Page 51 of Hers to Claim

Mari definitely knew. The first time they had looked into each other’s eyes, Cisco had been vigorously fucking Nova over a table. No matter what, this moment where they actually spoke to each other about that experience would have been awkward. But Mari was determined that any strange feelings they had about not be allowed to fester.

Mari set down her mug. “I’m not threatened by you, Nova. Cisco was and is free to do whatever he likes.” She grinned. “I just hope he invites me to the party next time.”

Nova burst out laughing before she caught herself. Her snakes wriggled with amusement. “Okay, you are not at all what I expected.”

“I’m glad to disappoint in that regard.” Mari shrugged. “And I hope that means we can maybe work up to being friends.”

Nova narrowed her eyes as if appraising Mari for the first time. “I think you’re probably a very difficult person not to like.”

“Stay and find out,” Mari said with a wink, and then tucked into her omelet before it got cold.

“Sure, it’s not like I’ve got anywhere else to go.” Nova sighed. “I don’t think I’m ready to go back to the club.”

Mari nodded slowly as she finished chewing a bite. “Totally understandable. Like I said, we have plenty of room. You can stay here until you figure something out. No rush at all.”

“Maybe I can even figure out something to do here,” Nova said as she picked up her fork and took a mouthful of her own.

That made Mari want to cheer, but she kept a lid on her enthusiasm to not draw attention. “We’re definitely still figuring stuff out, and if you see anywhere you think you might fit, just say so.”

“I don’t have much experience at anything but…” Nova trailed off with a frown.

Mari jumped in to try and head off that train of thought. “We’re all new at this and feeling our way through it. So really,anywhere you think you can be helpful would be great. Rio has some spreadsheets that Willow sent him about the party that are making him absolutely cross-eyed, so if you can help figure that out I’ll give you a medal.”

“I could probably help with that.” Nova began to perk up again. “I’m pretty good with numbers.”

“Fantastic. I suck at them. I hereby charge you with all of my number stuff that Willow tries to show me.” She chewed happily around her next bite.

Nova giggled. “I mean maybe notallof them. I’m sure a sphinx’s spreadsheet is on a whole other level.”

Mari gestured with her fork. “Nope, too late. They’re yours. I’m done with them forever.”

They settled into a pleasant conversation as they finished their breakfasts. Mari positively bounced into the rest of her day afterwards.

Chapter 16

Mari woke up onSaturday morning and found a note that said only, “Playroom. Now.”

She ran damp fingers through her hair to calm the bedhead a bit, and then slipped into the outfit Cisco had left out for her: a flirty red skirt and matching camisole with a sheer lacy thong.

Mari grabbed a bowl of fruit salad as she dashed through the kitchen with a chirp of thanks for Giselle. She munched quickly as she moved through the house and washed it down with a few of gulps of water from the bottle she’d grabbed.

When she stepped into the playroom, Cisco and Dante were already there. They were both shirtless and wearing only pajama pants. Cisco sent a sizzling smile Mari’s way as he smoothed his clawed hand over Dante’s muscular stomach.

“Oh,” Cisco purred. “It seems like the guest of honor has arrived.” He reached down into the front of Dante’s pants and gave him a fondle. An impressive tent rose at once. After a couple of strokes, his hand moved around behind for a quick grab of his ass. He leaned down to growl into Dante’s ear, “Did you prep for me like I asked, sweet boy?”

When Dante nodded, he continued, “I’m really enjoying how slutty you are for me.”

Dante turned his head so he could look in Cisco’s eyes. “What makes you think it’s you?” His gaze cut quickly to where Mari stood.

Her pulse kicked into high gear, and she had to clench her thighs to control the urge to move closer.

Cisco reached with his free hand to grab Dante’s chin in a tight grip. “That’s even better.” He chuckled darkly and then licked Dante’s cheek. “She’s going to absolutely fucking ruin you. And if you’re very,verygood, she might let you lick her pussy after.”

Dante shivered. An uneven moan fell from his lips. “I’ll be so good.”

Cisco showed off his fangs in a grin. “Tell her what I’m doing, little colt.”

Dante met her eyes. “He’s pushing his fingers inside me. Slowly.” He bit his lower lip.

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