Page 26 of Hungry As Her Python

“Hey, it’s gonna be alright now. Bella? You good?”

Her eyes met mine, and for a beat, I felt that pull again—the one that made me want to scrap every professional boundary and just claim her here and now.

My beast hissed, pushing for it.

But this wasn’t the time.

Instead, I kept my voice even, my grip gentle, and willed her to take that breath.

“I’ll be back to check on you later.”

“Just go. I’m fine,” she grumbled.

But I could see behind the lie.

This really shook her.

And to me, that was unforgivable. In fact, it made me furious.

“Bella, I promise you, I am going to do everything in my power to make sure you’re safe.”

Big blue eyes peered into mine, and with a subtle dip of her chin, she dismissed me.

I didn’t want to go, but there was nothing more I could offer her at that moment.

Feelings of failure and the need for revenge clawed at me, but I had a report to file.

When I turned my head, Petyr nodded at me, and I knew the Domovyk was telling me without words that he’d guard my sweet Bella in my absence, and I believed him.

It was the only way my beast would let me leave.

Later–Mayor’s Office

Jaxson was leaning against the corner of Evie’s desk, arms crossed, wearing his Sheriff face. Evie was behind it, flipping through paperwork but looking entirely too amused for the topic at hand.

“Another attempt was made on the bakery this morning,” I reported. “I’m requesting clearance to keep watch—round the clock—until we catch whoever’s doing this.”

“Is she okay?” Evie’s head snapped up, and Jaxson placed a large hand on her shoulder, offering his comfort to his mate.

Something I wished I had the right to do to mine. But I had to sit on those feelings for now.

But hopefully not for much longer.

“Yes, Bella is fine. She wasn’t hurt,” I said, and Jaxson nodded, all business.

Evie exhaled, and it warmed me to know how much she cared about Bella. I mean, I knew they were close—her, Donny, and Bella—but my sweet Witch always struck me as a bit of a loner. It was as if she purposely set herself apart.

Like she didn’t seem to understand she was every bit as valuable, important, and powerful as her two best friends.

I wanted to correct that. To make sure she knew just how amazing she was. If only she would let me.

“Makes sense to me. She’s part of the Trifecta, and if someone’s targeting her, it could be about more than just the bakery. I’ll tell Ryan to keep an extra eye on Donny, too.” Jaxson’s growly voice interrupted my thoughts, and I nodded my understanding and agreement.

Evie tilted her head, eyes narrowing with an impish gleam.

“Are you sure you’re not just trying to get in Bella’s pants?”

“What? No, I—” I started, heat creeping up my neck.