Anchor of Secrets (Supernaturals of Castle Academy, #2)

by Tessa Hale

“I just—I wanted to be wanted.”

“I need you to hear me, Little Bird. The greatest act of love I’ll ever give you is staying the hell away.”

“Are you seriously willing to go insane just to keep her around?” A grin spread across Trace’s face, but it had a manic quality to it. “I’m already insane. But that doesn’t change the fact that she’s mine.”

“He’s more likely to take your head off than welcome you with a kiss and a cuddle.” “Then I’ll just have to sit with him headless.”

“I have all the faith in you. It’s the rest of the world I don’t trust.”

“Don’t get dead, okay?” Trace’s fingers dug into my ass. “Your life might be simpler if I did.” I grabbed his hair and pulled his head back, hard. “Don’t you ever say anything like that ever again. You’re a pain in the ass, but you’re my pain in the ass.”

“Scared, my little firecracker?” “No,” I breathed. “I almost believe you.”

“You gonna help me with bio?” He grinned. “Always.” Ronan snorted. “Helping you with bio is like foreplay to him.” “Hey, we’ve all got our kinks,” Dash shot back.

“What should we do today?” I dropped my hands from my face and scanned the table. “Don’t we have various nefarious characters to try to take down this weekend?” The corner of Trace’s mouth kicked up. “I wouldn’t mind a little casual murder.” Colt groaned. “You are not in charge of activities. Ever.” Trace frowned. “You’re always such a buzzkill.”

“You’re not going back to that monster,” Ronan growled. Declan met his brother’s stare. “Ronan—” “No. We’ll chain you up in the basement if you try.” Declan’s lips twitched. “Why does that feel like a warm hug?”

“If they weren’t already against us, I think causing them severe bodily harm might change that tune.” Trace’s mouth pulled into a frown. “Why does everyone have to be so touchy?” Dash rolled his eyes. “Losing a finger will do that to a person.”

“You’re pathetic. The fact that you can’t see what an incredible son you have is just sad. He’s caring and fierce and loyal. It’s your loss, your punishment, really, to lose out on truly knowing him. But I hope you have a permanent case of hemorrhoids, too.”

“I do have free will, you know.” “Of course, you do,” Declan agreed. “But don’t use it to be an idiot.”

“I trust you with my life. It’s me I don’t trust.”