Karma's Broken Dolls

By Hickory Mack

With three new mates, a new house and a baby on the way, Alexi has never been happier. She’s finally ready to settle down, and live a normal life.

Until an obsessed sex trafficker publicly kidnaps her and her newborn baby, dragging Alexi and her guys back in with a new sense of resolve. The trafficker’s reach is deep, both within their communities and stretching across the great lakes.

A witch joins the family, and with a tragic past of his own, he’s ready to die for their cause. Their hunt stretches across four states, with hundreds of targets, and just when they think they’re finished, Hector’s benefactor, Peter knocks at their door with a warning.

Someone has reported them to the shifter’s Council of Elders, and there’s nowhere they can hide to avoid facing judgement for their crimes.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Hickory Mack
• Release date: May 1, 2022
• ISBN: 9781005158705

Book preview

Prologue

Alexi checked the rope one final time, reassuring herself that the knot was secure. She’d practiced this one with Satyr so many times she could do it in her sleep, but they considered this a test, so it had to go perfectly.

Satisfied her knot would hold, she kicked the cheap plastic stool she’d bought at the local dollar store and stood back to watch her handiwork. Her target didn’t even try to fight it, though his neck hadn’t snapped since the drop hadn’t been high enough. The only resistance he offered was an anguished moan.

Tilting her head, she observed as his muscles spasmed and his face turned an unhealthy puce. Rabbit was right; he’d promised that ‘Quickie’ would hit hard and fast, turning her target into a living doll for exactly eight minutes. Give or take thirty seconds, depending on their size. They’d figured out a way to take the newest date rape drug on the market and use it for their own purposes.

This one had propositioned her on an online dating site through one of her alternate accounts. Untraceable through the Unknown’s personal operating system, Lupin, she’d tricked the dating site’s algorithms into listing her profile among his suggested matches. His name was Maxwell, and Alexi had specifically chosen him as a target. Getting his attention had gone flawlessly.

He’d dropped a message in her inbox less than a day after she and Rabbit had set everything up. Shortly after, Alexi and her men had gotten on Satyr’s helicopter to fly to Atlanta. It was near the twins’ family, but they weren’t there to pay a visit.

With Hector in tow, hiding within close range, she met their target at his home. He’d wanted to be discreet, and paid upfront after leering for a moment and deciding a night with her was money well spent. At five hundred dollars a night, she’d pretended to be a high end whore, and he’d fallen for it.

He believed she was sixteen-years-old.

Alexi had dressed for the occasion, wearing a tight silver dress that had made Siren’s eyes go wide in awe. She’d topped it off with bold red lipstick and shadowy eye make-up. Covering her silvery white hair with a short black wig, she’d rounded the look off with black, sky-high heels.

She drummed her fingers against her thigh. He wasn’t the brightest, making her task especially simple. All she’d had to do was slip the Quickie into his drink. By the time the medical examiners got their scalpels into him, any trace of the drug would be out of his system. It was well on its way to becoming one of the most dangerous drugs on the market.

Poor Maxwell Junior. Alexi gave a little pout when he stopped moving. Mafda prowled the room restlessly giving a raspy growl. Killing this guy had been too easy, and the thought sat in her head, eating away at her sense of accomplishment. He hadn’t even known what was happening to him; it didn’t really feel like punishment.

Raising her phone, she spoke into the microphone.

It’s been a little while since our last little talk, but don’t worry, we haven’t forgotten about you, Alexi spoke, addressing the elite on their list. Those she and Rabbit were systematically tormenting with regular videos just like this. They had a front row seat to every target Alexi and her men took down.

This, as some of you know, is Maxwell Hanson Junior. For those who don’t, Maxie boy here is the CEO of a certain crypto-currency start-up, funded by Maxwell Senior. He spent six months in prison for raping his four-year-old daughter who, in his words, ‘wanted it.’ As you might guess, I had a little problem with that, Alexi drawled, panning the phone up to zoom in on his face.

He isn’t supposed to have access to the internet, as a part of his probation, and yet, that’s how he contacted me. It’s easy to break the rules when you’re a member of the good ol’ boys club, isn’t it? I know you’ve grown used to the idea that your obscene wealth amounts to near immunity against the law, but you’re wrong. There’s no amount of money that will save you from me. We’ll talk again real soon.

Alexi sent the video to Rabbit, knowing he would send it along to their list of high-ranking pedophiles. The list consisted of men and women who ran the country in every conceivable way. Politicians, beloved celebrities, executives and religious figures. All of them on Alexi’s list of people she’d kill before she was through.

They would sit uncomfortably for a while longer. She’d promised Satyr that she’d slow down. Alexi had no intention of stopping entirely, and after several aggressively loud arguments, they’d come to a compromise. No more hunting groups of child abusers until well after she’d recovered from birthing the baby. One at a time would have to suffice. For now.

After a mistake with Thomas Kane, a previous target, resulting in an accident a month ago, she’d also agreed to having at least one of them with her at all times. Provided they stay out of the way and allowed her to do as she saw fit for each situation. They’d let her have this one tonight as an extra bonus. It was a special occasion, after all.

Alexi kicked the stool a little closer to Maxwell, then crossed several rooms to empty the contents of the manila envelope filled with proof of his sins onto the massive oak desk in his office. Gods damn did she ever hate these pricks. There was just something extra vile about the rich ones. They lived their lives as though their advantages entitled them to harm children in the most obscene ways.

Obviously she couldn’t trust the cops to go public with what she’d hidden there, so she’d already placed everything into a drop file through Crouch. It was scheduled to be delivered to every major news network in two days’ time.

She stalked to the door where Hector waited, fighting the urge to trash Maxwell’s house, while waving at the security camera. Rabbit had taken control of the feed remotely several hours before her arrival. Their target wouldn’t be found until it was far too late. Nobody would ever have footage of exactly what happened.

She glanced back at Maxwell, swinging gently at the end of his rope, sighing with disappointment. No, Quickie wasn’t something she’d use regularly, except as a tool when she needed a mark to go easier. Alexi preferred it when they knew they’d been found out, so they could feel that desperate fear of justice pressing in on them. She wanted to smear humiliation over their names before they died.

At least she’d learned something new that day.

This went far more easily than I expected, Hector said coolly, then he gave her a full, dimpled smile, flashing his fangs.

Too easy, she grumbled.

That’s exactly what Sae is going to like hearing. Siren’s been worried sick, too. Hector held the door for her then closed it behind them. He took Alexi’s hand and led her to the rental car, helping her into the already warm seat. Before he opened his door, she was already working the pins out of her hair to remove the wig.

Are they already there? she asked. Since their plans with this target had brought them to Atlanta on this particular night, they’d made it a double event.

Yes, and they’re waiting for us.

He maneuvered through traffic while she fixed her hair. Alexi hid their gloves and her wig in a concealed bag under her seat. She was putting the finishing touches on her make-up when Hector found Piedmont Road, and pulled into the busy valet parking lane outside the club. It didn’t take long for a man to open Alexi’s door, while a second ran around to Hector’s side.

Excitement surged when she spotted the long line of people waiting to get in, and she took in the thumping beat of the music. They’d reserved a table in The Gold Room. Alexi had never been there, but her hyenas assured her she’d have a great time. More exciting were the hyenas themselves. They’d been so busy -Satyr checking in with his Atlanta based company, and Siren helping to set up surveillance- she hadn’t seen either of them since the night before.

Hector took her hand as they shared a quick look before he dragged her to the front of the line and gave their names. Ushered through, Alexi’s eyes went starry at the view inside, a wide smile parting her lips.

The lighting was spectacular. All pinks, purples and blues, hanging from what looked like metal strips from the ceiling. Alexi’s excitement bubbled beneath the surface, only the height of her heels stopping her from bouncing in place. Hector let her look around for a few minutes, then guided her to their table, where Satyr and Siren waited. Their space was huge; it could easily have fit twice as many people, but they had it all to themselves.

A bottle girl appeared as if summoned by their arrival, offering drinks, but Alexi turned her down, too busy staring at her mates to care about anything the girl had to say. They lounged lazily on the long pink sofa, their hyenas laying at their feet, bright eyes observing everything. Siren had his braids pulled up so the tips beautifully framed his face, but Satyr had left his down, to cascade down to his chest.

As always, the sight of them took her breath away. They sat up eagerly, their matching dark eyes vying for her attention. She grabbed Siren’s hand, pulling him to his feet before beckoning at Satyr to follow.

Dance with me! she practically had to shout to hear herself over the music. They gave her three varieties of the same lust filled look.

How come you never dress like this at home? Siren asked into her ear, following her to the dance floor, Satyr and Hector right behind them.

I’d never get anything done, she laughed, then she thought better of it and tapped her chin with a finger, glancing at Hector. She could use it to her advantage in their little war games.

Way to go, Si, now you’ve gotten those little hamster wheels turning. She’s scheming up new ways to drive us all crazy, I can see it in her eyes, Satyr warned. Alexi stuck her tongue out at him.

They danced in a loose circle, with Alexi making the rounds to dance with each of them, keeping it light and fun, teasing them in the ways she knew they liked best. Her hands went around Siren’s neck and she nuzzled in close, letting him grab her ass to pull her even closer.

Satyr made it dirty, nipping the skin along her throat in all the right places until she couldn’t help but smile and gasp. His fingers tinkered with her collar and he gave the lightest of tugs. Alexi tilted her chin up so he could kiss her, his tongue dominating hers, proclaiming to everyone around them that she belonged to him.

Uncaring if they were seen, his greedy hands traveled, touching her everywhere, firmly gripping her hips and pulling them into his, letting her feel his arousal. Finally, looking her in the eye he slipped a hand under her dress to push her panties aside. He pleasured her right there, among a crowd of hundreds of people.

Shit, Hector muttered, moving to her side, partially shielding their activities, partially adding to the tension. One of his hands splayed across her ass, spreading heat from his fingertips outward. His other hand lifted in the air as they all kept dancing to the beat.

Siren moved in behind her, a hand on her hip as Alexi leaned into him, rocking against Satyr’s fingers in time with the music. He moved faster, rubbing a knuckle against her g-spot until she gasped in time with every thrust. She held in a cry when the orgasm came, and Satyr lifted his fingers to his lips to lick her stickiness clean with smug satisfaction.

With an amused smirk he wheeled her into Hector, sandwiching her between them. Alexi looked into her vampire’s beautiful dark eyes as he flashed his dimples in a sweet smile. Leaning in, his lips brushed her ear and he spoke with a husky whisper, Happy twenty-third birthday, Monster.

Chapter One

Two weeks later

I actually like this one, Alexi muttered. Talk around the room stalled as they realized what she was talking about. Siren looked up from his game of memory cards with Lacy, and Hector came to perch behind her on the arm of the sofa. Satyr was on a call, but he snapped his fingers impatiently, his eyebrows raising in a silent demand. Hector rattled off the address from the top of Alexi’s screen.

Siren took out his phone, and they all scrolled through the photos together on their various devices. He showed Lacy, and she took on a studious look, then crawled into his lap to more easily see. She popped a finger in her mouth, her dark eyes wide with interest.

They’d looked at dozens of houses over the past month, only two of which Alexi had shown any interest in. Their sharp shifter noses had led them to finding black mold in the basement of one, which they’d all considered a stroke of good fortune. The other had sold before they had a chance to place their bid. Alexi had taken the loss of that one hard, and hadn’t put her heart into anything since.

Forty acres, Hector murmured. He slid down, squeezing in until she made room for him. Plenty of space for the shifters to play, and it has a huge yard with an established garden you can tweak to your heart’s desire.

Plenty of room to put a helipad in, away from the house so it doesn’t disturb the baby’s naps, Siren added.

It’s on the lake, Alexi said, pausing at a picture of the huge kitchen, stocked with updated appliances. Satyr looked over at the tone of her voice, silencing his call after seeing the softness in her eyes as she examined the photos.

Si, call Nancy. Get us a showing, he said, then went back to his meeting. He’d recently tried to convince Alexi to buy a huge house on an island a few miles off the lake shore. It was private, offering the ability to come and go as they pleased. Updated and pristine, it had a lot of positives, including being absolutely beautiful.

Alexi hadn’t liked the idea of being at the mercy of Lake Superior’s turbulent storms. She’d had a hard time convincing them that if one was raging, they could be stuck for days. They’d ended up spending a couple of hours watching videos of the storm that had destroyed the lakewalk in Duluth with its twenty foot waves.

Aside from that, she’d also taken issue with the three million dollar price tag. Not to mention the fact that it was so huge, she’d constantly have them all cleaning to make sure the dust bunnies couldn’t accumulate.

Siren had been bemused the first time he’d noticed her cleaning patterns, following her around the house for a while before pitching in. It had taken less than a week before all three of her guys took part in her daily ritual. Quite a bit longer before she’d trained them to do it right, so she didn’t have to come behind them and do it again. For a little while, she’d had Lacy help her keep an eye on them, much to Siren’s amusement.

Are we going to go see this house? Lacy asked, peering around Siren’s muscular arm at her mama.

Yeah baby, we are, Alexi said.

Can I come this time? Lacy puffed out her cheeks and lowered her brows, ready to pout when the expected answer came.

You’ll stay with Uncle Rabbit. If we decide we’re going to live there, you can go see it, Hector cajoled before Siren could give in. Lacy pouted, just as she’d threatened, and crossed her arms, turning back to the screen. Siren ruffled her hair good-naturedly.

It’s okay Lay-Lay, I’ll FaceTime with you, so you can see it, too, Siren promised. It hadn’t taken her long to wrap him firmly around her adorable little finger. One second, I’m going to call the realtor.

It’s only been on the market for a few hours, I doubt we’ll have trouble with other people closing on it before us, Hector said. Though I guess we should see it in person before worrying about that.

It’s about twenty minutes away from town in either direction, Alexi pointed out. And neither town is big. We’d have to drive a lot, even a grocery trip would be something of a journey.

But, Hector flipped back a few photos. The pantry looks huge, so you can stock it with a dozen cans of cocoa powder, and two of every flavor of coffee. Even then we’d still have room for pancake mix and Cap’n Crunch.

Plus, we can build you that greenhouse you were drooling over, so we can have fresh produce in the winter, Siren added. Nancy’s making the call.

Four hours later, Alexi stood outside the house, taking in the grandeur of the place. It was a lot bigger than she’d expected, based on the pictures. A beautiful structure, with huge windows, and completely secluded from the road and neighbors, nestled in acres of trees.

Satyr had dragged her to more houses than she could remember, hoping to find a place she’d approve of. After a while they’d all started to blur together, but the ambience of this place spoke to her.

Are we free to look around, or do we have to take a guided tour? she asked Nancy.

It would be best if we all stick together so I can answer any questions you have, but we don’t have to go in any particular order. Go to what interests you. Please, lead the way. Nancy smiled.

Alexi didn’t go inside. She wandered through the yard, admiring the flower gardens. Someone had designed them with an eye for the favorites of pollinators. Walking through the trees, she sought out the stream she could hear trickling through large stones, forming a pretty, three foot waterfall surrounded by the golden fall colors of the Birch trees.

I love this, she said, and the guys shared a smile. She hadn’t handed out a lot of love during their house hunting. They followed the stream until they could hear waves crashing, and soon they came to the property's private beach, with amazing panoramic views of Lake Superior.

There were stairs to get down from the yard, but the beach itself was nearly flat with just the slightest slope. Alexi scanned the waters for a drop off, pleased to see that it was shallow for at least ten feet out. It would lessen the impact of incoming waves, which meant less erosion over the coming years.

A guy could get used to this. It’s far enough from the cities that there shouldn’t be much light pollution, Satyr said. He moved in close and murmured into her ear. Think of how beautiful the night sky will be from here. Listening to the waves crash as we make love on the shore.

That sounds amazing, Alexi replied softly. She closed her eyes and let him gently nibble at her ear, smiling at the heat quickly building in her belly.

Nancy studiously ignored their antics while explaining to Hector that a dock could be added for boating purposes. She’d spent an ample amount of time with the four of them, and not once had she questioned their dynamics, though she was decidedly human. Nancy knew how to mind her damn business.

She brought their attention to the stairs leading to the yard above them. Overlooking the beach was a gorgeously planned cordwood building. It had colored glass between the logs, brightening it up with blues and greens. Big glass doors had thick wooden covers to protect them on those November days when gales would rage and waves would pound against the shore, even with the buffering effect of the shoreline. They went inside and looked around the cozy space.

The previous owner is an author, and he did his writing out here, Nancy said. She was always well prepared; even though they hadn’t given her much time to learn about this place, Nancy didn’t disappoint with her knowledge.

I can see why, Alexi murmured. The view of the lake was stupendous from the desk. It had a little bathroom with a shower and a fridge with a small counter to prepare simple meals. She could imagine camping out here with Lacy, for a girl’s night.

There were two more out buildings on the property, a large shed with a dirt floor, and a garage. Her guys perked up, showing more interest in them than they had the other one. The garage was large enough for all of their vehicles, and it even had a lift, so they could do maintenance themselves. Satyr remarked that the shed would be the perfect place to set up his lab. A place for him to tinker with his inventions from home.

Finally, they went through the house. It looked like an oversized, rustic log cabin, with more cordwood in the front of the house. The windows were huge, and a deck wrapped around the lake side, with a set of stairs leading to the yard.

The inside was open, with high ceilings and in-floor heating under gorgeous slabs of dark stone. By the time they reached the kitchen, Alexi was glowing with excitement.

Downstairs, the walkout basement had ample space, with a cute kitchenette and a bar. Alexi was already envisioning setting up a guest bedroom down there, for Rabbit or Rachel to stay for extended periods.

Upstairs there were three cute bedrooms, an extra bathroom, and a sprawling master suite. It had a pair of massive closets, private access to the deck, and a sitting room. The jacuzzi bathtub was nice, but the open stone shower, with multiple shower heads coming from the ceiling like a freaking waterfall was a huge selling point.

Satyr and Siren exchanged a look with Hector, then they all looked to Alexi. Her eyes were sparkling. They went back downstairs and she touched the driftwood mantle over the fireplace one more time.

Do you guys like it? she asked nervously, turning to look at her guys. Nancy held her breath, an anxious look on her face. They didn’t even hesitate.

Yes, Siren said in an affected tone.

"It has everything we want and need. It’s perfect," Hector added.

Yes. If you want it, it’s yours. Do you want it, Lex? Satyr asked. She turned a huge, excited smile in his direction.

Yes. Please? she squeezed her hands together over her chest in an almost childlike gesture. The guys made little noises of victory, and Satyr looked to Nancy.

This is the one.

Excellent, this place is a wonderful choice. Nancy beamed at the four of them. She’d shown them so many houses, always maintaining the patience of a saint. It was amazing she wasn’t completely sick of their faces by now.

Alexi let out a little squeal, breaking into a happy dance. Siren picked her up and whirled her around before kissing her and letting Hector take over.

Do what needs to be done to finish the closing quickly. Offer the full price, in cash. I’d like to have the keys by the end of the week. We’ll need to know the exact location of the property lines. We’ll also need soil and well samples done immediately. Satyr listed off quickly. He was used to his orders being followed, it didn’t matter to him if any of those things weren’t typically the job of a realtor, so long as the job got done.

Hector followed Alexi into the kitchen while Satyr and Nancy worked out the details. She touched everything. The smooth countertops, and the dark cabinetry with silver embellishments. She opened the double oven, sighing with happiness over its clean perfection.

I can already imagine all the treats you’ll bake in this place, Hector teased, hugging her from behind. He placed his hand against her still flat stomach and she leaned against him comfortably.

We’re going to raise our babies here, she said softly.

Not until after you decorate. Satyr’s not going to let you rest until you’ve furnished every one of these rooms, you know, Hector laughed.

There’s enough room for so many new plants! She did a happy little wiggle, then turned so she could hug him back. And think of how many places Foxxy and Lacy will have to explore.

She tugged him back into the living space so she could take a picture of the kitchen, then dragged him over and positioned him in front of the fireplace.

Pose for me! she said, laughing. Hector threw up a peace sign, then stuck out his tongue with a wink. Alexi snorted and snapped the picture. Siren bounded over and threw his arm around Hector, giving her a goofy grin. She took that picture, too.

Oooh! Let me take your picture in that shower! she said excitedly, darting for the stairs. Satyr shook his head and smirked, watching her go.

Okay, but then I’ve got a promise to keep, Siren called, chasing after her. Hector paused at the bottom, appreciating the view of her ass on the way up.

"Come on Hec!" she called. He met her at the top and grabbed her, pulling her close with a growl.

You’re even more beautiful when you’re happy, you know? You sparkle. His lips brushed hers.

We’re going to have so many happy days here, I can just feel it. She took his hand and dragged him back to the master bath, then pushed him and Siren toward the shower.

It’s big enough for all of us in here, Siren said suggestively, raising his eyebrows.

We’ll have to experiment with that on our first night here. If we’re not too tired from moving the furniture in. Alexi smiled.

Right, like Satyr’s going to let you lift a single box, Hector scoffed. She leveled her phone’s camera at them, and they both pulled a silly face.

Hec, you’re rubbing off on him.

Sorry Monster, I’m a natural born leader, Hector joked as Siren stuck his tongue out at him, only further proving her point.

Are you done Princess? I need to call our baby. As Siren took his phone out it rang, and he answered it before processing who it was. His face went blank, then a look of mild panic hit him.

Oh no, he moaned. Alexi took a step forward, alarmed by his reaction.

What’s wrong, Si?

Si?! Siren! Who the Hell is that calling you ‘Si’? Why haven’t you been answering the damned phone? I swear to the Gods if you cancel lunch again I will strangle you! A strong feminine voice came over the line. Alexi’s mouth dropped open, and Hector gave a soft hiss.

Nix, calm down, Siren said into the phone, but he clearly had no idea what to say. Alexi gave an exasperated sigh once she knew who it was.

I warned you, she snickered.

I can’t get Rose to tell me why you guys are never around! Is it true you were just in Atlanta and didn’t stop in to see anyone? Why the Hell are you in Minnesota?! Nixie demanded.

Satyr and Siren had dubiously avoided their entire family since their mating had happened. They claimed they wanted Alexi to feel firmly settled in before their mother and the rest of the family descended on her like carrion birds who’d found some choice prey.

Hector’s shoulders shook with silent laughter. He’d sided with Alexi, encouraging the twins to at least contact someone from their family. They hadn’t listened, and now they’d have to face the consequences, which he found amusing. Apparently their sister was more like Satyr than Siren.

Nix-

"Do you have any idea how worried mom is?! How could you be so irresponsible? I know you were in Manhattan last week, your damned face was in the newspaper. Why didn’t you call me and come visit?" Nixie continued speaking over him.

Nix! Could you just-

All I’m saying is if you miss our lunch date tomorrow, you’re dead, Si. Dead! Nixie threatened, and Alexi held out her hand. Siren raised a silent protest, but she raised an eyebrow, stepping closer. Are you even listening to me?!

Alexi snatched the phone out of his hand.

Hello, Nixie, she said smoothly. Siren buried his face in his hand, then swiped it through his hair.

"Who the Hell is this?! Nixie demanded. Look, if Si-"

My name is Alexi, and I would appreciate it if you would stop threatening my mate, she let Mafda’s growl emphasize the otherwise polite request. There was silence on the other line for three beats.

Shut. Up. Nixie was astounded. Are you serious?!

I couldn’t be any more serious.

"Girl!!! Have those idiots been hiding you?! Oh my Gods! I want to meet you, everyone’s going to want to meet you. Mom is going to freak out!" Nixie’s excitement was catching, and Alexi’s smile stretched big.

We have a few things to figure out first, and then you’re welcome to visit. We’re not exactly accepting visitors right now, Alexi said.

Still?! Nobody’s seen them in over a month! The fever should be over by now.

There are two of them, I don’t think the fever will ever totally go away, Alexi exaggerated, shooting a dirty grin Hector’s way. Siren groaned.

We did always say it would take a certain kind of woman to tame those two. I don’t know how you manage it, Nixie cackled.

We’re dead, he sighed.

I’ll text you once we’re off the phone, so you have my number. We can get to know each other a bit before you come up, Alexi offered.

Oh my gosh, yes! Alexi, right? Send me a selfie! Nixie squealed, then she yelled excitedly across the room. Ray! I have a sister!

Siren came over and thumped his forehead on her shoulder in resignation. He slipped to his knees and looked up at Alexi, an amused exasperation on his face. Alexi touched his cheek. Her poor, anxious, man.

Satyr’s going to kill me, Siren said.

"Forget Satyr, I’m going to kill you. Wait, forget me, wait until mom finds out! I’ll keep you in my thoughts and prayers, Si," Nixie taunted.

Ouch, Hector snorted.

Where is Satyr? Nixie asked.

I think he’s still wrapping things up downstairs, Alexi said, petting Siren’s head fondly.

Downstairs? Are those slackers taking their sweet time getting your things together? When are they bringing you home to Manhattan? Nixie continued. Siren winced, and Alexi cocked her head curiously.

I have no intention of moving to Manhattan.

Shocked silence.

It was nice talking with you, Nixie. I’ll text you later today, I’ve got to go. Alexi hung up before her new sister could stop her. Siren squinted up at her, scrunching up his whole face.

Princess, you have no idea what you’ve started.

She can’t talk to you like that, Si. I don’t care who she is.

Siren’s phone rang, Nixie’s name flashing on the screen. Alexi switched it to silent. She bent down and softly kissed her sweet push-over of a hyena shifter until the tension eased from his beautiful face.

He could be brutal. She’d watched his trials, the way he’d go after criminals with a cold, calculated ruthlessness. But throw a female he loved his way, and he melted into a mushy pile of goo. Gods save him if the baby she was carrying was another girl.

He wrapped his arms around her waist and held her there, taking as much of her love as she would give. Alexi kissed him again before straightening up.

You have a promise to keep, she said, handing him his phone. Lace is waiting for you. Don’t worry so much, Si. Hec, Lace, Rabbit and I are your family now, too. We’ll protect you from your little sister.

Hector laughed, and Siren scowled at him before he dialed Rabbit’s number to FaceTime with Lacy.

Chapter Two

ALEXI

O h. My. God, you lucky bitch, Rachel breathed, spying Satyr shirtless on the roof of the shed he was converting into his lab. The weather was cooling as fall rolled closer to winter, but his dark, tattooed skin glistened with sweat under the sun as he installed rows of solar panels. His cascade of pencil-thin dreadlocks were wrapped up in a dark red bandana. They fell around his face, moving as he worked.

The man is art, I swear. Alexi smiled up at him. Sae! We’re taking a break, do you want some iced tea?

He glanced over, then set his power drill aside before quickly climbing down. He’d been up there all day, and Alexi was impressed by how much was already done. Satyr insisted they leave the power grid to become more self-sufficient and eco friendly, but Alexi had refused to have panels on the house itself. She didn’t want the aesthetic of their home ruined.

This was their compromise. He’d already dug into the yard to install in-ground power lines connecting the shed, house and garage. For the little boathouse on the lake, he was going to install solar shingles rather than rip up the entire yard. Alexi wouldn’t allow him to destroy the existing gardens.

He moved in close and wrapped an arm around Alexi’s waist, kissing her soundly. She stood on tiptoe when he pulled away to make it last longer while Rachel grinned and fanned herself dramatically.

Explaining her situation to her friend had been embarrassing at first, but Rachel had waved it off with minimal judgement. Mostly she was just jealous.

So you’re poly or something, who cares? The only thing I want to know is how you convinced Hector to let it happen. That man is hella devoted, Rachel had pointed out. And how do I get Jayce on board? I want a fucking hoard of men fawning over me too, damn it!

Alexi had laughed and accepted that explanation with great relief. Rachel’s jaw had literally dropped when she set eyes on the twins. All overprotective brawn with soft expressions whenever they looked at Alexi, and even softer touches.

You have little specks of paint in your hair, Satyr informed her with a frown.

You have leaf fragments in yours, Alexi tossed back.

Hmm, Satyr replied, using his shirt to wipe the sweat from his brow. ‘Where did Hector and Siren get off to?"

They’re already washing up for tea. I made cake. Alexi grinned.

When did you have time to do that? Satyr looked to Rachel as they made their way back to the house. It’s got to be some kind of secret mom thing. Does a fairy pop out of thin air the day you become a mother to share the magic spell that makes you phenomenal multi-taskers?

Alexi and Rachel laughed.

If only it were that easy, Rachel snorted.

There’s got to be something. Nix could barely make herself a sandwich before having Jacob. I swear to the Gods by the time that kid was crawling, she was pureeing his baby food weeks in advance, had his schedule color coded and miraculously learned to sew. Strangest damned thing I’ve ever seen, Satyr continued.

That sounds about right, Alexi bumped his elbow with hers. I didn’t learn to bake until after Lace was born.

"And you finished school, learned to dance, taught yourself how to drive and managed a household all by yourself. Women are fucking amazing." Satyr wrapped an arm around her shoulder, giving her a squeeze. They went inside and Satyr ran straight upstairs to wash up.

Rachel and Alexi went into the kitchen to fetch the refreshments, but Hector was a step ahead of them. He and Siren had already brought everything out onto the table. They’d set up the girls with slices of cake and apple juice.

They’d spent their day sorting parts and getting a good start on building Alexi’s insulated greenhouse, which included a sectioned off garden shed for her tools. She had every intention of spending much of her winter out there.

Siren pulled out Alexi’s chair and fussed over her, pouring her tea and fetching a slice of cake. Alexi sighed, smiling at him fondly. They’d made a deal when it became apparent that her guys wanted to put her in a plastic bubble until the baby was born. Alexi had promptly informed them that she’d rather die than be treated like an invalid.

When the guys scaled back, she made allowances for their ridiculousness. They were already two months in, but she was still finding it all levels of adorable and annoying.

Thank you for the cake Mama! Lacy said noisily around a mouthful of frosting. Siren brought her a napkin, wiping her face while she squirmed and Morgan giggled.

Lex! Satyr’s voice growled from the kitchen. She looked over her shoulder and frowned. He strode out to the deck and fixed her with a scowl. I thought we agreed there wouldn’t be any girly shit painted in the bedroom.

Papa Sae! Lacy shrieked. He reached over and ruffled her hair.

Sorry Lay-Lay.

It’s not in the bedroom, it’s in the sitting room, Alexi protested. Hector snickered; he’d gone with her when she picked out the colors. Whatever Alexi was up to with her decorating, he was sure it would look great in the end. The aesthetic of her apartment had been comfortable for all of them.

Kitten, it’s pink! Satyr complained.

It’s eggplant purple! Alexi and Rachel gasped at the same time, then erupted in laughter.

Same difference, Satyr grumbled.

Seriously Sae, we should get your eyes checked, Siren said, drinking his tea.

It’s only one accent wall, the rest are going to be gray, Alexi soothed, taking his hand and kissing his fingers. Then we’re going to paint the moulding white and you guys can install it.

It’s sounding girlier by the minute, Satyr chuffed. He sighed and crouched down next to Alexi rather than taking a chair. He was perfectly content to be near her.

Most of the house had wood beams for walls, with the exception of the basement, one wall in the kitchen, and their sitting room, which had been a stark white. They’d agreed on a soothing green for the basement guest room, but Alexi hadn’t picked a color for the kitchen yet. She stroked the back of his neck absently and sipped her tea.

You aren’t really mad, are you? she asked, widening her eyes slightly. Satyr shoved a piece of cake into his mouth, grumbling incoherently at her.

Of course he isn’t, he’s just being his growly self, Siren chimed in. Alexi smiled at him gratefully. Siren had relaxed into family life so easily, it was like he’d always been there with them. He always seemed to know exactly what to do or say to ease her mind.

Satyr finished off his cake and drained his tea.

How long until we need leave? he asked. Hector checked his watch.

We’ve got a while yet, about four hours, the vampire answered.

Which gives us plenty of time to finish up the sitting room and get dressed, Rachel said cheerily. Lex, can I have this recipe?

I’d have to guess the amounts, I didn’t use a recipe. Alexi shrugged.

She never does, she just throws shit in a bowl and makes magic, Satyr praised.

Papa Sae! Language!

Sorry Lace.

We’re going to have to get you a swear jar, mister, Alexi joked.

You curse as much as anyone else around here, he snorted.

Ah, but I know how to curb it around the small folk, she teased. Satyr stood and stole another kiss, then came up with a better idea. He lifted her from her chair and carried her inside.

Oh my, Rachel laughed.

Sae, we have company, Alexi protested. He brought her into the kitchen and sat her on the counter, pulling her to the edge so he could settle his hips against hers.

I don’t care, Kitten. I haven’t had you to myself all day, Satyr growled. He touched her cheek, then kissed her, teasing her lip with his teeth until she relented. She slipped her tongue into his mouth, tasting the left over sweetness of frosting. He was filled with unease, and he had been all week. If her kisses could soothe him, she’d give him as many as he wanted.

Satyr’s arms wrapped around her waist and held her tight. Alexi knew exactly what he was so worried about, and she couldn’t blame him. His sister Nixie, her mate Ray and their son Jacob would be there one week from tomorrow. Alexi would meet a small portion of his family for the first time.

She’d spoken with Nixie over text every day since that phone call, but she’d only been able to put off the inevitable for a few weeks. Siren assured her that once Nixie visited, it would open the floodgates. Their mother would come next, then cousins, aunties and uncles soon after. They were a tight-knit family.

It wasn’t that Satyr was worried about his family and Alexi getting along. He wasn’t worried about them disliking her, though there was more than enough worry to go around for Hector.

When Alexi had forced her mating bond with him, she’d broken shifter law. She’d have done anything to keep him in her life. Satyr and Siren didn’t much care, in fact, Hector had become almost as much Satyr’s lover as he was Alexi’s. Their family might not see it the same way, though.

When Alexi had mentioned him