***
Steady chops reached my ears as Callum and I made our way into the kitchen, hand in hand and playfully bumping each other.
Lake stood at the counter, slicing an onion. Rice cooked in a large pot on the stove, and chicken breasts marinated in a sauce made from olive oil, lemon juice, and a medley of rosemary, sage, and thyme. Loaves of bread baked in the oven.
“Smells yummy.” I released Callum and stepped up behind Lake, pushing my face into his back. The scent of peaches came off his tunic. “Need any help? I can chop the peppers.”
Lake turned to face me, softness shining in his purple eyes. “Let me worry about supper tonight. You’re still recovering.”
“I feel fine,” I grumbled. “Let me help.”
My wolf shook his head. “You can help by sitting.”
“Uh-oh,” Rowan said. “There he goes again. Lookin’ like a sad toad.”
Callum coughed to cover up his laugh.
I brought my hands up to cover my chin. The meanies. Apparently, when I pouted, I tucked in my chin and frowned, reminding Rowan of a toad. The nickname had stuck ever since.
“No worries, little treasure.” Rowan hopped up on the counter, bringing one leg up. He examined the chopped veggies before popping a slice of bell pepper into his mouth. “I’ll help the pup cook.”
“You mean I’ll cook while you steal bites of everything,” Lake mumbled. He held me gently but securely.
“I’m an expert taste tester.” The corner of Rowan’s mouth hitched up. “Have to make sure it’s not poisoned.”
Lake huffed. “You’re a liar and a cheat, is what you are.”
“Still salty about our last chess match? Come on, pup. You can’t win them all.”
“You used magic to shift my pieces on the board.” Lake drew back from me and glared at our thief turned spy.
“Did not.”
“Did so. You moved my queen.”
“Can ya prove it?”
The front door closed, and steps neared the kitchen. A heavy thump of boots I recognized. Lake snapped his attention toward the doorway just as Maddox stepped through it.
“Captain.” Callum tipped his head to him. “Welcome home.”
“Lieutenant.” Maddox returned the gesture and undid the clasp on his white cloak, draping it over the nearest barstool. “I take it all went well today?”
“Aye. Our muffin came to no harm.” He grinned at me before facing Maddox again. “Did all fare well with the knights?”
I sighed, feeling like a damsel. The attack had shattered my protection stone, leaving me vulnerable. Definitely not helping their overprotectiveness. Per Maddox’s orders, Callum had returned home early to be with me.
“Yes.” Maddox faced me. “They’re all worried and wanted to come see you this evening. I told them no, that you needed your rest. Fair to say they all hate me now.”
“Can you blame them?” Callum lightly ruffled my hair. “Denying them such an adorable sight.”
“Maybe I can see them tomorrow,” I said, spirit lifting at the thought. “Briar wants me to come into the clinic for another lung treatment. I miss my boys. Duke, Baden, and my cute Quincy.”
“You think Quincy is cute?” Callum cocked his head. “Interesting.”
“He’s an ugly bastard to me,” Rowan said.
“Be nice,” I told him.
