Page 65 of Savoring Her Snake

“Was that a joke?” Lucas asks, his eyebrows high.

“No.” Heath stiffens.

“Sounded close.” Lucas leans against the rail.

“It’s time for you to introduce them,” Logan says, looking behind us. Bane has our bags in his hands and his face is blank.

“Bane and Hunter,” Heath says.

“Informative,” Lucas says, and I narrow my eyes.

“Lucas, careful. She doesn’t like it,” Las says, watching me.

“I don’t,” I agree.

“Did he tell you about us?” Breeane asks.

“Yes. I know he had you kidnapped, and I’m sorry you went through that. He had his reasons, and he apologized.” I look away from Breeane to Lucas. “I know you fought for him, but you don’t know him or the events that made him react like he did. Please don’t disrespect him.”

“Darling,” Heath breathes, tilting his head to mine.

“Shit, I love this,” Breanne says.

“I will watch my words,” Lucas says, nodding, smiling softly.

“We wanted to welcome you,” Logan says.

“We heard there was trouble,” Las says gruffly.

“It won’t affect your mate.” Heath stiffens.

“We weren’t worried about that,” Logan retorts.

“Friends help. We are offering to help,” Lucas says slowly.

“Are we friends?” Heath asks.

“We want to be.” Breeane smiles, and Heath frowns.

“Thank you.” I nudge Heath. “We aren’t experienced in accepting help or friendships.”

“I understand. I don’t blame Heath. It’s in the past, and I would hate for his bond to be hurt by the asshole threatening you,” she says as she steps close. “We want him to be happy. Once you are accepted into the group, we take care of each other, no matter what. We can go easy if it makes you uncomfortable, but I would love to get to know you. All the girls are excited to welcome you into the family.”

“Thank you.” Their easy friendship is difficult to understand. My experience has taught me to always look for an ulterior motive. “I’ll have to adjust. It’s not easy.”

“We’ll respect your boundaries,” she says, nodding. “Most of us are very open, so tell us if we cross the line. We won’t be hurt.”

“Okay.” I tangle my hand in the fabric of Heath’s coat, a little overwhelmed.

“I need to get Juliana settled,” Heath says abruptly.

“Of course,” Las says, wrapping his arm around his mate. “Are Hunter and Bane staying here?”

“No,” Heath answers.

“We have a place to stay.” Hunter takes a step closer.

“I know a jaguar shifter,” Las says casually.

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