I let my eyes flutter closed as she got to work, her brushes gently swiping over my skin, beauty blenders patting softly. She had a delicate but firm approach that was relaxing. Even the guys were silent.
It was nice to have a chance to do some self-care. It wasn’t often that I got to pamper myself. The beta duo even smellednice, a gentle perfume layered over scent spray that had a more beta-like effect than anything.
Anytime she told me to tilt my head or adjust, I followed without question.
“You’re all done. Time for the hair.”
I didn’t even bother opening my eyes as Melody got to work.
“Oh my, you’re gorgeous,” she gushed, spraying something that smelled like berries into my hair. “I think this one will help your scent flourish even more. You’re going to have those men eating out of your hands.”
“Believe me, I would if she let me,” Mason murmured, his voice so low I don’t think he meant for anyone else to hear. I bit back a grin, another chunk of my armor falling away.
When they finally announced that we were both done, I opened my eyes, blinking a few times against the flutter of fake eyelashes and the bright lights above us.
“You look gorgeous, princess,” Cade said, his voice a reverent whisper.
He gestured for me to spin. I turned to the floor-length mirror waiting behind me, gasping at the omega staring back at me.
They’d gone for subtle, enhancing my beauty in small ways that made me feel gorgeous. My shoulders squared, and I stood a little taller, more confident than I’d felt in a long time.
The guys’ eyes were locked on me, taking in the changes. Mason looked just as amazing, his skin glowing, eyes dark and smoky, making his honey brown eyes stand out.
“You’re perfect,” Mason agreed and for once, I felt those words sink into my being until I believed them too.
Maybe it was time for a true fresh start. I’d already let my walls fall this far. Maybe it was time to embrace this new life and truly live like I deserved.
Chapter
Sixteen
Lana
Practice today started at eleven, so thankfully I didn’t have to go in early. It gave me time to make breakfast for the guys at the house before heading down to the arena.
My lack of a car would have been a problem if the hockey house wasn’t so close. Between deliveries and Conrad having a car, I was set.
I’d just finished putting out some high-protein muffins, fruit, and yogurt for the guys, along with a note. Snagging my shoes, I pulled them on. Thankfully, I’d loaded up my tote last night.
I was just about to walk out the door when Cade’s sleep-roughened voice hit me.
“Where are you going? We’re off this week.”
Amused, I turned around to face him. “Youare off this week,” I corrected. “I don’t get that same luxury.”
Realization dawned on his face before it turned to sadness.
“No,” he protested. “This was supposed to be a week to relax and hang out. We never get time off.”
“You realize it was supposed to be a punishment, right?” I teased.
The frown never left his face. Cade was not happy. It was strange but nice to be the one going off and being missed.
“You still get to have that,” I said gently. “Me being at work doesn’t stop that. Enjoy your time.”
“It does,” he said, refusing to budge. He shoved a hand through his white hair, forcing it back. The move exposed his pale green eyes that were begging me to stay, even if I couldn’t.
“I can’t stay,” I argued. “You’ve got the others to hang out with. Pack bonding time.”
