Page 35 of Draven

Draven finally looked at me and cupped my cheek.

He let out a tired sigh, and I noticed the scales on his neck and arms had disappeared.

"No, I have plenty to tell you, Tobias," Draven said.

He looked at Bruce. "I have nothing against your pard or this town, but know this, I have no intention of leaving either,” Draven said.

"Understood," Bruce said.

Bruce was sweating heavily, and so was Tim and myself, I noticed. The temperature in the shop had risen, it felt like we were in a sauna.

"Tobias, let's get your car," Draven said.

He held out his hand to Tim, who swallowed nervously.

"Give him Tobias' car key," Bruce said.

Tim did just that, but I noticed him keeping a respectful distance from Draven.

"Make sure that human stays away from Tobias," Draven told Bruce, his words carrying a lingering 'or else.'

"But... the mayor's boy—" Tim ventured, but Bruce clasped his shoulder, silencing him.

"We'll do what we can," Bruce said.

Even though he was the top dog in the paranormal hierarchy in town, he was still willing to go along with Draven's orders. That said plenty.

Draven turned to me, handing me my car key.

"Let's take a drive,” he said.

“Okay,” I whispered.

I got into my car, and Draven mounted his motorcycle. I was guessing I should follow him.

Numbness enveloped me, followed by confusion and anger.

Just what the heck was going on? And what had I gotten myself involved in?

CHAPTER TEN

DRAVEN/ TOBIAS

DRAVEN

I shot a look over my shoulder. I couldn't shake off the guilt gnawing at me.

Tobias was trailing behind, silent but undoubtedly brewing with questions and emotions.

I cursed myself for keeping him in the dark about my true nature. His expression earlier, a mix of confusion and shock, haunted me.

I owed him an explanation, one that should've been given long ago. Zane had warned me to come clean with Tobias, but I'd brushed it aside until now.

With a heavy sigh, I steered my motorcycle toward the Red Vine Woods, a place I frequented at night for my shifts.

I got off my motorcycle and Tobias emerged from his bike. He continued following me on foot without complaints.

We trudged deeper into the woods, Tobias remained silent, his footsteps echoing mine.