Page 83 of Howl Will I Know

One of his snakes hisses.

“Don’t start, Sheila,” she chides. “You know you’re my favorite S.”

I look at Alice. “Solid system. Everyone knows where they stand.”

Alice looks thoroughly pleased with herself. “Thank you, Hewit.”

Gordy points at Nora. “Your boyfriend is a terrible influence on my wife.”

“Mate,” Nora corrects, turning her gaze on me, her eyes full of love.

Mate.

I turn my hand beneath the table and lace my fingers through hers. Not something the wolf decided for me or something I finally gave into. Something we chose together.

The bell over the diner door rings again, and Mr. Penumbra walks in carrying his usual paper sack.

“Hewit,” he says when he sees me.

“Morning.”

He stops and looks at me for a second longer than necessary. Then he inclines his head. “Morning.”

I look down at my coffee as he continues toward the counter.

Nora’s shoulder shakes against mine.

“Don’t.”

A few minutes later, Mrs. Marrow passes our table on her way out. “Morning, Hewit.”

“Morning, Mrs. Marrow.”

“Porch is still perfect, thanks to you.” She pauses as she looks at me. “My sister’s railing is loose. She’s on Hawthorn.”

“I know where she lives.”

Mrs. Marrow smiles. “Knew I could count on you.”

I stare after her as she leaves.

“You’re becoming very popular,” Nora says.

“I preferred it when people were scared of me.”

She smiles sweetly. “Pretty soon, everyone in town is going to want a piece of you.”

“They can’t have one.”

“Oh?”

I lean closer. “All my pieces belong to you. I have my hands full keeping you satisfied.”

Her cheeks turn pink, and a sharp pulse of heat comes through the bond.

I grin.

Nora narrows her eyes. “You’re enjoying this bond thing far too much.”