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ChapterFifteen

“Ireally don’t like this, Orion.”

Orion nodded, stuffing a few things into a bag. Apparently, Corbin would carry everything, and Orion would concentrate on the portal or teleport or whatever.

“I know, baby. But we have to go. We can’t just leave this guy hanging in the wind.”

He chewed his lip, because he knew Orion was right. But he was scared. It had always been an adrenaline rush, to go out and do missions with Corbin and Cosmo, but the world was a very different place now that he had baby nieces and nephews and his own child on the way.

And a mate.

“I love you, baby. I promise I’ll be home soon, with Corbin and this Evander in tow.” Orion came to kiss him on the nose. “Please don’t worry too much.”

“I worry about you. A lot.”

“And I want you to be happy and healthy and keep our butterfly fed.” Orion put a hand on his belly.

Tears stung his eyes, and little hearts that were breaking started popping up everywhere.

“Oh, goddess, you’re killing me, baby. Please don’t cry.”

“I never cry! I’m a stud! Stupid hormones.”

“I know.” Orion kissed his mouth this time. “If you need anything, knock on any door that’s made of wood and call Father. Rigel. Can you remember that?”

“I can.” Cullen nodded.

“Good.” Orion hugged him hard. “I’ll be back soon.” He picked up the bag, heading for the door and making his way downstairs.

Cullen followed, and they met Corbin and Hawk in the main hallway.

“You all set?” Corbin asked.

“I am. Here, you take the bags.”

“Okay. You know where to put us?” Corbin looked excited, not worried. He’d put on enough makeup to cover things, and he had on an oversized hoodie to cover the rest. A beanie could cover his hair too.

Hawk was wearing a costume that was basically the same, with a pair of dark sunglasses.

“I do. I won’t land us on a wall.” Orion winked broadly, and Cullen tried to smile.

“Please be so careful.” Cullen pulled Orion in for a hug, then Hawk and Corbin. “Call if you need any support from afar. Tech, reinforcements, whatever.”

“We will,” Corbin assured him. “No worries.”

He drew in a deep breath, then stepped back. He had no idea if Orion could do what he needed to here or not, but he would bet he could.

Orion closed his eyes, and a glow surrounded him, so bright it hurt Cullen’s eyes. He heard Corbin say, “Whoa,” and he grunted when suddenly Orion was there. In his true form. And he was so beautiful it made Cullen cry again. This time for joy.

Corbin. Hop on.The sound echoed around them.Hawk, grab my mane.

“Wait, you want me to ride you?”

Hawk’s too heavy to. Come on!

Cullen snorted. Then he started laughing. “Go on. Don’t hurt him.”

“I won’t. I promise.” And then Corbin was on his mate, and they were all three off like a shot, Orion turning into the light and leaping.