Page 46 of Hellfire

“Yes.”

Chapter Eighteen

Tank

I lounged back in my chair, watching wisps of smoke rise from the grill, and the savory aroma of sizzling burgers and hot dogs wafted over us. The sun beamed down on our backyard clubhouse, casting a warm glow over everything. It was moments like these, with good food and even better company, that made life feel complete. I lived for moments like this. The simplicity, and gathering with your loved ones. Food brings everyone together, and I loved being able to cook for my crew.

“Smells good,” Katrina said.

Looking over my shoulder, I gave her a smile and clicked the tongs playfully at her. She laughed and swatted my arm. Her vanilla scent filled my nose. I inhaled greedily. Katrina fingered the hem of her shirt as she watched me.

“You doing okay?” I asked.

She nodded. “Just so many people.” She scanned the yard that was bustling with people. “I’ve never really been around so many people at once.”

I furrowed my brow in confusion. There was still so much about her that I didn’t know.

“Why’s that?”

“I was homeschooled growing up. Then, my parents arranged my marriage when I turned eighteen.” She shrugged like it was no big deal.

I decided to ask about the safer topic. “Home schooled, huh?”

“Yeah, my parents owned a ranch on the outskirts of town. They only really went into town when getting supplies.”

I flipped the burgers as I listened. But I wondered why they stayed so secluded.

“I’m starvin’,” Snake said, coming up on my left as he clapped my shoulder.

“Nuh uh, you have to wait until everyone else can eat, too.” Snake pouted, his lower lip stuck up as he batted his eyes at me. I laughed at his antics. “Your puppy dog eyes won’t work on me.”

“They’ll work on my kitty Kat, though,” he said, leaning his head on her shoulder.

“Just give him one hotdog,” she said, patting his shaved head. “He’s hurt.”

Snake laughed. “See! She gets it.”

“Fine.” I pointed to the tin full of already cooked burgers and dogs. “But just one.”

“Score!” Snake said, taking a huge bite. “Want some?” He dangled the hotdog in Katrina’s face. She tentatively took a bite. I watched her lips as she chewed.

“Damn, kitty Kat,” Snake purred. “Who knew I’d enjoy watching you eat so much?” His voice turned husky. I smirked as the blush crept up her cheeks.

“Shut up,” she said, smacking his arm.

“Ow! You hurt me.”

Katrina’s face turned serious. “How are you doing? Healing okay?” Her gaze shifted to mine. “Tank said you got hurt on your last run.”

“Oh he did, did he? You all talkin’ about me?”

Katrina frowned. “Seriously, are you okay?”

“You gonna be my nurse if I say no? Kiss my boo boo and make it better?” He wiggled his eyebrows suggestively.

“We give out kisses now, sweets? Where’s mine?” Steele teased, pulling her into a hug. For a moment, she didn’t hug him back, and I felt the need to step in. “Don’t fight the hug, sweets. Embrace it.” She giggled and wrapped her arms around his middle.

“So about that kiss?” Snake asked. Katrina’s gaze shot to mine in panic, a question in her eyes.

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