Goal: A Mate (Bachelor Auction #2) by Selena Illyria Page A

“We’re hoping to find someone to act as negotiator with Mabel.” She wasn’t going to get into the details with strangers no matter how much she liked them.
    “May? Oh yeah, I heard about all the crap she’s been throwing. Ugh. But I get it. You’d be better dealing with her stepbrother, Alberto. He’s a werewolf, but he can talk her down.”
    Kelly wanted to bang her head against the table.
    “Alberto?” Fear filled Reenie’s voice.
    “Oh yeah. It’s not really a known thing, but they were once siblings-in-law. They consider each other family, even after the divorce.” Lea dug around in her purse and produced a card. “Here, this is his number. Call him and see if he’ll be willing to do it. I don’t see why he wouldn’t.”
    “And why do you have his card, Lea? Holding out on me?” Alec nudged Lea, who grunted.
    “I’m taking tennis lessons. He’s teaching me.” Red patches appeared on Lea’s cheeks.
    Reenie growled next to Kelly, who placed a hand on her friend’s shoulder. “Thanks. We’ll call.”
    “Pancakes!” Madison returned, carrying a few trays of breakfast.
    “You will talk to Alberto and you will fix this,” Kelly hissed in Reenie’s ear. “And you will find a way to not kill him. He’s your mate.”
    “Madi, Lea’s been holding out on us. She’s been taking lessons with Alberto,” Alec called out, as he pulled Lea down into their booth.
    “I know. Personally, I don’t think you need to lose weight.” Madison put down the servers and proceeded to set up the table.
    “I’ve gained like fifteen pounds. I figure it’s better than slapping on a bathing suit and dealing with the matchmaking piranhas who stalk water aerobics looking for helpless single women victims.” Lea sulked but accepted the food.
    “So you’re not hot for the werewolf in tennis whites?” Alec winked at Kelly.
    “Do I look like the type who would go panting after Mr. Everyone-Wants-What’s-in-My-Pants?” Lea took a sip of water.
    Reenie let out a snort of laughter, and Kelly relaxed.
    “Sure, he’s cute and all, but not my type. He needs to be taken down a few pegs. Anyway, let’s eat and you two can tell me all about the available wolfy men who wouldn’t mind a little pussycat action.” Lea used her fork to cut into her stack of pancakes.
    “You know, I think we’re going to be friends, Lea.” Reenie held out her hand to Lea.
    “Well, of course we are. We’re sitting at your table and you didn’t kick us out. Now dish. I want all the details. I haven’t gotten laid since Clinton was in the White House.” Lea leaned forward.
    “Liar!” Alec shouted. His voice echoed off the walls.
    “Shut it, Hung Like a Horse. I need cock, and I’m not talking about a rooster.” Lea scooted closer.
    Kelly glanced over at Madison who just shook her head. “We’re the only sane and mated ones here.”
    Kelly didn’t ask how she knew; she just grinned. It was true. And if tonight went well, Brandon would claim her. After that…
    Kelly stopped that train of though. She wanted to cling to the here and now, not worry about the future that awaited her.
     

Chapter Nine
     
     
    Brandon lit the last candle. Kelly had called from Shadows to explain and apologize for ducking out on him for breakfast. She reported that she was on her way back. He forgave her, but promised retribution once she returned to the cabin. He waved out the match and tossed it in the trash before giving the scene he’d laid out for her “punishment” a once over. He hadn’t missed her mention of cock rings, and despite his reservations he’d put those with the vibrator and silver bullet. After a quick search, he’d also found some edible cinnamon oil. From experience, he knew that shit burned if left too long, but if used in small quantities it was OK. He knew exactly how he wanted to use it. A quick glance showed the tub of ice he’d made up had only melted a little.
    He pulled on the bonds, testing them, and found