Page 33 of Claimed

“Be careful.”

“Always, doll. I’ll see you later.”

With a jerk of his head, he motions toward the gates and I turn to see Chrissy walking in. I wave to her and she takes off running. Gage releases me and I meet her halfway. I don’t think anyone has ever hugged me so tightly. She might just cut off my air supply.

“Ray! God, I’ve missed you.”

“I missed you, too.”

She pulls back and looks me up and down. “You look good. How do you feel?”

“Better.”

“I’m so glad you texted. I was worried.”

“I know. I’m sorry, I just –”

“You don’t have to explain. Come on, I need to get you inside.”

“Why?”

“Because,” she says. “You’re half-nekkid and barefoot.”

I look down and see she’s right. Gage’s T-shirt pretty much covers me up but other than panties, I’m not wearing anything else. I’m surprised he didn’t say something. Walking back to the clubhouse, the guys pass us on their way out. I wave to Gage and he smiles at me. I hope he has good news when he returns.

After I have my breakfast Chopper made me, Chrissy and I lock ourselves in Gage’s room. We catch up and call Toni. I appreciate the fact that she hasn’t dwelled on the reason we haven’t seen each other. In fact, she hasn’t even mentioned the rape or asked what I’ve been doing—onlyhowI’ve been doing. Toni was the same. I realize I have two of the best friends anyone could ever ask for. Instead of locking myself away from everyone, maybe I should have been doing the opposite.

“Have you spoken to your mother?”

“No. I should probably call her. I’ve missed Dani.”

“Do it,” she encourages me. “Skype them.”

With a deep breath, I grab my phone, download Skype, and sign in. When Laurelyn answers, I can see she’s both surprised and happy.

“Raven! It’s so good to see you. How are you?”

“I’m okay. Sorry it took me so long.”

“I’ve missed you, but I understand.”

“How are you?” I ask.

“Oh, I’m fine. Just making dinner.”

“Dani?”

“She’s in her playroom. Let me get her.”

The little girl lets out an excited scream when Laurelyn tells her I’m on the phone. She puts a smile on my face the moment I see her toothless grin.

“Raven!” she shrieks.

“Hey, pumpkin.”

“I missed you. Mommy said you weren’t feeling well because of your accident. Are you better now?”

“I am. I promise I won’t stay away so long anymore.”