Lost Embrace (Immortals of New Orleans #6.5) by Kym Grosso

friend, that she’d never hurt him. She cut off all sexual thoughts, but still ensured it was pleasurable for Anthony.
    As she released Anthony’s arm, she felt a small comforting hand on her shoulder and glanced up at Samantha. The red-haired witch was full with child, and they expected she’d go into labor within the month.
    “You did nicely,” she said softly.
    “Thanks, Sam. You okay?” Sydney asked Anthony. Relief poured through her as his eyes flickered open and he gave her a grin.
    “Yeah, I’m good.”
    “Thank God,” she sighed.
    “Not as good as last night, but with the big man out…”
    “Don’t even joke about it.”
    “We’re going to find him.”
    “I know, but right now, I can’t think of anything else but getting Kade home safe.”
    “He’s a strong vampire.” Samantha sat down next to Sydney and took her hand. “And you’re strong too. I can see it in your aura. Everything has changed. You and Luca can do this.”
    “Hey, what about me? I’m startin’ to feel a little underappreciated here.” Anthony inspected his forearm and rubbed his fingers over the newly formed skin.
    “You’re human. You must be careful,” Samantha noted.
    “The humans never understand how truly weak they are,” Luca added, brushing his hand over Samantha’s hair. “It’d be comical if it weren’t so pathetic.”
    “Hey,” Samantha scolded, glaring at the father of her child. “Not nice.”
    “But true,” he countered.
    “Still not nice. You’re going to have to learn some manners when our daughter is born.”
    “I’ll teach her how to fight off the vampires who seek to court her.”
    “She’ll be able to fight them off herself with magic. Now, don’t distract me.” Her eyes darted over to Anthony, who looked amused by their exchange. “Even though Anthony is human, he can still help. But he must be extra cautious. Remember, dear, I was able to defend myself.”
    “But you were a witch when you did that. When you were mortal…darlin’, you know that didn’t turn out so well.”
    “True, but Sydney was the one who saved me,” Samantha countered. “And she was human when she did it. Now she’s like you. And more determined than ever.”
    “Thanks for sticking up for me, ma’am, but I’m going no matter what these vamps say. I may not be all badass like Luca the Drac, but I’m a sharp shooter. I’m good with a stake too, if I must say. Been trainin’ at home.”
    “You’re not serious.” Sydney shook her head.
    “Like a heart attack. I just need a glass of juice and I’m gonna be ready to go here.”
    “Do you feel okay?” Sydney asked again, her voice soft with concern. She placed her palm to his cheek. “Did I take too much? I’m really sorry. I thought I only took a little bit…”
    “I’m fine. It’s like blood bank day at the station. Although I could use a cookie. Maybe a kiss to make it feel better.” He waggled his eyebrows at her and she slapped his arm.
    “Stop trying to distract me. If anything happens to you tonight, I’ll never forgive myself.”
    “Ah, as much as I detest humans, I must give credence to the detective’s courage,” Luca said, giving Samantha a smile.
    “He’s going.” Sydney blew out a breath and shook her head. “Dominique and Xavier stay home with Samantha.”
    “I don’t need them,” Samantha protested. “I’m well able to take care of myself.”
    “No arguments, darlin’. You and our baby are my world right now. Whoever did this will suspect I’m going with Sydney. They’ll know you’re alone.”
    “Sam, I know how it is to feel a little…” Sydney searched for another word besides helpless. It wasn’t that Samantha didn’t have powers, but they couldn’t put her in jeopardy. She already had difficulty walking the distance between their homes. “…vulnerable. I know you got magic, girl, but with the baby? No…just no.”
    “Hell no,” Luca added.
    Samantha looked to Anthony, who shrugged.
    “Sorry.