“Cosmopolitans.” She winced. “Do you even drink alcohol? I didn’t think to ask.”
“I have yet to hear of a world where there is not some sort of intoxicating beverage or food or vapor, if not all three and maybe even other forms. Yes, we have enjoyed alcoholic drinks here.” I took a sip. “Much more refined than lager.”
Amaris nodded. “Yes. Have you tried gummies?”
I glanced at Tylan, who shrugged. “I don’t know what those are. Why?”
She giggled again. “Never mind for now. I don’t usually indulge, but maybe one day we can together.”
As the evening went on, we sat in booth with our mate between us, eating and drinking. Our mate ordered salad and a pasta dish with no animal flesh, even though we assured her we didn’t mind. She seemed to enjoy her thin noodles with a creamy sauce, though, and we held her hands and even got her to let us feed her a few bites. Sitting, thighs pressed together, I could almost hope that things might work out. Her scent surrounded me, her laughter raised my spirits, and the evening went too quickly. I couldn’t wait to see her again.
Chapter Seventeen
Amaris
This was what it felt like to fall in love. I was sure of it. My men, because I was now calling them that in my head, were coming over to my apartment for a movie night. I appreciated the nice dinner out but at heart, I was astay at home and snugglekind of girl.
I made a trip to the grocery store after having a phone call with both of them. They were doing everything I wished they would. Morning calls. Checking in on me. Getting to know the real me.
They hadn’t made a move on me yet beyond hand-holding and kissing on the cheek, but I wanted them to. I so wanted them to. At the same time, I had a feeling that mating with them would be the seal to our arrangement. Once we were mated, much like shifters, it would be similar to vows of marriage.
If this was real, and Goddess, I hoped it was, then I wanted to be completely sure. Not only for me but for them as well.
I picked up all the makings for movie snacks. I would make brownies and cookies and popcorn.
Tylan and Farsel had made the mistake of telling me that they had never seenThe Lord of the Ringstrilogy. Big mistake.
There was no greater tragedy than not seeing those movies.
Of course, we would only be able to get through one film in a night, but it gave us reasons for more movie nights. And more movie nights with them sounded like what a girl needed in life.
I cleaned my house even though it was not dirty, even going so far as putting on clean sheets because who knew where the night would go despite my hang-ups. Once everything was set up, I leaned against the kitchen counter and forced a few deep breaths. I wasn’t nervous, per se, but excited to see them. I felt not myself when they weren’t around, which was weird since we’d only had a couple of dates.
When a knock sounded at my door, I relaxed. They were here. I was in knots when they weren’t around.
Interesting.
“Hi,” I said, opening the door wide. There were two of them, after all. Dressed alike. “Was there a black shirt-and-jeans meeting I missed? I feel out of place now.”
I’d tried to make it clear that tonight was casual. I wore a matching lounge set which could pass for clothes but really, it was more for staying in.
“We didn’t even realize we were wearing the same thing until it was too late and we were almost here. You, on the other hand, are stunning in that color.”
I looked down at my coral matching outfit. It was my favorite color and did look nice. I loved their eyes on me. Made me stand a little taller. “Thank you. Come on in.”
When they came in, my apartment seemed to shrink. Their heads were only inches from the ceiling. I glanced over to my couch, doubting it would fit the three of us.
Huh. Maybe I would have to drape myself over their laps.
What a shame.
“I made some snacks, but we can order dinner if you’re hungrier.”
Farsel cocked his head. He always studied me. “You cooked for us. Made us food from your hands?”
“It’s just brownies and from a mix at that. And cookies, from a roll of dough. No need to be in awe.”
They shared a look.