Page 99 of Savoring Her Snake

“Ditto,” he says, and we both laugh.

“Ditto,” I repeat softly.

“Are you hungry?” Quinn asks.

“No. Go. I’ll be here.” I stand and round the bed, stopping beside Juliana.

“If you need anything…” He holds out his hand.

“I’ll ask.” I nod, and he drops his hand. I turn back to my mate.

“She will be the best thing that ever happens to you,” he says, and I look at him. “Everything that has happened in your life has prepared you to keep her safe and is your reward.” He nods and walks out.

They're both assholes, but it wasn’t all their fault. I have to admit; I haven’t fully been able to trust anyone since my family died. Pushing people away has been my specialty. Micah and Quinn were the only ones I let get close. They didn’t know about my life or my past. I didn’t allow my secrets free. I expected them to stay, but I didn’t tell them I wanted them to.

I ease onto the bed, facing the door, and pick up Juliana’s hand. Her skin is cold. The tattoos are glowing. I was shocked to see the transfer from my skin to hers. Lifting my arm, I study my skin. Several of them are gone. I wondered if I would die covered with them from head to toes. Apparently, I was preparing for my mate. The lines and symbols cover most of her left arm, and the right is filled from her shoulder to her elbow. A warmth fills my chest, knowing part of me is on her. I will gratefully give her some of my power to get her through the change, yet I don’t feel less. With the bonding working through me, I feel more strength than ever.

“Come in, Sally.” I can smell the rabbit hesitating on the other side of the door. She opens it slowly.

“Do you mind?” she asks, slipping inside.

“No.” I could never stay upset with Sally.

“She’s changing,” she whispers, stopping on the other side of Juliana. She sits on the edge of the bed. “I can make everyone leave.”

“It’s fine. They care.” I lift my shoulder. “I’m grateful for their concern.”

“But it’s not easy for you,” she says.

“No.” I smile slightly.

“I get it.”

“I can feel her, but I’m terrified,” I confess softly.

“It’s natural, since you love her.” She touches my mate’s cheek lightly. “She’s strong. When she wakes, you will forget the fear.” She drops her hand and looks at me. “The universe gave you the perfect person. Don’t doubt her love for you.”

I shake my head.

“How can you infuriate and comfort someone from one minute to the next?”

“It’s a gift.” She grins.

“Thank you for your friendship. I haven’t been a good friend.” Sally has checked on me since we met and I haven’t given her the credit she deserves.

“I love grouchy men,” she sighs. “I can see through the bluster to the man beneath. Just look at Bash. We fight constantly but I know he would kill for me.”

“I know we all would,” I state firmly.

“We’re lucky.” She stares into my eyes seriously. “We have a second chance with a real family.”

“They told you.”

“No. I’ve seen it.”

“Your premonitions.” A chill races over my skin as I look in her eyes.

“You can call it what you want. I can see the past and future. I have no control of what I see or when. I saw Juliana’s face in a dream, so I knew she would be important. Your mother was beautiful and troubled. She doesn’t blame you.” She leans over Juliana, touching my arm. “She’s grateful to you. She wouldn’t have been able to live with what she did.”

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