Page 84 of Death and Donuts

“No.” She hugged me harder before she actually let go of me. “I want to wrap you in bubble wrap and put you in a closet somewhere.”

“So I can come out of the closet?” I asked with a grin. “You know you’re the only girl for me.”

It was her turn to groan, but I saw the glint in her eye that told me some of her fear was letting up, thanks to my teasing.

“I want you safe. And since bubble wrap is too fun to pop, I’m going to put my efforts into finding the asshole who keeps hurting the people I love instead. Behave while I’m gone, and clean your room.” She waved to Anchor and Gunther. “Come on, boys. Let’s find a cat to skin.”

“Ew,” I said.

She blew a kiss at me and walked away with the other two.

I faced Shepard and saw the worry reflected in his gaze.

“I’m fine,” I said. “Promise.”

He wrapped me in a gentler and yet more intense hug than Vena’s.

“When Cross called me and told me what happened…” A fine tremor ran through Shepard.

“I’ll admit it wasn’t fun to be hit by a car, and I never want to do it again, but I really am fine, Shepard. The doctor looked me over and everything. No stitches, thanks to Cross. No concussion. Just a few aches that aren’t too bad.”

He sighed and kissed my temple without letting me go.

“Bubble wrap does sound like a good idea.”

“I hear it’s not very sexy or breathable.”

He grunted a small laugh.

“Was everything okay here? No attacks or anything?”

He pulled back to look at me and shook his head. “Everything was quiet.”

“Good. I’d rather Adriel stay focused on me.”

“I’d rather he die,” Shepard said.

“Yeah, well, I guess there’s that too. How are the Hunters? Miles?”

“The Hunters are exceptionally quiet while researching. Vena made me promise to ensure someone delivers food and drinks, or they won’t feed themselves. Miles has been increasingly agitated. Cross offered to compel him again tonight so he rests. I think the Hunters will take him up on the offer.”

Shepard’s hold finally loosened.

“What are your plans for today?”

“Whatever you want. Today, I’m yours.”

I smiled.

“I’m a little hungry. Why don’t we make me and the Hunters a snack to carry us over until lunch?”

Shepard led me inside to the kitchen where other women were already gathering to start lunch. I grabbed two apples and sliced them along with some cheese, nibbling as I worked. When I was done, Shepard and I brought the plate to the Hunters, who were in their room next to Miles’ room.

I knocked on their door but knew not to wait for them to open it. Most likely, they didn’t even hear it. Their hyperfocus when researching was like nothing I had ever seen before.

Opening the door, I found them both at a small table. Papers, books, and maps were splayed on every surface available in the room. Mr. Hunter had a magnifying glass and was peering at a map while Mrs. Hunter scrolled through a website on her laptop.

“Time for a break,” I said, scooting things over on the table to make room.

---