Page 9 of A Swan’s Love Song

Sean sat up straighter. “Me too!” He sucked in a breath to rein himself in a bit. “All kinds.

What’s your favorite?”

At last he had something to talk to Avi about that wasn’t pointless.

“I enjoy all kinds too. But I guess what I listen to the most is classic rock and acoustic-based

songs. You know, more singer/songwriter, heartfelt lyrics—that sort of thing.”

Sean tried to control his imminent seat-bouncing. “Me too!” Damn. I sound like an excited

puppy. “I mean, well, I sorta play acoustic guitar and write songs.”

His cheeks flushed hot, but he didn’t care. This might be his last chance to get Avi alone and

have a real conversation with him. Kellan’s words echoed in his mind.

Someone has to make the first move… You might have to do it.

Avi’s jaw dropped open. “You do? I’m impressed, that’s really wonderful.”

“Oh, I… It’s been a while since I’ve played because…” Oops. He didn’t want to turn their first

exchange into a big bummer. “Well, I unexpectedly moved and I… um, that’s why I want to go buy a

new guitar. I’ve been saving all my tips from the restaurant, so hopefully I have enough to get a nice

one.”

“I know, Sean.” Avi patted his arm but then quickly drew his hand away. “When you first

arrived in Vale Valley, Vic was so angry at Kellan’s brother that we all had to talk him down. Plus—

me, Sheriff Vale and Mayor Knight needed to be briefed on the situation. We’ve been staying in touch

with the shifter network that’s still on the lookout for Finn and his herd. I promise I— we won’t let

anything happen to you.”

Sean didn’t know what to say. Avi was watching out for him? For real? He heard the part about

everyone else watching too, but all he could latch onto was that Avi was making sure he stayed safe.

That’s because he’s the best Alpha in the whole world.

Avi’s concern over him gave Sean a jolt of confidence. “So, I was thinking… since you’ve

never been to the Shark Bait before and you’ll be right there anyway, maybe you’d like to come in and

check it out with me?”

When Avi didn’t answer right away, Sean’s stomach dropped. He went back to picking at his

jeans.

“I…I would, but…” Avi pressed his lips together as if he was trying to formulate a good

excuse.