This must be Cade. I try to speak, but my throat is tight and I only end up gurgling. He glares suddenly at one of the boys who watches, smirking.

"How much did you give her?"

The grinning one stills, suddenly fearful. "Just the usual," he says, his anxiety clear in his voice. It makes me want to laugh. "I swear."

Cade's scowl is as handsome as his smile. "If you've damaged her, I'll kill you myself."

The kid backs off, head dropping. Somehow the threat ...