Chapter 18

~Jasmine~ “Um,” clearing my throat, I gently declined his offer. “I would prefer to stay back and get to know the department better.” I knew Alpha Zephyr would probably be there, and meeting him could result in misunderstandings, so I would rather stay back. Rose deserved to hear the explanation from me. Maverick didn’t object. Instead, he nodded. “I understand,” he said, taking my hands into his and placing a soft, lingering kiss on the spot. My heart flipped as I felt butterflies erupt from every corner, my wolf struggling to stay put. “If you need anything, don’t hesitate to call me,” he said with a smug look gracing his face while maintaining eye contact. I got lost in their vastness for a moment, my lips curling as I refused to back down from the staring contest. “I am not a damsel in distress, Alpha.” “Oh really?” He stepped closer, and I felt warmth spreading from my neck to my cheeks. His eyes flickered, and there was an emotion I recognized, one he wasn’t scared to show—desire