Page 76 of Dream Girl
“Alphas need to protect. It’s easier to protect your family if you’re there with them,” I added, giving each of them a kiss. “It stems from the days when you stuck close to your omega because they might get kidnapped.”
Grace’s look went horrified. “That doesn't still happen, does it?”
“Not like it did. But there are still assholes and criminals. Also, Evan can defend himself against an alpha. But most omegas can’t, so there’s that safety factor. It’s like how your dad made you keep pepper spray in your pocket,” I explained. Her dad had seemed to genuinely care about her, but he wouldn’t stand up to her mom.
“The movie theater has big reclining seats, so you can curl up and sleep,” Evan added, stroking her hair. “We’ve got to leave soon. Oh, and Ri picked out your outfit. But you don’t have to wear it.”
“I feel like I sort of do. She’s testing me, making sure I’m worthy of your time.” Grace sat up on her elbows, the blankets slipping off to reveal her pale breasts, the shell pink nipples teasing me as if to sayCome play with us.
“Sounds about right.” Evan gave her another kiss, then nuzzled her neck. “I love the smell of him on you.”
“I can’t wait to smell you on her, but Ri will get pissed if I have my way with you and we’re late,” I said. “Want to join us in the shower?”
“Fuckers, we need to go in thirty,” Riley yelled from my sitting room.
Evan looked at the door and grinned. “I’ll make it until we get home. Grace might have to entertain Ri, though.”
“I’ll take one for the team. I like teenagers.” Grace grinned back and got out of bed, the blankets dropping completely. Her bruises were a lot better–especially the ones on her face, but that’s not where Evan’s gaze went.
Evan sucked in a breath at the sight of her back, which was covered in ugly scars in the center. Those strokes had been carefully placed so they’d never be seen if your clothing was modest.Modest is hottestwas one of the many bullshit things she’d been taught.
The sight of them made me want to hurt someone. It was a good thing that the people who did that to her were in another world. How could they do that tochildren?
“Sorry, I… I can wear a shirt when we’re in bed if it makes you uncomfortable.” Grace’s head bowed as she fumbled for a blanket, scent going both sour and salty.
Evan wrapped his arms around her, taking the blanket from her hands and tossing it on the bed. “Please tell me that your partners didn’t make you wear shirts to bed or make you feel uncomfortable about your body.”
She turned away. “What partners? I’m okay with the fact that others are bothered by my scars.”
That was a lie. It hurt her. I could tell.
“Your scars are beautiful.” He pulled her to him and kissed her.
I stood and embraced them both, covering them with my scent, comforting them, with my touch, letting them know I loved them, imperfections and all.
“Ri wants to bake cupcakes and watch rom-coms with you. But I didn’t tell you that,” Evan said.
“We’re having a welcome-home barbecue for you tonight, so maybe you can make cupcakes together. I mean, if you know how to make cupcakes?” I added. Cupcakes would be nice.
“Evan!” Riley yelled.
I sighed, wishing we could stay like this a little longer. “Ri’s favorite sport is cockblocking.”
Grace giggled. “Well yeah. She’s fifteen. I know how to make cupcakes. That sounds fun. I’m going to take a quick shower.”
I seized Evan and gave him a deep kiss, a promise that I’d see to his needs later.
Evan gave Grace a little kiss and smoothed her hair. “I’ll make sure you make it up to me tonight, okay?”
“Yes, sir.” Grace smirked, swinging that little ass of hers.
“Fuck.” Evan’s eyes stayed on her as she disappeared into my bathroom. “If she keeps calling mesir…”
“She was raised to call people that out of politeness.” I shook my head at his expression.
“I’m familiar with the concept. Also, I was in the military with you, butfuck.Love you.”
“Love you, too. Are you sure this is okay? I want to check in now that it’s happened.” I pressed my forehead to his. Not that I sensed any resentment or hesitation through the bond, but I wanted to ask, anyway.
