Page 10 of Cat’s Guide To Romance

Lucien tips his head towards me when Wren sets a steaming mug in front of Ryan.

“It’s a little something we’re still experimenting with. We don’t get a lot of vampires at the bakery, but we want something for them when they do show up.”

Ryan takes a sip. His eyes flutter shut, and he nods. “Best thing I’ve drunk in decades.” He lifts the mug. “Thanks.”

Lucien mouths thank you to me before he turns his attention to the spread of food on his table.

Just that little acknowledgment makes my heart flutter.

“Everyone deserves something nice.”

“Indeed, they do,” Lucien says. He grabs one of the sugar cookies and sinks his teeth into it. “Fuck.” He wipes his mouth with a napkin and lifts the treat in the air. “Delicious!”

Everyone in the place turns to look at him. He just chuckles and shovels the rest into his mouth as if someone will take it away. He and Lars plow through the food faster than I expected. It’s all carbs and sweets. I’d have a major tummy ache.

“Well, kitty cat, we didn’t really play our little game, but I look forward to seeing you tomorrow. Same time. Same place.” Lucien winks, then all three are gone in a blink.

Lark pushes to his feet as if he wants a closer look. “How did he do that without touching?”

I have no idea, but I already wish it were tomorrow morning so I could see his handsome face again.

What is wrong with me?

“You are such a cat,” Beau says.

“What do you mean?” I cross my arms and huff out a breath. My tail sways behind me, and I try to will it to stop.

Beau points to my tail. “Your tail betrays you. You want him so bad.”

I throw my arms up. “Have you seen him? He’s sexy as sin. But there’s no way he wants me other than to toy with me.” And I won’t be toyed with.

Lark pokes me in the side. “You don’t know that. But Beau’s right. You’re such a kitten around him. Want his affection? Don’t want it. Make him chase you. So very cat-like.”

Beau nods and shovels another tart into his mouth. “Creamsicle could take lessons from you, but then I think Poe would be sad.”

I try to will my tail to stop swishing, but fail. “Sorry? I don’t do it on purpose.” Or do I? At this point, I don’t know anymore. I sigh and check the time. “Sorry. I need to head to the shop. Mama gave me a long list today.”

“Want some company?” Beau asks.

“No, I need time to think before I head back home. But thank you.”

Lark and Gabe watch me, and I shake my head. I don’t need or want questions right now. Lucien made me feel like an object last night and leaves me so confused.

“If you need anything,” Lark starts.

“Call,” Gabe finishes, with Beau nodding.

“I can bring treats to cheer you up.”

We all snort. Beau is always thinking about treats. Not that I find anything wrong with that.

I push to my feet and gather the trash from around the table.

“Shoo,” Lark says. “We’ll clean up. You go do your shopping and hopefully get some rest before picking up Ferris.”

“Love y’all.” I blow a kiss to the table before I leave.

The morning breeze brushes through my fur as I make my way toward the grocery.