“Saphira,” Kingston says, stepping close, his boots brushing the tips of mine. I focus on his face. “We don’t give a fuck about anyone’s opinion but yours, no one will keep you away from us.”

“You say that,” I sigh. “You don’t know my family.” Or the things I’ve been through that make them so protective.

“Are your brothers mated?” he asks.

“Yes, they share a mate.”

“So they should understand.”

“You would think,” I grumble. I don’t think it’s going to be that easy.

“For tonight, let’s not tell them. Is there a place we can talk without their interference?” Kingston asks.

Oh shit, I almost forgot my plans. “Tonight’s no good.” I drop my arms. How am I going to walk away? Everything inside me is screaming to stay by their side. My dragon is huffing at the thought of leaving here without them.

“Where are you going?” Kingston demands.

“Uh—”

“Remember, we are excellent trackers,” Maverick reminds me.

“Are you determined to be my mates?” I chew on my lip. Should I dare?

“We are your mates,” Maverick growls.

“Don’t try to hide from us,” Kingston adds.

“I have another job,” I say. “It’s unconventional.”

“So is ours.” Kingston cups the side of my neck, pulling me close. His mouth skims mine but remains just out of reach.Kiss me.“Show us.”

Regretfully, he doesn’t, but he also doesn’t move. I watch his lips and then his jaw twitch with his need. He’s debating. Once his mouth connects with mine, I won’t get the job done. I have a feeling I will forget everything but the two of them.

“Will you both follow my lead?” I ask, breaking his hold and stepping away. I can’t believe I’m going to let them come with me.

“We will. For now,” Kingston says and cups his hand over the rope. I wonder again at the significance.

“After tonight, we’ll see,” Maverick says softly.

“Shit, you aren’t expecting me to call you Daddy, are you?” I groan. I’ve heard way too much about Micah’s preferences lately.

Kingston’s lips curl slightly, and he abandons the rope. “We don’t give a fuck what you call us.” He runs his curled finger down my chin and then tilts it up. “As long as we’re inside you while you do it.”

Everything tingles.

Well, I have always thought my mates would have to see this side of me, and if they can handle it, they are the ones.

“How are you with blood?” I ask.

“Drinking it or shedding it?” Mav asks with a serious expression.

“You drink it?” I scrunch up my nose.

“We will when we mark you,” King says.

“Oh.” I swallow hard. “Dragon shifters use their fire to mark their mate. Other shifters bite to complete the bond, but we don’t need to.”

“We will do both,” Kingston says.