Page 142 of XOXO

“I think of how young Kal was when he gave this to her,” she said reverently. “A simple gift encompassing the stone of his people. It’s quite meaningful.”

Leo’s fingers encircled the necklace as he drew it up to examine it. “Adelyn is going to love it…and probably cry for twenty damn minutes,” he teased. “Which doesn’t seem romantic, but I think it will do the trick.”

“It’s such a thoughtful gesture, Leo.” Sadie patted his arm. “Well done.”

“You made it happen, Sadie. I don’t know how to repay you.”

“Just make our girl happy. She deserves it. You both do.”

Nodding, he placed the necklace back in the pouch and tucked it in his pocket. “Sometimes, I think she feels guilty. Like she forced me to move back here and that I’m not happy. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. I actually feel like I belong for the first time in my life, and that’s something worth fighting for; worth defending. That’s why I want to fight for our people. Does that make sense?”

“Of course it does. You two just need to talk. Jack has the kids this weekend, right?”

“Yes. I think he’s as happy as we are to skip the Valentine’s fundraiser.”

“Well, then, it looks like I’m not the only one getting naughty this weekend.”

Laughing, Leo cocked a brow. “Let’s hope not.” He pulled her into a tight hug. “Thank you, Sadie. You’re amazing. If you ever need anything, please ask. I want to repay the favor.”

Drawing back, she cupped his cheeks. “Just remember to communicate. It’s a lesson Nolan and I learned early on, and it’s done wonders for our marriage. You and Adelyn are kindred souls, but even soul mates get their wires crossed sometimes. Talk it out and remember to listen too.”

“Will do,” Leo said, backing away with a salute.

“And I’d tell you not to be grumpy, but Adelyn has confided in me many times that she likes your grumpy side.”

A chuckle welled in his chest. “For some reason, she does. See you soon, Sadie.”

With one final wave, he exited the office, anticipation swelling in his chest at seeing his bonded mate’s smile when he returned home with her mother’s necklace.

Chapter 5

Adelyn scurried around the house, making sure everything was clean and the toys were put away. After all, having toys strewn around wasn’t exactly sexy, and she was ready to blow Leo’s socks off.

At first, she thought they would talk and hash everything out. But when she pulled the new sexy lingerie she’d purchased on her last shopping excursion with Callie and Rinada out of the back of the dresser, she’d changed her mind. Holding up the black, lacy material, Adelyn decided she’d seduce her bonded mate first.

Sexy times, then talking. Hell, Leo hated to talk anyway, so she figured he’d be on board.

Once everything was tidied up, she slipped on the nightie and glanced at herself in the mirror that hung above the dresser. Running her hands over her abdomen, she noted the extra inches that had landed there since she’d had the twins.

Wrinkling her nose, she sighed. “He always says he loves your curves, Addie. Get over it.”

Her palms continued down the silky fabric, reaching her thighs and the dimples that resided there. She’d had those for ages, and Leo swore he loved every hollow and crevice, so she bolstered her confidence and straightened her spine.

“You will not spend the weekend doubting your appearance. It’s time to show your husband how to celebrate Valentine’s Day properly.” With one final nod at her reflection, she headed back to the main room.

Grabbing the handcuffs she’d borrowed from Jack on the kitchen counter, she strode into the living room and lay across the couch. Positioning her legs across the soft fabric, she rested her head on her fist as her elbow dug into the pillow. Keys jangled in the lock, and the front doorknob turned before Leo entered and shut the door behind him.

Lifting the handcuffs with one finger, she let them dangle as her lips curved into a sultry grin. “Welcome home, dear.”

Leo’s eyes widened as he froze. Those deep ocean-blue eyes roved over every inch of her skin, setting it on fire before he breathed, “Holy shit.”

A low-toned chuckle escaped her lips as the handcuffs swung from her finger. “I decided we can talk after we have some fun. If you’re up for it.” She cocked an eyebrow.

He removed a tiny pouch from his pocket and set it on the counter. “That’s for you. I’m going to give it to you later.”

“Aw, my sweet husband,” she said, rubbing her legs together as he advanced toward her. “So romantic in his own way—”

Leo scooped her up, causing her to yelp as he tossed her over his shoulder. He placed a firm smack on her ass before gripping the flesh to steady her as he carried her to the bedroom.

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