Page 30 of Beckett's Fate
“Fine,” she said finally, her tone clipped. “But don’t expect me to make it easy.”
Beck’s lips curved into a faint, knowing smile, his wolf growling softly in agreement. “Wouldn’t have it any other way.”
The hunters might have left the Rusty Fork, but the unease they’d left behind lingered in the air, heavy and suffocating. Beck could feel it like a storm building on the horizon, and he knew that Irene’s secrets were wrapped up with it.
Beck slid back into the booth, rolling his shoulders to alleviate their tenseness as the hunters disappeared from view. He picked up his glass of water, taking a slow sip while keeping his eyes on Irene.
She stared at him for a beat before a small, incredulous laugh escaped her. “You enjoyed that,” she accused, her voice laced with a mix of amusement and disbelief.
Beck arched a brow, setting his glass down. “I wouldn’t say I enjoyed it,” he said, though the corner of his mouth twitched upward. “But having them a little intimidated? That’s not the worst thing I can do.”
Irene shook her head, a reluctant smile tugging at her lips. “You’re impossible, you know that?”
“Only when the situation calls for it,” Beck replied smoothly. His eyes softened as he leaned forward, his tone shifting. “I meant what I said earlier, though. I appreciate you telling me as much as you did. I know it wasn’t easy.”
Irene’s smile faded slightly, her gaze dropping to the table. “It wasn’t,” she admitted. “But I figured you deserved something for saving my life... twice.”
“You mean three times,” Beck said with a faint smile.
Her head snapped up. “Three?”
“Counting tonight,” he said. “I’m keeping track, in case you’re wondering.”
Irene rolled her eyes but couldn’t hide the faint flush creeping up her cheeks. “Don’t push your luck.”
Beck chuckled softly, the sound low and warm, but his expression turned serious. “I get your need for secrecy about your pack. I do. And I’ll honor it as long as it doesn’t put this town—or you—in danger. But the treasure?” He shook his head. “That’s a different story.”
Irene stiffened, her shoulders tensing as she picked at her fries. “I told you, it’s not about the treasure.”
“It’s always about the treasure,” Beck said firmly, his gaze holding hers. “Whether it’s you, the hunters, or some fool stumbling across your trail—it doesn’t matter. That thing hasbeen nothing but trouble for more than a century, and I don’t intend to let it claim anyone else.”
She opened her mouth to argue, but Beck held up a hand. “Before you say anything, let me make one thing clear. If you’re looking for it, I’ll help you. But I’m not doing it for money or for anyone else in Silver Falls. Whatever you find, it’s yours. No strings attached.”
Irene stared at him, her lips parting slightly in surprise. “Why would you do that?”
“Because I don’t want to see you get hurt,” Beck said simply. “And because I’m tired of people coming to my town chasing legends and leaving devastation in their wake. If helping you puts an end to this once and for all, then so be it.”
Her gaze softened, a flicker of something unspoken passing between them. For a moment, the air between them felt lighter, less charged, and she nodded. “Thank you,” she said quietly.
“You’re welcome,” Beck replied. “But don’t think this means I’m going easy on you. I’ll still expect answers—and honesty.”
Irene’s lips quirked into a wry smile. “I’ll do my best. But I make no promises.”
“Not good enough. If you answer me, you answer me honestly. Otherwise, don’t answer,” Beck said with a small grin.
“But that might give you the answer,” she countered.
“I know,” he grinned.
Irene began to relax, picking up her burger and taking a tentative bite. Her expression softened further as the flavors hit her tongue, and she let out a soft, appreciative hum.
“Okay,” she said, her tone lighter now. “This might be the best burger I’ve ever had. I know the ribs I got the other night were.”
Beck chuckled. “Welcome to the Rusty Fork. Glad to see you’re finally enjoying yourself.”
Irene grinned, wiping a bit of sauce from the corner of her mouth. “Don’t get used to it.”
Beck watched her as she settled into the meal, the parts of her personality she tried so hard to shield softening with every bite. It was a rare glimpse of her letting her guard down, and he found himself captivated by the change in her demeanor.