Free George's Turn [Brac Pack 8] by Lynn Hagen Page A

doesn’t count. I am Maverick, Alpha of the Brac pack.”
    “I’m George, cook of the diner.” George extended his hand.
    Maverick’s lip lifted in a smile as he shook George’s hand.

    George’s Turn
    65
    “Another human with backbone. At least I don’t have to consider killing you.”
    “Uh, thanks?” George looked over at Cecil, who was grinning.
    Maverick laughed this time. “No problem. Welcome to our family.”
    “Hey, you didn’t welcome me.” Johnny pouted.
    “No, Johnny, I didn’t. Sorry. Welcome.” Johnny beamed. “Thanks.”
    Maverick shook his head. “Can I speak with you a moment in my office, George?”
    “Sure. Just show me the way.” George followed the ginormous man down the hall. Maverick waved him to a leather chair as he sat behind his desk.
    “I know you’re new to this whole mating thing and having knowledge of wolves and vampires, but I would appreciate it if you didn’t let my mate, Cecil, talk you into another escape. They aren’t prisoners here, but we guard our mates closely. There are those who would like nothing better than to harm or kill them. That includes you now.” Maverick leaned back in his seat.
    “I understand what you’re saying and all, but if you don’t mind me tellin’ ya, they feel trapped. Maybe take them out once a month, twice maybe. Let them shake the cabin fever off.” George shrugged.
    “Good point. I’ll take that into consideration.” Maverick smiled.
    “I like you. You speak your mind respectfully.”
    “If that’s all, I have a shootout with your mate soon.” George stood and inclined his hat.
    Maverick arched a brow. “Just don’t kill him. He’s mischievous, but I love him dearly.
    “Gotcha.” George headed back to the den.

    * * * *
    George crept around the corner, his assault rifle in front of him, 66
    Lynn Hagen
    ready to attack. He did a quick head check into the library. He saw that it was empty, so he moved on.
    Entering the kitchen, he heard the static of a handheld walkie-talkie and the commands being whispered into it.
    Dropping down to his belly, George crawled around the table, aiming his gun up. Squeezing the trigger, he fired in a quick burst, jumping up to run.
    “Think you can shoot me?” Maverick yelled as George skidded out of the kitchen and raced up the stairs. He knew he hit Maverick dead on, wasn’t a question about it.
    Next he crept down the hallway, gun tucked to his shoulder, his eye focused in the sight as Keata came out of his room. George fired, hitting Keata in his chest.
    “George!” Keata screamed, but he was already on the move.
    The radio static buzzed again, and George tiptoed until he came to another room where Drew was hiding under the bed. George blasted him then ran back down the stairs, Drew screaming out that he was going to pay for that.
    He entered Tank’s room, finding himself face to face with Tank’s weapon.
    “Thought you could sneak up on me, didn’t you?” Tank circled around him, nodding his head at George’s gun, indicating he wanted him to drop it.
    “I don’t think so.” George raised his gun, but Tank was faster, shooting George in his face.
    “Ah, crap!” George ran from the room, heading to the den. Three warriors stood there with their sights on him, pulling their triggers simultaneously.
    George yelled, dropping his gun and throwing his arms up to protect himself. Too late. George was soaking wet, water dripping down his hair and clothes.

    * * * *

    George’s Turn
    67

    George jogged down his apartment steps. The day had been busy, and the kitchen was hot. He’d showered and was on his way to Tank’s. His heart felt light. Tank made him happier than he’d ever been in his life. Just thinking about the giant made him want to laugh with joy.
    He was humming happily as he made his way outside. It was a beautiful evening. Stars shone brightly in the cloudless sky. Love hung in the air around him. George chuckled. Since when did he start thinking so