Page 22 of Siren's Salvation

I resist the urge to look over my shoulder, instead fixing my sister with a glare. "Shut up and get me another drink."

"Yes, ma'am," Stiletto says with a mock salute.

She grabs a Corona from the fridge, popping the cap off before sliding it my way.

I take a long pull from the bottle, relishing the cold bitter taste.

It's a welcome distraction from the warmth still lingering in my cheeks.

"So," Stiletto starts, her tone deceptively casual. "You gonna hit that or what?"

I nearly choke on my beer. "Jesus, Song. What happened to sisterly concern?"

She shrugs, unrepentant. "I am concerned. Concerned you're gonna let a fine piece of ass like that slip through your fingers because you're too stubborn to break your own rules."

"My rules exist for a reason," I mutter, peeling at the label on my bottle.

Her expression softens. "I know, sis. But maybe it's time to reevaluate those reasons."

I take another swig of beer instead of responding.

The problem is, I'm not entirely sure I remember all the reasons anymore.

Not when Shiver's heated gaze keeps burning holes right through me.

"Look," I say, setting my beer down with more force than necessary, "I'm not hopping down that rabbit hole, all right? Not for obvious reasons or any other kind."

Stiletto's eyebrows shoot up. "Obvious reasons? Like what? The fact that he's hotter than a Vegas sidewalk in July?"

I roll my eyes. "You know what I mean. I will never get involved with anyone in the club. Period."

My sister's playful demeanor shifts, her hazel green eyes softening with understanding.

She leans in, lowering her voice. "There's slim pickings when you're part of this life, sis. Miles and I only got together because he came out here, but if he never came to Montana when I was missing... well, I'd probably be with someone in the club too."

"That's not for me," I say firmly, pushing the memories away. "I'm not looking to complicate my life any further."

Stiletto opens her mouth to argue, but I cut her off by finishing my Corona in one long gulp.

The alcohol buzzes pleasantly through my system, taking the edge off without pushing me into drunk territory.

I turn on my barstool, scanning the room.

My gaze lands on Shiver, Cobra, and Kade's booth.

They've finished their meals, deep in conversation.

Before I can talk myself out of it, I'm on my feet and heading their way. "Did you guys want me to show you where you'll be staying?"

Three heads swivel in my direction, a chorus of agreement following.

"All right, grab your jackets. We're heading to Kade's old house."

As they start to shuffle out of the booth, Kade speaks up. "You don't need to show us, Siren. I can get the guys over there. I’ve been there a time or two."

I bristle slightly at the dismissal. "I was told to show you, and out of respect, I need to do that."

Kade's eyes meet mine, a silent battle of wills. Finally, he shrugs. "I'm telling you that you don't have to. I'll take the heat if my brother decides to get sassy about it."

---