Page 29 of The Wolf's Plus-Size Bride

Rafe snorts. “Don’t underestimate her, Reiner. She’s tougher than she looks.”

“I wasn’t saying she’s not,” I argue. “I’m just saying it’s not safe. There’s a reason we’re all out here together. Rogues have been spotted close to the line.”

That makes Queenie stiffen. Her eyes widen, and she looks around. “Rogues? Here?”

“It’s just hearsay for now,” I clarify. “But we’re taking every precaution. Evan has ordered round-the-clock patrols, and we’re all on high alert.”

Queenie sets her bag down in the dirt and plants her hands on her hips. “I’ve got a few minutes. I’ll hang out with you for a bit. Four noses are better than three.”

“You sure?” I ask.

“I’m sure,” she replies. “Besides, I’m not letting you have all the fun.”

“Suit yourself,” I say.

We continue on, pacing the length of the boundary. I keep my nose to the wind, and I listen for any sounds out of the ordinary. But so far, it’s silent. There’s not even a hint of a rogue. If they’re out here, they’re being very, very careful.

“So, Reiner,” Queenie says. “Tell me about her.”

“Not you, too,” I groan.

“What?” she asks. “You know I love gossip, and it’s all over town. The guys were talking about it at the bar the other night.”

“Jesus Christ,” I mutter. “It’s none of their damn business.”

“You’re not denying it,” she points out.

“He’s not denying it,” Gael echoes.

“Fine,” I bark. “Yes, I’m seeing someone, but it’s not a big deal, and I’d appreciate it if you’d both lay off.”

“Ooh, touchy,” Queenie says. “So, what’s her name?”

“I’d rather not-”

“Jane,” Rafe cuts in. “Her name is Jane, and if it’s as casual as you say, Reiner, then you better let her know that. Jane isn’t one of your usual flings. She’s not the kind of girl who’s okay with that kind of thing.”

I turn around to face my beta, and he’s got his arms crossed over his chest. He’s scowling at me, and I can tell he’s not fucking around.

“I’m not playing games with her,” I say.

“Good,” he replies. “Because I don’t want to have to kick your ass. Piper and Jane are more like sisters than cousins, and that makes her my sister-in-law. I don’t want to have to hurt you, but I will if I have to.”

Oh, shit. What the hell have I gotten myself into? My cousin is looking at me like he wants to rip my head off, and I have a feeling his wife would back him up.

“I’m serious, Reiner,” Rafe growls. “I’m not kidding around.”

I hold my hands up in surrender. “I’m not, either. I’m not playing games with her. I’m not going to hurt her.”

He just holds his stare, and I can see the wheels turning in his head. Rafe is trying to figure out if I’m lying or not.

Before he can make up his mind, a car turns onto the road, headed straight for town. I’d recognize that little red convertible anywhere.

Oh, crap. It’s Dani.

“You have got to be kidding me,” I groan.

“What?” Rafe asks.

---