The last of the Lycans

Chapter 9

The dinner

Ryan had a very expensive-looking sports car. I’m not sure why I was surprised. My family did well enough, but we were not rich. I learned early on to be grateful for the things I had. I never paid much attention to those who had more. I also loved to help those who didn’t have much whenever I could. Something else my dad and I did when I was younger. I smiled as I thought about volunteering with Dad; those were very good memories. Feeding people, giving out clothing, and medical supplies to those who weren’t well off brought joy to my heart.

Ryan must have noticed me smiling because when I looked up, he was staring at me with a smile on his face. He probably thought I was thinking about him. This was going to be challenging. I averted my eyes and blushed, thinking about it. I got into the car and buckled. After a few moments of silence and driving, I asked, “Where are we headed?” He smiled but stayed silent. “So, it’s a secret”. He said nothing. My stomach was in knots, my wolf pacing, dare I say “excited?” She was easily swooned. Not that we had many who “swooned” over us, but occasionally she would perk up and let me know when she found someone attractive or interesting.

We drove for around 20 minutes before parking at a rustic-looking restaurant. It didn’t look fancy, but it did look like it was somewhere good food was served. I was excited; I wasn’t a big fan of “fancy” food. I got out once we were parked. I headed toward the restaurant, and Ryan grabbed my hand. I was startled, and my nerves bubbled back up again. I avoided his gaze and tried to pull my hand away. He wasn’t letting it go.

Me: “You promised to keep your hands to yourself,” I huffed.

Ryan: “Oh, right, I did.” He smiled.

He pulled his hand back, letting mine fall. For a moment, I felt sad, but quickly recovered. Reminding myself this wasn’t a date, he was a possible friend. We walked inside and got seated. The waitress only had eyes for him. He clearly knew her because he was smiling at her while she was all but throwing herself at him. I was a little annoyed but focused on the menu instead. I was right; excellent food options. The waitress finally got our drink order and headed off.

Me: “Friend of yours?” I raised an eyebrow.

Ryan: “I don’t kiss and tell.” He smirked.

That answered that question. This guy really was a player. I looked around us, taking in the scene. This place really was nice. I didn’t get out much, so this wasn’t somewhere I’d been before. I realized pretty much every woman near us was staring at Ryan. I couldn’t help but feel embarrassed. Did they not see me? Something I’d have to get used to if I was going to be his friend.

Ryan: “I was thinking, could I possibly ask you a favor?”

A favor, I thought? What could I possibly have that he didn’t?

Me: “What kind of favor?”

Ryan: “You said you’re going to major in English literature. Even though I’m going into advanced warrior training, I’m still required to do the basics. English, math, all that. I’m terrible at English. It was my least favorite subject. But I have to pass to fully pass my warrior training. I was thinking if that’s your major, maybe you would be willing to help tutor me?” I frowned. Least favorite subject? How different could we be? Maybe he wouldn’t make a great friend?

Me: “You’re telling me that with a library like that at home, you never use it?”

Ryan: “Nope. As I said, that’s my dad’s baby, not mine.”

Me: “Ok, well, can I think about it? I’m not sure what my schedule will look like, and I plan to keep my job while I’m in school.”

Ryan: “Sure. We have all summer still, no rush. Figured it would be a good idea. Doesn’t hurt that I would much enjoy your company, and we could get to know each other better.”

There were those nerves again. Something about the way he said that and looked at me made me go between aroused and put off. While I’m attracted to him, I won’t deny that something about him or his intentions seems off. I can’t quite put my finger on it. I shrug. “Ok”.

The waitress came back with our drinks and took our order. The dinner wasn’t at all what I was expecting. Ryan was kind of funny; he liked to laugh, we did have a few things in common, and he shared that he was in the running for being my new alpha. Something I didn’t realize. I knew he had alpha blood and aspired to be one, but mine? I didn’t realize that at all. I wasn’t sure if this would be a good or bad thing. Maybe it wouldn’t be so bad being friends with the future alpha, though, right?

Ryan asked a ton of questions as well. What kind of things do I like, why English lit, what is it about teaching that interests me, my family, my friends, etc.? He was pretty easy to talk to once I stopped focusing on his looks. There was no denying he liked the company of women, but he was also seemingly just a guy trying to impress his dad. He really wanted the alpha title, and he spent his whole life working for it. Maybe the rumors weren’t true, and he was just misunderstood? My gut told me no, but my head wasn’t sure.

The food was delicious. I’d made a mental note to bring Crystal here sometime. This place was great. So far, aside from the handholding incident, he had kept his promise and kept his hands to himself. I was getting nervous when it was time to leave. Was he going to keep his promise, or was that jerk side going to make an appearance again? After he paid, we headed toward the car. He kept space between us but was close enough to make my nerves on edge. Once we got into the car and headed back, it was silent. A comfortable silence, though. Eventually, I spoke first, “Thank you for dinner. It was very nice.”

Ryan: “Of course, anytime. It’s the least I can do. I was a bit of a jerk. Although I’ve never had a woman deny me, so that was a first. I appreciate you letting me make it up to you.”

I smiled.

Me: “It happens. We all have bad days. We both were drinking; I don’t hold it against you.”

Ryan: “Can I ask you something?”

Me: “Of course.”

Ryan: “You're not dating anyone. Why don’t you date if you’re free to do so?”

I felt a little shy right now. What was I supposed to say? This incredibly hot guy is asking me why I don’t have a boyfriend. The same guy who asked me to have his way with me. My face was definitely several shades of pink.

Me: I hesitated. “Um, I … I have never had a boyfriend.”

Ryan: “What? Surely you have? There’s no way you can tell me no guy is interested? Surely you at least had some fun?” He wiggles his eyes and smiles as he speaks.

Now I’m definitely red. Did he just ask me if I messed around?

Me: “No,” I barely whisper. Now my heart is pounding. I hope he can’t hear it or see how red my face is. Why does he need to know all this, and why am I answering?

I hear him make noises, and his breathing is clearly picked up. What’s going on right now?

Finally, after what feels like forever, he speaks.

Ryan: “I just can’t believe no one has made a move? Maybe they did, and you shut them down,” he laughed.

I shook my head. If someone were interested in me, I’d never notice. My head really was always in a book. The rest of the trip was quiet. He finally stopped asking questions, and I settled my heart. Once we got back to my place, I turned to him and thanked him again for the dinner. I got out and walked inside. He sat and watched as I walked in. When I closed the door, I felt a sigh of relief washing over me. He kept his word and didn’t act like a jerk. Maybe Dad was right. I shouldn’t be so quick to judge. I decided to make myself a cup of coffee, clean up a bit, and head upstairs.