Page 49 of Savoring Her Snake

“Careful,” he growls at Rylee.

“She didn’t mean it,” I say. Her fox is strong, but I know she is reacting to the situation and forgetting her strength.

“Jules, I’m sorry,” she says, cupping her hands. “I need to know.”

“How did you find out?” I ask.

“It doesn’t matter. Is my brother killing for me?” she whispers.

“I think you should talk to him,” I say.

“Fuck, that means yes,” she mumbles. “I didn’t ask him to do that.”

“You didn’t have to,” I whisper, stepping close. “He’s your brother.”

“I don’t want him to get hurt.” She bows her head.

“I feel the same, but it’s what he needs.” I cup her shoulder.

“We’re missing something,” Micah states, his stare intense. “I don’t like being in the dark about our friend.”

“It’s his decision to tell you,” I say, and it takes every ounce of courage to look into his eyes.

“I respect your need to protect him, but if he’s in danger, we need to know,” he says softly.

“I won’t tell you,” I say firmly, and he tilts his head. “It’s personal between him and Rylee.”

“Thank you, Jules,” Rylee breathes.

“You are his match,” Micah says.

“I’ll take that as a compliment.” I pull over a chair for Rylee and resume my seat.

“It is one,” he whispers.

“When will he be back?” Rylee asks.

“Soon.” I hope.

“You call him brother,” Kingston says. “I haven’t been around a fox shifter for years.”

“He is my brother,” Rylee growls.

“I wasn’t questioning that,” he says softly. “I understand choosing a brother.”

“He rescued me when I was seventeen,” she says defensively. “He was the only one to give a shit. He gave me a safe place to stay and helped me heal. It was rocky at first, but he was patient. None of you know him like I do. He is the best person I know, and if he gets hurt, I won’t recover.”

“Hey,” I call, covering her fist. “He’ll be fine.”

“I panicked. I didn’t know, Jules. If something happens because of me—”

“It won’t,” I hiss. Shoving my emotions away, I try to reassure her. “Heath is powerful. Bane and Hunter are with him.”

She nods.

“Good, that’s good.” She takes my drink, guzzles it, and slams it on the table. “I need another.”

“Girl, I got you,” Sally says, popping out of her seat. “Any preference?”

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