Page 110 of Daring Her Vampires

“She’s family. You don’t have to thank us for being there for her,” Bash rumbles.

“What do you need from us?” Heath asks.

“If you won’t tell us where he is, why are we here?” Micah demands, his power slipping out, and I cringe slightly.

“Rein it in,” I hiss, and he nods tersely. I can’t imagine the control it takes to contain his gifts. “She thinks she can handle anything, and in most cases, she can. Our mate is strong and resilient. None of you understand everything she has been through. All of you have been fortunate to be considered her family, and she loves you. If she is willing, maybe she will tell you more because you don’t know anything.”

“Her humor hides a depth of pain you can’t imagine,” Luca grits out. “We are fortunate to call her mate. I love her. Atlas loves her. Nothing can discourage us from living the rest of time with her. You can fill the room with your power, and I will withstand every bit of it.” He glares at Micah. “I’m grateful she had you, but she has us now. We will take care of her even whenshe doesn’t need it.” He looks around the room. “We don’t need your help with her father.”

“But we would like your support,” I add.

“What kind of support?” Rowen asks.

“If he tries anything, I’ll kill him,” I state.

“If he doesn’t get to him first, I will,” Luca says.

“I’m sure Sally will deal with him before we need to do that,” I say, dropping my arms. “What I’m asking is for you to show up?” I meet each man’s eyes briefly before continuing. “For reasons I won’t explain, I think Sally would like a show of support, even if you don’t do anything but stand there.”

“She deserves the respect, and to show her father who her family is,” Luca says softly. “I have not been enthusiastic about joining the family.” Many grins and raised eyebrows appear. Luca smiles slightly. “But Sally enlightened me as to why. Our parents were killed by vampires. My mother was the best person in my life. I have craved a family. Atlas and Allie were the only people I’ve had in my life. I love them and don’t want them to ever get hurt. It will take time, but I think I may start to like some of you.” His grin widens. “We’ll see.”

“So touching,” Micah says, his hand over his heart. “I understand. I have hope that I may be one of the members you like.” He shares a grin with my brother, and I roll my eyes.

“I’m glad you're bonding,” I say dryly.

“I’m okay with not being one of the members,” Bash states, but he smiles slightly.

“This could go on forever,” Heath sighs, shaking his head.

“Once you agree to a show of support, Quinn will give you the address.” I glance at Quinn. “He knows everything and can organize the masses. We will be leaving in an hour to go to her dad's house. I doubt he has an army of vampires and shifters, so a battle isn’t imminent.” I exhale harshly. “I have never met another person who deserves happiness and love more thanSally. The bond has shown me her soul, and we hope to repair the bruises upon it.”

“Fuck,” River groans, twirling a fork full of spaghetti. Everyone turns to him, and they must be used to his eating habits. “How can we not like them? They love her. They dress like 1950s gangsters and are good fighters.” He lifts his fork and takes a bite.

“Wolf,” Bash sighs.

“What?” he says, his mouth full.

“Eloquent as always,” Ryker says, smiling.

“He has a point,” Rowan says.

“Agreed,” Cash says, waving his hand toward us. “I love the suits.”

“I would look amazing in a suit,” River continues.

“I would love to see it,” Kerian says.

“The wolf can’t pull that off,” James snorts.

“Hey, could to,” River pouts.

“Why are we talking about this?” Heath asks, lifting a brow.

“Because River can start a conversation about anything,” Bash says.

“Very true,” Blue mutters.

“One more question.” River holds up his palm. “Are you going to stop the group text?”