Page 93 of South of The Skyway

“Bright and early, with no sleep in between?” I insinuated, earning a wink from Alice before she refocused on her book.

I’d just plated a stack of pancakes with peanut butter and maple syrup when the master opened. Brex wore my t-shirt and not much else, her hair disheveled. I swooped up to her in a heartbeat, abandoning breakfast on the way.

“Good morning, beautiful,” I said, scooping her up for a morning kiss and loving the hum of contentment before she went stiff, peering over my shoulder. I didn’t have to look to know everyone had halted to survey the newcomer. “The Rhodes have descended,” I murmured apologetically.

“I—uh—see that,” she said, lowering onto flat feet and flitting into the bathroom where she frantically combed fingers through her blonde waves. A throat cleared behind me, and I peered back to see Mav and Jameson holding up ten fingers with satisfied expressions carved on their faces. These fucking guys. Slight relief that Axel had stayed behind, and Finn was too busy being Finn to add to their stupidity. I mimed slicing my throat while glowering down at them and barely holding back a laugh as they both darted back to their respective places. How much of her could they have possibly peeked around my bulky fucking frame? The hallway was only like two feet wide.

“I’ll, um, just get dressed if that’s cool?” Brex grimaced at her reflection, splashing cold water on her face.

“Of course, baby, I’ve got breakfast for you. Do you want to come meet everyone or get a cup of coffee down first?”

“In a space this small?” she balked quietly. “I think I’d better get it over with, don’t you?”

“They might burst through the bedroom door if you don’t,” I admitted. Something like a smile played at the edge of her nervous lips.

FORTY-TWO

BREXLEY

Brexley

The Rhodes are in town today. Girls’ night tonight?

Vallie

I’m in.

Josie

Let me confirm with the sitter, and I’ll get right back to you guys.

Noel

Hey, I’m sorry. I’ve got to pass.

Brexley

What?

Noel

Eric wants time together.

Vallie

Eric gets you all week. Come out with us.

Noel

Sorry guys.

Josie

I’m out too, sorry.

Vallie

That’s okay. Brex, raincheck? We can shoot for next week.

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