Page 32 of Draven

As we pulled up to the auto repair shop, I couldn't shake the uneasy feeling gnawing at me.

My eyes caught sight of a black Subaru nearby, instantly recognizing it as Bruce Mayers'.

As the lead alpha of the pard, it wasn't uncommon for him to check on the business, but something about his presence felt off.

Maybe it was just my imagination running wild, but deep down, I couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to his visit than met the eye.

"Something wrong?" Draven's voice broke through my thoughts.

"Bruce, the pard's leader, is here," I informed him, trying to keep my tone steady despite the unease creeping in.

"Is that a bad thing?" Draven asked, searching my eyes.

"No, nothing like that," I replied quickly, eager to dismiss any suspicion. "Let's just get my car."

Draven nodded in understanding, and we headed into the repair shop. Spotting my car up front, relief washed over me.

But then, I noticed Tim and Bruce engaged in conversation nearby.

My stomach knotted when Bruce turned his attention toward us, his gaze lingering on Draven with an intensity that set me on edge.

It dawned on me that Bruce's presence wasn't a coincidence.

Tim must have informed him about my plans to come by tonight with Draven, and Bruce saw it as an opportunity to size up the newcomer in town.

While I understood Bruce's need to protect his pard and territory, I couldn't help feeling irritated by the scrutiny Draven was under.

After all, he hadn’t done anything illegal and he’d followed all the rules so far.

Bruce stepped forward, extending his hand in greeting.

"Bruce Mayers, leader of the Red Vine Leopard Pard and owner of this shop," he introduced himself.

Draven regarded him for a moment before accepting the handshake, and I felt a bead of sweat trickle down my back.

This encounter had the potential to turn sour. I held my breath but only Draven reciprocated the gesture.

"Draven," he replied simply, offering nothing more.

"How long are you planning to stay in Red Vine, Draven?" Bruce inquired.

Before Draven could respond, I interjected, shooting a pointed look at Tim.

"I thought we were just here to pick up my car,” I stated firmly.

Tim shot me an apologetic look, but I couldn't help but feel a pang of betrayal. I generally liked Tim.

He was one of the few people in town who treated me with respect, unlike many others who treated me as if I were invisible.

Yet, this little arrangement still felt like a betrayal.

"As long as it's needed. I'm serious about Tobias," Draven said.

Draven's words caught me off guard, and I couldn't help but feel a rush of warmth spread through me.

I had expected him to downplay our relationship, perhaps mentioning that he was only here temporarily.

Instead, he made it clear that he was fully committed to me and had no intention of backing off.