03-Strength of the Mate Read Free Page B

it in one of the cubbies in the expansive center dashboard. Back on the ground, Adam stashed his bug-out bag behind his seat. The bag contained emergency essentials, like a change of clothes, a roll of toilet paper, and a spare Ka-Bar Jason had given him the first time they’d ridden together. It was the only weapon Ares allowed, but they still didn’t let him carry it on his person.
    “Madison,” a familiar voice called.
    Adam glanced around the open door of his truck to find Dawson Rivers quickly approaching.
    “Gunnery Sergeant,” Adam greeted hastily, extending his hand. Rivers shook it vigorously. A bolt of electricity raced up Adam’s arm, slamming into his heart. It had to be wishful thinking, though. Adam didn’t get to have a magical connection, like the beautiful people in movies all do.
    “I was pleasantly surprised when Noah told me you work aboard Camp Fallujah,” the gunny said with a smile. He wore his armor vest and Kevlar, M16 secured to a sling and gripped lightly in his left hand. His sunglasses hung from the webbing of his vest, so his lavender colored eyes met Adam’s directly.
    Rivers was a good looking guy. At about six-feet, he was slightly taller than Adam. His dark hair was clipped short, like so many Marines wore it. His heavily muscled frame looked even broader with all of the gear he wore. Adam’s stomach tightened in a weirdly pleasant way. His heart beat faster and his breathing sped up whenever Dawson Rivers looked him square in the eye.
    “I was really surprised to hear you were joining us here,” Adam confessed. “I don’t know that many werewolves. What are the odds one of the few I do know would show up here?” Christ. Was he babbling?
    Rivers’ laugh sent a warm shower of sparks down Adam’s spine. He couldn’t help staring at Dawson’s sexy smile. The sparks in his spine settled in his groin, stirring his dick. Fuck. Adam dragged his gaze back to Rivers’ unusual eyes.
    “When the major told us you were here, Noah ordered me to keep an eye on you.” Dawson’s grin was mischievous, almost naughty. “The major immediately countermanded that order. I take it you made it clear to your brother you don’t need a babysitter?”
    Adam flushed, knowing he’d been a topic of conversation in Tim’s office. “More like I don’t want to be spied on.” Saying it out loud made it seem ridiculous now. Adam needed to learn to keep his fat mouth shut. Rivers probably didn’t give a shit about Madison family drama.
    “I’ve got older brothers, too,” Dawson said conspiratorially. “It’s obvious both your balls have dropped. You don’t need a keeper. Besides, I got my hands full with the shifters.” He quickly glanced at all the activity buzzing around them. A fleeting look of disapproval crossed his face, but was immediately gone. “No time to worry about what—or who—you’re doing. But if you need anything, don’t hesitate to ask.” His brilliant smile was back.
    Adam didn’t get the idea he was included in whatever Dawson was unhappy about, so he could agree to his request, no problem. He appreciated that Rivers was showing him respect, so he’d do the same. Besides, Rivers was just following orders. “Me and Tim worked it out,” he said, trying to sound like it was old news. “The werewolves are glad you’re here, so I’m glad you’re here.” Did that even make sense?
    Before Dawson could reply, Jason reappeared. He sat down beside them, watching Rivers expectantly. Adam saw Dawson scan Jason from ears to tail, his expression dark and worried. Rivers lifted his chin and inhaled, the worry clearing from his face.
    “This is Corporal Jason Rodriguez,” Adam said. “Or did you already know that?” He wanted to know why Dawson was concerned, but didn’t want to put him on the spot with Jason right there.
    Dawson shot him a self-deprecating grin that slammed into Adam’s gut like a solid punch. “I knew I’d met him, but I still don’t have