Chapter 180

• A large hand on my thigh brings me back to the present and breaks the powerful connection between Paul and I. My eyes shoot down to the large male hand on my thigh and my eyes quickly trace upwards to find its owner. Deep suspicion and distrust are clear to see on my eldest brother's face as he quickly finds what has been holding my attention. A surge of annoyance builds within me and I brush away his hand. Immediately his dark eyes find mine and I can see the silent question on his face: "What the hell are you doing?" If only I knew. My eyes hold his defiantly, ordering him to mind his own business. He might be the next one in line as Pack Beta, but that doesn't mean he could be a bully.
• Out of all of my brothers, Jake was the one who took my "break up" with Sam the hardest. After the Uley's stayed at our ranch all those years ago, Sam became a part of our family and Jake's best friend and confidant. I also knew that Jake had had feelings for Emily and although they'd never moved further in their relationship, keeping it simply on a friendly basis, there had been an expectation that Jake and Emily would mate. When the imprint happened between Sam and Emily… Everything just went completely to hell.
• Jake exhales deeply and quickly averts his gaze looking straight ahead. His features immediately darken with a deep rage and when I cast a glance to see what could cause such a reaction, I'm instantly met by a familiar pair of warm brown eyes. My heart skips a beat and my breath catches in my throat. I knew he'd be here, but all the preparation in the world hasn't lessened my reaction to him. Sam. I can see that he too is affected by my sudden attention and he almost looks as if he is preparing to stand up to talk to me. Panic rises and I quickly look away, grabbing Jake's hand tightly with mine to calm him down as well.