The Naturals, #2
Killer Instinct
by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
Contents
Chapter 2
Overview
The Naturals celebrate Mackenzie’s rescue with an impromptu backyard dance that cements their bond. Lia deliberately provokes Dean by dancing closely with Michael, and Michael plays along, heightening rivalry. Cassie enjoys belonging but avoids choosing between Michael and Dean. The chapter closes on rising tension as Lia presses Michael, baiting Dean.
Summary
As September wanes, Cassie and the Naturals ride the high of saving Mackenzie McBride, celebrating in their Quantico backyard. Lia sets the music and pulls Cassie and Sloane onto the lawn, turning the moment into a carefree dance. Sloane’s exuberant bouncing contrasts with Lia’s fluid grace, while Dean refuses to join.
Michael, still limping, gamely dances, and Lia presses close to him. Cassie realizes Lia is baiting Dean, whose protective, brooding stance sharpens. Sloane predicts a potential fight. To defuse things, Cassie jokes that Dean can “brood in beat,” drawing a rare laugh and prompting Michael to ease away from Lia.
Michael twirls Cassie, sensing her mixed reactions. He denies playing games with her, admitting he was provoking Dean. Cassie reflects on the fragile balance: she values the team and belonging more than romance and tries to keep her feelings about Michael and Dean contained.
When Lia swaps back to Michael, she leans in and purrs, “Do you feel lucky?”, renewing the provocation. The evening ends with camaraderie strained by flirtation and rivalry, signaling unresolved tensions within the group despite their shared victory.
Who Appears
- Cassie HobbesNarrator; revels in the team’s victory, navigates feelings for Michael and Dean, prioritizes belonging.
- Lia ZhangChooses music and dances provocatively with Michael to needle Dean, escalating group tension.
- Michael TownsendJoins the dancing despite a limp, plays along with Lia’s teasing, twirls Cassie, admits provoking Dean.
- Dean ReddingRefuses to dance, broods protectively, reacts to Lia and Michael’s flirtation, tension focal point.
- Sloane TavishBouncy, enthusiastic dancer; quips about a 40% chance of a fight; shares in the celebratory mood.