“Good morning, alpha.” Jeremy leans away from the counter, trying to catch Tristan’s eye.
Tristan lets out a grunt before finally looking up. His gaze shoots from Jeremy to me, and his expression shifts. I can’t read the look in his eyes. Is he angry? Sad? Hungry?
“Morning,” I mumble, then freeze when Tristan marches straight for me. His fists are balled up tight, his eyes boring into my face. I want to back up, but I know in my bones he won’t hurt me.
“Beth,” he snarls, and I begin to tremble.
“Ah-alpha.” I swallow hard, prepared to grovel. “I’m so sorry,” I whisper. “I shouldn’t have?—”
Tristan lifts both of his hands, holding them out wide. I squeeze my eyes shut tight, bracing myself. But then, massive arms wrap around me and I’m pulled gently against Tristan’s massive tattooed chest. He cradles me, pressing his cheek against the top of my head as he sways.
You knew he wouldn’t hurt you. The voice in the back of my head mocks my reaction.
“Thank the heavens you’re okay,” he whispers, squeezing me a little tighter. It’s a shockingly tender hug. Possessive. Maybe even scared.
“I’m sorry.” I wrap my arms around Tristan’s bulky ribcage, hugging him back the best I can with my juice in my hand.
The alpha’s big hands splay flat against my back, encouraging me to nuzzle him. Needing comfort, I rub my nose between his pecs, inhaling his smokey sweet aroma.I never realized how lovely bonfires smelled before.
“Is everyone feeling better this morning?” Killian’s voice breaks the silence, and Tristan slowly unfurls his arms. His hands travel up, cupping my face. His dark brown eyes hold mine for a second, and the urge to cry washes over me.
“I’m glad you’re okay.” His thumb brushes against my cheekbone. Then he abruptly turns, leaving me lightheaded and shamed.
“Good morning, beautiful.” Basil comes up behind Tristan. He kisses my cheek, then scents the top of my head. I can practically feel the tangles in my hair. It’ll take me forever to brush it out. “How did you sleep?” He holds the back of my head, cradling me.
It feels so…sweet.
“Good.” I force the single word from my tight throat.Don’t cry.
“I know it’s early,” Killian sits at his spot at the head of the table, “but I’d like to talk to you.” He’s staring right at me. And while his tone is as kind as ever, I can't help but think this is it. I’m going to be punished, and it’s about freaking time.
The waiting is killing me.
“Have a seat.” Killian motions to the chair next to him.
I hug my juice to my chest, and make my way around the kitchen island. Jeremy watches me as I go, but the beta isn’t smiling anymore.
Yup.I’m about to see how this pack really handles defiance.
Maybe another spanking?
I doubt it since it was so obvious how much I shamefully enjoyed it. But surely it won’t be much worse than that.
I hope…
I set my glass on the table, then sit. Tristan plops into the chair across from me, bumping the table. It makes the orange juice slosh, and drip down the side, rolling toward the table. I quickly pick it up and lick the side so it won’t make a mess, and Tristan’s eyes narrow. A heat builds between us as I slowly lower my glass back onto the table.
This isn’t the time for sexy thoughts!I yell at myself, then force myself to look directly at Killian.
“Why did you leave the house last night?” The pack alpha gets right to the point.
I glance back into the kitchen, looking from Basil to Jeremy. They both stay on the other side of the kitchen island, watching the conversation unfold. I wish they were closer. I feel like one of them would jump in if things got out of control.
They won’t get out of control.That voice keeps correcting my thoughts, trying desperately to reassure me.
“Beth,” Killian’s voice is soft but serious. “Are you not happy with us?” His brows raise, genuinely curious. “Can you not see how much we adore you?”
“I can see it.” I duck my head, feeling stupid all over again. “But…” I pause and touch the charm dangling from my necklace. “I miss my mom,” I say honestly, before glancing at Tristan. “I know I’m supposed to let my family go when I find a new pack, but I can’t. I refuse to just forget about her.” I stare at Killian, hoping he understands.
