The Wicked Kiss (Alexa O'Brien, Huntress #2)(81)

“It’s over,” Shaz said then, lifting his head to meet the vampire’s gaze. “Let’s just call it water under the bridge.”

Something passed between them, and I started to feel like I was the odd one out.

Then Arys simply gave a nod of his dark head, and that was that.

“If I don’t get out of here, I’m never going to beat the sun.” His arm tightened around my waist as I ran my fingers through Shaz’ tousled hair. “But, I don’t want to leave your side.”

I didn’t want him to go either. The tightness in my gut made me never want to allow either of them out of my sight again. How unfortunately unrealistic.

“Then stay.” The words just kind of fell out of me before I could censor them. “I mean, you don’t have to go. You’re safe here.”

He seemed to consider this while I felt awkward and silly. Shaz remained expressionless, waiting for Arys’ reply. They stared at one another, and I realized Arys was awaiting the white wolf’s permission. Uncanny.

My throat was dry, and it hurt when I swallowed. I didn’t notice that I was holding my breath until Shaz spoke.

“You’re more than welcome to stay with us.”

As I exhaled, I was awash with relief. I’d been worried Shaz would leave if Arys stayed. I didn’t want anyone to feel uncomfortable, but I couldn’t choose between them, either.

The sudden change in their behavior had me on edge. It wasn’t normal. I think I preferred them to be at one another’s throats. At least it was expected.

Needing a moment alone, I excused myself to the washroom to step into a hot shower. I needed to wash the remnants of Harley from my skin. The shower was heavenly. I easily got caught up in the relaxing sensations as the hot water beat against me. However, there was no forgetting that my two lovers both awaited my return.

Upon exiting the shower, I took a moment to scrutinize my injuries in the mirror.

Arys’ was perfectly formed and not too deep. It barely hurt. The one Harley had left on me burned. It wouldn’t take long to heal, but in the meantime, it hurt.

I couldn't help but think about Harley's assault. Being blood bonded to Arys may have prevented the entire scenario. Since it had first come up, I didn't pay it much thought. Now, I knew it was something I seriously had to consider. It was all I could think about.

The scent of fresh coffee reached me as soon as I left the bathroom. Shaz must have known how bad I’d be needing a caffeine fix. I wandered down the stairs, listening to the sound of two male voices low in discussion. I shook my head in amazement when I detected no trace of animosity in either.

They each looked at me when I re-entered the guest bedroom. Shaz leaned against the dresser with a coffee cup in hand and another on top of the dresser, which he quickly handed over. Arys lounged on the end of the bed. I gave them each a suspicious glance as I accepted the cup of steaming hot java. Precious caffeine.

I was nervous, and try as I might, I couldn’t it from either of them. Did they share a smirk, or was that just my mind running away with me? The approach of dawn instilled an anxiety in me like no other.

“How are you feeling, Alexa? You look pale.” Arys’ lips twisted as he tried to hide a smile. “And you smell like frightened prey.”

“Thanks.” I flashed him a middle finger before sipping from my coffee. “I wonder why that might be.”

“If you’re worried about the sleeping arrangements, I have no problem crashing in the living room.” Shaz looked dead serious, but the glint in his eye indicated that he was teasing.

I tilted my head to one side, appraising him studiously. “Is that what you would prefer, my love?”

The blush that colored his cheeks and sped up his heart rate made me laugh. I raised an eyebrow though when he boldly stated, “Of course not.”

“Then I guess we’d better get settled in.” Arys beamed a sexy smile at me, and my pulse hammered in my veins. He’d abandoned his suit jacket and shirt and began to unfasten his pants. I was left standing there staring at Shaz. I’m sure our anxious expressions matched.

I wanted to ask him again if he was sure about this, but before I could, he raised a finger in warning. “Let’s just get some sleep, ok? Whatever you’re about to say, don’t say it.”

Arys smirked but said nothing. I nodded. I got it. Shaz didn’t want to make this any weirder than it was by talking about it. And, after what happened outside Lucy’s Lounge, this shouldn’t be all that panic inducing.

“Fine,” I said. “But, if you feel uncomfortable-,”

Shaz grasped my hand and pulled me along with him towards the bed, almost causing my coffee to spill. The wicked grin plastered on Arys’ face revealed fangs and sent a shock of excitement to my nether regions. Shaz nudged me from behind, causing me to notice that I’d stopped moving. I took a shaky step, feeling like my legs would buckle before I made it any further.

“Is there a reason why you’re looking at me like you’ve just caught a snack unawares?” I gave Arys a dirty look when his smile became a sexy laugh.

“Possibly. Is there a reason why you look like a nervous virgin on her wedding night?”

“Perhaps.” I approached the bed, setting my coffee down on the nightstand while double-checking that my robe was tightly secured. “Don’t try any funny stuff, mister. If you freak Shaz out-,”