Page 38 of King

Joey’s curiosity flickered through his nerves. “What are you afraid of?” His eyes shifted toward the door, then back to King, searching for sincerity.

King paused for a moment. “Clowns.”

Joey blinked before bursting into laughter. “Bullshit.” He shook his head against the pillow, grinning. “Ain’t no way King, the great VC Warrior, is afraid of a clown.”

King tried to keep a straight face but failed as a smirk broke through. “They’re creepy as hell.” He knew Amara had returned when Joey’s eyes flickered over his shoulder. “Dolls aren’t my favorite either.”

“What the hell are you talking about creepy-ass dolls for?” Steve’s voice cut in as a group of Warriors entered the hospital room, their Mates trailing behind them.

Joey’s smirk widened as he looked at Steve. “King’s afraid of clowns and dolls.”

Steve’s eyes widened in horror. “Dude.” He pointed at King. “Dolls have soulless eyes that follow you everywhere. We got Drew a doll, and I swear that thing watches me. So, I’m with King. Dolls are evil.”

King stood, nodding to the Warriors before glancing at Amara. He gave her a wink, and she returned a small, grateful smile before settling back in her chair that King vacated.

“What about that one that eats and shits? The one with the face that moves like a real baby?” Adam chimed in, his expression twisted in disgust. He shuddered. “Yeah, I’m with them. Dolls definitely scare the shit out of me.”

Jared smirked, his arm wrapped protectively around Tessa. “We talking about fears? I’ve got one.”

King saw it then—the way the Warriors instinctively knew Joey needed the distraction. They were stepping up, giving him something else to focus on besides the looming surgery. King had never respected these men more than he did in that moment.

“What are you afraid of?” Joey asked, his gaze flicking between them, intrigued.

“Sloan’s forehead vein.” Jared’s expression darkened dramatically. “When Sloan gets raging mad, that vein takes on a life of its own.”

“Oh, yeah,” Sid agreed, nodding sagely. “When the vein comes out, I’m ready to run for my life.”

Joey laughed, a genuine, carefree sound that momentarily pushed away the fear in his eyes.

A nurse entered, smiling at the scene in front of her. “Wow, you must be the most popular patient on this floor.” She stepped closer to the bed. “You must be a pretty special guy.”

Joey grinned, but King caught the flicker of anxiety returning. “Nah, I’m just Joey. These guys are the special ones.” His voice wavered slightly. “I guess it’s time.”

The nurse nodded. “It is.”

Slade entered just as she spoke, pausing as he entered the crowded room. He smirked. “Did Sloan approve a day off for all of you?” No one answered. His expression softened as he turned to Joey. “Janet is going to take you to the operating room. I need to talk to Amara, then I’ll be right there.”

Joey swallowed hard. “You’ll be there the whole time?”

Slade nodded firmly. “I will.”

Amara stood and leaned over, pressing a kiss to Joey’s cheek. “Love you, punk.”

“Love you, Auntie.” Joey grinned mischievously. “I hope you’ve been practicingCall of Dutybecause I need my partner back.”

Amara smirked, nodding. “Can’t wait.” She stepped aside when the nurse wheeled Joey’s bed toward the door.

King clasped Joey’s hand in a firm bro handshake. “You got this, kid.”

Joey took a deep breath, then smiled. “How can I not with all these badasses on my side?”

As the nurse wheeled him out, each Warrior lined up, giving him high-fives in silent support. The nurse stopped as Daniel stepped out of the room's shadows and walked to the bed.

“Hi, Joey,” Daniel said, looking down at him. “I’m Daniel. I heard you say something aboutCall of Duty.”

“Hey,” Joey said, tilting his head and staring at Daniel. “Yeah, I’m pretty good. You play?”

“When I get time. It’s my favorite game.” Daniel said, then leaned slightly toward him, touching his arm. “Don’t worry. You’re going to be fine.”

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