Page 105 of Awakened Desires

"No one needed to know that," Rory says.

"And yet we all do."

"We'll help you fetch your things from upstairs," Rory says.

"I don't have much,” I reply.

“Not yet, but when Niamh takes Aidan back, we can go to Dublin and fetch things from your flat.”

"You'd come with me?"

"If you want me to."

"I do." It’ll be an easier job with him by my side.

"Beau is at work," Stefan says. "But you might want to have a chat with him at some point."

"Why?"

"He’s in family law."

I shake my head. "I don't need a lawyer. I'm just taking care of Aidan for a few days. When Niamh feels better, she’ll have him back. We'll go and register his birth together. And we'll co-parent."

Stefan scratches his jaw. "Just know he'll be happy to talk to you if you need to."

I nod my thanks.

"We've almost finished putting the cot together. Then I'll leave the three of you together." He glares at Hendrix. "And so will you."

"Me? I was going to get popcorn and camp out in here."

Rory gives him a look that would wilt flowers.

Hendrix holds his hands up. "I was kidding. Can't anyone take a joke?" Shaking his head, he wanders off.

"You'll get used to him," Stefan says. "And to how mad things can get around here."

"I already have," I assure him. "Seriously, thanks for everything you've done. All of you. I don't know how I’ll thank you or your landlord. Does he normally send random gifts?”

Stefan scratches his chin. “We know nothing about them. Not even their name.”

“Oh, I just assumed it was a man because—” I look in the direction Hendrix has gone. “Is there a way I can send a message to say thank you? I’m not even sure I should accept the things he—they—sent.”

“I’ll send a message to the letting agency. I’m sure they’ll pass it on,” Stefan says.

“Thanks.”

“I need to pay my share of the rent. Let me know how much you want on a weekly basis. I don't know how long I'll be staying."

I notice Rory’s chin dip as I speak.

“Not that I’m rushing out of here,” I add quickly. “Unless you want me to.”

“We don’t,” Stefan says.

I breathe a sigh of relief. “Great. Thanks.” I lock stares with Rory and smile. “Rent,” I repeat, trying to get the conversation back on track.

Stefan shakes his head. "No need. The rent and bills are already covered. You just worry about yourself and Aidan.” He returns to building the cot without giving me a chance to reply.