My breathing speeds up, and Cade’s voice comes from the doorway.
“No expectations,” he reminds me softly. “The room is here, Gabrielle. We want you to be comfortable.”
By giving me the room that’s clearly meant for their future omega. My chest aches at the thought, even as I turn and offer them a shaky smile.
“It’s perfect,” I assure them. “And too much. Thank you.”
“Pfft,” Hudson waves off my thanks. “It’s a pleasure to have you here. There’s no ensuite, but the bathroom on your right isn’t used by anyone in the pack, so consider it yours.”
My own bathroom.
My lips part, a true smile lifting them.
I could feel safe here.Trulysafe.
“Thank you,” I breathe. “I won’t be any trouble.”
“I love trouble,” Hudson declares. He smiles at me.
“You’re very welcome. Settle in, and get some sleep.”
“Help yourself to anything you need,” Cade says firmly. “Kitchen’s always stocked, courtesy of our resident chef here, and there’s normally something to snack on in the refrigerator.”
When I nod, they both hesitate.
“Is there anything you need?” Hudson asks finally. “Anything at all we can get you?”
I survey the room around me.
“This is more than I need,” I say softly. “Truly.”
It’s more than I’ve ever had.
“In that case, we’ll let you get some sleep. Call if you need us.”
And with that, the door closes softly.
I take a few uncertain steps, before I settle gingerly on the edge of the bed.
It feels like a cloud.
My hand traces the silver embroidery on the silky smooth blanket that sits on top before I pull them away.
I don’t feel clean enough to get in, even though the urge to crawl under the covers and cocoon myself is pulling at me.
Instead, I move to the door, peering out.
My things and my duffle sit just outside, and I smile a little at the reminder of Hudson’s respect for my boundaries. Neither he or Cade took a step into the room, making it very clear that the space is a private one.
Gathering up the items, I settle down on the floor and look at what I have.
One sleeping bag. One blanket. Two sweatshirts, courtesy of Axel. A few items of clothing.
Pulling out my rock collection, I glance around. There’s a window opposite the bed, large panes of glass overlooking the park opposite the restaurant where I saw Nate this morning.
Gently, I place them across the windowsill. Hudson’s gifts go in the middle, the pink quartz having pride of place as I step back.
Grabbing a camisole and my hair products, I pull the door open and peek outside.
