Page 58 of Not Ready

“Yes, well, you’re a very astute omega.” Mercy smiles. “Would you like to snuggle in the nest? I’ve been appointed your momentary companion.”

I laugh. “Please don’t feel obligated to keep me busy. I can curl up on the couch and watch a movie.”

“How about we snuggle together? I find I could use a cuddle myself,” Mercy says, like I can’t see right through his attempt to comfort me.

“Okay, if you really need it.” I chuckle.

The couch is plush and spacious, but stretching out next to one another takes legitimate effort, and I’m practically on top of him.

Mercer doesn’t seem to mind, and I don’t, because it places me on top of his delectable scent. He’s wearing a long-sleeve T-shirt and jeans today, which is rare, but it does make cuddling more enjoyable.

Holt comes in about halfway through the movie. He tosses himself down on the chair near the couch. I’m not sure what has my impulses so uncomfortable, but it’s like I can feel the tension radiating off of him.

I haven’t let myself think too much about how Andrew is likely a much more sinister criminal than I ever expected. It’s a lot to process, but I do feel validated knowing my instincts told me to stay far away from him. They were obviously picking up on something.

“My phone has been vibrating nonstop.” Mercer runs his hand down my back. “I’m afraid work can’t be put off any longer.”

“Oh, sorry,” I say, trying to figure out how to climb off him without looking ridiculous.

“Here,” Holt grunts, suddenly at my side. He helps me up as Mercer answers his phone.

“Right. Give me just a minute to relocate to my office.” Mercer gives a quick wave and disappears.

“How are you feeling?” Holt asks, running his hand through his brown curls. They immediately fall right back into place over his forehead. “Want to sit down? Are you having one of those waves where you need to soak up pheromones?”

“I’m okay. God, I feel like I’ve been saying that a lot lately.” I smile, trying to help him feel more at ease. I still don’t know what his deal is. Do I really make him so uncomfortable?

“Well, I guess, once Bishop files that paperwork, we’re officially pack. So, if you need something, don’t hesitate to ask,” he says, studying my face.

“I appreciate it.”

“We’re going to find him and put a stop to whatever he’s been up to.” Holt leans down, nuzzling his cheek to mine. His huge hand lands on my stomach, giving me a tender rub. “We’ll keep the two of you safe.”

I swallow around the lump that seems to have formed in my esophagus. “I believe you.”

“Do you want me to make us some lunch?” he asks, still very close to my face. “Or I can text Bishop and ask him to bring something back.”

“Whatever is easiest.”

Holt makes us both a sandwich, and we eat together. I head up to have a nap, but I’m baffled when the sheets have been changed. It’s probably more sanitary, but I’m also a little sad. I wanted to be completely coated in Bishop’s scent.

I wake up from my nap, confused and needing the restroom. After handling that, I’m just making it back into the bedroom when my phone rings. It’s plugged in on the nightstand.

I sit on the edge of the bed and answer Kate’s call. “Hey, how are you?”

“You’re not coming back, are you?” she asks, sounding really upset. “Your boyfriend paid off the landlord. The whole year paid in advance. You’re not coming back.”

My stomach drops.

I’ve been a shitty friend recently.

I forgot about paying her this month with everything going on.

I’m grateful one of the guys handled that, but she’s right. “I’m not. I’m actually bonded, but that just happened last night. I’m so sorry, Kate.”

Technically, I didn’t owe her rent or any of the other utilities for another two weeks, but still, I am the asshole in this situation.

“Wow, you bonded with who? The weird guy who watched you sleep? Or the British asshole who thinks he controls the world?”

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