Flipped Off by Zenina Masters Read Free Book Online Page B

restored my youth and urge to survive. In return for their help, I made them clothing that was sturdy and protective with my hair woven into the fabric. If they needed me, I would come.”
    “Did they?”
    “Once or twice. I was called, and I pulled on my giant form and the waves were at my beck and call as I told the man that if he ever raised his hand against his wife or child again, I would tear him limb from limb. I believe there was another time when I had to return.”
    “And you have no problem killing men.”
    She shrugged. “Most merfolk think that a life lost to the sea is an honourable death.”
    Adam nodded. “How did you find us?”
    “I followed your directions on your GPS system, and when I noted you were not in an area that would yield treasure, I scrolled back to see your path. That is the kind of motion that is being controlled by someone without patience, and we both know that isn’t you. I knew something was up, and since you have to publicly file your salvage plans, I suspected pirates. I shifted and got myself to you as fast as I could. Apologies for not being faster.”
    “You arrived in time. I was having a helluva time blocking my pain from the handfasting link.”
    She blinked. “Could you feel me through that link?”
    “It was a cool blank with flashes of affection.”
    “Damn. I didn’t think to look for you.”
    “It is all right. You had other things on your mind.”
    She smiled and looked out at the ocean. It was calling to her. “Where are the guys?”
    “They are taking a trip to the mainland on the zodiac. They will be back tomorrow.”
    Lorai grinned. “In that case, did you want to go on a treasure hunt with me? We can be back to the ship in a few hours.”
    “Hours? The ship is under us.”
    She laughed. “Not this one. There is a far older vessel just a few miles from here. Come on.”
    Lorai got to her feet and stripped before walking to the railing and jumping into the sea. The splash next to her spoke to Adam’s ability to strip at speed.
    She smiled at him, kissed him quickly and shifted into her mer form.
    Under the surface, he flicked his tail and grabbed her, holding her close as they twisted through the water. She steered and he provided propulsion. It was a balance she was delighted to strike.
     

Chapter Eight
     
     
    Four months later, Lorwella’s face had taken on a more malleable texture. When Lorai and Adam walked up to her, she smiled. “Welcome, daughter. You are glowing.”
    Lorai grinned. “Thank you, Mother. It is good to see you again.”
    Adam bowed. “Lady Lorwella, I greet you on behalf of myself and the Srim family. I am Adam, and I am your daughter’s mate.”
    Lorwella smirked. “As she is obviously pregnant, I am glad she has a mate who can match her in all elements.”
    Lorai chuckled. “It took some doing, but his giant form is now suitable for your inspection.”
    Adam had worked at it and was now a stately twelve feet tall.
    He stood with his left arm behind Lorai’s right, backing her up and framing her. It was a pose suitable to the giant community, as the men were usually taller and blotted out the women if they didn’t literally stand behind their mates.
    Adam had studied her peoples’ cultures, and she had studied the ways of the dolphin shifters. They were both equipped for any family events that came up.
    “Adam, what is your profession?”
    Lorai snickered.
    “Lady, I am a treasure hunter and a dive instructor.”
    “Successful?”
    “Very.”
    “What will you do if my first grandchild is a girl?”
    “Laugh with glee and call my sisters. I have grown up in a matriarchal family. My people listen to the eldest female of the clan, and in our family, that will be Lorai.”
    “Suitable answer. When are you due, Lorai?”
    “If all goes well, two seasons from now. I am due at the end of summer.”
    Lorwella frowned. “I will not be free by then.”
    “I know, but the baby will come in its own time. I will take a