Page 31 of Mysteries, Menace, and Mates

And we’re going to need each other.

The storm that had begun with the raid in northern Maine now appeared as if it was going to develop into something far worse—with far-reaching consequences.

Chapter Nine

ROADKILL GAZEDout over the lake, the smell of barbecue in the air accompanied by the sound of children’s squeals as they played on the far side, audible even at a distance.

An ordinary summer’s day.

Except, for the occupants of Dellan’s house, it was anything but.

He’d had enough of waiting around to learn the details of their next mission. He’d tried to relax during the past week, like everyone else staying there, but he’d been on edge ever since Hashtag had located Theron’s stronghold, and it was starting to show.

Hashtag and Eve’s solution—fucking like bunnies—alleviated some of his tension, but it wasn’t something they could indulge in all day long—no matter how much they wished otherwise—especially when Hashtag was spending so much time on his laptop, hooked up to the satellite.

Then he snorted.Hashtag would try to qualify for a gold medal in fucking, given half a chance.

Come inside.

Are you referring to the house or your ass?Roadkill chuckled.We only fucked half an hour ago. I used to think you were insatiable. Man, you were tame compared to how you’ve been lately.

Hashtag laughed.Fine. Stay out there and miss the meeting.

He whirled around. “What meeting?” he called out as he hurried toward the rear of the house where Hashtag stood by the French doors.

“Living room. Everyone’s there.” Hashtag’s eyes twinkled. “We were waiting on you.”

Roadkill stepped into the cool interior. “Is this it? Are we finally ready?”

Hashtag grinned. “Yup. Now kiss me before we go in.”

“Why?”

He gave Roadkill a pained expression. “Do I need a reason?” Then he smiled. “Wait a minute. I have one.” He closed the gap between them and stroked Roadkill’s cheek. “I love you, and I need a kiss. Good enough?”

Roadkill’s face was warm. “Good enough.” Their lips met, and he lost himself in the intimate connection. Then Hashtag’s words hit home. “That’s the first time you’ve said it.”

“Said what?”

His chest ached. “Don’t do that. Don’t take it back.”

Hashtag locked gazes with him. “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t tease.” His hand was on Roadkill’s neck. “I’ve loved you like a brother for years, you know that. We’ve had each other’s backs more times than I care to remember. And now?” He smiled. “I love you in a totally different way, and it’s… amazing.” His eyes sparkled. “Plus now you have my back in a whole new way.”

He caught Eve’s internal groan.

I love you too, but if the pair of you don’t get your asses in here, Saul is going to tear you both a new one.

Hashtag chuckled.No thanks. The one I have is more than enough. Besides, Roadkill’s still breaking it in.

Roadkill’s chuckle was pure evil.Trust me, I plan on breaking it in for many years to… cum.

He groaned.I don’t believe you went there.

Can you two quit flirting and get your cute little butts in here?

Hashtag grinned. “She likes our butts.”

They headed into the living room, where all Dellan’s guests were squeezed into every chair, onto every couch, not to mention seated on floor cushions. Brick took up most of the small couch, with Crank sitting on its arm, but that didn’t stop Aric and Seth from curling up in Brick’s lap while he stroked their napes. Jake and Doc had grabbed two armchairs, and Eve stood next to the long window that looked out over the lake, Jamie at her side.

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