Page 188 of The Alpha

“Is he?”

She nodded. “You have no idea.”

“And your uncles approve of him, even though this could turn into a long-distance relationship?”

She nodded again.

“So, what’s holding you back?” he asked.

She let loose a laugh. “I… well... me.”

He nodded. “I understand how that would happen. Have you had a chance to speak to his friends about him?”

“Yes. Several.” She smiled thinking of Shona, Kitty, Kwaku and Zara. “They all speak very highly of him.”

Dr. Merrill smiled. “And so do you, it seems. So, when do you leave?”

She gave him a blank stare before a smile slowly formed on her face. “In a few days is my guess. They’ll take care of all the travel arrangements.”

“You’re going then?”

Her entire chest warmed as her decision locked into place. “I am.”

Dr. Merrill gave her a wide smile. “And you’re going because…?”

Tears she didn’t expect threatened, but she willed them back. They weren’t surfacing because she was scared out of her wits, but because she’d just made a huge decision. “Because… they’re my friends; I feel I can trust them. I can… trust Melvale.”

Dr. Merrill nodded. “How does that make you feel?”

Pari thought about it a moment then smiled. “Safe.” She sniffed and wiped at her nose. “Yes, safe!” Her heart leapt in her chest at the realization.

“Good.” Dr. Merrill sat back. “Will you continue to date him?”

Pari looked at her hands as Melvale’s face flashed through her mind. His goofy smile and mannerisms followed by the other side of him. Bondrah. Who had only ever tried to protect her.

She slowly nodded. “Yes.”

“Exclusively?”

Pari smiled at Dr. Merrill then looked at the door. “Yes.” Her smile grew as heat crept into her cheeks.

“So, you have a boyfriend,” he quipped merrily. “I hope to meet him one day.”

She grinned and bit her lower lip a moment. “He’s in the waiting room.”

Dr. Merrill started with surprise. “Is he? Well, how about introducing me?”

Pari was suddenly giddy. “Okay.” She giggled as she left her chair and went into the waiting room. “Melvale…”

He rose from his chair, towering over her, his eyes on the doctor behind her. “Pari?”

She couldn’t keep the silly grin off her face. What was happening? Pari turned to her therapist. “This is Dr. Merrill.”

Melvale extended his hand. “Dr. Merrill, it’s a pleasure to meet you.” He gave him a slight bow to boot.

Pari’s smile grew, if that was possible. “Dr. Merrill, this… is my boyfriend, Melvale.”

Melvale’s eyes grew wide, and he stood stock still for a moment before a slow smile curved his mouth.

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