Page 70 of Can't Be Love

“I know you will, sweet girl, but I’ll still miss you every day you’re away. I’m so proud of you though, and I know you will make an amazing Pack Mother someday.”

I grinned proudly as I hugged her tighter. “I did learn from the best.”

We spent more time catching up and she got to know Thomas better as we helped finish the meal. I felt like I should have been nervous, officially introducing him to the family, but I wasn’t. It just felt natural having him there.

“Mary?” Kelsey yelled when the front door opened.

“Kitchen,” she replied. It was a normal scene in the Westin home.

“Grandma, look!” Z squealed as he ran into the kitchen, coming to a complete stop when he saw me. “Aunt Weewee!”

“Hey Z-man. How’s my favorite youngest nephew?” I said, picking him up and snuggling him close.

“He’s your only youngest nephew, silly,” Kelsey said

“For now,” I said, noticing her enormous belly protruding. “Still no baby I see.”

“What are you doing here?” she asked, setting down the bag she was carrying to hug me.

“Apparently, we’re on a road trip of surprises,” Thomas said sarcastically.

Kelsey looked him over. “Well, I see you made the cut. Good luck keeping this one in line.”

He laughed. “Oh, I’m finding my ways.”

“Maddie and Liam just got home about an hour ago. I stopped and grabbed some extra food, just in case they decided to show tonight,” Kelsey said, passing the bag to Mom.

“That’s about as close to having all my babies under one roof as I can ask for right now. I’ll give Maddie a call,” Mom said as she set the groceries on the counter, and then left the room to no doubt harass MC into coming for dinner.

My phone dinged a few minutes later.

MC: You’re here and didn’t even tell me?

LILY: I thought you were still in Collier.

MC: Why aren’t u in Collier. U didn’t leave Thomas already, did u?

I snorted as Thomas looked over my shoulder to read my text.

He pulled out his phone.

THOMAS: It’s not going to work. Lily left me. Need to talk.

MC: Seriously?? Want me to kick her ass for you?

Thomas laughed and showed me his phone.

THOMAS: Whatever it takes.

I grabbed my phone and furiously started typing.

LILY: You’re brother’s a douchebag. I’m sorry. I tried.

MC: But he’s your true mate!!!

LILY: So? You actually liked Liam and tried to call it off. I thought you’d understand.

MC: He’s texting me. He sounds devastated. U sure bout this?

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