Page 31 of Inhuman Nature

Shaun

“I have to go,” Shaun said. He’d already stayed too long, letting Rake’s words lull him into a doze where he sat boneless in DJ’s lap. Shaun didn’t want to abandon either of them, but Lawrence leaving was enough of a message. He had to get a move on, or there would be repercussions.

“I’m not done with aftercare,” Rake said, concern in his eyes as Shaun pulled his clothing on.

“I’ll be fine, Sir, and I promise I had a really good time. Thank you. Both of you.”

“We need to get your number,” DJ said, blinking dazedly.

Rake nodded. “I can at least check in on you that way.”

“I’m sorry. Next time,” Shaun said, and even though every fibre of his being told him to stay with Rake and DJ, he left the club.

Shaun ran to the house as fast as possible. He floated so high on the endorphins from the scene that he overshot it by an entire street and had to double back.

Once inside, he followed the sound of the crooning vintage record player to the sitting room. The song was old and unfamiliar. He slunk into the room, keeping his head low.

Lawrence lounged on the sofa, aloof. Not acknowledging Shaun’s presence wasn’t unusual, but it set Shaun on edge. Lawrence was like a coiled snake waiting in the grass, ready to strike.

The song ended and the record player bubbled away. Shaun didn’t dare speak, scared of what might happen if he broke the weighty silence.

Lawrence flicked his gaze over to Shaun. He shuffled backwards at the penetrating look.

“Youlikethem, don’t you?”

Shaun should have expected Lawrence’s question. “They’re nice,” he said. Placidity had served him well before.

“You had far too much fun.” Lawrence stood up and stomped over to the record player, Shaun watching him like a kicked puppy.

“Master, you agreed to let them play with me,” Shaun pointed out as gently as possible.

Lawrence whirled on him, jaw set in a hard line. “You know what I also found out tonight?”

Shaun stood stock still.

“You’ve been going to the club alone. Andlyingto me about it.”

The blood in Shaun’s veins chilled at the accusation.

“Lynette mentioned she’d seen you there by yourself a few weeks ago,” Lawrence said. “I don’t recall ever permitting such a thing.”

“I’m—”

“Sorry won’t cut it this time. And to think, I was so harsh on you that night.” Lawrence laughed, throaty and low. “If only I’d known.”

Shaun stood close to the hall. He was fast. He might just—

Shaun turned tail and sprinted towards the front door. A split-second fumble with the handle betrayed him. Lawrence pressed his heft against Shaun’s back.

“You haven’t tried to run from me in years,” Lawrence purred. “It’s going to be so much fun reminding you of why it’s a terrible idea.”

“No, please,” Shaun begged. “I didn’t mean to lie to you. I ended up there by accident when out hunting.”

Lawrence began to drag him back through the hallway. Shaun’s body and brain were at odds with one another, his fighting instinct warring with his need to submit to Lawrence.

“We haven’t had to use the basement for a while, have we, pet?” Lawrence spoke softly, as Shaun imagined a real lover might.

“Please don’t. I’ll do anything else.”