Page 118 of Visions, Paws, and Claws

“You’ll see them tomorrow.”

“Yes, but that’s the scary part. The last time I saw my dad, I was seven years old. I know what he looks like, sure, but….” His throat tightened.

“But you won’t know him,” Horvan finished.

“We’ll have so much to learn about each other. And it makes me nervous.”

Rael joined them. “Don’t be. He’s probably just as nervous. He’s about to meet his sons-in-law.”

Horvan blinked. “Excuse me?”

“Well, how else would you describe us? Okay, so we don’t have a piece of paper, but we’ll be together for as long as we live.”

“Maybe longer,” Dellan mused. “I’m holding out for an afterlife.”

Horvan’s arms enveloped him, and he leaned against that broad chest. “I don’t have to remind you that you’re staying here tomorrow, do I?” Horvan’s voice was a reassuring rumble that reverberated through Dellan.

“But—”

“But nothing,” Horvan interjected. “This is going to be dangerous. I don’t want you within a mile of that camp.” He tightened his arms around Dellan. “Can’t risk losing you. Either of you.”

Rael reached up and stroked Horvan’s cheek. “We know. But you have to understand why Dellan wants to be there.”

“Doc will take care of Jake and Jamie.” Horvan’s voice brimmed with confidence, and that went a little way to easing Dellan’s aching heart.

“Just bring Dad back to me. Bring both of them back.”

“CAN Isleep with you?”

Brick frowned. “You think that’s such a good idea?” He glanced at the tent’s other occupants, most of whom were already out of sight beneath sleeping bags. Okay, they were a diverse crowd, and Lord knew they’d seen plenty of shenanigans over the years, but he didn’t think they were ready to share a tent with two guys sleeping together.

Aric rolled his eyes. “I don’t mean like this. Can’t I shift and curl up with you?”

He smiled. “I guess we can do that.” He liked the idea of having a warm fuzz ball snuggled against him.

Brick.

He froze.Seth?

Thank God. They’ve been running nonstop tests for the last two days. God knows what they’re trying to discover. Where are you? It must be someplace close.

Brick wanted to weep with relief.We’re not too far away. And we’ll be there early tomorrow.

I’ll be awake. And waiting. Want me to spread the word? Ican do it quietly.

Brick thought fast.Only if you trust them. We don’t want anyone telling the bad guys we’re coming a day early.

Okay. Now… where’s my favorite kitty?

Aric snorted.Waiting to get a word in. And I’ll be waiting too.

Gods, I want to hold you both so much.

Brick wanted that too, but he had to stay focused.

Soon, baby. Now try to get at least a few hours’ sleep. We’ll be there before it gets light.

I’ll know when you’re near. And I’ll be the one wanting a hug.He chuckled.The rest of what I want will have to wait until we’ve got some privacy.

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