Page 169 of Monstrous Serpent

Selling children.

“FUCK!”

A hand rests on my forearm, and I spin, grabbing the person’s throat.

Rua.

“Easy there, big guy. It’s just me.” He tilts his head and smiles. “Wanna let go? I mean, I’m all into breath play, makes me come so hard, but doubt Trembley and Jenkins would appreciate it.”

I grunt and drop my hand. “Jackass.”

“Yeah, yeah.”

Shyanne stands. “I only came here to collect some of my things. You mind?”

I step out of her way, but nod at Rua. “Keep an eye on her.”

He shoves his hands into his pockets and prances off after Shyanne. She’s gone twenty minutes later. After that, Rua and I tear the house apart. Every drawer, every closet, every loose board.

No fucking idea what we’re even looking for. Maybe something to help Shyanne. But the house is clean. Either the cops collected whatever evidence Garrett had, or my brother kept shit hidden somewhere else.

I swallow hard as I look at the face-down picture frame before we leave the house. My big brother died years ago, back in the forest in Ironwood along with the rest of those kids. Killed by my father.

Just took me a while to realize it.

Once we’re in the truck, Rua immediately puts his feet up on the dashboard, already unwrapping another lollipop. “Los Angeles is going to be so much fun.”

“You’re not going.”

“Cute that you think you have a say.” He hollows his cheeks around the lollipop, pulling it free with a wet pop. “Told Shyanne I'd dig up what I could on her brother. Besides, I'm very good on my knees. Elio will be spilling his secrets in ten minutes.”

“Raiyne.”

“Hunter.”

I start the engine and pull away from the curb. No matter what I say, he’s not going to listen. “Either you tell Reyes what’s going on or I will.”

“You're such a party pooper.” He puts in his AirPods, then closes his eyes.

Thank fuck.

Last thing I wanted was to spend the ten-hour drive home arguing with him. Reyes will handle this, come up with a plan to keep Rua safe. I’ll help where I can, but Cody and Atlas are my main priorities.

They’re my future.

Chapter 42

Atlas

Cody drools in his sleep. Like, a lot. There's a wet spot on his pillow I'm actively avoiding. His mouth hangs open, and a thin line of spit connects his bottom lip to the pillowcase. It's the most disgusting, adorable thing I've ever seen.

I lean over and kiss the tip of his nose. “Morning.”

“Go away.” He swats at my face without opening his eyes.

“Yeah no, can't do that.” I boop his nose.

“Mmph. Stop.”