Page 68 of Tainted Souls
I hide my smile behind my glass. It’s fascinating, the dance between those three. Jaxon and Evan have been like this since I first met them, always trying to outdo each other, especially when it comes to women. And Beth, with her sharp wit and effortless charm, undeniably enjoys being the center of their tug-of-war.
It’s strange how our group’s dynamics have evolved over the years. Jaxon and Evan maintain their friendly rivalry, each convinced they’re the more desirable one. Yet neither seems particularly bothered when Beth flirts with both of them in the same night. It’s a game all three of them enjoy playing, with rules only they fully understand.
As they bicker over who has the most game, my gaze drifts around the table, taking in the other dynamics at play. Ivy catches my eye and rolls hers playfully, sharing in my amusement at the trio’s antics. Unlike Beth, Ivy has always been more interested in meaningful connections than attention. She and Kyla have their own unique bond, where Ivy’s calmpragmatism balances Kyla’s impulsivity. Nothing romantic, but always intensely loyal.
Haden sits quietly beside me, observing more than participating, occasionally exchanging knowing looks with me when someone says something particularly outrageous. He’s always been the anchor of our group, the one who makes sure everyone gets home safely after nights like these. Well, aside from me—when I’m not around, someone else will have to do it. I bet he wishes Marcus were here right now.
And then there’s me. Connected to everyone yet somehow apart, never quite fitting into the easy physical affection that flows between the others. Even with Evan and Haden, my two closest friends, there’s a barrier I can’t seem to break through. A hesitation born from years of keeping people at arm’s length.
But one thing I’m sure of is that I’d kill for them. These people have been my safe space for as long as I can remember. No one can take that away from me. Not even Max.
“Earth to Seraph.” Kyla nudges me, breaking my reverie. “Truth or drain: what were youreallydoing yesterday?”
I blink, focusing back on the game. “Hiding out in a cave with my now-vampire boyfriend who then stabbed me because of his sire bond and almost got me kidnapped by the same maniacs that attacked our city the other day.”
The table falls silent.
“I’m kidding, of course,” I say, not sure why I just spit that out.
Evan and Haden shoot me a look, concern striking their features. I give them a look in return, one they know means that I’m fine.
“Drain!” Jaxon finally declares, believing I’m avoiding the question.
Considering his inebriated state, my words must’ve reached him in slow motion, if they reached him at all.
I knock back my drink in one go, the alcohol burning its way down my throat. It’s better to let them think I’m joking, at least for now. Besides the fact that no one’s in the right headspace to fully grasp that sort of information, the truth is too complicated to explain anyway.
No headaches tonight.
“Beth,” I say, turning my attention to her as I set down my empty glass, “truth or drain: if you had to choose between Evan and Jaxon to kiss right now, who would it be?”
There’s a collective gasp of excitement as all eyes shift to Beth. Even the ambient noise of the bar seems to dim as we all wait for her answer.
Beth’s lips curve into that familiar mischievous smile, her green eyes darting between the two men who suddenly sit straighter, their casual postures giving way to alert anticipation.
“That’s not fair,” she protests, though her expression suggests she’s enjoying the spotlight. “They’re both excellent kissers.”
“That’s not an answer,” I press, leaning forward. “Choose.”
Jaxon and Evan exchange competitive glances, each subtly adjusting his appearance. Jaxon runs a hand through his dark hair, while Evan straightens his collar.
Beth takes a few sips of her drink, making them wait. “Well,” she finally says, setting her glass down with purpose, “tonight I choose…” She pauses dramatically, and I swear I can hear both guys holding their breath. “Evan.”
We all whoop and holler as Evan breaks into a triumphant shimmy. Before anyone can comment, Beth scoots closer toward Evan and takes his face in her hands, kissing him. He responds immediately, one hand finding the small of her back, the other tangling in her ebony waves.
It’s a proper kiss that makes everyone pretend to look away.
When they finally break apart, Beth’s cheeks are flushed, and Evan looks slightly dazed despite his smug expression.
“Don’t worry, my Jaxon,” Beth says, her voice slightly breathless as she slides back to her original seat. “You’re still in the running for next time.”
“I better be,” Jaxon says with a good-natured shrug, though I don’t miss the intensity in his eyes as he watches Beth adjust her blouse.
“Alright, my turn. Evan and Jaxon,” Beth announces, her lipstick slightly smudged. She deliberately places a hand on each of their arms. “Truth or drain: what’s your most embarrassing moment?”
“Some secrets are worth keeping,” Jaxon says, then drains his glass without hesitation, prompting a chorus of protests.
“Coward,” Evan taunts, but when Beth turns her expectant gaze to him, he quickly follows suit, downing his drink in one smooth motion.
