“Status Dramaticus?”
He frowned as he tried to come up with another one. It was a game they played, both of them enjoying the play on words. “E-vil-gelical?
Spencer tapped his finger on his chin. “She likes to go mid-evil on your ass.”
Jim rolled his eyes at that one. “That was bad.”
“I try.”
“Next time she calls you’ll just have to grim and bear it.” Chloe blinked innocently. Whether the misspoken word was meant or not, Jim chose to believe it was. She was playing their game.
Spencer sighed happily. “I like her. Can we keep her?”
“Do I get a say in it?” Chloe tried to pull free once more, but Spencer was like a dog with a bone when he wanted something, and he wanted Chloe for Jim.
His poor mate didn’t stand a chance.
“Nope.” Jim stood, holding out his hand. “So, take a walk with me?”
“Wait. Hold up there.” Spencer let go of Chloe. “You’re leaving me in estrogen central?”
“Why do guys keep calling it that?” Emma tilted her head, her ponytail brushing her shoulder.
“I don’t get it,” Becky added.
Sheri chuckled. “I do, but I’m not telling.”
Jim ignored the playful banter between the three women and pulled Chloe to her feet. Like Emma Cannon didn’t know exactly what men thought when they entered Wallflowers for the first time. “Come on. I promise you won’t regret it.”
Chloe glared at him but took his hand. “I mill haven’t decided if I forbid you yet.”
“I know. But are you willing to give me the chance to earn your forgiveness?” He didn’t know what he’d do if she said no. Probably become some sort of creepy stalker she’d need a restraining order and some wolfsbane pepper spray to get rid of.
She nodded slowly, her expression almost reluctant. “I can try.”
“Good.” He lifted her hand to his lips, kissing her knuckles.
The color that flooded her cheeks made him grin. He loved that she blushed so easily. He had so much to learn about his mate, so much that he’d let slide by him. Now that Spencer was home, he could concentrate on fixing the mistakes he’d made with Chloe, starting now.
And if she wouldn’t let him, well…
Wolves were very good at stalking their prey.
Chapter Three
Chloe couldn’t believe it. She was walking down the street with her mate, her hand held tightly in his. The quick little glances he kept sending her, as if he expected her to run if he loosened his grip, were oddly reassuring. He was making it clear he wanted her right where she was.
Chloe blew out a breath and tried to steady herself. She was so nervous she was afraid she might not be able to speak, and her left hand kept twitching uncontrollably.