Page 61 of The Forgotten

“I fucking love how comfortable you are in your own skin,” he says. “You’re so fucking sexy, Angel.”

“I’m just brushing my teeth,” I tease him, rinsing my mouth.

“Mmhmm,” he chuckles, watching as I walk to the closet.

Getting dressed quickly in a pair of joggers, a tank top with a built in bra, and Cai’s sweatshirt, I decide this is the best it’s going to get. Adding socks and a pair of trainers, I grab Gareth’s hand to pull him along with me.

“Time to deal with this before I can go to bed,” I mumble.

“You’re so cute and grumpy,” Gareth laughs as we walk across the backyard to the main house.

“I feel grumpy,” I admit. “I want to sleep with all of you and the dog.”

Things aren’t perfect yet, but I think we’re moving in the right direction. I’ll let my alphas grovel and pamper me though. I think it’s good for them.

Balthazar happily walks beside me as I open the back door with the code and walk into the house.

“Mama!” Cerenity yells, throwing herself at me. I’ve gotten better with touch while living here, and I hug her back hard.

“I’m fine,” I soothe her, my heart full to know that she still needs me.

“You didn’t call,” she says, dashing away her tears.

“I haven’t had any of my meds,” I say, watching as the realization hits her.

“Oh shit,” she whispers. Her eyes move to where Gareth’s hand moves to my waist before darting back to me. “Are you okay?”

“The heat part was fine,” I say, blushing. “I kind of got kidnapped though.”

“Again!” Cerenity yells.

“Yeah, let’s put your guys to work,” I tease her. “I’m starving again.”

“What can I make you?” Gabe asks. He’s so damn quiet, but I’m used to it. “I can make burrito bowls really quickly.”

My stomach answers for me, while Gareth smirks.

“I solemnly swear that I’m not starving your mother, Cerenity,” he says.

“We haven’t been properly introduced yet, don’t use my name,” Cere sniffs.

“Well okay then,” Gareth says.

Yeah, that’s going to be interesting. I should make sure the knives and frying pans are hidden.

“Let me go show my face to the others before one of them starts a war,” I mutter.

“Good call,” Cerenity grins, walking with me.

Perfection isn’t something I need. Passion, messiness, with a dash of murderous intrigue. That’s what keeps life interesting.