Chapter Three

Audrey

Brunch was the best invention since breakfast in my opinion.

"Are we sure about this place?" I asked since the night before, Charlotte had texted me with an address for a new place to go.

"I'm sure. It's a hidden gem from what Jack's mom told me."

Jack was her mate, and his mom was the best mother-in-law in the world according to my best friend.

"I'm so glad you don't have a terror-in-law like some people."

We stood in front of the unassuming white-painted brick building that, from the outside, looked more like a place you got car insurance than eggs Benedict. No cars parked outside, even though there were plenty of spots. No movement inside that I could see.

I had to admit, I was nervous. Looking forward to a great meal and then having it taste like crap was the worst.

"I don't. She's actually the best." Charlotte puffed her chest out a bit. "That's why I trust her on this place."

"Let's give it a shot, then."

We went inside and I was struck by the smell of baked goods, omelets, and sourdough. Didn't matter if this place was in a bank building, they were clearly cooking up amazing fare.

"Good morning," a plump woman said as she came out of the kitchen. She had an apron on, and her silver hair was piled on top of her head in a bun. "Pick a seat. Everyone else is late today, it seems."

We chose a table near the window and sat down while Ruth, as her name tag said, served us hot coffee.

"What do you recommend?" I asked, seeing that she hadn't handed us a menu.

"We have a unique way of doing things here, darlin'. We bring you a sampling of everything and then you can order what you like most. Or all of it all over again. We never make the same thing twice in a row, so each Saturday is a surprise."

Charlotte and I shared a smile. This lady was speaking my language.

"That sounds amazing."

Ruth winked. "I'm assuming you two want mimosas, but only after round one. I insist."

I put my hands, palms out, in the air. "You're the boss, Ruth. Teach us your ways."

The woman walked off, giggling like a young woman.

"Okay. Jack's mom was on to something. I admit it."

Charlotte nodded. "Jack is the best. I was thinking maybe he had a friend that you would be interested in."

"Come on, Charlotte. We're having a good time here. Why ruin it with talk of boys?"

"I'm serious, Audrey." She put her hand over mine. "I know you want a mate."

There was no use trying to hide the fact from Charlotte. She'd been my friend through a lot of my bad dates and horrible pick-up lines from men and everything in between. I'd tried like hell to find my mate and eventually gave up—but not for lack of want.

"I'm not denying it."

"So, how about you get proactive about it?"

This conversation was headed to a place I already predicted. "The app," I grumbled, but my attitude quickly changed as Ruth came over with huge oval platters laden with every kind of breakfast item imaginable and some I'd never could've imagined if I tried.

Ruth waggled her eyebrows as we stared at the array of items. "Butter-pecan pancakes. Raspberry-white chocolate scones. Cinnamon-crunch sourdough French toast. Sage-and-brown butter sausage links. Cherry-smoked bacon. Jalapeno popper hashbrown patties. Meatloaf and breakfast egg rolls."

I was in a half-food coma just looking at it.

"Thank you," I whispered in awe, like a prayer.

"You're welcome. Now, eat up and I'll bring you a first round of mimosas and mine are strong so get ready."

We tasted each item at the same time complete with a countdown. Not only was Charlotte's mate's mom right about this place, I was tempted to hunt her down and kiss her on the lips for suggesting it.

Also, the crowd rolled in a bit later, just as Ruth predicted.

"I haven't forgotten what we were talking about." Charlotte raised her eyebrows as she pushed through her second serving of French toast and sausage.

I ordered another full spread of the first round, which made Ruth clap a little while she refilled our mimosas. Strong didn't even start to describe these heavenly drinks. My mind had become a bit hazy even though I'd eaten enough for an elephant. "What were we talking about? Oh, I'm supposed to sign up for some app that magically finds my mate."

She smiled. No hint of a lazy eyelid or a hiccup. Wolf shifters could drink a ton and not get the least bit tipsy. "Not magically. Through a detailed and accurate algorithm."

"Same thing," I giggled.

"How about you sign up and actually have a plan to find your mate."

I rolled my eyes. "Just because you found yours…"

"Tons of people find theirs. Tons. You can find some big, hunky males."

I nearly choked on my scone. "Males. As in plural?"

"Yes, males. You're a strong, capable, smart, powerful woman. Might take more than one to tame you."

Maybe it was the mimosas. The unending flow of sweets. The cozy atmosphere? Who knew, but I warmed up to Charlotte's suggestion more than before. "You think I have a shot?" I asked, feeling vulnerable.

"I do. And you deserve to have someone or more than one someone to treat you as you should be treated."

I blew out a breath and exchanged the mimosa for coffee. "What's the worst that could happen?"

She shrugged. "You have all bad matches or no matches."

"Then nothing about my situation would change."

"That's right." She took another sip of mimosa, one that Ruth refreshed in seconds. "So, what's the harm?"

"I'm tired of getting my hopes up and then being disappointed as hard as that is to admit."

"So, don't." Charlotte shrugged. "Don't expect anything. We fill out the questionnaire. We take a picture of you, and whatever happens, happens. No expectations. No hopes up."

I scoffed at her quick answer. "Just like that?"

She nodded. "Just like that. Come on. Give me your phone."