A Warrior Thanksgiving, page 11
“Sooner or later?” Sloan frowned not liking the sound of that. “If there is a demon problem, I want to know about it sooner rather than later.”
“You and me both, but that’s not how it works for me. At least not yet.” Daniel replied not at all offended by Sloan’s brash attitude. “I do suggest that any Warriors or Guardians not going out on shifts make sure that the kids get back safely as well as the Mates. Just to be on the safe side.”
Sloan nodded trusting Daniel’s instincts. He knew the kid was still trying to get a grip on the new knowledge of his title of Demon Slayer, he just hoped he hurried the fuck up because deep in his gut he had a feeling Daniel was going to play a big part in saving this fucked up world.
Hearing laughter he turned to see Becky walking back toward the kids leaning down listening to something the little girl was excitedly telling her. Becky’s laughter warmed him in ways nothing else did. As he watched her take the girl back to her seat then make sure all the kids had what they needed he realized what a lucky fucking bastard he was. His eyes went back to the little girl who was looking at him. Slowly she raised her hand and gave him a small shy wave. The heart he didn’t think he had begun to melt as he lifted his hand and waved back. Her smile grew showing tiny fangs. His hand dropped as he stared at her, then his eyes went to Becky who knelt next to a boy but was watching as a small tear leaked from her eyes. He wondered so many times in his long life if this fucked up world was worth saving. As his eyes went back to the little girl he knew it was most definitely worth saving and so were the innocents caught in the middle.
Daniel walked up eating a piece of pumpkin pie. “Cute kids.” Daniel said as he took a bite.
Sloan answered by making a noise in the back of his throat. His bleak thoughts not making him feel talkative. Not that Sloan was much of a talker anyway. Glancing at Daniel he realized that not long-ago Daniel was just a kid like them and if he was being honest, it blew his fucking mind as he stared at him now as a full-grown man.
“They’re the key.” Daniel finished off his pie as he continued to stare at the kids.
“The key? To what?” Sloan frowned his eyes going back to the table full of excited chattering children.
“Victory.” Daniel’s voice deepened bringing Sloan’s focus back to him. Daniel’s eyes swirled as he stared at Sloan. “Evil feeds on the innocent. Nicole was destined for her role as were we all. None of what has happened was by accident. We were chosen for this purpose, the Warriors and Guardians combining isn’t just something that happened. It was meant to be. This is a war that has been fought since the beginning of time. Good versus evil and they, Sloan, are the key. Save them, save everything.”
Sloan’s eyes went back to the children, his gaze landing on the little girl who was staring at him with so much trust and hope it almost brought him to his knees. “And if we fail?” Sloan asked but knew the answer.
“We won’t fail. Can’t fail.” Daniel said with so much conviction it put Sloan at ease which was a miracle all in itself. Sloan was never at ease with anything…ever. “But many will perish before victory can be claimed.”
Feeling a growl rumble in his chest, Sloan kept it there as he continued to stare at Daniel’s wide swirling gaze. “Not on my watch.”
Daniel seemed to snap out of it as he finally blinked, the swirling slowing as a smile spread across his lips. He then nodded as if pleased with Sloan’s response to his prediction as he started to walk away. “But for today enjoy some pumpkin pie, Sloan. Tomorrow is another day.”
Sloan laughed shaking his head at this odd, but Daniel like, conversation. “That it is, Daniel.”
“Oh, one more thing.” Daniel stopped turning around. “Adam is struggling.”
“Struggling? How?” Sloan asked with a frown. He did know that Angelina had walked out on Adam, but that was as far as his knowledge on the situation went. He didn’t like to interfere in his Warriors personal business with their Mates. It wasn’t his place unless it was interfering in their duties and Adam seemed to have things in that department under control.
“Not for me to say.” Daniel said as expected. “But he needs a…. father figure in his life and well, he has always looked at you as such. Happy Thanksgiving, Sloan.”
Sloan frowned as he watched Daniel walk away. What the actual fuck? Did Daniel know he was having an internal struggle about fatherhood? Why had he used the word father? Why didn’t he just say Adam needed some help, someone to talk to or a swift kick in the ass? His gaze roamed the area, but Adam was nowhere in sight. His eyes went back to Daniel who stood with Duncan but was staring straight at him. He then gave him a nod as if affirming he did, in fact, know Sloan’s inner struggles and that unsettled Sloan more than he wanted to admit.
“Hey.” Becky’s voice brought him out of his trance. Looking down into her worried face he managed a smile. “You good? Have you eaten yet?”
Pulling her to his side he held her against him afraid if she looked into his eyes too long, she would see too much. “I’m fine.” He assured her then headed toward the food. “Heard the pumpkin pie was good.”
Just then the same little girl walked to them holding a plate with a piece of pumpkin pie on it. She held it up to Sloan with a shy smile. Sloan swallowed hard as he stared at it then glanced toward Daniel who held up his second piece giving Sloan a knowing wink.
“Happy Thanksgiving.” The little voice had him looking away from Daniel and back down at her.
Sloan knelt slowly then took the plate from her small hands. “Happy Thanksgiving, Melissa.” It was at that moment Sloan knew Daniel was right. Save them, save everything. Sloan vowed at that very moment he would die making sure that victory would be theirs.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, Teresa Gabelman, writes paranormal romance and contemporary romance with a side of humor in each story. Her heroines are strong and independent keeping the sexy alpha heroes on their toes.
Being a full-time writer has allowed Teresa to connect more with readers which is what she loves most about writing. If you find the time she would love to hear from you!
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A Warrior Halloween (The Protectors Series) Novella
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A Warrior Thanksgiving (The Protectors Series) Novella
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The Enforcer Series:
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Follow Me @
TeresaGabelman.com
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Gabelman, Teresa, A Warrior Thanksgiving
