I can’t help the loud laugh that escapes. “It’s fine, Little One. If they need killing, I’ll do it.” I chuckle and set her down next to me.

Sophia

With a hand on my lower back, Masen guides me forward toward the small group, three men and one female, surrounded by five other men and Michael. The woman stares at Masen with her back arched, pushing her small breasts out of her tiny halter top in an open invitation. Her short, leather skirt hangs low on her hips, baring most of her toned belly. She looks ridiculous. It’s not even one o’clock in the afternoon, and she looks like she’s going clubbing. I roll my eyes. Masen hasn’t glanced at her once. I can see a pout form on her lips as we get closer.

When we stop a few feet away, Masen steps behind me, holding my hip with one hand and pulling my body tight to his. He gestures to the man standing closest to us. “This is Gavin. He and his friends have come to us looking to join our pack. He also has information on a group of rogues I’ve been keeping tabs on.”

I nod my head and say, “Hello,” looking at each of them.

When the man he introduced as Gavin lifts his hand, Masen snarls, “DON’T.” My body is pulled even tighter while his body seems to curve over mine. Gavin drops his hand slowly, taking a step back. “Introduce yourselves, but do not touch her,” Masen grates.

“I’m Scott, and this is my sister, Renee. Mase stayed with us a few times when he visited our pack.” So that’s why the skanky redhead has a knowing smirk.

“My name’s David,” the last man says quietly.

“Why are y’all looking to stay here?” I ask curiously.

Gavin, who must be considered their leader, answers, “I’ve known Mase for years. We always talked about me finding my way here. It just didn’t happen until now. I have to say though he’s usually a little more welcoming,” he tries to joke. I laugh a little lightening the tension.

“You don’t say. You mean he’s not always so growly?” This time I really laugh. Michael joins me.

I turn to face Masen. He places his palm on my cheek, stroking my bottom lip. Instinctively, I lick my lips, catching the pad of his thumb. He stills. His eyes dilate, he sucks in deeply. “Sorry,” I whisper. Louder, I say, “Unless you need me here, I’m gonna head back.”

His voice is low when he promises, “I’ll be there soon, Little One. Michael will see you home.” Then kisses my temple. “Michael, take my Luna home,” Masen orders.

I’m just about to open my mouth to tell him to be nice when Michael acknowledges him with a simple, “Alpha,” effectively reminding me not to be sassy.

Rolling my eyes so only he can see, I walk over to Michael, “Thank you, Michael. Will you tell Nicole what a wonderful time I had today? I can’t wait to visit her again.”