“I don’t know if that’s what I want,” I admit.“I was leaving Tacoma because I needed space.From my parents.From being told who I was supposed to be.”
“And then you got kidnapped by a cult,” Fern says dryly.
“Right.Which makes me wonder if I’m just… trading one cage for another.”
Fern’s expression softens.“Roxie.Jameson didn’t cage me.And Abe doesn’t strike me as the kind of man who wants to own someone.”
“Maybe not,” I agree.“But he’s intense.”
She laughs softly.“They all are.At least with their mates.”
I mull over what we’ve talked about as I lean against the cushions and rest.I hate to admit it, but I’m tired again already.
Fern notices, smiles, and pushes to her feet.“You get some rest.We’ll be back later to check on you.”
“I love you,” I whisper.
“I love you, too,” she says, then turns to call to her man.“Jameson?Time to go!”
Jameson walks into the living room a second later with Abe on his heels.I wave as they leave.The house feels quiet once they’re gone.
Abe lingers near the doorway, hands in his pockets, like he’s unsure whether to approach.“You okay?”
“I think so,” I say honestly.
“Do you need anything?”
“No, I’m good.”
“What did you and Fern talk about?”
“Shifters.And fated mates.”
He nods, looking nervous as he sits next to me.“Do you have any questions?”
“You’re a wolf shifter?”
“Yes.”
I nod, wondering how to ask the next part.If I ask him if we’re fated mates and we’re not, how awkward would that be?
“Um… and do you have your mate already?”I finally spit out.
He stares at me.“Now I do.”
My cheeks heat with a blush.It’s crazy because a few weeks ago, I was jealous that Fern had someone who was obsessed with her and wished I could find a shifter of my own.Now I have, but I’m too messed up to know if I still want this.
Do I want to live near the men who took me?Can I stay so close to that cult and still be happy, or will I always be looking over my shoulder?
“Do you want to see my wolf?”Abe asks softly.
“Sure.”
I sit up straighter as Abe pushes to his feet and moves to the center of the room.He reaches up and pulls his shirt over his head.
“Uh…”
“I don’t want to rip my clothes,” he explains.My face flames, and I look away as he reaches for his pants.