Slade (Team Greywolf 1)

Dominic got up on the stage. “I will announce the highest bidding bachelor and then our bachelorette, who will have the first dance.” He opened an envelope. “Most impressive and quite generous.”

The banquet room stilled.

Dominic honed in on Slade. “Prince Slade was our highest bidder with a donation of three million dollars.”

He freakin’ beat out the king. Cricket flinched. “Huh?”

Everyone turned to congratulate him and others murmured about his wealth.

Rylee turned to her. “You do know he’s filthy rich?”

“And we let him go on a dangerous mission?”

Rylee narrowed her eyes at her. “Must I remind you, we’re werewolves not pussy wimps.”

“Right.” Still, her stomach roiled at the responsibility she had on his first mission and only with dumb luck bringing him back alive.

Slade came up, sniffed, bowed and then shook Dominic’s hand.

Dominic grinned. “You and your mate will love the solitude.”

“I’m counting on it,” said Slade. “Thanks.” He returned to his seat as the women around him fawned over him.

“And now for the highest female donation and first dance choice.” Dominic opened the second envelope. “Five million dollars from Princess Wilhelmina.”

Everyone gasped. Cricket shook her head. “Wow.”

Rylee whispered, “The king’s gift to his niece.”

Willa stood and walked to the stage. “The honor is mine.”

Dominic bowed. “We are most grateful.” He smiled. “Who do you choose as your first dance?”

“Prince Slade, of course.” Willa smiled at Slade. “I’m sorry to steal the limelight, but it does feel like our night.”

Everyone whooped and applauded.

Yep, five million dollars and a royal crown lets you pretty much buy Prince Slade. At least she’d make him happy. Not that it helped to lessen the pain of a sledgehammer slamming into her heart.

Dominic signaled Slade over. “Please escort the princess to the dance floor and let the dancing begin.”

Slade stood and shot Cricket a pained look.

Cricket fought her tears and nodded at him with a smile. Go on. She’s the perfect mate for you.

The curtain opened to the other tent, converting the dinner hall to a dance hall. Music played as Slade and Willa arm and arm sauntered to the dance floor.

Dominic called Rylee over. No doubt about business.

Mia took Cricket’s hand. “I’m sorry this night sucks.”

“Yep, you owe me one carton of chocolate chunk ice cream and a girls’ only movie night.”

“You’re on, girlfriend.”

As a slow romantic piece played, Oriana and Dacia came up to their table. Cricket sighed. “Hey sis’, kill any kittens today?”

Dacia leaned in. “Still playing the ‘runt to riches’ game?”