I didn’t think I’d settle until I got her brand of brutal honesty. Something about the way she always told me the blunt truth kept me sane.
Dropping my phone on the counter, I turned on my fancy coffee maker, another necessary splurge, and sat down on my favorite stool as the smell of roasting coffee filled the air.
It was honestly one of my favorite scents in the world.
My mind, of course, conjured up another scent.
One I tried to keep buried.
Peppercorn. Sweet, earthy balsam. Damp, fresh moss.
He always smelled like a spicy forest after rain. The same one we’d escape to when life got too hard.
The spice was sharp and brash like his personality, rounded out by something deep and steady.
Safe. That was the best description for it.
A tear slipped free, and I blinked it back, shocked it even happened in the first place. It had been a long time since I’d cried for him.
As the years passed it was harder to figure out how to reach out. I told myself too much time had passed. That he was better without me.
My phone pinged, and relief flooded through me as I snatched it.
Briar
I’m up now. Barely. Pre-coffee, keep that in mind.
Aries
I had another nightmare. This time I didn’t make it out of Gideon’s.
Briar
But you did make it. We all did. You’re stronger than you were back then. Look at that badass gym you’ve built. How many omegas and betas have you taught to defend themselves? You’re a different omega now.
Aries
I know, I know. I just wish my fucking mind did too.
Briar
Our brains can be assholes. I’ve had my share of flashbacks and dreams, but I remind myself I’m a bad bitch. We’re living how we want and we built this town as a big fuck you to the monsters of the world.
Aries
I’m working on that. Hell, I even go to therapy regularly.
Briar
Therapy and enough coffee to take out a small child. My favorite coping strategies.
Aries
I’ve cut back a cup or two.
Briar
If you’ve cut back and still have plenty, you’ve got a problem. But honestly, don’t we all?
