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Chapter One

Lucas

Tick-tock

Usually Lucas enjoyed the ticking of the antique grandfather clock in the s in America were so new that they seee bear shifter who ran the private security company, had a taste for the old and cozy Hence, the clock of wood and brass

But today the ticking was driving Lucas crazy He wished Hal had been more of a typical Aital clock Then Lucas could have simply not looked at it

It was ti, when all seven members of Protection, Inc reported on their cases, but Lucas was the only one there He glanced at the clock again to see if he was early, but he was exactly on time

“I said, ‘Where is everyone?’” Nick’s voice, raised and rough with annoyance, startled Lucas He’d been so distracted, he hadn’t seen Nick come in

Lucas covered up his inattention with an icy stare Nick scowled, his tattooed arht back at Lucas froreen eyes

“I don’t know,” Lucas admitted “It’s late— they’re late”

No I’ht I’m too late Today is the last day If I don’t find my mate today, it’s all over

Tick-tock

Hal threw open the door He held a blood-soaked cloth to his head His shirt was torn, exposing the bulletproof vest beneath

Lucas started up from his seat “Hal! You’re hurt”

“It’s nothing” Hal looked more embarrassed than pained

His curvy mate, Ellie, followed close behind him, a first aid kit in her hand “Hal, sit down and let me examine you”

Hal’s rugged features softened into a smile “Sure I’m all yours”

He sprawled out in the huge leather chair that had been custoer-than-life size Ellie, as a paramedic, sat beside him and took his pulse

“I appreciate you calling me,” Ellie said softly