AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“Well, then. Let’s go raid the pantry.”
He sat up with her, and when he let her go, she felt cold. She shivered, but since she was still fully dressed, she couldn’t complain. He eased her to her feet, and she stretched. “Wait, the ache is gone. Did you lock it up?”
He laughed. “No, but it is a pleasant thought.”
He helped her downstairs and into the kitchen. She sat at the table, and he brought her a glass of water. “What would you like?”
“Snacks. Crackers, cheese. That kinda thing.”
“He has a ridiculously well-equipped fridge and pantry.” Rayden grinned and went snooping.
“So, do you guys get a say in who you partner with?”
“Yes and no. Mainly no. We all know each other quite well, but we have deliberately kept from entangling with each other because we are all waiting and hoping for mates. I knew what you were the moment I saw you, as did Marshall.”
“Why didn’t I know?”
“Were you raised on tales of mythical women of power?”
“Erm... no.”
“That would be why. When Keres broke the walls with the blood of the innocent, she was wearing the potential she now shows, and all her power was waiting. Achilles and Dante knew then, but they kept their distance.”
“Why?”
“She was a child. Nearly adult but still a child. When she was ready, she sought them out. Not before.” He tilted his head a little as he emerged from the pantry. “I think they waited seven or eight years, but to us, time is a rather cheap commodity.”
Ruby bit her lip. “It must have been a relief for her. To finally be with them, I mean.”
“Well, they formalized their link four years ago, but she didn’t rejoin them until a few months ago. Now they are working as a triad, and all look very content.”
“Achilles certainly enjoys doing sculptures of his mate.”
“That he does.”
She thought and then smiled. “Where did my computer end up?”
“Marshall’s study. He likes everything in its place.”
Ruby nodded. “Do you mind if I go get it?”
“No. Go ahead.”
“Right. Where am I going?”
He gave her the directions, and she got her charged laptop. She chose a seat at the counter, and Rayden smiled as he chopped, sliced, and arranged a snack. A kettle whistled as she went through the emails she had missed, and she forwarded all the threatening ones from Tanner to her attorney. She kept them in a separate folder and went on through frantic work emails, sending a quick message to Mr. Mayfield before moving on. Seven job offers were waiting, all of whom were willing to wait out the six-month non-compete clause.
She smiled and wondered where she would be in six months emotionally.
Rayden set the plate on the table, and she followed him over. “So, what is that smile?”
“I was just wondering where I will be in six months.”
He opened his mouth and closed it with a snap.”
“What was that?”
“I was going to say something crude, which is insensitive considering your recent situation.”
