She giggled and grabbed his cheeks. “She’s my new mom, you know? I can put in a good word.” She whispered.
He laughed and set her down on the floor. His mate stood and wiped her hands down her shorts. He watched as she greeted Carlos, his heart hammering. He adjusted his hard-on as they whispered to each other. She looked up and the lust in her eyes scorched him. He greeted the boys and waited on his mate to come to him.
Her son, the kid he would be overjoyed to claim, that his cat had already claimed, came over and hugged him. “Hi, Beta.”
Derrick lifted him and nuzzled against his cheek in greeting. “Hey, kiddo.”
The young cub in Jamie was strong, nearing the time for his first shift. He was amazed that although Jamie had only a quarter panther, it was strong enough to manifest. It spoke of his mother’s strength and that of her family. It made him anxious for the day he and Savi had their own.
“Glad you’re back.” Jamie said, as Derrick put him back down.
He waved at Carlos’ nephews and watched silently as his mate walked over to him.
“You’re staying here?” She asked quietly as she came over.
He watched her face for signs of discomfort. “If that’s alright with you.” He traced a thumb across her cheek.
She grabbed his hand and rubbed her cheek against it. “The kids will probably be pretty loud.”
She was so beautiful she took his breath away. “I don’t mind, so long as I can lay next to you.”
She sighed, her eyes dewy. “That’s the same thing Felix said.
“If you’re not comfortable, I can leave, love.”
The indecision was on her face. Her emotions running the gamut from fear to acceptance. He watched it all. She finally sighed and turned her face into his hand and kissed his palm.
“I don’t mind.”
He kissed her lightly, mindful of the kids. “I’ll just shower and make a pallet here in the living room.” He’d give her space. Just being in the same apartment with her was enough for him.
She nodded and stepped back. “I’ll make it for you.”
He smiled and walked into the hallway bathroom. There was a towel and clothes on the sink, probably courtesy of his co-mate. He showered quickly, exhausted and eager to spend any type of time with Savannah. By the time he came out, there were blankets, pillows and giggling kids scattered across the floor.
The Felix was already laid out next to their mate, to his surprise. He assumed Carlos would lay in bed with Savannah. His mate looked up and smiled, waving him over. His panther circled his body, and relaxed the moment he sat next to Savannah. He adjusted the pillow and laid out, his hand snaking out across her stomach. The Felix adjusted his arm lower so they were both comfortable and despite the noise of the kids, he was asleep in minutes. Content for the first time in a long time.