“Yeah?” He lifts an eyebrow. “What made you change your mind?”
“If I can help a woman defend herself, it’s worth it. Even if I can give them enough skills to get away, the seconds make a huge difference.” I wish I had had the tools when I was a teenager.
“Good. I’ll add a class. We’ve had too many sign up, and not enough teachers. Proud of you,” he says gruffly.
I look toward my mate. He’s wading through the bodies, his focus on me, and my heart kicks up. I’ll never get used to the way he makes me feel.
“Heath,” he says as he reaches us, and holds out his hand.
Heath hesitates a moment before clasping it with his. “Ezra.”
“Mate, dance with me,” Ezra says softly.
He releases Heath and offers me his hand.
“I was wrong,” Heath says, standing straight. “I wouldn’t have asked anyone’s permission either.” He slaps my mate on the back and walks toward Juliana.
“He loves me,” Ezra says, winking.
“I believe it.” I slide my fingers over his palm. “I would love to dance.” He guides me across the room to the empty section. “We aren’t going to the dance floor?”
“No. Here. I don’t want strangers surrounding us.” He pulls me in his arms, tucking our joined hands against his chest, and wraps his arm around my waist.
I tip my head back and glide my palm over his shoulder to rest on his neck. Our combined emotions hit me, and I stare at him. His scent wraps around me, and I’ve never felt so safe.
“I love you,” I whisper.
He dips his head, his lips brushing my ear. “I love you.” He tightens his grip and sways me gently. “My Foxy.” He kisses my temple. “My lovely mate.”
I lean into his touch. “My sexy assassin.”
Pressing my cheek to his chest, I notice the silence in the room, and my eyes widen. The family has followed our example. First, Heath pulls Juliana into his arms beside us. Then, Quinn and Stephanie. Micah and Daisy. Sally grips Atlas and Luca, grinning. Roxanne wiggles her eyebrows at Cash, and he smirks, accepting her unspoken invitation. Kade spins Allie. Ryker and Serenity huddle in the corner, the vampire gazing at her tenderly. Bash holds Marie close, her back to his chest, his hand resting on her baby belly. Elijah takes off his hat, holding Saylor close, pressing it to her back. Haven takes turns with her four mates, as does Breeane.
All of these fierce, feared creatures are dancing with their mates.
It’s beautiful and poignant.
This is my family.
“I want babies,” I say softly, lifting my head.
“Now?” he smirks.
“Soon,” I laugh, and he kisses me.
“We can be home in fifteen minutes,” he growls.
“Let’s wait thirty,” I suggest.
“Next question…” He dips his head, his lips against my cheek. “Who’s wearing the cuffs tonight?”
I turn my head and drag my teeth across his jaw.
“I want to make you beg,” I grin against his skin.
“Enticing,” he hums. “Challenge accepted.”
I did my best.
