Page 163 of Nyx

"What was said?" Emmalyn asks.

"Not much," Melissa says. "Just that everyone left all at the same time. It caused a little bit of a panic."

"I can see how that would happen. We have a lot of people in our group," Emmalyn says with a smile. "We had a block of time set aside for the event, and when it was time to go, we all headed home."

That's a very diplomatic way to explain it.

Melissa shrugs. "I figured they were exaggerating."

"We'll let you guys see your rooms," Emmalyn says, addressing the entire group. "The guys carried all of your belongings inside, and that is the only time they will have entered your area. If you need anything, let us know. Lunch will be at one in the kitchen unless you want it in the common area of your space. Our welcome home party starts at about four. Please join us if you like. We'll be gathered inside and outside enjoying the pool."

The women stand, Kayla the first to move in that direction and open the conference room doors.

"The kids don't have swimsuits," Dana whispers to Emmalyn.

"We have so many," Emmalyn assures her. "I'll bring some for them to choose from in just a bit."

Dana thanks her before leaving the room. Caroline and Melissa walk out without looking back.

"About Denise," Kincaid says to Victoria. "She's welcome to come and be here, but it's not necessary. She'll still get paid until she finds another job."

Victoria frowns. "That's not ideal for her."

"Finding another job?" Kincaid asks, his brow scrunched a little.

"This whole situation is just a little overwhelming for everyone," she says with a sigh, as if she's more stressed now than she was before.

"We can find work for her to do here," Kincaid assures her. "We just don't need her overnight. If she's able to move to the day shift, then she's more than welcome to come."

"That may work for her," Victoria says. "I'll pass along the information. What about Megan?"

"She can come help with school when her schedule permits, just like always."

"Perfect," Victoria says. "I have to check on Cottonwood today, but I'll be back tomorrow."

"I'll have office space figured out by that point," Emmalyn adds.

Victoria walks past, squeezing my arm before leaving the room.

I feel a little out of place just standing there, so I excuse myself from the room, heading into the safe space to see if anyone wants a little help unpacking.

Chapter 41

Nyx

I'm not one to get lost in my head or wonder what other people are thinking. I'm the type of guy who doesn't give a fuck what others think about me, but something about Juliet is different for me.

I've seen her in passing since coming back from Juniper House, but we haven't had the chance to talk.

She had been busy helping the women get settled in the area we're no longer allowed to go to, and now she's helping Emmalyn and some of the other women prepare for Landon's coming-home party.

She seems happier than she was before coming here, and I just hope that she also feels safer, despite Whitmore's escalation the other day.

I've stayed across the room, being social without really being social. It's almost like I exist in this world, but just on the outskirts.

Seeing her smile, laugh, and carry on conversations with others makes me believe she's in her element. She is a social person, despite her obvious need to separate herself from groups to stay safe.

She fits right in with the others here, but I knew she would. The men and women of Cerberus are so welcoming and helpful. If they can welcome me with open arms, then adding her into the fold, if even for a little while, wouldn't be a hardship for them.