“He hasn’t even met Atlas, and I feel like he already hates him.” That wasn’t difficult for my brother, though. He hated everyone.
“Tegan, he doesn’t hate Atlas. He just doesn’t know him. Reece is your big brother. He’s very protective of you.” It was a fair point, but sometimes it felt like my brother just delighted in being a prick. “Listen, honey. Your brother will come around. I’m sure Atlas is wonderful.”
I felt sort of guilty for not introducing them to each other yet, but we were kind of doing things backward here.
“You don’t think it’s too soon?” I asked, worrying my lip while my mom gathered her thoughts.
“When the goddess brings two people together, she’s never wrong. What’s meant to be, will be.” I could hear the smile in her voice. My mother was always a believer in true love, even if she never found it for herself.
I closed my eyes and took a deep breath. I thought about Atlas. His smoked-patchouli-and-sandalwood scent. The way his soft fur felt against my skin. The gravelly sound of his voice and the way it sent shivers down my spine. Thethump, thump, thumpof his tail wagging and those glowing yellow eyes.
I knew in my heart that this was what I wanted.
I knew in my heart that we were mates.
“You’re right, Mom.”
She laughed. “Of course I’m right, honey. I am so happy for you, and I look forward to meeting Atlas.”
“I can’t wait for you to meet him, either. Sleep tight, Mom.”
“You, too. Get some rest.”
After hanging up with my mom, I changed into one of my favorite pajama sets—one with dancing hot dogs printed all over it—and climbed into bed. Just as I was drifting off, my phone vibrated on my chest, and I about jumped out of my skin.
It was Atlas.
Atlas:Are you still awake, baby?
A sleepy smile tilted up the corners of my lips ever so slightly.
Tegan:Yesss, I’m awake, wolf daddy.
Atlas:OH GODS NO. FALLON CALLS ME THAT
I giggled and rolled onto my side, holding the glowing screen close to my face.
Tegan:Alright, we’ll stick with sir then
Atlas:I miss you already
To say I squealed would be an understatement. Gods, he was everything.
Tegan:I miss you too.
Atlas:What are you wearing right now? Send me a pic
I turned on my bedside lamp, pulled off my comforter, looked down at my pajama set, and snorted. I hoped Atlas found dancing hot dogs sexy. Awkwardly, I fumbled with how to hold the camera so I could get my entire body in the shot and still hit the shutter button. When I got a decent picture, I sent it over.
Atlas:Holy shit, baby
those are some sexy jammies
Wear those the next time we have a sleepover
He was ridiculous, but I loved it.
Tegan:You should get to bed, sir. Four AM tomorrow?
