~Cody~
"Hey, my dear friend, "Rain placed his hands on my shoulders, and the familiar rush of emotions returned. It was like an electric shock coursing through my body. I forced a smile, trying my best to hide the feelings I had for him. My heart raced like an incessant drum, and to make matters worse, he was laughing and refused to let go of my shoulder.
"Rain," I muttered, removing his hand from my shoulder. "Where's your girlfriend?" I asked, hoping my question would divert his attention. Rain sighed and folded his arms. I sighed in relief that he was keeping his hands to himself, sparing me from the overwhelming effect of the mate bond. It was agonizing being so close to him and not being able to claim him as mine.
"She left to babysit her siblings," he replied, placing his hand on
