My Wolf’s Bane(65)

I wanted to tell him that I deserved him and the feelings between us. But my pride went with, “Fine. Whatever.”

Zack took a deep breath. “We need to concentrate on getting you through your first morph, educating you on shape-shifters — with what little info we have — and making sure you’re safe.”

I nodded and stared out the window, my eyes stinging.

The engine roared to life and the car began to move, but I barely noticed. I had this amazing guy who liked me — at least enough to make out with me — and he could never be mine. Where was the justice?

I needed something to take my mind off Zack and how I couldn’t have him. “Why don’t you turn your mom into a werewolf? Then she’d be strong and healthy, right?”

“I can’t turn her for the same reason my dad couldn’t. She’s too frail. If we bite someone and they’re weak, the wolf virus kills them. If they’re strong, they fight the virus and develop an immunity of sorts. Except it’s more like a unity. The healthy human cells meld with the wolf cells, creating a powerful human that’s also a wolf.”

Zack found a spot close to the school entrance and handed me the keys. “I’ve been thinking. Daniel might give up on you if he thinks we’re a couple.”

Sounded interesting. “So we should act cozy?”

“Yeah.” His eyes darted away.

“I can pretend if you can.” But I hoped it wouldn’t be too painful for me once the charade was over. I reached for the door handle.

“If anything happens and I’m not there after your last class, leave without me.”

I spun in my seat. “No. Because this time, Gina won’t be in the way and you’ll be waiting for me. I’m not going to desert you, so you end up walking home. Or worse.”

“Fine,” he mumbled, opening his door.

Students gaped as we got out of my car together. Zack rounded the hood and walked by my side, his arm protectively draped around my waist. Gina glared at me from near the bike racks. Standing next to her, Daniel looked like steam would billow from his ears at any moment. I spared him a glance before spotting John who gave me two thumbs up.

It felt comfortable and safe with Zack by my side touching me. And yummy. I had to remind myself we weren’t really a couple.

“She has to go to the bathroom. Now.” Maya faced Zack as though daring him to challenge her.

He laughed. “I’ll be waiting.”

Yes, he would. Right outside the bathroom door. He’d probably even listen in with his super-human hearing. I’d have to be careful what I told Maya.

Dragging me through the hallway, she eyed a girl going into the bathroom ahead of us. There went our privacy. She stopped right outside the door, positioning us in the corner. I spotted John approaching. He huddled up with us.

“What is going on with you two? Trevor said Zack spent the night at your house,” she whispered.

Word traveled fast.

“He did?” John asked. “Your taste in guys has improved.”

“It’s not like that,” I said.

She folded her arms over her chest. “Liar.”

“She likes him,” John said.

“Did he kiss you yet?” she asked.

“If he spent a whole night alone with her and didn’t try to hook up with her, he’s clearly gay,” John said.

I laughed and held up a hand to stop further probing, though good-natured and well-deserved. “I’m not denying he’s gorgeous or that I like him. But guys,” all humor left my voice, “he doesn’t want a relationship. When his mom is gone, he will be too.” I lowered my voice. They didn’t need to know all the details, but I didn’t want to have to pretend with my closest friends. Plus, they could help keep an eye on Daniel. “Zack stayed over, because Daniel…”

“What?” Maya asked, eyes narrowed.

“He cornered me yesterday after school,” I answered. “I was a little freaked out, but I don’t think he’s dangerous. Zack is just being overly cautious.”

Her head rocked up and down, eyes bigger than usual. “I knew he was a pig, but I didn’t think he’d stoop that low. I’m so sorry. But you got a night with Zack.” She grinned. “All’s well that ends well.”

“Maya, you are so bad.” My mouth dropped open as I playfully slapped her arm.

“So, did anything happen last night?” she prodded.

“Uh, that’s my cue to leave.” John grimaced. “I don’t need the gory details. See ya.”

“’Bye.” I shot John a smile as he took off. Sensing Zack close by, I chose my words carefully. “I spent the entire night in my room and he slept on the sofa.” There. I’d told her the truth and implied exactly what Zack would want — without the little extras.