Page 13 of Adored

Now, they’d begin a new journey.

Their journey.

“I adore you, Gamble. I adore you so much,” he admitted, after breaking the kiss.

From where he sat on the ground, Rufus barked to get their attention.

“Oh, and you, too, Rufus,” Poe said, bending down to give the dog a kiss and scratch him behind his ears. “You’re a good boy. The best boy. You’re going to get steaks and be allowed to sleep on a bed for the rest of your life.”

Gamble grinned.

That’s what the dog deserved.

LOVE.

When Poe stood up, Gamble offered him his hand, and he took it.

“So, this is home,” he said, looking around the estate. It staggered him where Poe grew up. “Nice place you have here, Doctor.”

He laughed.

“Welcome to my humble abode.”

Oh, well, he wasn’t quite sure it was that. There was a freaking castle on the grounds, and a massive stable and track. This was one hell of an estate.

“Can you show me around?” he asked.

Why?

Well, because Gamble was in protection mode, and he needed to see the place so he could keep Poe safe. They weren’t sure that Von Donore would make an attempt on him so soon, but…

It was better safe than sorry in this case. Poe’s life mattered, andThe BlackStone Groupwas everywhere.

Poe nodded.

“I can do that, Mate,” he offered.

That brought up questions.

“How big is the estate?” Gamble asked, keeping an eye on Diablo in the field.

He was frolicking, proof that he knew he was back home again.

“It’s around five hundred acres,” he stated. “The castle is very old,” he said. “My father’s father had it renovated years ago.”

He could see that.

It was weird knowing that Poe came from this kind of life. Gamble’s childhood was a rundown shack and neglectful parents.

Oh, they came from two very different worlds—that was for sure.

This was foreign to him, and Gamble only hoped that he could fit in here.

And that Poe wouldn’t be horrified as he tried to learn how to navigate this.

“What’s that look on your face?” Poe asked, seeing the quick flash of worry.

Gamble was honest.