The Hybrid Prince's Pursued Mate

**Liam's POV**

It's now five to seven in the morning, the fifth time looking at my watch anxiously, while I am waiting for my employee. My fingernails in turn are jitterily striking the polished surface of my antique mahogany desk. All my emotions are jumbled-up fragments consisting of only excitement and dread. I can't wait to see her and finally have some alone time with her! Oh, but why can't I shake off this feeling of unease? Her serious expression yesterday, still very fresh in my mind's eye, has had me on edge up until now. I really hope nothing's wrong.

Laura has been working at the Snug Bistro for five months as a waitress, but she is not just any regular employee, she is my fated, my beloved mate. Alas, she would not know this, because she is a human. What makes things worse, my mate is currently in a relationship with another. Oh, how I wish I'd met her first. I would have courted her like any mortal man would and let her love for me develop at a normal pace. I'd love and treat her like the rare jewel she is. Although the bond has been driving me insane, I am not the type to just take her for myself like my barbaric full-blooded brethren would.

"It's not barbaric! It is a blessed pairing giving you the right to take what belongs to you!" snarled Ozouf, my wolf part of my chimaera beast.

"That'ss, not how thingss work in thiss part of the world dog, maybe if she was a werewolf then yesss, but our mate is not," hissed Krait, my serpent head, of my chimaera. I start to rub my temples in frustration, once these two start, there will be no end to it. Ozouf and Krait never see eye to eye, in fact, they are polar opposites. One being cold, scaly and calculative while the other is warm, fuzzy and impulsive.

"Oh shut up you scaled worm! What does a cold-blooded reptile like you know about fated bonds? That's why I'm the head and you are the tail," Ozouf snarled trying to snap at Krait behind him.

"I can easily bite you in the arssse furball, making sure that you will not be able to ssit for a week," Krait spat displaying his fangs warningly.

"Just try-"

"Can you both at least try to act civil for once?! It's bad enough that I'm stuck sharing a body with you! Now, behave! It's rare for us to have one-on-one time with our fair cherub, so please don't ruin this endearing occasion!" shrieked Giaan, the eagle head of my chimaera. Out of the three heads, he has the most sense.

Ever since we discovered our beautiful mate, my chimaera has been in a sour mood and an absolute nightmare! The three of them are quick to bicker with one another over the smallest of things, but I can't fully blame him. Our mate is currently with another man, and we see her every day, only able to admire and observe from the shadows. We can smell the fucker on her, plaguing us each passing day. What drives my chimaera up the wall the most is he knows she had given that man her most valuable gift, intended for us.

As a mystical being, I should have felt my mate's presence the moment our fated infinity vine mark appeared on my arm six years ago. However, since she is human, we were unable to find her, until she showed up at my bistro looking for employment.

Three knocks tore us from our bickering. "Come in," I said in my usual tone after clearing my throat.

The door delicately opened, revealing my enrapturing mate. All four of us let out a collaborative sigh at her presence. I took a deep breath and put on my earnest manager mask, but I couldn't help feeling powerless. I gazed upon her helplessly. She was bewitchingly beautiful, with long black hair and large grey eyes that seemed to magically transform with every outfit she wore. Slightly plump curvaceous body, only more for me to love.

"Ssso breathtakingly beautiful," Krait breathed salaciously.

Ozouf rolled his eyes, but couldn't agree more, his tongue was out, panting like a happy puppy, whining, begging for the chance to lick her face. Giaan's feathers fluffed up whilst cooing helplessly. I found it astonishing how my mate's presence, so easily subdued my large beast. He turned into a tamed infant only pining for her affection and touch.

"Morning Mr. Custos, thank you so much for letting me come see you," she said as she entered my office timidly.

My heart fluttered as I heard her mellifluous voice. Dammit, get a hold of yourself, Liam! "No problem at all. Please have a seat, Laura." I nearly betrayed myself as I spoke her name. Why is this so fucking difficult?! I'm not even a pure-blooded werewolf! Forget that I thought I'd never be blessed with a mate; being entirely enchanted like this by the bond is ridiculous!

"It's true love, my confused shell. Love harnesses a power none of us can make sense of," Giaan murmured helplessly. I was pulled from my thoughts when I heard my mate sit down.

"So what do I owe the pleasure of this rare visit?" I asked somewhat giddy.

She developed a shy smile, then cleared her throat before she spoke. "Although I really enjoy working as a waitress here, I have a dream of becoming a chef one day," she said, making my heart almost stop. Is she going to leave the bistro? Please no, I can help-

"I wanted to ask if I could maybe start working part-time in the kitchen as a dishwasher?" she asked with unease, and I could hear her nervous heartbeat.

Oh my mate, my dearest! If only you had asked me sooner! You have no idea how far I would go to help you succeed in your dreams! I cried to her in my thoughts. If only you knew what you meant to me, you wouldn't be so scared of me. I took a deep breath and then responded, "I have something better in mind."

I stared at her with a benevolent smile, hoping to ease her nervousness, and continued, "Why not, in three days, let you start full-time as a porter? You'll receive a stable salary of thirty-five dollars per hour."

Her eyes lit up, and shock was evident on her face. My heart nearly melted at how adorable she looked. "Mr. Custos, thank you so much! I am so, so grateful!"

"Only a pleasure, lov-Laura. I'm pleased you love the idea," I mumbled foolishly as I nearly fumbled over my words. My beast snickered, as he could hear my thoughts. Arsehole.

"Let's see how you settle into the kitchen, then after a few weeks, we can take things further from there," I said, not realising the big grin on my face. Not only was I having alone time with my mate, but soon she would be in the kitchen; no longer having to serve that bastard who had been trying his luck with her the past few months. My chimaera let out a pleased growl as he picked up on my thoughts.

Since recently, I gained a new customer, he began showing up two months after Laura started working here. It was clear that he wasn't here for the food. I was ready to kick him out, but my curiosity got the better of me; I wanted to see how my mate would handle him. Laura obviously knew that he was a wealthy man, and he favoured her, insisting that she be the only waitress to serve him. He would give her generous tips and shamelessly tried to woo her. He even went so far as to persuade her to leave her boyfriend for him, but to my surprise, she declined his pursuit gracefully. It warmed my heart that she remained so loyal to her current partner, even though he is an entitled prick.

"Promise I won't let you down, Mr. Custos! Thank you so much!" her melodic voice sang.

"Only a pleasure! Is there anything else you'd like to discuss? Any questions about the new role, perhaps?" I asked, not wanting my mate to leave just yet.

I watched her as she pondered for a moment before asking, "Are there any rules for the kitchen that you could please send me so that I can get acquainted with them in the meantime?"

I gazed at her in pure adoration. "Hey! Snap out of it; our mate asked a question," Ozouf barked, helping me regain my focus.

"You know what? Why don't you stop by my office tomorrow at twelve? I can go through everything with you regarding your new role and responsibilities," I said, smiling warmly at her. Gods, this celestial creature is going to be the end of me! How I wish I could freely run my fingers through her bouncy raven locks, hold her in my arms, and touch those tempting, kissable lips.

"Thank you so much, Mr. Custos! I am super excited," my Laura beamed.

I sighed internally as I looked at the clock. There are twenty minutes left before we officially open, and I know she hasn't eaten yet. As I've observed her I become accustomed to her routine. She always arrives at the bistro at seven, then makes herself some coffee and nibbles on something she either made or bought. I've noticed she doesn't eat much; I don't know how she manages during the day. I guess I need to let her go.

"Or you could offer her a cup of coffee to make her stay longer," Ozouf suggested.

"I hate to admit it, but fluffy here made a good sssuggestion," Krait hissed somewhat enthusiastically.

"Go on, be a gentleman! It's something you should have offered our cherub right from the start!" Giaan screeched.

"The lot of you are jerks," I grunted, but they made a fair point. "Laura, would you like a cup of coffee before you start work? I brewed a fresh batch and brought rusks this morning." I smiled, but my stomach knotted. I could see my mate considering my invitation, and I held my breath in suspense.

She beamed blushingly and then said, "Thank you Mr. Custos that is very kind of you, but I have a few things to sort out before the bistro opens. Definitely next time I promise."

I could only let a forced smile plaster my disappointment. "I understand," I said then stood up. As I escorted her to the door, she surprised me with a sudden hug. I was completely taken aback-it felt like I had died and gone to heaven. My heart raced with a whirlwind of emotions. I returned the hug awkwardly. I was afraid my wolf instincts would take over and I'd claim her right then and there! She was so close, in my arms, and her heavenly gardenia fragrance almost put me under a spell. This was the first time I had ever touched her, and my heart was hammering passionately within the cavity of my chest. I swear I could feel her emotions, as though this interaction had unlocked a new level of our fated connection. I want to sink my teeth in her neck and mark her so that the whole world knows she's mine.

"Thank you once again, Mr. Custos!" my captivating mate sang and then rushed off, just at the right moment, before I did something I'd regret.

I stood motionlessly at the door staring at her shrinking figure longingly, as she continued to her destination. "Please Gods, let my love be set free of that undeserving swine so that she can finally be mine."

**Laura's POV**

I can't believe it! Mr. Custos gave me such an awesome opportunity! I am so excited! He is such a sweet man; I must buy him a thank-you gift. I sang to myself as my heart beat with joy from these overwhelming emotions. Things are finally working out. Just don't screw this up, Laura Ash! I squealed to myself whilst, cleaning the counter.

"Someone seems to be in a good mood," said a male voice, ripping me from my thoughts.

"Morning Jacob, yup! I spoke to Mr. Custos, and in three days' time I am officially working in the kitchen," I proudly announced flashing a toothy grin.

"That's fantastic news! See I told you! Liam is a cool boss, he always opts to help his staff pursue their careers. Just like Sheryl, a month ago he sponsored her education so that she could become an accountant. That's just one of many examples."

"He really is a good heart. I'm finally living the dream!" I laughed like a little girl when I thought of him. I don't know why, but when I spoke to Liam, earlier my heart fluttered, and I felt so shy. I wanted to stay longer for coffee, but he is my boss. He might see it as being courteous, but I on the other hand have a bit of a crush on him. I can't jeopardise my career, it's best to keep my distance and remain professional.

Jacob stared at me somewhat strangely, then quickly cleared his throat. "I'll catch you later sweets, I need to steal a bite before Joey serves the buffet trays, want me to get you something?"

"I'm good!" I sang then returned to my thoughts as Jacob disappeared.

Although starting late at twenty-four, if I work hard and play my cards right I should get there somewhere in my mid-thirties. No matter what, I will become an executive chef!

I have only been working at the Snug Bistro for five months with nothing to my name. I am soon to change my position from waitress to kitchen porter. That's something, right? I'm not going to give up on my dream, I will show my parents. They only let my younger brother go to college, because they believed him to be the breadwinner of the family; while it was expected of me to find and marry a rich man so that I would not be a burden to them. At least they permitted me to finish school, I guess I shouldn't be resentful or act all entitled. Enough about them, I promised myself I would stop dawdling in the past.

As time passed, the bistro started becoming its usual busy self. I had just served my regulars, and now occupied setting a table that had just been cleaned. I was suddenly pulled away from my thoughts, when a voice called for service. I turned to face the woman and I froze for like two seconds until a large smile crept over my lips.

It was my boyfriend, Michael, standing at the entrance whilst holding another woman with a lazy arm around her waist, close to him. He looked at me as if I was a piece of dirt, then returned his affectionate gaze back to the woman. She was a stunner, with long chocolate brown hair, green eyes, full red lips and a body I thought only existed in magazines.

Three days, just three days then I'm in the kitchen-my happy place, I said to myself. The other customers in the room looked completely shocked, except for one smirking figure in the dark far corner. I on the other hand remained calm. I can do this, I cried enough. Treat this like a normal day at work. Michael is now just another customer, I cheered myself on, refusing to show any hint of weakness.

"Welcome, right this way please," I said sweetly catching Michael off guard. You didn't expect that reaction from me, you cheating pig, I said to myself feeling suddenly empowered.

Michael having another woman is nothing new to me. I had known of his cheating ways since six months ago but decided to keep it to myself, hoping he might find what he was looking for and be the bigger man and let me know himself.

When I first found out, of course I was distraught, heartbroken, and overwhelmed by all the yucky emotions associated with worthlessness and betrayal. Michael was my first love, the only man I had slept with, and we had been together for four years. I genuinely believed he loved me and we had something special. Fortunately, as time passed, I managed to endure and accept my new reality. I decided to let karma take its course, hoping it would be on my side for once.

I let it be and still remained with that traitor. It had its perks, for you see Michael is quite a well-known face. He has affluent and well-respected parents. People feared Michael and his erratic spoiled temper, so no one dared to mess with me and treat me poorly like some used to before I met him-especially my family. However, I knew I needed to become independent, so I decided to get a job at the bistro. I was anyways close to ditching this dick, but now he has made it so easy for me.

As I led the couple to the table I had just cleaned, the woman clung to Michael, her piercing green eyes fixed on me with an expression of triumph. She was truly gorgeous. Michael, on the other hand, wore a confused look, as if he was waiting for a reaction from me. Not today, or ever, arsehole, I thought to myself. Then I took out my notebook and pen and asked, "Can I get you anything to drink while you decide on your meal?"

"I'll have the fruit cocktail," said the woman, visibly wrinkling her nose at me as if I were trash.

"You know what I usually order, Laura," Michael said smugly.

"Apologies, I serve many people, so you'll have to jog my memory," I replied, maintaining a straight face.

"Latte, are you being difficult?" he asked, annoyance creeping into his voice as his temper began to unravel.

"Oh, not at all. I just want to make sure you haven't changed your preferences in drinks as well. Besides, this is the first time you've come to eat here. Anyways, I'll bring your orders shortly," I said sweetly, unfazed, even though I could feel the eyes of the other customers on us. I quickly made my way to the fridges and then to the barista, Bethany, to place Michael's order.

"Hun, what the hell is going on?" Bethany asked concerned.

"Yeah, like what the fuck? Did you break up and not tell me?" Jacob exclaimed shocked and hurt as he crept up from behind with a tray under his arm.

"I'll fill you two in on the details later," I said cheerfully, but Bethany only shook her head as she continued preparing Michael's latte. A few minutes later, I returned with their drinks, only to find them displaying elaborate public displays of affection. It was quite embarrassing and somehow hurtful. Michael had never been that loving towards me out in the open; hell holding my hand was too much for him. Fucking arsehole.

"Here are your drinks. Do you know what you'd like to eat, or should I give you more time to decide? We also have a buffet today," I said trying very hard to act unaffected.

"Oh my, we got carried away and forgot to look at the menu," laughed the woman, glancing at me with a hint of vindictiveness.

"No problem, I'll give you more time," I replied.

Just as I was about to turn and walk away, Michael asked angrily, "Aren't you going to say anything?"

"In regards to what, sir?" I asked innocently.

"Don't act stupid, Laura. You're just going to pretend you're unfazed?"

"I'm happy for you-I'm even happier that you finally came out of the closet-but now is not the right time. I have work to do."

"What does she mean by finally?" The woman asked Michael.

"Six months, nine women, or should I say ten now," I replied with a smile and loud enough for others to hear.

Michael's face became bleak, "Y-you knew?"

"WHAT?!" the woman snapped.

"Seems as though this one finally gave you the balls to come clean. She must be special," I said with sweetly garnished venom. I then turned my attention to the woman.

"Congratulations! I'm truly happy for you. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have other customers waiting," I said, turning to leave. It was becoming increasingly difficult for me-shit I'm not as strong as I thought I was.

"You fat bitch! You knew he was over you, yet you kept him shackled to you, driving him to do this?"

"Amber, babe it's okay," Michael started, trying and calm down his now Karen.

"Oh, I was giving him the opportunity to figure out what he truly wanted in life and to be the bigger person by telling me the truth. I thought it was a generous approach, especially since we have been together for four years. Now, if you will please excuse me, I prefer not to mix personal affairs with work. Your new server will come to take your orders."

Michael looked around, noticing the angry stares directed at him. Some of his closest friends shook their heads in disappointment. I could see he was becoming anxious and was on the verge of yelling at me when a deep, stern voice interrupted.

"Is there a problem here?" I turned to look in the direction of the voice, it was Liam! My heart fluttered as I took notice of his ash blond hair and dark blue concerned emerald eyes.

"Sorry, who are you?" Michael asked quite belittling.

"I am the owner," he replied, looking undeniably handsome. For a moment, I nearly forgot my troubles. Ugh, this breakup crap is seriously messing with my head!

"Aww, Liam, are you going to continue to ignore little ol' me?" Amber purred, causing Michael to glance at his new flame in surprise.

"I'd rather do that than embarrass you in front of your new deserving victim. I am here to kindly ask, to let my employee do her job. If you have an issue, I'd be happy to have you eat elsewhere.

"Come, Laura. Today is the day you start your training in the kitchen. I've already asked Chef Joey to prepare your new tasks," said Liam, placing his hand gently on my back and guiding me away before Michael and Amber could say anything else. I was incredibly grateful for Liam's presence; I was on the verge of losing my composure. He is such a gentle giant, and just having him near makes me feel warm and fuzzy inside-my hero!

As we reached the kitchen, Liam asked as he grabbed my hand, "Are you alright? If not, I can give you the day off." This surprised me, especially because of his gentle and caring demeanour. He is known for his kindness, but this felt somehow on a deeper level. On the other hand, I might just be oversensitive.

"I am a tough cookie, Mr. Custos; there's no need to worry. In fact, I feel elated as if a huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders. Besides, I'm excited about starting in the kitchen."

Liam carefully observed me-I think he could see that I wasn't completely fine-then said, "Hey, you don't have to act tough around me. I'm here for you whenever you need an ear to listen to."

I think my eyes visibly widened at his gentleness because his handsome smile deepened. He then pulled me into a deep embrace. "T-thank you, Mr. Custos," was all I could say.

"What a fucking dick!" Bethany exclaimed in pure disgust and anger.

"Wow, I can't believe you stayed with him all those months. You should have told me, sweets. I could have helped you and been there for you when you needed someone to lean on," Jacob said, looking at me with sympathy.

"Thanks, guys, but really I am fine and happy it's all over. On a positive note, I phoned some estate agents and Liam said I can take off tomorrow to view them."

"What about tonight? You seriously not going to sleep there in the dirty ogre's lair?" Bethany asked anxiously while Jacob nodded with a worried expression.

"Where should I go? I don't have much of a choice; I'll be fine-"

"I don't think that's a good idea,' Bethany interjected. "Oops, I see some customers at the coffee bar. I'll be back soon," she added, then rushed off.

"Come stay at my place," Jacob insisted. "I know Jerry won't mind and if he does, I'll kick him out," he laughed.

I gave a grateful smile, but, I could not inconvenience my friend. "Thanks, Jacob, but I can't do that to you."

"Fine, at least let me give you a lift home today, I see the wind's picking up and the clouds look pregnant with rain, as if it's going to pour any moment," he asked with a begging look.

Walking in the rain felt quite fitting, considering my mood. "I'll be-" Before I could finish my sentence, Bethany appeared.

"Lau, Keres has requested your presence," she said sarcastically. "It's weird, I told him you were not here, but it's like he knew and demanded I stop lying and call you. I tried hun sorry!"

I threw my head back and groaned. He was the last person I wanted to deal with right now. "Sorry Jacob, let me just get this over with," I sighed and started walking.

"I'll see you after work," Jacob replied, and I waved my hand in acknowledgement.

A tall slender pale man sat in the darkest corner of the bistro, staring at me intently. I could feel his eyes locked on me as soon as I entered. I am sometimes amazed at how he always knew from which direction I came from. It is increasingly unsettling. Every time I have to face him, it almost makes me feel claustrophobic. Hopefully, today will be the last time.

Keres has a handsome face with slicked-back, midnight-black hair subtly combed to the side. His pale blue eyes are striking, and he has slightly pointy ears along with a clean-shaven, square-shaped face. He always appears so bleak, though it oddly suits him. If I had to guess, I'd say he's in his mid-thirties.

As I approached, I felt a growing sense of dread about what this conversation would bring. I know he has been trying to get with me, and I refused countless times; using my fictional relationship with Michael as an excuse. Fuck now that, that's out of the window. What am I going to say now? I need time to heal, and sort my shit out? I am now playing for the other team? I shuddered at the memory of his grinning face when Michael came here to humiliate me this morning. Sigh, I guess I'll go with the healing crap; it's better than nothing.

His goatish expression changed to looking at me sympathetically, and he silently gestured for me to come to him. Seriously, am I not close enough? I cried to myself from anxiety but complied nonetheless. As I took one step closer to him, Keres stretched out his hand for mine, which I hesitantly took. He squeezed my hand and drew it in for a kiss, then placed his thumb over it to preserve it. His touch is unnaturally cold!

"Hi Keres, I'm sorry, but I'm no longer a waitress. However, I can take-"

"My honeycomb, I'm so sorry about what happened this morning. I wanted to reach out to you sooner, but I had to rush to a meeting that kept me occupied all day. I came back as soon as it finished. How are you holding up? I can't believe you're still at work. Such a strong woman you are." His eyes were fixed on me. He might have looked concerned, but I could see beneath that mask, he was grinning like a Cheshire Cat. Creep!

"I'm doing okay. My employer wanted me to take the day off, but I decided to stay. Being here helps me forget things; besides, this is my happy place. Also, I'm working in the kitchen now, so I can take your order, but someone else will serve you from now on."

I'm not sure if I was imagining it, but Keres looked somewhat pissed for a moment, though that expression quickly faded. "I know your heart is broken, and healing takes time," he said. "But remember that I'm always here for you, my honeycomb."

"Thank you for your kind words Keres," I said, hoping he would finally let go of me now so that I could return to work.

"Where are you staying tonight? If you need a place, I have plenty of rooms at my large abode," he said with an eerie glint in his eyes while sensually fondling my captured hand. "I can also help you find a place of your own."

I managed a forced smile, but I felt so uncomfortable that I was sure my lips looked crooked from the attempt. Desperate to free my hand from this awkward hold, I gave his icy fingers a gentle squeeze in return and tried to pull away, but he only tightened his grip. Shit. "That's very kind of you, but I am staying with-"

"Laura! I need you in the kitchen," called Liam quite sternly, I turned with almost a jump, my hand still trapped, in Keres's firm grasp.

"I'm coming Mr. Custos!" I said as I saw him nearing. Shit he looks pissed. Great, what a way to blow my first day in the kitchen.

"I need to go now Keres," I pleaded anxiously, but he only stared at me as if Liam's presence didn't matter. I tugged my hand back, but the creep really was holding on tightly. I was about to retort, then he suddenly placed another yet this time prolonged kiss on my hand. As Liam approached, Keres gingerly let go of me.

"My honeycomb, I'd like to finish our discussion later," he said tenderly, while casting a noxious glance at Liam.

Liam placed a firm hand on my shoulder. I felt goosebumps and butterflies fluttering in my stomach, but I quickly snapped out of it when I heard his harsh, angry voice. "I called you, Laura. Joey is looking for you!"

"I'm sorry, Mr. Custos," I said out loud, but I mouthed "thank you" so Keres couldn't see me. It took Liam by surprise, but his frown remained, making me hurry to the kitchen with my head down. Dammit, I'm going to lose my chance to be a porter as well; I can never catch a break!

I looked for Joey, our chef, but he was nowhere in sight. As I was about to head to the locker room, I heard Liam storm into the kitchen. "Laura, what was going on back there?" Liam asked harshly, cornering me. I had never seen him like this, and it scared me shitless.

"I'm sorry, Mr. Custos. When you called me the first time, I tried to return to work, but Keres wouldn't let me go."

"What were you doing there in the first place? Flirting with customers is unethical! You of all people should know that!" he spat angrily.

"Keres called for me; you know he always asks for me when he comes here," I explained in a panic.

"Really? Holding hands was your way of offering your services?" he asked sarcastically. I swear I could hear a low growl escape his lips as he further cornered me with his large, intimidating frame.

"I was only going to let him know I work in the kitchen, but he then asked about what happened today. I promise I tried to keep it brief." I clarified tears on the verge of falling from my eyes. Why is he suddenly acting like this?

Liam's expression softened, revealing hurt. He quickly pulled me into a tight embrace. At first, I shat myself by how quickly he grabbed me, but then I melted as I felt his head rest on top of mine. He felt so warm and smelled nice.

"I know Keres has had his eyes on you for a long time, but now that you're single again, don't make any rash decisions, especially with him. I know he has treated you well and promised you the world, but he is not your soulmate. Okay? The right man is out there, just give it some time, it is all I ask."

My eyes widened in shock; I could not believe what I had just heard. Unknowingly, I leaned further into his embrace and began to cry. "Thank you, Mr. Custos. I really appreciate your kind words and advice. I'm not going to date anyone-not until I sort out my career first. I just want to be in the kitchen and then study to become a chef," I sobbed uncontrollably, as my emotions got the better of me, what's more, it felt like I could trust Liam with my troubles.

I felt Liam gently stroking my back, and his body language was awkward as he held me. "Do you have a place to stay?"

"Thank you, Mr. Custos, Jacob offered, so I decided I'll crash at his apartment until I find a place of my own," I sniffled.

"Come why don't you and Jacob take off now and get yourself sorted, I'm sure you want to move out from your ex's apartment as soon as possible?"

"Thank you, Mr Custos," I said sheepishly, I couldn't help but gape at this beautiful man holding me. Get your head out of your arse! You are going through an emotional breakdown!

"Please call me Liam," he said gently as he slowly released me and wiped the tears from my eyes. I can't explain it, I feel so safe in his arms, he feels like home. If he asked me now, I would date him in a heartbeat. Damn, these female emotions!