Page 80 of Surviving in Everton

“Is he really coming home?” I spin around looking up into Hudson’s eyes.

“He is and don’t even try to argue. It’s not a fight you’ll win, Sugar. Heneedsto be here. Just as much asyouneed him to be.”

I know he’s right. I’m sure I’ll feel better once I have all of my guys with me. Then we can all go to the doctor and get this over with.

Chapter 33

Rowen

Ifinish my breakfast in silence. Lost in thought, replaying countless memories that had been stolen from me over the years. I’m jolted out of my musings when I’m spun in my seat and engulfed in the most comforting embrace. Shoulders slumping, I finally start to breathe again. I hadn’t even realized anything was different until Declan swooped in and drew me out of the vortex of thoughts swirling in my head.

“It’s okay,A Stor. I know it’s a lot to take in, years worth of memories rushin’ in. Let me help you.”

I just nod against his chest. I have no idea how he thinks he’s going to help, but honestly, just him holding me like this is making a difference. I don’t know if it has something to do with the soulmate bond or what, but I don’t really care. I’m just happy to have him home. He’s always at work when shit goes down and apparently it was starting to get to me, not having them all with me.

“Trust me,A Stor, it’s been killin’ me to be away every time somethin’ happens with you. I’m here now though, we all are.”

He holds me tight, whispering sweet nothings into my hair as he rocks me from side to side. Hands start rubbing my arms and back, making the comforting sensation I felt once Declan touched me spread, flooding me with so much peace and love, I nearly collapse in their arms. I feel so many confusing emotions. Beneath the love and affection are adoration, amazement, awe, disbelief, worry, hopefulness, surprise, and vulnerability.

“What’s goin on?” I look up at Declan, eyes wide as I try to understand what’s going on.

“The magic isn’t blocking your empathy anymore. You’re feeling all of our emotions now,” he explains.

“N-no. I don’t… no.” I shake my head, not believing what he’s saying. “How? I’ve never felt emotions like this. Not even before Harris.”

“Maybe it’s the soulmate bond.” He shrugs. “Won’t know for sure until you get around other people and see if you can feel their emotions too.”

“Okay… I can handle that… maybe. As long as it’s just you guys I can feel like this.” Oh god. What if it’snotonly them I can feel?

“It’ll be fine,A Stor. If Violet can do it, so can you. You’re much stronger than you give yourself credit for.”

Oh god! Violet feels this all the time?!

Declan just chuckles at me. “She’s used to it, just like you will be. Now it’s time to go.” He looks me up and down, admiring my pajamas that Ayden must have put on me last night. “Cute, but maybe not for public consumption.”

Nate straight up growls and I feel a wave of anger before I’m covered in his orange magic.

“There. That’s better.”

I look down at myself and don’t know whether to laugh or smack him. Spinning around I glower at him. “This is better?” I wave my hands up and down, encompassing the horrible outfit he’s dressed me in. “Nate, I’m not leaving the house in this!”

He’s dressed me in the most ridiculous, shapeless muumuu. I swear to god, this thing looks like a circus tent! It has red and blue stripes and white polka dots. It nearly reaches the floor, covering everything except my face and hands. The long billowing sleeves are cinched at the wrists and flare out. All I need now is to put on some over the top makeup and I’ll look like Mimi fromDrew Carey!

“You look great! Let’s go!” he retorts cheerfully.

I can feel my face heating and my breathing becoming labored as I glare at him. He finally wises up, taking a step back, raising his hands as if to defend himself from the ass kicking he deserves.

“Okay,A Stor, don’t kill him. I got you.” Declan clasps my shoulders, stopping me from going after Nate. Though I could still use my magic if I really wanted to.

His green magic surrounds me, replacing the hideous dress Nate put on me. When the sparks disappear, I look down, beaming at the gorgeous tea length spaghetti strap dress I’m wearing. Twirling around, the skirt billows out. I love the light blue, flowy material. It’s soft and light. Perfect for the hot weather we’ve been having.

“Much better! Thank you, Declan!” I throw my hands around his neck and kiss him soundly. “We can go now,” I cheer brightly.

* * *

There’sa new receptionist waiting to sign me in. Her eyes bulge as she takes in the five men surrounding me, bouncing from one to the other.

“You’re all t-together?” she stutters.

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