Something about Fabiana said to protect her, to wrap her in gauze and save her from the hell of the world. The gentle way Pasquale took Fabiana into his arms and hugged her spoke of that.
Giuliana had never been soft like that. Never been one to be protected because she couldn’t protect herself. They’d done it because they thought it was best for her. She’d never been fragile. And sometimes, she worried her fight to be so strong and independent made her so she’d never be what men wanted.
Strong men, powerful men, wanted women who made them feel needed. Not women who’d rip off their balls for stepping the wrong way. Not women like Giuliana.
It’s exactly what we want.
Snow. He’d spoken into her mind, and Giuliana’s gaze met Pasquale’s over Fabiana’s head.
We hold her so we won’t break her. We hold you because we know, even with all our strength, you’re impossible to shatter. The snow is of home, but fire is in the heart.
She swallowed as Snow’s words faded in her head.
Oh my gods … he is sooooooooooo going to get laid.
Way to ruin the moment, Red.
Only because your panties haven’t hit the floor.
His sister is standing right there.
Audience!
Um, no.
Spoilsport. She’d run away anyway. You blow too hard and the girl would crumble.
She’s not weak.
Giuliana was surprised at her own defense of Fabiana, but she wouldn’t call her weak, not after what Pasquale had told her.
“Hello, Paz.”
Paz? She calls him Paz? Mine!
Simmer down. I think the name is cute.
Diminutive for a diminutive woman.
Cut it out.
Her wolf only stuck her tongue out, obviously in a snit because she wasn’t going to get some at the moment.
“We need to talk to you, Fabiana.”
Fabiana ducked her head and hid her face in Pasquale’s shoulder. “Am I about to get in trouble?”
Pasquale stepped back and held her arms, and Fabiana looked up at him. “No. Just need information to help with the missing pack member.”
“Okay …” She peeked over at Giuliana. “You sure?”
“Yes, little one. Now, Giuliana, I’m going to say it.”
With balled fists and determination not to let that singular world blow her to smithereens, she answered. “Go ahead.”
Impossible to shatter.
Snow’s words bolstered her.
