Page 31

He fumed silently as I worked. When the kettle screamed I poured the hot water in and let it steep, finally turning and sliding a mug across the island toward my brother. I could only stay a little while, I needed to check on my chickens.

So far, they hadn’t changed but I was still waiting for something to happen. Materialized animals, made from a potion-gone-wrong, surely couldn’t last.

“Have you called Mom lately?” He gave me a look as he blew on the hot tea before taking a sip. “I’ll take that as a no.”

“I’m not calling. They wanted me gone, Rook. Family doesn’t throw you away because of something you can’t fucking control.”

“No, they don’t,” I sighed, knowing he was right. I was always attempting to keep our family together against all odds but it felt like I was always the only one.

I craved a big family. Cookouts and parties full of laughter and warmth. Instead, I got stiff dinners and cold interactions.

Not with Prue. My alpha rumbled in agreement.

She was different. So was Merrick for that matter.

Maybe they were exactly what I needed. Hell, maybe this town was as well.

Only time would tell.

It was the first time since having Merrick and Rook in my life that I was alone this early in the evening. Merrick was exhausted after being around people all day and Rook had almost run off the moment I mentioned the shifter.

Walking all day had my feet aching and I spent far longer in the shower than I usually did. Once I was covered in a soft pajama set I went straight for my nest.

The dark-purple, velvet covered walls and array of blankets and pillows in various jewel shades always soothed me. I sank down and picked up my plush bat, hugging it to my chest as I snuggled in.

My life had been chaos for years. Now, it had taken another turn. It always felt like it was spiraling out of control but somehow, with them, it felt more manageable.

Yet, I was alone right now.

My omega hated it.

As I reached for the remote to my projector my hand caught on the mirror I’d brought in to study earlier. The pull I felt to it was startling. Especially since all it showed me was my own reflection.

Maybe my intuition was wrong, but I knew the moment I laid eyes on the mirror it was meant for me. I set it aside on the bed and sent a message to Blake. She was the real hero of the day. Letting me enjoy the bazaar this year with the guys and her taking on our booth alone was incredible.

Prue

Who is the most amazing friend in the world?

I typed the words out with a smile on my lips.

Blake

Oh goddess, what do you want now? :)

Prue

Am I that needy?

Blake

Everyday since I’ve known you.

Prue

I was just going to thank you for today. It’s been a long time since my curse wasn’t at the front of my mind. Thank you for letting me enjoy the bazaar with the guys.

Blake