Page 13 of Tainted Hearts

“Hey, don’t be mad at her,” I say, brushing my thumb against his cheek, kissing his nose. “Once you join the guard, your whole life becomes about it. My dad doesn’t let people leave Hell or contact the topside once you’re inducted.”

“Fine,” he huffs. “You're forgiven. You're back now, but for how long?”

“I’m not sure,” she answers. “I guess it all depends on how things work out.” She gives me a lingering look that I can’t decipher.

“Food’s ready!” Zed’s mom calls.

“I’m starving,” Leo groans. I almost forgot he was here. He’s been mostly quiet. “Come on, Starbright, let’s go get you fed.” He pulls me to my feet, saying, “We should give them a moment.”

I nod, giving Zed a look. He winks and slaps my ass. “Be right in, Little Bird.”

“So, I guess there’s always something new to learn about these guys, huh?” Leo comments, kissing the side of my head.

“It’s different with them. I know everything when it comes to you,” I say.

“Perks of being your number one person.” He grins.

“Not a competition.”

Zed

Istill can't believeshe’s here. It’s been years since I’ve seen her. She’s hardly changed at all, maybe a few more tattoos. She still has her charming personality, that’s for sure.

“Seriously, how have you never mentioned you knew a King’s guard?” Leo asks, watching Abby and Frankie.

They seem to have hit it off. After supper we came out back to enjoy some s’mores by the fire. Abby got over her adorable jealousy that still has my cock half-stiff.

It’s weird to see them together. Two people who mean a lot to me in very different ways. Frankie is like a sister to me and not having her around was hard. I’ve missed her like crazy. It’d be the same if Libby just up and disappeared one day.

“I don't know everything about you, do I?” I ask, raising a brow.

“Fair point.” He nods, dropping it. “So, another person joining our band of misfits, I see.”

“Frankie is good people,” I grunt. Not going to lie, I’m happy about her being back. It just sucks that I don’t know for how long. But I’m excited to spend what time I do have with her. I just don’t want to piss Abby off. She is my number one. I just hope she doesn’t get jealous.

As for Frankie, there’s something going on with her. I don’t think she’s lying about what she’s here to do, but there’s more to the story.

For the rest of the night, I watch the two of them. Frankie hardly says two words to me, unless it’s to tease me about something. Her full attention is on Abby.

By the end of the night, I realize two things. Frankie is attracted to her, and I’m the jealous one now and– “Frankie.” I pull her to the side as she comes back from the bathroom.

“Hey, Rock Star,” she grins brightly at me.

“What the fuck is going on?” I snarl, and her face drops.

“What do you mean?”

“I’m not stupid. I've been watching you all night.”

“Don’t think your mate would like that very much,” she grins.

“You like her.” I narrow my eyes.

“Of course, I do. She’s a good person, fun to talk to, and I’m not going to lie, she’s hot.”

“Frankie,” I say in a warning tone. “You’ve kept your distance, making sure not to get too close to her.”

“I’m sorry, do you want me to throw myself at your mate, get all buddy-buddy with a stranger?”

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