Page 96 of Daring Her Vampires
“It’s nothing serious,” I start, clearing my throat. “They're from my dad. He’s punishing me for killing my mom.” Shocked silence follows my statement.
“Tricks, maybe you should explain,” Luca says, and I sigh. I want to go back to bed with my mates and survive on blood and sex. I have a feeling my family is going to lose it.
My day started so promisingly.
Chapter Twenty-Two
Atlas
The power is building in the room. I watch their faces as Sally tells them about her father. I barely hold in my grunt as Micah’s ancient power leaks through. My brave mate shoves her feelings away, her words emotionless, but she can’t hide from the bond. I feel everything. Bonding with her was the best thing that ever happened to me. If I could stand between her and anything that will hurt her, I would. I can see they love her. Normally, I would rather deal with her father without interference, yet with this crew, I doubt we will ever have any secrets. Her blood connects us, and the bond is strong. Having help to deal with her dad will ensure we get the time alone we crave.
Rowen stands straight as her story unfolds, and I watch him cautiously. He is new to the group, and he feels unstable. He’s younger, but that is not why. There is a wildness that has nothing to do with the vampire inside him. Sally seems to care for him, so I will be careful while she is around him.
The anger swirls throughout the group, probably causing Sally to keep the details brief. Her body is adjusting, and her mind is having a hard time concentrating. I catch her thoughts, scattered, and retreating to blood. I’m surprised she is taking it so well. Her home is filled with dangerous beings, but their blood will still appeal to her demon. She isn’t showing any of the tendencies Luca and I did when we first transitioned. I wonder if it's because of the rabbit shifter, who is still very present. We have yet to explore all her gifts. Blurring with her was entertaining, and even though she doesn’t think she was very successful, I thought she did amazingly well for a new vampire.
I want to kick everyone out and take her to bed. My demon is impatient with her family. He wants to glory in the bond, not deal with them, and those we have to kill.
“My dad is not who we have to track today,” Sally says, tilting her chin up. “I will deal with him in time. Mara gave me two locations. I think we should separate, check both, and wherever he is, someone can message the others.”
“We don’t know how many are with him, so be prepared,” I say, knowing Sally doesn’t want to talk about her dad anymore.
“Sally—” Micah starts, frowning.
“Please,” Sally whispers. “Later.” Her anxiety is dripping through the bond.
“Alright,” he replies.
“Who’s going where?” River asks, studying Sally.
“My boyfriends are with me,” she announces as she walks to the counter. “Rowen, you don’t have to come.” She gets a piece of paper and a pen.
“I’m coming,” he says softly. She breaks the pen in half and frowns.
“I’ll make a list,” she mumbles, picking up another pen gently. I look over her shoulder. Our sneaky mate arranges the list and puts Rowen at the location Fredrick most likely isn’t at. “Is Ryker coming?”
“He is,” Bash says. “I’ll let him know where to meet us.” Sally adds Ryker’s name under Rowen’s. He will be able to control the younger vampire if needed.
“Anyone else?” she asks.
“The lions are ready,” Ava says.
“The panthers are willing if needed,” Kerian says, and Sally nods, adding to the list.
“Here are your assignments.” She grins and moves out of the way. Allie is under our names, and I don’t know how to feel about it. Sally lifts a brow as she stares at me. I don’t doubt my sister's ability to fight. Her mental demons may hinder her, though.
“I know his scent,” Allie says, walking toward us. “If he’s there, we will let you know.”
Micah hums when he sees his name with ours, and I will be grateful to have him with us. I don’t know him well enough to like him, but his ancient power will make the battle much easier. Bash nods at Sally, satisfaction in his expression being under the column with Sally’s name. The snakes, Heath and Juliana, are on our side. Sally added Bane and Hunter to join their friend, Heath.
“It’s like getting picked for the gym team,” Ava mutters. “Except this time, both teams are good.”
“You’ll always be on my team, cupcake,” River says, and Sally leans toward him. “What?” he asks her.
“You smell like food,” she says.
“Is that why I’m on the opposite team? So you don’t bite me?” he asks.
“I didn’t say I wanted a taste,” she replies, wrinkling her nose.
