Page 16 of Sor

“Just like that,” he smiled.

“Just like that. The girls explained something to me. They said love is so very hard to find, that when you do, recognize it as the gift it is. You should hold it gently. Don’t squeeze too hard, but don’t let it go. These men are different in every way. Their lives have been entirely about protecting others, with no thought as to who would protect them. Expect that they’ll be overbearing, alpha in every way. But recognize how unbelievably special that is and that they’ve chosen us to be by their sides. He will protect you, but you will protect him as well. He will drive you mad with his overprotection, but he will soothe you with his love and adoration of you. And there is nothing like the love of one of these men.”

“They said that, did they?” he smirked.

“Yep. And you know what? They were right. I love you, Sor. I think I’ve loved you from the moment I met you. I hope our son or daughter turns out just like you.”

“We’re going to have lots of both, baby. Boys and girls running around our feet.” He heard the buzz of his phone and stared at the screen. “We have to meet the others for breakfast and then see what was on that film.”

“Then maybe we should shower first,” she smiled, walking seductively to the bathroom. “I think I want to be sure I have a son or daughter growing inside me.”

Sor laughed, shaking his head as he followed.

“I’m going to guarantee that you do.”

CHAPTER TEN

The weather had turned sharply colder, temperatures dropping nearly thirty degrees overnight. Although still not freezing, it was in the upper thirties with biting winds. It was going to be a cold winter at Belle Fleur.

Nell always enjoyed watching the other couples holding hands, hugging one another, always willing to show their affection. She looked across the grove to see Garr staring at someone.

“Who is that woman?” she asked. Sor looked up and shook his head.

“I’m not sure. I’ve never seen her before. Could be one of the older kids. I haven’t met them all yet.”

“I hate to break this to you,” said Nell, smiling at him, “but that’s not a kid. That’s a grown, beautiful, sexy woman.”

Before Sor could respond, Mama Irene and Claudette were walking toward him, calling his name.

“Sor? When are you gonna marry this girl?” asked Mama Irene.

“Well, ma’am,” he started.

“What did we tell you about that? No ma’ams. Just Irene, Mama Irene, or Grandma. Claudette or Aunt Claudette. That’s it.”

“Yes, ma’- uh, Mama Irene. We were actually just talking about that. I asked Nell to marry me, and she said yes. We’d like to get this mess straight first, then set a date.”

“Thanksgiving,” said Claudette.

“Um, well, what if,” said Nell.

“No what ifs. Ya’ll need to get married before babies come. Thanksgiving week. This will be settled by then.” The two women walked off, or what could be better described as stormed off.

“I don’t think we get a choice,” grinned Nell.

“No,” laughed Sor. “I don’t think we do, baby.” While Ivy began developing the film, the others had breakfast. Cowboy and Garr walked in, frowning at their table.

“What’s up?” asked Sor.

“I’m sorry, brother. Your friend Marshall is dead. Shot five times in the chest. Someone really, really wanted him dead,” said Garr.

“Damn,” muttered Sor. “What about my other teammates?”

“Command is trying to find them. Seems no one except you and Marshall were easy to find.”

“What about the thing he said was on the wall of his apartment? What was that about?” asked Sor. Cowboy held up his phone, showing him the picture, and Sor looked confused, shaking his head.

“Do you know what that is?” asked Cowboy.

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