gets stuck in my throat as I look at him. His beautiful long hair is pulled back and up in a man bun. Goddess, Levi is breathtaking. A slow and knowing smirk pulls at his lip. My shoulders sag and I lean back into Andrius’ embrace. Staring behind Levi, I don’t recognize the background.

“Where are you?” I ask as I lean forward slightly.

“Is that suspicion I hear, Ami?” Levi practically purred.

“Our Mistress misses you, that’s why I called,” Andrius growled.

“And you? Do you miss me?” Levi’s teasing him and I can’t wait to hear what Andrius has to say.

“Do I have to answer?” The bulge beneath my ass is answer enough.

“Yes, little prince. I miss you, too,” Andrius murmured.

“We both do,” I piped in.

“I’m happy to hear that. I’ve still got a bit I need to do, but I’ll work harder knowing I’m missed.”

“Good. Our Mistress doesn’t like waiting.” Andrius’ cheek pressed against my hair.

As I look over his features one more time, I notice a splash of red on his collar. Blood. He’s got blood on him. My heart drops and everything stops as I go over the possible reasons Levi would have blood on him.