Mate (Bride, #2)

by Ali Hazelwood

“I’ll kill her if you come closer.” Koen, of course, comes closer. With the placid air of someone who has never doubted his ability to hammer the world to his will. “Uh-uh. Serena, he says he’s going to kill you. You cool with that?” His tone is pure intellectual curiosity. Charcoal eyes glow steadily in the night. “I did run out of instant noodles last week,” I croak.

“You are Koen Alexander, aren’t you? The Alpha of the Northwest.” “I sure am. What’s your name, bud?” “That’s not important. If you come any closer—” Koen clucks his tongue. “You gotta tell me your name, or I’ll have to make one up. Any ideas, Serena?” I clear my throat. “I like Bob.” “Bob the Vampyre. Love it.” “That’s not my na—” “It is if the lady says so, shartstain.

His childhood dream was probably to become a hall monitor. I’ve seen him smile only once, and it was a terrifying process, like he’d learned how to move his facial muscles from a book. I hope it never happens again.

He takes me in with a pained expression. “The hoodie-chic, blood-spattered, final-girl outfit suits you. The hair, not so much.” I pout. “But my stylist said it was so me.” “You deserve a refund.” He bends to kiss my cheek. “You look rough. Need a hug? Chamomile tea? A coloring book with some pencils? All of the above?”