“Bonfim, arrange security for the women and find out how that package bypassed our protocols,” Draven ordered. The head of security nodded gravely.
“I’m deploying patrol cars to Social Club tonight,” Jace said. “I’ll also station units at your home and building permanently. We’ll catch this bastard.”
“Ladies,” Ryan addressed the group, “stay vigilant. Keep us informed of your whereabouts, companions, and schedules. It might seem controlling, but your safety is paramount.” He turned to Ruby. “Ruby, you’re moving in with me, non-negotiable.”
“Ryan, that’s excessive,” Ruby protested.
“Either you come to my place or I’m camping at yours,” Ryan insisted.
I reached for my friend’s hand. “Please, Ruby. I’d feel better knowing you’re safe.”
She sighed but agreed.
“Nina, Ava,” Draven continued, “you should stay with us for now. Living alone isn’t safe.”
“I’ll take care of the shorty,” Jace volunteered quickly. Nina’s eyes widened in surprise.
“And Ava stays with me,” Joseph added opportunistically.
“Are you insane, Joseph?” Ava snapped.
“Look, Ava,” Joseph’s patience clearly wearing thin, “I’ve been exceedingly patient despite my mistakes. You’re staying at my house until this blows over, or I’ll throw you over my shoulder and lock you in my bedroom.”
“Rude! Caveman!” Ava huffed, making everyone laugh despite the tension.
“At least she’s entertaining us,” Eleanor chuckled.
“It’s settled then,” Draven concluded. “Security details for everyone, effective immediately.”
“Let my team handle Eleanor and Kyle’s protection,” Joseph offered. “They know their routines. I’ll have my security chief coordinate with yours.”
“Agreed,” Draven nodded. “Ladies, enjoy your night out, but stay alert. The guards will keep their distance but remain vigilant.”
As the meeting dispersed, Draven pulled me into his arms, his forehead touching mine. “I won’t let anything happen to you or Liam,” he promised, his voice thick with emotion. “We’ll find Howard and end this threat.”
I relaxed into his arms, feeling stronger because of his confidence. But even though I felt better, I was still scared. Someone had already gotten through all our security once. What would stop them from doing it again?
And why did I have the sinking feeling this was just the beginning?
Caroline’s POV
Social Club’s brunch room buzzed with laughter and chatter, our favorite spot for girl time. Security guards positioned strategically around the venue kept watchful eyes on us without crowding our space. Despite the threat hanging over us, I was determined to enjoy this night with my friends.
“So tell us everything about being a Luna,” Ruby demanded, leaning forward with gleaming eyes. “Is Alpha Draven as dominating in bed as he is in the boardroom?”
I felt my cheeks flush. “A lady never kisses and tells.”
“Bullshit!” Eleanor laughed, clinking her champagne glass against mine. “You’re among sisters here. Spill it!”
“Fine,” I relented, lowering my voice. “It was perfect. Draven was incredibly attentive and romantic. The way he touched me…”
The girls squealed in delight as I shared carefully edited highlights of my passionate nights with Draven.
“God, I wish Ryan would take notes,” Ruby sighed. “He’s attentive but sometimes I wonder if I need to draw him a map.”
“And you, Elle? How’s living with Nate?” I asked, grateful to shift attention away from myself.
Eleanor’s face lit up. “Honestly? It’s perfect. He brings me coffee in bed every morning, plans surprise dates, and treats me like I’m the most precious woman in the world.”
“What about you, Ava?” Ruby asked. “Things didn’t work out with Theo, right?”
Ava grimaced. “We went out twice, but there was zero chemistry. Then he got all pissy when I wouldn’t sleep with him and said he ‘wasn’t in the mood to wait for me to make up my mind.’”
“What an asshole,” Ruby growled.
“It’s fine,” Ava waved dismissively. “Honestly, I can’t stop thinking about Joseph. We had lunch today, and he seemed genuinely sorry about everything. He suggested we try being friends.”
“Friends?” Eleanor snorted. “Is that why he insisted you stay at his place during this security crisis?”
“That’s just him being protective,” Ava protested weakly.
“Sure it is,” Eleanor smirked. “You should definitely go to his place, though. Perfect chance to see if he’s genuinely changed.”
“Since when are you so supportive, Elle?” Kyle raised an eyebrow.
Eleanor’s grin turned mischievous. “Who said I’m being nice? I just think she should test his resolve. Tease him mercilessly, drive him wild, have him eating from her palm.”
“I like where this is going,” Ava’s eyes lit up.
“Did you pack overnight things?” Eleanor asked.
“Already in my car,” Ava admitted with a slight blush.
“Take a page from Ruby’s playbook,” Eleanor advised. “Remember how she tortured Ryan for months? Wear something skimpy to bed, claim insomnia, ask him to keep you company watching movies, and when he’s thoroughly aroused… say goodnight and walk away.”
“You’re evil,” I laughed. “But effective.”
“Now for the main event,” Eleanor turned to Nina. “You called this emergency meeting. What did Investigator Hottie do?”
Nina pulled her collar aside, revealing a massive purple mark on her neck. “He did this, for starters.”
“Holy shit!” Kyle gasped. “That man is going to break you in half! Too much testosterone in one package!”
“Seriously,” Ruby fanned herself. “Those arms should be illegal. I got wet just watching him scan the room earlier.”
“He’s actually very gentle,” Nina defended, turning crimson. “But there’s something I need advice about…”
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