Page 36 of Snows Sinful Seven

Face flushed, I look away and down at my plate.

Being around these men, it’s doing something to me. I’m just not sure what that is. But I also don’t mind it. Maybe that's the issue. I have so much to be worrying about but for some reason, when I’m around all of them, my problems drift away. But that’s not reality because it changes nothing.

The guys make small talk while we eat, but I can feel their eyes on me the whole time.

“So, what's the plan for today?” I ask as I collect their plates.

“Let me help.” Brady stands.

“Oh, no, that’s okay. I got this.” I try to wave him off, but he keeps collecting plates. “Thanks,” I murmur when we bring them to the sink.

He smiles down at me and starts to fill the sink up with water.

“I’m off at the clinic today,” Dallas says. Glancing over my shoulder, I watch as he stands and stretches his hands above his head, making these sexy little grunting noises. “I’ll join you guys up at the mine.”

My belly warms and I quickly look away.

I can’t help it. All six of them are incredibly handsome. I’ve never thought I’d be attracted to another species, but here we are.

It’s like any chance I get, I’m sneaking glances. I’m mesmerized by them. Maybe it’s the curiosity in me because they’re new and exciting.

Or maybe it’s because I’m enjoying the time I’m spending here. I’ve been alone for so long, the only companionship since my mama has been Regina. Now, six monsters come into my life, and I can’t help but feel like this is right. This is where I was meant to be all along.

I didn’t plan to develop a crush on them, but it seems the more I try not to think about them, the more they become all I can think about.

Then, I start to feel guilty because of Regina. I shouldn’t be here with schoolgirl crushes while my friend, my dear friend, is stuck with my evil father.

Even that, I’m not sure of. Not knowing if she’s alright... it’s eating at me.

“You alright?” Brady’s soft voice brings me out of my own head.

“I’m fine,” I reply, grabbing a plate and scrubbing it.

“Brady, when you're in town today, could you pick up some more coffee?” Sterling asks. “Some of those espresso shots.”

I almost drop the plate in my hands, my head snapping up to look at Brady. “You’re going into town?” I ask, my eyes widening eagerly.

A cute pink blush breaks out over his cheeks. “Ah, yeah,” he says, scratching the back of his head. “I’m going to grab some groceries for the house.”

“Can I come with you?” I plead and grab onto his arm, my wet fingers sinking into his fur.

“I-I’m not sure that’s a good idea.” Brady looks over at the guys.

“It’s not safe, Snow,” Dallas says. “What if someone recognizes you?”

“I’ll stay out of sight; I won’t be seen. I just need to talk to Mrs. Bark. I have to know if she has any news on Regina,” I plead. “It’s eating me alive, not knowing.”

I’ve been having nightmares about it. Over and over again, seeing her punished for helping me betray the king. I need to know she’s safe.

“No,” Gabe grunts. “It’s not worth the risk.”

Anger fills me. “I’m not actually asking.” I glare at him. “I’m free to go where I please, when I please. You are not my keeper. None of you are. I’m asking out of respect because of the fact that you’re letting me stay here. I was planning on going into town tomorrow anyway. But at least this way, I’d be more safe with Brady there.”

Gabe growls as Sullivan and Sterling look to Dallas. “I say let her go.” Sterling shrugs.

“Yeah, she will be safe with Brady,” Sullivan agrees.

“Are you two crazy! Her father wants her dead.” Gabe shoves up from the table, sending the chair to the ground.

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