Page 63 of Benga's Rise

“That’s it?” No pills? No doctors?

“Changing your life is not easy. None of this is how you live now. It will take some adjustments on your part, but it can be done. It looks like your family will make sure you understand they want you and Daniel in it for life,” Juanita says.

I smile. “We accept.”

Our new family laughs. Freedom gets up and hugs me. “I’ll see you tomorrow for some stretching. When your brace is done, we’ll do more.”

I hug this woman that has become more like a sister. “Thank you.”

“I need to go. I’m meeting the contractor at the studio.”

“Thanks for being here, Freedom.”

She turns back. “Nowhere else I’d be when you need me.”

Of course, tears run out of my eyes. It dawns on me, today is the first time I’ve seen my new Daniel cry. Maybe I’ll stop too.

Seren is watching the door. I look at Hade. He’s looking out the window. Damn.

“So, this was another crazy day, but turned out perfect.” Raid sounds like he’s working to make it sound happy. I watch him look at Hade then Cort.

“It was for me. Thank you, everyone. Did you finish your beer?” I ask, giving them a way out.

He smiles, kisses my head and pulls Hade out by his shoulder. Cort laughs. “He’s never been good with subtle.” He follows them out to the porch.

“Is that a man thing?” My new Daniel is adorable.

I laugh. “Yes.”

“Can I watch TV? I’m doing martial arts with the Little Brothers and Freedom said I’m free at night.”

“That will be fine...Daniel, if Seren agrees.” I almost said my new Daniel.

Seren waves him away and he runs out. Juanita and Falcon stand. “I’m glad I got to see this tonight. I’ll see you next week at our regular time, Lorelei. I’m happy for you and Daniel.”

“Thank you. I’ll be there and I am too. Thank you for using Daniel. He loves it already.”

She laughs.

“I’ll walk you out.” Falcon leads her out and I look at Seren.

She shakes her head. “I’m not sure what to feel between him and Hade, but I’ll wait and see and land where I land.”

“I’m with you.”

She gives me that beaming smile. “So, biker-married...”