“Why? It’s not your fault!”

You would never think a slip of a girl like her would have such a big mouth and fire in her attitude, but she did. That’s what made her an alpha female.

It’s also what made every man at the table look our way and halt their conversations.

“Naya, I have no idea what’s going on between you two, so maybe my opinion doesn’t matter, but this isn’t your fault. We’re involved because friends help each other out. I’ve known you for years, and you’ve always looked out for me. Not once have you ever asked for a damn thing! You’ve lavished Maizy with affection, time, and gifts. You’ve given me advice on business and love, not to mention talking me into buying a few sexy outfits that aren’t my thing, but Austin seems to enjoy them.”

Denver chuckled and elbowed Austin in the ribs.

“That doesn’t make this okay,” I said. “I can’t help it. I feel responsible in a way that’s painful.” I placed my hand over my chest, fighting back the tears. Oh, please don’t let me lose control in front of everyone. My lip quivered. “If anything happens to him, I’ll never forgive myself.”

Lexi rose from her chair and leaned down to hug me. She smoothed her hands over my back and said softly in my ear, “We’ll find him. Who am I to sit here and judge how you feel? I’m so sorry, Naya. Thanks for everything you’ve done for us. Not just now, but through the years.”

She backed away and I glanced across the table. Denver faked a grimace and wrapped his arms around Austin. “Hold me.”

Austin shoved him off and Denver chortled.

“I’ve changed my mind about the pairing,” Reno grumbled, shooting Denver a frosty glare.

Denver nodded his head at him. “Shut it. We’re Bonnie and Clyde, so deal with it.”

“Have you even seen how that movie ends? That’s the shit I’m talking about, Austin.”

Lexi guided me away. “They mess around with each other all the time, but it’s just play. Everyone knows Denver’s wolf is vicious, so despite his laid-back attitude, he’ll fight when it counts.”

“Interesting family. Now that I’ve seen them in their natural habitat, I understand all your complaints a little better.” I wrapped my right arm around her playfully and squeezed.

“I never thought I could live in such a big house with so many people, but I have to admit I love it. We push each other’s buttons all the time, but we never cross a line that can’t be uncrossed. We might look a little insane to an outsider, but these men have nothing but love for their packmates.”

Melody wandered into the living room clutching a baby doll with pink streaks in her hair. “Where’s Daddy?”

Lexi beamed. “Come here, sweetie pie, and spin around. We’re going to do a flip.”

Melody tossed her doll on the floor and turned around, reaching between her legs. Lexi grabbed her hands and pulled her up, causing Melody to flip around until her feet stamped on the floor.