Page 78 of Only Human in Strangeville

“So, you weren’t looking to get laid by mythical creatures?” Bridger winked.

“Uh, no.” I snorted. “I didn’t even know they existed. I just came here because the rumors said this place was interesting, and the FBI said it was safe.”

“It should be safe,” Bridger grumbled. “And before you start blaming yourself again, this conflict has been brewing for a long time. As long as I’ve been around, anyway. It’ll be good to get it over with, honestly. Katsuro can expand his territory into Mayday Hills, and we’ll all be better off for it.”

“Okay.” I clenched my jaw, but a cold nose shoved its way under my hand. I looked down at Nimbus and he perked his ears and wagged his plumed tail.

“See, even Nimbus agrees. Besides, where would he be if you hadn’t come here? And we’d all be in a world of hurt if Vito had actually gotten hold of the cloud dog.”

“They might be in danger still,” I said, remembering what Drake had told us.

“Yeah, all the more reason to get this under control so we can protect the cloud dogs.” Bridger reached over and pet Nimbus on the head. He avoided touching me until the cloud dog shifted slightly, making his hand slide into mine.

A tingle of connection rippled through my fingers and down my arm, driving into the well of energy I’d slowly been learning how to use after my unfolding. Bridger pulled his hand back, rubbing at his fingers as if he’d felt it, too.

Bridger arched his eyebrows, eyes widening. “I’m sorry.”

“That was all Nimbus.” I ruffled his ears again. “But that brings me to my other point. I’m not trying to talk you into anything you don’t want, but um, Katsuro, Davin, and Oliver are all considering you part of the ‘us’ equation, too. Just so you know. You don’t have to be, but, well…” I had no idea how to continue with that. It was awkward enough as it was.

“Why though?”

I reached out, palm up, asking for his hand. After a hesitant moment, he slid his into mine. The same tingle of magic joined us again. I caressed the back of his hand with my thumb and watched as his eyes shuttered.

“I didn’t come here for anything but escape. I’m finding so much more than I expected. I know you’re at least somewhat interested. The guys with the super senses told me, and I was kind of thinking you might be, too. They were just more forward and, well, I haven’t really had a chance to talk to you since I accepted that I might actually be interested in more than just a hook up.”

“If you’re just interested in us because you’re going along with what they want—”

I shook my head. “I’d considered that, because truthfully, other than enjoying the eye candy, I hadn’t been thinking about anything except upgrading my toys when I had a chance.”

That got Bridger’s eyes to widen even more. He cleared his throat.

I grinned. “Don’t be shy, Bridger. Toys are fun, some are even fun for everyone involved.”

He choked a little and his cheeks were flaming. “I’m not experienced with toys, so I’ll have to take your word for it.”

“My last boyfriend opened my eyes to the possibilities,” I admitted. “Unfortunately, we didn’t work out in other ways. Well, maybe fortunately.” I gestured vaguely to my surroundings. “Or I might not have ended up here.”

“So we’re back to being glad you came?” This brought a genuine smile to Bridger’s face.

“Yeah, I guess. If nothing else, the point about saving Nimbus is very valid.”

He grumbled happily in agreement.

“Well, if this conversation accomplishes nothing else, I’m glad I could do that.” Bridger squeezed my hand. I hadn’t let go yet.

“But to address your point, I am interested. I want this. Oliver is a sweetheart. Scary, but sweet. Davin is cool, though we’ve only gone on that one date, but he’s done a lot to help me, and he clearly likes me. I like him, too. Katsuro is intense, but I like the way he melts for me and the way he trusts me, and I trust him. They’re all scary, but they all want me, and I do want them.”

Bridger nodded acceptance.

“Okay, so, on to us. I’m not saying we need to jump in the sack right now, but, like, let’s consider the possibilities. We can go on some dates, see if we like each other.”

Bridger stood, still holding my hand. He tugged me close when I didn’t resist, then cupped my cheek. “I’m going to kiss you, if that’s okay, Hannah.”

“I—”

“I’m only human,” he replied to my surprise. “If nothing else, I’m a lot more likely to get my ass killed in the conflict than any of the rest of you. I want to have at least kissed you.”

“In that case…” I stepped into him, molding my body to his, and tilting my head up.

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