Page 55 of Reptile Dysfunction
“Congratulations, Sloane,” Bradley sneers. “You’ve just made some very powerful enemies. And your boyfriend’s little security company? Good luck getting permits when the state starts looking into former enforcers working without proper oversight. I’ve already made some calls. Funny how quickly bureaucrats move when they hear about public safety concerns involving… creatures with a history of violence.”
The threat hangs in the air like a physical presence. The temperature in the immediate area seems to drop as my intimidation aura activates without conscious thought—every enforcer instinct I’ve spent months suppressing suddenly unleashed by the direct threat to what I’m building.
Before Sloane can respond, I step forward. “Bradley.” My voice drops to the tone that used to make troublemakers think twice. “I suggest you leave. Now.”
“Or what? You’ll intimidate me?” But his bravado wavers as my presence fills the space between us.
“I don’t need to intimidate you,” I say quietly. “I just need to protect what’s mine.”
Sloane’s hand finds my arm—not to stop me, but to ground me. “Actually, Bradley, this conversation is over. Your father’s company is facing legal scrutiny, your reputation is compromised, and the ‘arrangement’ you and our fathers planned? That was never going to happen.”
His face hardens as he takes in the Guardian Solutions staff positioned throughout the hall, and the supportive nods from council members who once courted his family’s favor.
“Enjoy your monster circus while it lasts,” he mutters before following his father.
My security staff maintain their positions as the meeting continues, but the main threat has passed.
“That went well,” Sloane says afterward, as the crowd disperses under the watchful eyes of Thad’s staff. Her satisfied smile makes my snakes sway with pleasure.
“Professional and effective,” I agree. Sterling performs an elaborate victory dance above my right temple, earning chuckles from passing council members who have apparently grown accustomed to his theatrics.
Mayor Whitaker approaches, looking both tired and triumphant. “Excellent security presence, Thaddeus. Visible but not intimidating. Very skillful.”
“That’s the Guardian Solutions difference,” I reply, as I’m filled with pride. “Protection without unnecessary fear.”
“You’ve found your niche.” He glances at Sloane with obvious affection. “Both of you have.”
As we leave Town Hall, I notice Sebastian waiting by the entrance, his sanctuary ability still calming the departing attendees. Even the most agitated business owners leave with shoulders relaxed and expressions peaceful.
“Nice work, big brother,” I say, and his snakes bob in acknowledgment.
“Quite a team we make,” he replies. “Your protection, my peace.”
“Though I notice you don’t have to wear sequined snakes for your contribution,” I grumble, making Sloane laugh.
“Speaking of which,” she says, “final dress rehearsal tomorrow. Iris texted that they’ve added lighting effects.”
My snakes all droop dramatically, making Sebastian’s snakes wriggle with amusement.
“The water ballet is going to be the highlight of the celebration,” he says cheerfully. “Aspen’s already reserved front-row seats.”
As we walk to my motorcycle, Sloane’s hand finds mine. “Proud of you, Enforcer. You’re managing to protect people while letting them protect themselves, too.”
“From shadows to spotlight.”
“With a few sequins in between,” she adds with a grin.
As we ride home through the streets of Harmony Glen, Sloane’s arms tight around my waist, I feel the last of my old identity finally settle into something new. At a red light, she leans forward so her voice carries over the engine.
“You were magnificent in there,” she says, her breath warm against the back of my neck. “Protective without being possessive. Strong without being scary.”
“Learning the difference,” I admit, my hand covering hers where it rests against my chest.
When we reach my water tower, she doesn’t immediately let go. Instead, she holds on for one extra heartbeat, and I realize something profound: for the first time since the Revelation, I’m not mourning what I lost.
I’m celebrating what I’ve found. And more importantly, what we’re building together.
Chapter Twenty-Six
