Her Mates

14

Life with six mates wasn't easy. Well, it wasn't easy with five either, but things definitely changed when the sixth came along—especially considering he was a vampire. Not that I really cared. I mean, I did, but not that much. It probably had something to do with the fact that we were soulbonded. But honestly, that was just one more thing to add to the constant whirlwind that was my life.

My werewolf mates had become even more possessive than before, which was both incredibly sweet and ridiculously frustrating. No matter where I went, at least one of them was always there, watching over me like a hawk. At first, I didn't mind. It was kind of nice, actually. But after a while? It got annoying. Especially when I wanted to see Claire and Benjy or simply have some time alone.

Which was exactly why I was currently sneaking out of the house.

I moved carefully, making sure not to wake my sister or the mate passed out on my couch. The cool night air greeted me as I slipped into the backyard, where two familiar figures were already waiting. Even from a distance, I could tell it was Claire and Benjy. Excitement bubbled inside me, and I picked up my pace—only to promptly trip over my own feet and face-plant into the grass.

Laughter rang through the night.

"Maevy, you're such a clumsy bitch. How are you still alive?" Claire's amused voice came from above me, and when I glanced up, she was grinning down at me.

Benjy, ever the gentleman, helped me up immediately, shaking his head in exasperation. "First of all, Claire, ease up on the cussing. And second, she does have a point. You really need to be more careful—especially now that you have, like, half a football team as your mates. I don't want to be responsible for what happens if you get hurt."

I dusted myself off, flashing them both an innocent smile. "I'll be more careful, I promise. So, where are we headed tonight?"

We hadn't planned anything specific since it was never a guarantee that I could actually sneak out without getting caught.

"Marty's," Claire answered. "His parents are out of town, and you know what that means."

Benjy added, "Or, if you're not in the mood for partying, we could just watch some movies instead."

The decision was easy. "Let's have some fun with the others."

And with that, we were off.

As we neared Marty's house, it was obvious that a party was in full swing. Loud music filled the air, mingling with bursts of laughter and off-key singing. The electric energy of the night wrapped around me, making my heart race with anticipation.

For once, I was free. No mates hovering over me. No overprotective glares. Just me and my friends, having the time of our lives.

We pushed our way through the throng of people, the heat of the dancing crowd pressing in from all sides. Almost immediately, someone shoved a red cup into my hand. Without thinking, I took a gulp, barely registering the burn as it slid down my throat. If I had to guess, it was definitely something strong, but honestly? I didn't care.

One drink quickly turned into two. Then three. Then—well, I lost count.

Somewhere in the blur of laughter and flashing lights, Claire dragged me onto the dance floor, just as if the DJ had read our minds. The opening beat of Wannabe by the Spice Girls blasted through the speakers, and before I could even react, Claire had launched herself onto my back, screaming the lyrics into my ear.

I didn't even hesitate before joining in.

We danced, we sang, we laughed until our stomachs ached. My head was light, my body warm, and for the first time in way too long, I felt like me. No responsibilities. No expectations. Just pure, unfiltered joy.

I didn't regret sneaking out. Not even for a second.

And if my mates found out?

Well, that was a problem for future me.