Free Meow Or Never: BBW SEAL Shifter Surprise Pregnancy Romance (Chicago Catastrophe) by Anya Nowlan, Rory Dale

guys were regarding him with open scowls, but most just looked bored and eager to get on with their day.
    The Crimson Claws weren’t a daycare, no one expected to get their hand held. Everyone knew that if you fucked up, you had to pay the price. That was their reality. Loyalties were fluid and friendships temporary, especially during a shaky time like this. There would be no tears shed over Dempsy’s demise.
    They’d forget about Dempsy, but they wouldn’t forget about the man who took him out.
    “You’re probably all wondering what’s next, now that Dempsy is gone. Don’t worry, it’s business as usual. River has already appointed a replacement. Say hello to your new lieutenant,” Troy declared with a grin, meeting one pair of eyes after another.
    “You?” Lucky demanded, incredulous and visibly annoyed.
    Troy gave him a look and then glanced at Culliver, fuming at the door, arms crossed. Lucky had been the head of Dempsy’s detail, while Culliver was his right-hand man. He’d already dealt with Culliver’s initial reaction, much the same as Lucky’s now.
    There was practically steam coming out of Culliver ears. Neither of them could be happy that Troy had taken over when they were the ones hoping to go up next and claim the position left vacant by Dempsy, with Culliver being the likely favorite.
    Hell, that’s what Troy had assumed before getting River’s message.
    He had to show strength and determination or these guys were going to walk all over him.
    “Yes, me. You had someone else in mind?” Troy asked, looking at the man pointedly.
    Troy hadn’t really spent a lot of time with Culliver, but his dislike for the man had been almost instant. He was boring and petty and had no sense of humor whatsoever. He had this quiet, seedy air about him that was almost palpable.
    “I got the command to take over from River this morning. The decision’s been made and if any of you have a problem with it, you’re welcome to step into my office. You all know what happened to the last guy who was sitting in my seat.”
    Culliver grew silent, probably not wanting to come off jealous or disobedient. Everyone was treading on the side of caution, the last thing they wanted to do was piss off River. Troy waited for a couple of seconds, but no one had anything else to say.
    “Alright, then. Get back to work. Culliver, I’ll see you in my office so you can get me up to speed on everything.”
    Troy could see the man grit his teeth, but all he did was nod. The crew scattered, getting on with their everyday business.
    My crew, Troy thought with some bemusement.
    He hadn’t been expecting this a year ago, that was certain.
    Troy strolled to his new office with Culliver trailing not far behind. When they were both inside, Culliver closed the door after him and stared at Troy as he got behind the large, glossy desk.
    For a moment, Troy thought the man might make a move. Culliver tensed, the muscles in his neck straining, but within a second he relaxed and conjured up a neutral expression. Troy was almost disappointed.
    “What can I help you with?” Culliver asked evenly.
    The speed with which his demeanor changed told Troy he needed to look out for him. He was just biding his time, waiting for Troy to slip up. Like the rest of them. No honor among thieves and cutthroats.
    “Whatever you think is most relevant. I know Dempsy really valued your input and I plan to, as well,” Troy responded, making sure to control his tone of voice and make it sound as neutral as he could.
    He would do well to keep Culliver in his inner circle. The man was more likely to let his hand show if Troy leaned on him and made him believe he needed Culliver’s help.
    Keep your friends close…
    But he also needed people who would actually try and be helpful. He thought back, running through the roster of Dempsy’s men and remembering which ones seemed to have their heads on straight and got their jobs done.
    “Call in Reaver, and Ace, as well.