Katie's Hellion

"The first Ancient to take a mate," Molly said with both awe and disappointment in her tone. "Rhyn? Isn't he in Hell for trying to wipe out mankind?"

Katie sighed.

"I didn't have much of a choice, either," Molly admitted. "I'm among the youngest of the immortals' mates, only a hundred years old. They allow us to lead as normal of a life as possible. You'll find your mate will move around a lot, but you can still make friends wherever you go, and immortals' mates are an amazing group. It's an incredible life! You must be thrilled."

"No."

"Well, it does take some getting used to. It's an honor to be among the first to welcome you officially to the family."

Katie glanced up, surprised to see Molly was genuinely smiling. The beautiful woman pulled a card from her small purse and handed it to her.

"You're always welcome to call me, and I hope you think of me when you're prepping for the Spring Gala."

Molly rose and left. Katie watched her go, feeling better with the otherworldly sustenance in her system. She composed herself and psyched herself up for a day of shopping, awkward questions about Rhyn, and flaky friends.

Hours later, she dropped onto the plush guest bed, clad in a T-shirt and underwear after a hot shower. She was barely on her feet and debated whether or not she'd get up to turn off the light or fall asleep right there.

A touch of coldness made the hair on the back of her neck rise, and she sat up, fearful Kris or Sasha had come for her. Rhyn emerged from the shadows near the window, dressed in black with his hair tied back. His eyes flashed silver, his rugged features covered in a few days' growth.

Fear flashed through her at the memory of what someone his size could do to her. And then she relaxed. Rhyn was the only man who'd never hurt her.

"You look worse than usual," he observed.

She flushed and pulled her T-shirt over her bare legs, resting her chin on her knees.

"How's the war?" she asked as he neared.

He growled deep in his chest, a warning for her. He sat beside her and reached for her, his gaze on the newest scars given to her by Kris. Despite her determination not to, she flinched as he gripped her neck.

"Who hurt you?" he growled.

"No, Rhyn."

"You will tell me."

"No."