Page 77 of Daring Her Vampires

“Anytime,” Sally says. She pushes between us and hops onto the counter. I have a flashback of the first day we met. I wanted her then, but a few days have increased my need more than I thought possible. “They didn’t tell me exactly.”

“You invited the wolf?” Micah asks, lifting a brow and looking at the door.

“I heard that,” River grumbles through the door. He doesn’t knock, swinging it wide. “I invited myself.” Every time I’ve seen him, his face is relaxed, and his eyes are filled with humor. Today, he’s tense, caution etched on his face.

“Out of the way,” Roxanne says, sliding beside him. “Damn, they're still delicious.” She smiles, her eyes wicked as she moves into Sally’s arms. “You are a lucky rabbit. I want two vampires.”

“You can have any vampires you want,” Sally says, pulling back. “Just not mine.”

“Such a bummer,” Roxanne sighs, and Sally growls low. “I wasn’t asking for yours.” She backs away, holding up her hands, and I shake my head. I love Sally’s possessiveness.

“Sorry, I’m feeling a bit touchy.” Sally rubs her chest.

“Understandable.” Roxanne squeezes her hand. “I would be too.”

“Where’s the witch?” River sneers, shutting the door and moving to the window.

“Not here yet,” I say, watching him. He doesn’t want to be here, but his need to protect Sally overrides his emotions.“River, you can go,” Sally says softly.

“No.” He turns to stare outside.

I smell fire and know the dragons are coming. Sally hops down and walks to the door before they knock, letting them enter. Greetings are exchanged, and I look around the room. They all came for Sally, not us. We are unknown to them, but they trust Sally and her judgment. I remain at the counter as Sally passes out drinks. Luca stays at my side, and his presence calms me. Allie chats with everyone, not afraid to fall into their little family. I won’t be able to relax until after we catch Fredrick, and I’m not sure when I will feel like I’m part of them. Luca is anxious. Hisbody is wired, and I doubt he will trust the world we were thrust into.

“They are close,” Sally announces, looking at her phone. The room seems to inhale, and the conversation is cut off. “Everyone will take it easy.” Someone is coming to the door, but it’s not the witch.

“The snake,” Luca mutters, and Sally goes to the door. It takes every ounce of restraint to let her welcome him. He smiles at her, and I swallow my growl. Heath’s eyes glow as he steps inside, his mate's hand in his. I glance at the cane he holds tightly in his fist. It is an extension of his power, and I don’t underestimate him or it.

“You were invited?” River asks.

“Did I need to be?” he replies, lifting his brow. I get the feeling he does whatever the fuck he wants.

“You’re always welcome,” Sally says, and I grind my teeth.

“To you I am,” he says, staring at me. Sally looks at me and then at Luca, whose jaw is ticking.

“He won’t hurt me,” she says softly, and I nod shortly. “Have a seat. They’ll be here soon.” She walks toward us and stops close. “Are you worried?” She places her palm on my chest and tangles her other hand in Luca’s shirt.

“We’re dealing,” I say, covering her hand.

“Luca?” She tilts her head.

“I want it done,” he says low.

“Nothing bad will happen,” she says.

“We’re inviting a witch over,” River drawls, looking over his shoulder.

“Anything could happen.” Luca growls.

“Easy, River,” Sally says as she turns. “I will understand if you need to leave.” She squeezes between us and wraps her hands around our arms.

“I’m good,” he sighs.

“You don’t sound good,” Luca rumbles.

“Would you be?” River steps away from the window, staring at Luca. “She worked for the man who tortured me for years. She helped hide the place that confined shifters for fun.”

“I sympathize.” Luca crosses his arms. “We were told she was protecting someone she loves.”