“You know, it might be fun to work at the daycare. I was hoping to watch Lincoln’s pup after he delivers, but that’s up to him.”
Ben nodded, as he’d had the same thought.
“You may get to do both. I’ll have Linda Kilburn sit down with you to work out the details, and you can get started whenever you feel comfortable. As far as your housing is concerned, we don’t have any empty apartments, so we’re going to leave you in Quad three for now if you don’t mind.”
Melva cackled, shaking her head.
“Mind? It’s the nicest place I’ve ever lived, so I don’t mind at all! Maybe I could clean the other units when you have guests come through, to help pay the rent.”
Ben’s brows went up a notch.
“Actually, that would be very helpful, as long as it’s not too much for you. Our people owe you a debt for rescuing Lincoln, and it won’t be forgotten. I also wanted to tell you that Alpha Sheppard is sending a team to Eagle River on Sunday to deal with Richmond and Ballard. I’ll let you know what happens, but please don’t say anything to Lincoln in the meantime. He seems to be improving every day, and I don’t want to spoil his progress with upsetting news.”
Just the mention of those monsters set her teeth on edge, but she gave Ben an appreciative nod.
“Thank you. I’m glad to hear this whole thing isn’t being ignored. I really think it will help Lincoln to heal when he hears that they’ve been punished—hopefully somethingpermanent, if you get my meaning.”
Ben understood completely.
“No worries there. They’re going to get what’s coming to them, or I’ll take care of it myself. That’s a promise.”
############
Later that evening…
“Thanks again for supper. We had a great time!”
RJ waved and Jonah yipped at Jack, William, and the twins as they left the house. Like most Alphas, Kiah was a handful, but he’d channeled his natural tendencies into protecting Marie—often from their parents, especially if it was something neitherof them wanted to do. Still, their family was fairly typical for Gladstone, despite having children so late in life.
Speaking of kids, Jonah had requested that Jack do a little womb snooping during the visit, and the couple were giddy with excitement. If Jonah could, he’d be talking a mile-a-minute about Jack’s discovery. Since he couldn’t, RJ felt the pressure to say something.
“Were you surprised, Jo? I sure was!”
Jonah chuffed as he ran circles around his mate. RJ continued sharing.
“Don’t worry, Love, I’m not going to spill the beans. They’re just going to have to wait until December to find out, and besides, surprises make things interesting.”
Jonah’s rumbly growls of agreement were accompanied by insistent head rubs against RJ’s lower thigh. It still felt strange for RJ to be walking along as usual while Jonah was down at knee level. He hadn’t been a shifter for long, but almost felt guilty being in his human form while his wonderful mate had no choice. Actually, Jonah was handling the strange switch-up better than he was! They both knew it was only temporary, and for a very good cause, but it still did a number on one’s perspective. As they neared the packhouse, RJ spotted a large poster on the door and went to investigate.
“Look, Jo! Another movie night.”
Jonah could still read and understand the written word, and he cocked his head at the unfamiliar title.
MOVIE NIGHT—Friday October 8th, at 6 p.m. sharp!The Great Race(1965), starring Tony Curtis, Jack Lemmon, Peter Falk, and Natalie Wood. Hilarious hijinks galore in thislaugh out loud, turn-of-the-century automobile race from New York to Paris. This is a longer film, so we’re starting early and serving box suppers, with dessert and popcorn during intermission. Don’t miss it!
RJ reached down to stroke Jonah’s soft ears.
“It sounds like a lot of fun. Maybe we should invite Lincoln and Melva to join us.”
Jonah nodded his head and began trotting towards home. RJ was about to ask what his big hurry was until he caught the enticing scent of arousal from his mate. Obviously, a good knotting or three was in store to round out the Wilsons’ evening, and RJ eagerly quickened his steps.
############
Parked on Ben’s lap, Evan was enjoying some mouth-to-mouth with his mate. Things were just beginning to warm up when he felt several pats on his knee.
“Papa, where’s Lincoln?”
Evie looked slightly bereft without her friend, and Evan paused the action to answer his daughter.