Page 189 of Hell Breaks Loose

But the past year has made every person in Sanctum a member of the same family. I’ve come to know so many of them, put them to work, asked for their help.

Together, we’re making the dream a reality.

My dad would be proud.

And my mom is proud. She’s not one for big get-togethers. Not yet, anyway.

But we moved her into a new place a lot closer by so that we can reconnect. It’s going well. Aside from the fact that she’s still getting used to the idea of my three boyfriends.

Music starts as I step down, filling the afternoon with just the right mood.

Thank my old contacts for that. Jake nods at me with a grin as I pass his DJ booth.

“You still know how to throw one hell of a party.” Tell sneaks up on me, leaning in close over my shoulder.

“Bringing back memories?”

“I almost wore a backward cap. Might do a keg stand later, bruh.” He snickers, kissing my cheek and pulling me around into a casual embrace. He’s a little stiffer than usual as we sway.

Easy to miss with those emerald-green eyes locked on mine, making my temperature rise.

“What? You’re being awfully quiet today.”

“Just so fucking in love with you, that’s all.”

“You’re being weird.”

“I’m always weird.”

I narrow my eyes, cocking my head to put the screws to him.

“What?” His shoulders nearly hit his ears.

Innocent, my ass.

Shaking my head, I spin away again, spotting a few well-wishers waving for me to join them. Before I can make it there, I’m intercepted again by a hulking baby blue button-up, topped with a stunning face, massive shoulders, and just the right amount of salt and pepper scruff to ride the line between cool, casual, and tough.

“Shit! Sorry, Lena.” Gavin nearly bumps into me. I let him, pinching his ass through his tight-fitting slacks.

Fucking hot.

“Watch where you’re going!” I tease, letting him swoop in for a deep, head-spinning kiss.

“Mmm… you look fucking gorgeous,” he rumbles, drinking me in at arm’s length.

“And you look… nervous?”

“Who, me? Nah. But I need to, um, be right back.” He nods with a tight smile and rushes off.

Okay…

I’m back on track to greeting our guests when I look up, catching smoldering, smoky eyes and jet-black hair staring right at me. Fucking devastating.

And staring at me.

“Um… you alright?” I ask cautiously, approaching Evan. I try not to worry about him, but occasionally, he still looks distant. Doctor says it will just take time to get through his ordeal completely.

If ever.

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