Page 8 of Unclaimed

Chapter Four

IfFrosthadknownthere was so much happiness waiting for him out in the world, he would have moved sooner. He had never been good at making friends. Mostly, it came from being in a place of respect. He had to be in charge, and that couldn’t be personal. Frost kept people alive. It was a lonely calling. Outside of work, he simply didn’t know what to say to people. He didn’t fit.

Since moving to Wulfe, more extroverts had adopted him than in his entire life combined. As he sat at the diner with Deidra, he couldn’t stop smiling. She had demanded they meet for lunch, and he was so happy he hadn’t balked. He hadn’t laughed so much in his life. Frost had learned all the gossip about at least fifteen people he didn’t know.

“I can’t tell you how nice it is to have met you. Most people here still treat me like an outsider, and I’ve lived here six years.”

Frost was more than a little surprised to hear that. He had been made more than welcome. Frost didn’t think it was the color of Deidra’s skin. It was Washington State. They were supposed to be known for inclusion, but small towns might be the same all over the country. He wouldn’t know. Still, Frost was outraged on her behalf.

“Seriously? That’s bullshit. You’re amazing. I can’t tell you how thankful I am you decided to adopt me. It’s always been kind of hard for me to make friends. I’m not sure I really fit in anywhere.” Frost had never admitted that to anyone, but it was true. He was always the quiet one in the corner, internally panicking because no one really saw him.

Deidra patted his hand. “I understand. But from what I’m hearing, you’re definitely fitting in here. A nurse on the night shift told me Sheriff Black stopped by to see you last night. That guy doesn’t talk to anyone.”

“Waylon is the sheriff? I didn’t know that.”

Deidra nodded and popped a fry in her mouth. “He’s pretty quiet, but everyone still seems to love him.” She shrugged.

Before Frost could ask anything more, his phone buzzed. He glanced down. Frost couldn’t ignore any messages. He had patients. His stomach dropped as he saw Craig’s name.

Craig:Can we talk?

Frost swiped the text away and flipped his phone over. He focused on Deidra’s gorgeous whiskey-colored eyes. “Sorry about that. We should do this again.”

A shadow appeared over the table. Frost glanced up to find Gemini there like he had appeared from thin air.

“Hey.” Even Frost heard the happiness in his voice.

“Hey. I saw your SUV out front.”

Frost nodded. He motioned Deidra’s way. “Have you met Deidra?”

Gemini flashed her a smile. “We’ve crossed paths. How are you?”

A bright smile lit Deidra’s face. “I’m good. How about you?”

“I’m great.” He focused on Frost again, making Frost’s stomach flutter. He genuinely was beautiful. “I thought I’d let you know I’m headed up the mountain to check on a hermit that lives up that way. Hopefully, I’ll make it back by the time you get home. If not, I promise I won’t be too late.”

Frost nodded. “That’s fine. I’m just as likely to be late. If I am, you know how to get in.” He laughed, since they both knew Frost hadn’t moved that spare key. They had decided to spend the night at Frost’s place this time. Frost had offered to cook. Gemini had argued. He still wasn’t sure which of them had won.

Gemini leaned in. “We’ll get it together.” He openly kissed Frost like they were completely alone. Frost knew he couldn’t stand up for a while without giving away how affected he was. Gemini pulled away. “See you tonight.”

“See you.” He watched as Gemini walked away.

His gaze slid Deidra’s way.

“Holy shit.” She silently mouthed the words.

Frost fanned his face. “I know,” he mouthed back. His gaze went back to Gemini’s ass without a single thought. Damn. He looked sexy as hell in uniform. The moment he disappeared, Frost fought a squeal.

“Damn, Frost. Gemini Leo? Every single person in this town has tried to land that guy. He makes Sheriff Black look like a socialite. As far as I know, he’s never given anyone the time of day. That’s one fine man. If I wasn’t married, I might’ve thrown my hat in the ring. Goddamn, boy.”

Frost touched his hot cheeks. Damn. Gemini had chosen him. Why? Holy shit. He was over the moon. “I know, right? What the hell? He’s… wow.”

The way Deidra’s eyes danced with laughter made him want to keep confessing everything, but he had to get back to work.

“You’re sweet. I’m sure you’re just irresistible to a dominant type like Gemini. He probably laps up that sugary soul for breakfast.” Deidra paused. “Really, though. When we don’t have to get back to work, I want all the juicy details of that man lapping up anything.”

A laugh burst from Frost. He stood and tossed some cash on the table for a tip. “May I walk you to your car?”

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