Chapter 497
0497
“I love you,” I say the words I don’t need to because I’m sure he can see it in my eyes.
“I know, but I love you way fucking more,” he murmurs, kissing my forehead softly. I close my eyes, relishing in his touch before another bang makes him growl in irritation and he lets go of me.
“They are doing it on purpose!” I pout, making him chuckle.
“I’ll see you out in the lounge. Take your time, I’ll get the door,” he says and I nod as he leaves our bedroom.
I smile as I hear the commotion and pick up the paint tub, placing it inside the wardrobe so it doesn’t accidentally get spilt by anyone. I’m about to turn when I see the picture of Jai sitting in the back of the drawer.
Smiling down at it, I remember moving it into my drawer a few weeks ago. He’ll always be a part of my memory, always a cherished part of me, but I think those belong safe in my memories and in my drawer is where they belong
This is mine and Zade’s story, my real story. Everything else just got me to this point. To the arms of the man who makes me a better person, to a man who makes me happier than I ever possibly thought I could be.
I smile as I shut the drawer and close the wardrobe door, leaving the room to be met by everyone in the lounge.
Sia has her arms wrapped around Zade, she and Xander have taken a liking to him, and I think he doesn’t mind them either. He talks to Zion, but I think he still finds it hard to deal with Kaia.
“Valerie!” Zaia rushes over and hugs me. I hadn’t seen her for a few weeks and I missed her.
“Zaia, welcome! All of you,” I say, meeting them all. I smile at Atticus, whose beard has grown, and he looks a little messier than what he once used to. “I’m glad you came,” I say softly.
“I’m glad I did too,” he responds, looking around, “Where’s your pack members?”
I look into his eyes, hmm… I think I know who he’s asking about. I never really got to have that word with him, because with Shelby’s illness and death, I knew it wasn’t the right time.
“They’re around, so shall I show you our packhouse?” I ask.
“Sure,” he responds.
I’m sure Zade can handle the rest here.
“Is Hugh on his way?” he asks.
“Yes, he should be.”
I smile. He might not call him Dad, but he definitely is accepting him now.
“Is Linette on the way?” I ask Atticus as we step outside.
“Yes, she’ll be here. Thank you for inviting her too” he smiles at me, and I shake my head.
“Nothing to thank me for. She’s accepted me as your sister and never made an issue. She’s family too.”
12
10 BONUS
He smiles at me as he puts his arm around me and kisses my forehead. “I’m sorry I’ve not been around much,” he replies quietly.
“Don’t ever apologise, it’s ok to take time for yourself,” I whisper. “Adriana isn’t here…” I state, knowing that’s why he had asked about the pack members. I watch him, seeing the shadow of regret in his eyes.
“I see.”
“You need to make an effort with her, Atticus,” I say softly.
He looks ahead as we walk down the winding path that leads to the newly resurrected packhouse; it’s not completed but Zade’s been working on it himself.
“I don’t deserve her, Valerie, not after I shunned her.”
“Then stop doing the same now.”