Fierce Obsessions (The Phoenix Pack, #6)

by Suzanne Wright

“What is it about humans that bugs you so much? It’s not just the prejudiced ones that annoy you.” “I don’t like what I don’t understand, and I just don’t get the human race. They do the weirdest fucking stuff. Dress their pets in little outfits. Lie that they walked on the moon. Vote for Donald Trump. None of that makes sense to me.”

she gave away more pussy than a cat rescue center.”

“What are you thinking?” he asked, sidestepping a berry bush. “I’m thinking that I shouldn’t have let you talk me out of bitch-slapping Cynthia for ripping your clothes.” Riley swatted a gnat. “I’m also thinking that I don’t like that she saw us fucking.” “Is she the type to gossip?” “Depends on the topic. Why?” “If she goes around telling people how big my dick is, you might find yourself with some competition, even if I am an asshole.”

Studying one of her on her fifth birthday, Tao said, “You look . . . sweet. I can’t imagine you ever being sweet.” Ethan chuckled. “She was sweet when she wanted something.” “And so damn cute and funny,” said Max. “Remember her second Christmas with us, Ethan?” Max ignored Riley’s groan and turned to Tao. “We asked her to write a list of the things she wanted so we could post it to Santa. She came to us later and it read, ‘A new bear, a bike, a Minnie Mouse dress, and a pair of tits.’” Tao burst out laughing. “Turned out she was trying to spell ‘tights,’

Before you assure me that you’ll be fine here, know that you’re coming with me. There’s no way I’m leaving you here alone. Huff and stamp your feet if you want—I don’t mind watching your tits jiggle.”

Neither she nor Tao said a word as he drove them back to the cabin. Inside he surprised her by shoving the coffee table and sofa close to the wall, creating a large space. He then turned to face her and invited, “Hit me.” She blinked. “What?” “Hit me,” Tao repeated, sensing just how on edge she was. “You’re gonna snap if you don’t get it all out of you. Don’t worry; I can take a punch from an itty-bitty thing like—motherfucker.” He stroked his jaw, trying to ease the pain pounding through it thanks to the blow she’d just dealt him. “You weren’t supposed to be that enthusiastic about it.” She shrugged, smiling sweetly. “Sorry.”

You’re not listening to me, are you?” Blinking, Riley looked up from her seat at the breakfast bar. “I am,” she lied. “Oh yeah?” said Tao, doubt heavy in his voice. “What did I just say?” She pursed her lips. “I’m still processing it.” “What exactly are you processing?” “Let’s not revisit the past, Tao.” He closed his eyes and banged his empty mug on the counter. “Too early for this shit, Porter. Too early.”

“That doesn’t mean he wasn’t pissed,” said Ryan, scratching at his palm. Makenna smiled and touched his arm. “Ooh, you’re going to get money soon.” Ryan scowled at his mate. “What?” “If the palm of your right hand itches, it means you’ll get money soon.” Ryan stared at her. “Tell me you don’t truly believe that.” She waved a hand. “Fine, be pessimistic.” “I’m not being pessimistic, I’m being realistic. Try it sometime.” Makenna huffed. “I don’t know why you insist on thinking there’s no substance in superstitions. I told Riley not to go traveling on a Friday because it brings misfortune, but she didn’t heed the warning and look what happened.” “You honestly think all this happened because she came here on a Friday?” Makenna lifted her chin. “I don’t care for your tone.” “I don’t have a tone.”

“Have you seen what she’s done to me!” The shriek had them both turning. And gawking. “Oh good God,” muttered Trick, shoulders shaking. Marching up the cliff steps, Greta planted herself in front of Tao, bird shit dripping off her head and shoulder. “Look what she did to me!” “Technically it wasn’t Riley,” said Trick. “It was her raven.”