Zane picked up my feet and put them in his lap. Zeke returned to the room and put on a movie. He sat on the floor in front of me, and I ran my fingers through his hair. I relaxed immediately, feeling a sense of contentment by our connection.
Now, if Oren and Jet were here, it would be perfect. Damn it, I’d told myself not to think of Jet like that anymore.
“He’ll come around. What he did for you this morning proves that.” Nathan murmured.
Feeling soothed by his words, I drifted back to sleep.
When I woke, the apartment was quiet, and I seemed to be alone. Stretching, I stood up, noticing a trail of rose petals leading into Oren’s room. I smiled, followed them into the bedroom, and somewhat disappointed, on into the bathroom.
I’d been expecting Oren to be waiting for me in the bedroom, ready to consummate his new mark. My disappointment was short-lived, seeing what was awaiting me in the bathroom.
I grinned. I could get used to this.
The beautiful tub I’d noticed before was filled with steaming water, and the bathroom was filled with the scent of honeysuckle.
This gorgeous man must have stocked my favorite bath bombs.
I stripped and lowered myself slowly into the hot water. Damn, that felt nice. My body was strangely sore like I’d been working out twenty-four hours straight.
I leaned back and closed my eyes, deciding to take inventory of how I felt. I took a deep breath and realized I felt fabulous—stronger than I’d ever been.
The minor soreness in my limbs dissipated quickly in the steaming water.
The source of my power was raging. Bands of color no longer surrounded the nucleus. They’d all completely merged, forming one massive sphere. All the colors representing my men had mixed and were continuously moving, the colors fighting for dominance.
Continuing to take stock of the changes inside, I tried connecting with my Faction.
I smiled, feeling Oren and Nathan together somewhere nearby.
Zane and Zeke were also together, so serene that I was positive they were asleep.
I could even tell that Pantar was hunting in the forest.
“Do you require me, Nexus?”
Of course, he sensed me lurking.
“No, just testing out the limits of my abilities.” I grinned and slid down, submerging my head underwater.
“Yes, they seem to be coming along nicely, though you’re still incomplete. As I’m sure you are aware.”
I felt his concern for me. But honestly, I was too content to care right now.
“Enjoy these moments. Bring your Faction closer together. I will continue to build my strength and prepare for things to come.”
In my mind’s eye, I saw him sniff the air and bound off, giving chase to whatever prey he was hunting.
I sat up, thoroughly washed my hair and body, rose from the bath, and dried off. I didn’t see any clothes to put on, so I grabbed Oren’s fluffy bathrobe and returned to the living room.
The door opened, and Oren and Nathan walked in, murmuring softly to each other. Both had two bags overflowing with food.
“I see you’re awake and took advantage of the bath we filled for you.” Oren smiled as he walked past and set his bag down.
“I told you she wouldn’t be able to resist,” Nathan smirked and kissed me softly, following Oren into the kitchen.
I was eager to question Oren about everything, but my stomach picked that moment to show its appreciation for the delicious smells permeating the room.
“Come sit down, my Nexi.” Nathan pulled out a chair at the bar. “Let me fix you a plate.”
