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I smile to myself.

“Good night,” I say.

“Good night,” they repeat.

Their scents wrap around me, making me feel so at ease. I was already relaxed after the bath, but now this? I want to stay like this forever. And I know that I can, because soon enough, we will be bonded and have our own pack.

The thought excites me in ways the idea never did before.

It doesn’t take long for me to fall asleep, but I toss and turn through the night feeling so hot with them on either side of me. If I’m going to stay in here, I’ll have to ask them to get a fan or lower the heat.

I’m half asleep when I feel them get up to get ready for work. They talk softly and don’t turn on the light to the bedroom. I hear them changing and part of me wants to turn over to watch, but I’m so tired from not sleeping well. And it’s still so damn hot in this bed!

They’d told me last night that they had to run out today for a little while. Something to do with the case. That’s all they gave me, but they seemed positive about it, like whatever they found on that drive is the answer to solving the case.

They both kiss me goodbye, the feel of their lips lingering on my forehead long after they’re gone. I fall back to sleep, but it doesn’t last long.

I sit up slowly, pressing a hand against my stomach.

Realization sets in.

No.

It can't be.

I look around the bedroom, taking in the large, empty bed on either side of me, where Forge and Pierce slept.

Their scents are everywhere, but it’s not enough.

I take a deep breath, and my entire body seems to relax for half a second before the ache returns.

Oh, stars.

My heat.

I knew it was coming, but I thought I'd have more warning than this. It’s early again, and once again, I’m caught off guard.

I reach for Forge's pillow and pull it against my chest, burying my face in it.

The familiar scent of cedarwood and pepper fills my nose.

It helps.

A little.

But it's not enough.

I want him here.

Both of them.

I need them.

I take Forge’s pillow next and tuck that against my chest beside the other so I can breathe in both scents. It helps for a few moments, but I’m hit with a wave of heat that has me scrambling to my feet and needing water. I turn the shower to cold, quickly undress, and step inside, hoping this will help for a little bit. I just need to wait until they get back… it will be quick. They told me it wouldn’t be long.

I sit on the bottom of the tub, letting the cold water rain down on my back and head. It helps slightly, but not with the ache between my legs or in my stomach. I start to shiver, even though I still feel like I’m burning from the inside out. I turn the shower off and grab a towel before I make myself sick. I hurry back to the bed, getting under the blankets and grabbing their pillows again to bury my face in.

They smells so good. Too good. That ache comes back in my stomach full force, and I feel slick soak the sheets beneath me.