Page 33 of Honey Heat
A blush spread across Ethan’s cheeks as he playfully elbowed Lucio’s ribs.
Several pack members lounged outside the tavern entrance, conversation halting as Lucio approached with his mate. Suero stepped forward first, arms outstretched.
“About time you showed up,” he said, pulling Lucio into a quick, firm embrace, slapping his back twice before releasing him. The scent of motor oil and leather clung to Suero's clothes, suggesting he’d been working on his bike.
“Traffic,” Lucio replied with a smirk, knowing full well he’d delayed their arrival by fucking his mate two more times before leaving the house.
Bastián and Hernán followed with similar greetings, their curious gazes flickering to Ethan, who stood next to Lucio.
“Guys, this is Ethan McCade,” Lucio said, gently drawing his mate forward. “My elegido.”
Suero whistled low. “Boone’s kid? Damn, Lucio, you don’t do anything halfway, do you?”
“Nice to meet you,” Ethan said, extending his hand. The bandages were gone now, revealing healing bruises across his knuckles.
Bastián clasped it gently. “Welcome to the family, Ethan.”
Inside, the tavern hummed with activity. Bodies packed every available space. Wolves crowded around tables and leaned against wall, voices overlapping in a cacophony of conversation.
Cigarette smoke hung in thin wisps, catching the afternoon light filtering through the windows. Glasses clinked, pool balls cracked against each other, and the speakers played classic rock at a volume just loud enough to be heard without drowning out conversation.
“Ethan!” Jamie’s excited voice cut through the noise as he weaved between tables, nearly colliding with more than one person. His face lit up with enthusiasm as he reached them, grabbing Ethan’s hand without hesitation. “Come on! All the mates are in the kitchen!”
Ethan threw a helpless glance over his shoulder at Lucio, who just winked and gave him a thumbs-up.
Jamie tugged insistently, already pulling Ethan toward the back. “We’re making cookies! Well, Brett’s making cookies. I’m mostly eating dough when he’s not looking.”
Lucio watched as Jamie led his mate through the crowd, chattering non-stop. Pack members parted for them, some nodding, others smirking. Ethan glanced back once, offering a wide smile before disappearing into the kitchen.
Lucio made his way to the bar, where Miguel worked the taps with practiced efficiency. Sweat glistened on the male’s forehead as he filled glass after glass, sliding them down the polished wood to waiting hands.
“The usual?” Miguel asked, already reaching for a bottle.
“Make it a double,” Lucio replied, leaning against the counter. “Feeling like I might need it.”
Miguel poured amber liquid into a tumbler, sliding it across with a knowing smirk. “Heard you found yourself a mate.” He extended his fist. “And not just any mate. A fucking bear. Boone’s kid, no less.”
Lucio bumped his knuckles against Miguel’s. “News travels fast.”
“In this pack? Faster than light.” Miguel’s grin widened. “Congratulations, brother. Though I’m not sure if I should be congratulating you or planning your funeral when Boone finds out.”
“Too late for that,” Lucio said, taking a swig of whiskey. The liquor burned pleasantly down his throat. “He already knows.”
Miguel’s eyebrows shot up. “And you’re still breathing? Impressive.”
With a chuckle, Lucio took his drink and headed for a table where Suero, Bastián, and Raphael had saved him a seat. The wooden chair creaked under his weight as he settled in.
“So…” Bastián leaned forward, voice low. “Bear in the sheets. How’s that working out for you?”
Raphael snorted into his beer. “Real subtle, pendejo.”
“What?” Bastián spread his hands innocently. “Just making conversation.”
“Try making conversation that won’t get you punched,” Suero suggested, taking a swig of his beer.
Lucio stared at Bastián like the wolf had a death wish. “You did not just say that,” he snarled.
“The beer did, and while I still have all my teeth, I’m out.” Bastián stood and walked away.
