Smiley

“We don’t care about money.” Smiley cocked his head. “I just wanted to look you in the eyes before you were sent to Fuller Prison. Va

Torrent helped. “Pitiful.”

Smiley flashed him a grin. “Yes.”

Gregory’s face reddened and he sputtered. “You’re barbaric!”

“What do you expect? You attacked us.” Smiley straightened. “You should have learned more about your enemy before you struck out at us.” All trace of humor faded from his features. “You’re going to be the one living the remainder of your life in a cage. Isn’t that what you wanted for us? You’ll learn what it’s like not to feel the sun on your face or experience the simple act of kindness from your guards. It’s a fate you wished for us. Fuller Prison will be your zoo. You just shouldn’t expect any visitors.”

“You creatures aren’t going to get away with this.” Gregory shot out of his chair. “I’m Gregory Woods. Everyone will be looking for me and they won’t ever stop. You’re going to pay for this. People will wise up and realize what you’re really up to.”

“What is that? Taking over the world? We just want peace. You’d have learned that if you’d really done your research. We just want humans like you to leave us alone. You couldn’t do that.” Smiley moved to the side and opened the door. “I’m done, Torrent. You can have them transferred now.”

“Thank you.” Torrent gri

Smiley peered at the glass then glanced into the empty hallway. Va

She walked to the door and opened it. “Let’s go,” she said loud enough that Smiley would hear her.

He turned toward her and met her gaze. “We’re done here?”

She nodded.

Smiley closed the door to the interrogation room behind him and came to her. He reached out and she clasped his hand. “Are you okay?”

“I am now.”

“Do you want to Taser him?” A gleam of amusement lit up his eyes. “It might be fun.”

“I don’t think Torrent wants to hear him cry again,” Va

“True.” Smiley looked over her head. “We’re ready to go, Jericho. Will you give us a ride to the hotel?”

“Let’s get out of here.”

The door to the interrogation room opened and Va

“This is all your fault, Trava

Smiley rumbled and spun. Va

“He’s not worth it,” she insisted.

Smiley rumbled again but he relaxed in her hold. Gregory turned farther to face her and pointed at her. “You’re going to pay for this.”

Va

Torrent shoved him, forcing him forward. “Move, crybaby. I see you are braver when you’re confronting a small female. Why am I not surprised? You’re truly pathetic.”

They turned at the end of the hall and walked out of sight. Va

“Let it go. I plan to.” She stepped closer to him and placed her hand on his chest. “Let’s leave it in the past and never think about them again. They really aren’t worth it.”

“You’re right.”

She winked. “I like hearing that.”

Smiley wrapped his arm around her waist. “You’re also very sexy when you’re giving someone the bird.”

“Am I?”

Jericho cleared his throat. “I’m here. So are cameras. I wouldn’t suggest getting too friendly with each other in the hallway.”

They all turned when they heard the sound of booted feet and stared at the tall black-haired male who walked toward them. He was a feline with bright-green eyes, dressed in jeans and a black shirt under a leather biker jacket.

“Hello, Jaded.” Smiley looked pleased to see the male. “This is Va

The guy nodded at her but didn’t offer his hand. “I was checking in at Security before I left for a charity event and was told to tell you that the helicopter is arriving in ten minutes. It seems neither of you are wearing coms. I also heard about your mating and wanted to congratulate you both.”

“Thank you.” Smiley drew Va

“Let’s go.” Jericho paused next to Jaded. “Nice outfit. Did you borrow it from Harley?”

“As a matter of fact,” Jaded chuckled, “I did call him and ask where he obtains his clothes. A local motorcycle club is hosting a barbeque fundraiser to buy some land for the preservation of a campground they use every summer. A logging company wants to purchase it and cut down all the trees.”

“I thought you only got involved if animals were in the mix.” Jericho frowned.

Jaded shrugged. “There’s a lot of wildlife living in those woods. It’s for a good cause and they sent me an invitation. I thought it might be fun.”

Smiley removed his arm from Va

She was really excited about seeing Beth. She just hoped her best friend would behave and not act too outrageous when she met Smiley. It was a real concern.

* * * * *

“Relax,” Beth ordered. “I like Smiley.”

Va

“Are you having second thoughts or is this just bride jitters?”

“Jitters. I really want to marry Smiley.”

“Close your eyes.” Beth applied eye shadow. “He’s a hunk, Va

“Yes.”

“Lucky bitch.” Beth stopped. “Open.”

Va

“Good. I kept it light. It gives you the natural look with a little extra help.”

“Thank you. Smiley said he prefers me without makeup but it’s my wedding. I need to look my best. He promised that someone will take pictures.”

“I’m going to take some with my phone too.”

“You can’t post them anywhere,” Va

“Have you told the family yet?”

“No. I know they’d want to be here and I just…”

“Say no more. Your sister is a prude. Your brother is a jackass and pushy. Your parents—I love them but your mom is a control freak and it kind of weirds me out how your dad just does everything she says. My parents are the opposite. My dad is the controller and my mom does everything he says.”

“I know. I think Dad just doesn’t want to argue. Mom became pretty bossy, having to raise three kids while he was traveling. He’s mellow.”

“You get that from him. You’re the quiet sibling and you let them boss you around. I’m glad you decided to elope. That fiasco of an engagement to Carl about killed me. I really hated him and then your family was messing up the plans you had left and right. I got upset for you.”