What I wouldn’t give for a family like this, such strength in this situation. Four days and they’ve already bonded deeper than any bond I’ve ever formed. Hell, it’s probably closer than even my father and me, though that’s not saying very much. I can’t remember a single deep connection that felt like that and the desire for it is strong. I don’t want to be a murderer, but I might kill if it means Billie will look at me like that.

The stream and small waterfall appear a few minutes later, the soft trickle of it inviting and reminding me how thirsty I am. My canteen is mostly empty and when I gesture if I can fill it up, Creed, the big guy, nods his head. I lean down and am filling my canteen when Jiro points a Geiger meter at the river. I watch him carefully as I finish filling my canteen and put it away.

“It’s safe,” he announces, and the others immediately begin to fill their own canteens only after he okays it.

“You were going to let me drink it before you knew it was safe?” I ask, raising my brow.

Jiro meets my eyes. “Yes.”

“Fair enough.” I shrug. “But you don’t have to bother with that.”

“This place was used as a nuclear bomb testing site,” Creed points out.

“Only the small outer islands have dangerous levels of radiation. Prey Island itself has been cleaned up. The Hound Society wouldn’t send their own people in to die. We’re as much assets to them as I am to you.”

“How do they keep people from coming to the island if it’s been cleaned up?” Achilles asks.

“Rumors, mostly. They don’t advertise that it’s been cleaned and rely on rumors to keep people away. Their guards keep away anyone else brave enough to venture close despite the rumors. But this island no longer has harmful levels. You’re safe.”

“So, they just paid to have it cleaned?” Creed asks.

“Perfect cover, is it not?” I ask. “No one comes to the island because they think it’s dangerous. They don’t question the armed patrol boats or the military presence.”

Billie shakes her head. “You’re right. It’s perfect, and that pisses me off. Rich people always lording their wealth over everyone else. Of course they buy an island and use it for human hunting. Fucking assholes.”

I watch Billie’s face flush in anger and have to adjust myself for fear they’ll notice my desire. Jesus. I need to get myself together. She’s beautiful, yes, but now isn’t the time to think about railing her. She probably wouldn’t hesitate to kill me.

“The water is safe,” I repeat, and when Jiro nods in agreement, I point to him. “See, he says it is.”

Billie groans. “Good. Then you won’t mind if I clean up.”