Logically, it makes sense.
But since I’ve seen Kelly, insecurities eat at me.
Kelly’s not defective.
Kelly fits in with their lifestyle.
They’ve never had to pretend with Kelly.
Snap out of it, April. Comparison is the thief of joy.
Sandy’s wise words don’t help, though.
It’s impossible not to compare myself to Skylar, Devyn, and now Kelly.
“Well, regardless,” Skylar adds, oblivious to my spiral. “I wouldn’t do it. If I ever run into any of these guys’ exes, I’d murder them.” She points at River, then at Vincent and Landon, who sit at her kitchen island.
“See, and that’s how we’re different,” I sigh. “I’m fine with this. It’s just a little weird.”
I am decidedlynotfine. Ever since seeing Kelly, I’ve grown more possessive of Donovan, Liam, and Hunter.
My body aches when I think of them, and I’ve been piling more and more blankets on my bed.
I found out Hunter left a sweatshirt under my pillow—of course he did—and now it stays with me every night.
I’mnesting.Something I haven’t done in months, not even before my kidnapping.
“You do seem a little upset, April,” Landon says gently. “And that’s alright.”
I groan and place my head in my hands.
“Just stake your claim,” Skylar says. “When you go to the wedding, make sureeveryonethere knows that pack Axton belongs toyou.”
“When is the wedding?” Vincent adds.
“Ah, not for another two months. And we have a few other events to go to before that.”
Skylar nods. “You should just move in with them already. You shouldn’t have to travel back and forth.”
I scoff. “Movein? We’ve barely started dating. And what, just not work?”
My friend shrugs. “Devyn and I will cover the café. We’re more than fine.” She gives me a knowing, pointed look, reminding me of the generous “donation” the cafe received.
I chew my lip. “That’s ridiculous.”
“What if you just take a vacation?” River adds. “They’re rich as fuck, right? Relax in a mansion.”
“It’s tempting,” I admit. “But I doubt they would even ask. It’s too soon. It hasn’t even been a month.”
I’ve barely talked to any of them since last weekend with Donovan. I’ve worked extra shifts at the café and stayed up late baking.
Hunter sends flirty texts, Liam sends sweet messages, and Donovan is radio silent.
It’s just awkward.
“What about your Heat?” Skylar adds, and I turn to look at her.
“Can we discuss this later?” I stammer, a blush burning my face. “When we’renotin front of your pack?”