Page 122 of A Lesson in Obedience

I got back to my room and took out my phone, texting Corrin the address I’d managed to see when we’d driven back from my mom’s. Tomorrow would be the last day I would see this place.

I lookedout my window at the darkening sky and let my mind drift a bit. Beau came up and nuzzled my hand.

I don’t like it here. I want to go home.He thought to me.

Soon, buddy. We’ll be home soon.

He sneezed, shaking his head and jumping up to prop his front paws on the windowsill.With River, Grayson and Asher?

“Is that home to you?” I asked, scratching the side of his neck.

His tongue dropped out the side of his mouth and his tail wagged vigorously. I took that as a yes. I couldn’t say I disagreed with him. I sighed, letting myself have one small thing that made me happy right now.

I let my mind search for what I wanted and hoped he would answer me back like he did last night. The sound of his voice in my head was better than any phone call.

Hi, gorgeous.

I smiled to myself.How are you feeling?

Better than before. I do enjoy this whole being able to read your mind thing.

I chuckled.Don’t get used to it. Remember the stipulations.

Yes, yes, you demanding thing. How are you holding up there?

I took in my surroundings and then responded.Fine, I guess. I’ll be better when I’m back in bed with you guys.

I do like the sound of that. You give me the go ahead when it’s time and we’ll back you. Always.

I chewed on my bottom lip.What do the others think about it?

Grayson and Asher?

Mhmm.

His deep laugh resonated through my mind.They’ll do whatever you want. Asher might grumble, but he’ll do it. If he thought it was dumb then he’d just say that. Please trust yourself, gorgeous. Any sort of doubt and?—

I interrupted him.And my powers will malfunction, yes, I am very aware.

Or you could hurt more people than you want. You know what you want the end result to be so let that be the only thing you focus on. I just wish I could help more.

I placed my hand on the window, seeing car lights come through the trees.You broke and shattered bones, mister. Bed and rest for you.

Hmm…are you going to come give me a bath when this is all settled and done?

I felt heat creep in my cheeks.This is not the thing I need to focus on, River.

I’m giving you something to look forward to. And then we can all get in the bath and take turns making you feel like the most special girl in the entire world.

The car pulled in closer and then the lights turned off. Maybe it was time.

I look forward to so much pampering.Beau barked and I shushed him.Are the guys with you?

River was silent for a minute and then answered me.All accounted for. Mateo is leading the pack there and Corrin and Ike werealready headed up an hour ago. Maps doesn’t bring up any real location, it’s just a lot of woods, but I’m sure they’ll be fine.

I know that at least. When I tried to search it myself, it was like Chancellor Fowler’s family liked to live with a lot of land but discreetly…if that made any fucking sense.

I think he’s here.I thought back, hearing a car door slam and voices, but I couldn’t make out who.