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“All the time,” I confirm.

“She means, did he hurt you sexually?” James asks, holding his breath.

“No, I just didn’t want to do it.” I lean forward, saying, “One time, I asked him before he

started to hit me if we could spice it up. Do you know what he called me?” I pause to lick some of the drink that dribbled on my hand. “Sick, a pervert. Just because I didn’t want to be as bored as I was. What’s so wrong with some handcuffs, maybe some toys?”

“Absolutely nothing.” James nods.

“I just didn’t want to be bored anymore.” I drain the glass and lick my lips.

“That’s understandable. I would be pissed if my mates bored me,” Harmony says.

“You're lucky we do anything we can to make you happy, sweetheart,” James purrs.

“You certainly do.” She runs her hand up to his chest to his neck and kisses him softly.

“Do you know Tom never kissed me in public?” I scoff. “He barely kissed me in private.”

“What a loser.” James looks disgusted.

“You landed with a man that will treat you so much better. I’m glad you decided to leave.” Harmony reaches out to touch my hand.

“I decided I had to leave the last time he hit me. It was worse than all the others. I bet Ryker is good in bed.”

James spits out his drink, his laughter ringing out. “Shit, warn a guy.”

Harmony hands him some napkins and looks at me. “I’m sure he would be very good with you. Do you want to be with him in that way? It’s not too much because of your past?”

“No, I know the difference between them. I know how it’s supposed to be. Ryker is very sexy. But will he want to be with me?” I ask. Suddenly I am unsure.

“Believe me, he does,” James says.

“What he means to say is, he is your mate. You were made for him. He will always want to be with you. Also, you’re beautiful.” Harmony waves her hand down my body.

“That’s good. Maybe we could try it sometime and see if I like it.” I shake my glass again. I’m not sure where my drink is going. Is this my second? Maybe third? I can’t remember.

“I think you've had enough.” James looks at Harmony. “Should we get Ryker?”

“I guess,” she pouts.

“Don’t worry, sweetheart; you’ll have more time with your new friend soon. Maybe next time, don’t get her drunk.”

“Is Ryker coming?” I ask, sitting back into the comfy cushion.

“James went to get him.” She glances toward the door and moves next to me. “Are you excited to be with Ryker?”

“Yes, I think I am.” I turn my head on the couch to look at her.

“Just go with it, as I said before. I can’t wait to see you as a vampire. We need a girls’ night after he turns you.” She gives me a blinding smile.

Wait? What? Did she say vampire? What does she mean, Ryker will turn me into one?

I know I should be concerned about something, but my eyes refuse to listen to my brain and slide shut.

***

My eyes flutter open when I’m picked up from the couch. My arms clutch Ryker’s big shoulders. He pulls me into his chest and moves.