Hot and Badgered (Honey Badger Chronicles, #1)

by Shelly Laurenston

Before Tiny could even flex his muscles, though, Dutch was next to him. Against him. He sniffed his way up Tiny’s chest, looked at him, then abruptly huffed. Twice. Shocked, Tiny took a startled step back and Dutch huffed again, moving closer. Huffed again, moved closer. Then he unleashed his fangs. Fangs that could crush nearly anything. The bear unleashed his claws, but Charlie quickly stepped between the two huffing males and snarled, “I am trying to be a good neighbor. I’m not sure how one does that, but I’m almost positive bloodshed is not involved!” She pointed her finger at Tiny. “So put those claws away.” She glared at Dutch. “And don’t you even think about doing anything involving your anal glands.” Dutch grinned, his fangs still out. “Sweet talker.” “Here, Tiny.” She handed Tiny the cake she’d been planning to give to the Dunns. “It’s honey-pineapple.” “Oh. Uh . . . thanks.” Tiny took the cake and turned to walk away, but he stopped, looked back at Dutch. “Honey badger?” he guessed. “Hardly,” Dutch said, his voice full of that ridiculous pride, his fang-filled grin widening even more. “Wolverine.” Frowning, Tiny focused on Charlie. “I didn’t know you’d be bringing wolverines here.” “Racist.”

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