Page 41 of Fangs and Fudge

Shepard was my boss, and he considered me family, but staying at his place seemed too intimate. What if I saw him walking around in his underwear? An image popped into my head, and it wasn’t a bad one. Still. Staying with him was going into a territory I wasn’t prepared to go.

“I…um, don’t think that’s a good idea. And we’ve been safe at my place so far.”

His jaw tightened, but he gave a nod. “It’s up to you. If you change your mind, let me know. But Everly, if something else happens with the vampires, I might not give you a choice.”

I blinked at him.

“You know I’m only looking out for you, right?”

I nodded.

“And I’d never hurt you. You can trust me.”

“I know.”

“Good.” He glanced at the door.

“Is someone here?” I asked.

His gaze returned to me. “No one to worry about. Why don’t you get ready for your shift.”

I stood and went to open the door. Pausing on the threshold, I glanced back at Shepard.

“I want to make a treat for Gunther tomorrow. Will he be at work or at home?”

“He’ll be at home for another day or two.”

“Can I take it to his place?”

Shepard nodded. “I’ll send you the address. Message me when you’re on your way.”

“Message you?” I asked. “Is he staying with you?”

“A pack sticks together,” MC said from the hall.

Startled, my hand flew to my heart. “I didn’t see you there.”

He smiled at me. “I didn’t mean to scare you.”

“It’s okay.”

“Is there a reason you’re here?” Shepard asked MC.

“I heard something about treats and wanted to get in on the action.”

“I’ll make a batch for you and your guys, too,” I said.

“Can’t wait.”

“Everly, head downstairs and help Vena.”

I nodded and swapped places with MC.

“Close the door,” Shepard said to MC, his tone fiercer than I thought the situation required.

Once the door was closed, I crept back to listen. It was fine that Shepard wanted to protect me, but being aware of what was happening was its own form of protection as well.

“What were you doing at Everly and Vena’s house this morning?” Shepard asked MC.

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