Page 56 of Homecoming

Iro paused. “Aeryn is definitely Sohar’s perfect mate, but I like a woman who is a little more portable and one who cries less.”

“She was coming off her mating night. She was tired, and then, she had to help look for me. It’s weird that it was Ligo who found me.”

Iro chuckled. “They told you that?”

“Yeah, I woke up once in the helicopter, and he was the one holding my hand. It was odd, but there was only one reason he would be there with his hair dripping wet.”

The smells from the kitchen were lovely, and then, Shon set a place at the table.

Iro said, “Two glasses of juice and one of water. She lost a lot of blood.”

“No more talking about blood. I am going to try and eat something.”

“Ah. Fair point.”

“Did you eat?”

“Yes, when we arrived. We took turns before Ligo headed out.”

“Good.”

The meal was chicken stir fry with rice, and the juice was pineapple and another orange.

She tried to get free of Iro, but he smiled. “I am helping if needed.”

“I don’t need a booster seat.”

“And yet, it is one of the perks of me being here.”

He arranged for her to face the food, and she picked up the fork with determination and started eating.

She ran out of steam three-quarters of the way through, and the fork started shaking.

Iro snorted softly and helped her drink. Then, he helped her eat.

Her jaw was tired, and she remembered a fist hitting her. She jolted and flinched.

Iro whispered, “Remembering?”

She nodded. She touched her jaw. “It was the first hit. I was turning to close my door, and a fist hit my face.”

Avenar muttered, “Betas are so bold.”

Orla looked at her. “They weren’t betas. Not every alpha is inclined to apply themselves to gainful employment.” She paused. “Or are you referring to me? I can be bold, and I can have a short temper.” She used both hands and gulped down her water.

“It’s called PTSD, Orla. Considering what has happened, it is to be expected.” Iro stroked her hair.

She muttered, “You were a nurse.”

“I was, and then I went through medical school, so now, I am a doctor nurse.”

Avenar looked at her. “You are quite pretty. What does Ligo think of you?”

“That I am a pain in the ass.”

The woman leaned back. “Oh. Well. Maybe you two aren’t a proper match.”

Iro chuckled. “Tell Ligo that. I am interested in his reaction.”

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