Page 25 of Amaris Rejected

As I leave Amaris's room, I feel lost. Jeni is my childhood friend, and Amaris is my mate. I don’t understand the problem.Why can't they get along? Why am I stuck in the middle?I don't want to choose between them. I need to talk to someone.

Chapter 20 – Teas & Spells

Devon-Present Day

Being a creature of habit, my usual routine is to arrive at the office early each morning. Today is no different, as I have plenty of work to catch up on. It's been a week since my family joined me. We've spent a lot of time together getting to know one another, but Amaris still won’t let me get close enough to try for another kiss.

Also, Jeni is still hanging around and tends to show up at the worst times. As soon as she appears, Amaris becomes unreasonable and leaves, taking Zoe with her. I’m at a loss as to how to fix this.

Jeni is my lifelong childhood friend. Yes, there was a tiny indiscretion three years ago, but that ended before it even began. Jeni will always be my friend and, therefore, a part of my life. She says all she wants is to be friends with Amaris, but Amaris won't even consider it.

My door to my office opens, and I quickly gather my papers together for privacy.Why don’t people knock?

Jeni sticks her head around the door. "Ah! I thought you'd be here since you like to start work early." She croons. "I brought your favorite tea. It's actually a new blend, but I hope you'll like it." She sets a cup in front of me. "Honey and cream, just like you like." She hums.

"Oh, thanks." I grin at her, taking a drink. "Mmmm, I do like this. What’s different?"

"Just a few herbs, some extra mint and a dash of cinnamon."

"Yeah, I can taste the cinnamon." I take another deep drink. "What are you humming?" I ask.

"Just a cute little ditty about tea." She giggles.

"Sing it," I prod.

?”Just think how it would be, oh, so sweet,”??

?“A spell, then a drink and love’s complete,??

?“Sip the tea, it’s magic, you see,”??

?“A pinch of love, and a new family,”??

?“A dash of binding with every pour,”??

?“Drink up and you’re mine forevermore.”??

"Just a silly song running around in my head today. Go ahead and finish off the tea while it's still hot, and I'll take the dishes back to the kitchen," she encourages.

Okaaay, that’s weird as heck,I think to myself. But the tea really is a good blend, and in no time, I’ve drained the mug. "Thanks. That hit the spot. But I'll walk the cup down to the kitchen myself. It’s time to meet Amaris for breakfast."

As I walk into the kitchen, I see Amaris and Zoe already sitting at the table with food. Trish, the nanny, and my mother are with them. I fill a plate and slide in beside Amaris. "Hey Beautiful. How are you and my princess today?" I press a kiss to her temple. She doesn't push me away but simply gives me the side-eye. Over the past couple of days, we haven't had the chance to talk alone, but we’re bonding over Zoe. Turning to my pup, I lean over and pepper her face with kisses. She giggles.

"What are your plans for today?" I ask Amaris.

"Well, as I mentioned earlier, I'd like to volunteer at the clinic today. I gave you and Dr. Gibson copies of all my certifications and licenses when we met yesterday." She says, breezily. "So, I’m covering for him today while he takes the day off with his mate."

"Yeah, Dr. Gibson hasn't had a day off since we lost our other healer months ago. I’m glad you’re able to give him the time to recharge.” I turn to address my mother. “I guess you and Trish have the kiddo today?"

She nods. "Yes. We are going to have lots of fun!" She claps her hands and speaks to Zoe in a melodic sing-song voice. "Aren't we, GiGi's baby girl?"

Zoe claps her hands as well, giggling as she mimics her GiGi.

"You both understand that she’s not to have contact with anyone outside you two?" Amaris warns Mom and Trish. They both nod vigorously. "Especially not this she-wolf, Jeni! I don't want her anywhere around Zoe, understand?"

"Yes, Amaris," Mom agrees. "We won't let Jeni near her."

"Good," she states. "Zoe, baby, Mama’s going to work in the clinic for a while. You be good for GiGi and Trish, okay?"

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