I blink. “You have a sister?”
“Yep. Just one. No brothers. Her name is Ivy, and she’s younger by eighteen months, but she acts like she’s older.”
“Bossy?”
“No, just… protective. It’s a shifter thing.”
He leans back, resting on his palms. “She’s been dying to come up here, but Red insisted that we give you time to adjust.”
Evan was right. They really are incredible people. Giving me time without pressuring me. “How many of you are there?”
“Ten, but one is too young to shift. Plus, there are two humans and a vampire.”
He starts to list names, then shakes his head. “It’d just be easier if you met them. Do you feel ready?”
The idea of leaving this room again, of facing not only the strangers but their questions and potentially talking to Jericho, makes my heart skip a beat. But the walls of this room feel smaller now, after talking to Evan.
“Yeah,” I say finally. “I think I’m ready.”
Rowen’s grin widens. “Good.”
He stands and holds out a hand. I stare at it for a moment before taking it, letting him pull me to my feet.
I realize, as he leads me toward the door, that for the first time since I got here, I don’t feel like I’m walking toward danger.
Uncertainty, yes. But danger? No.
I still don’t trust Jericho, but I can at least trust the others to keep me safe. Especially Rowen. I’m not sure why, but I trust him the most.
It’s the first time I’ve felt even a little safe since… well, sinceeverythingchanged.
8
TOBIAS
Ifollow Rowen down the stairs, my arms folded and fingers playing with the hems of my long sleeves. The noise coming from below is warm and inviting, easing the knot in my stomach. At least I know what to expect this time, having been down here once already. When we exit the hall and turn the corner to where the living room meets the kitchen and dining room, I am not as overwhelmed as I expected.
Two women occupy the kitchen—one with long dark hair and another with shorter hair that is partially tucked under a red bandana. Across from them at the bar is a man reading from a book while drinking from a mug. Two men are at the dining table. I recognize Sage, but I don’t know the other one.
The rest are in the living room, relaxing on sofas next to a large Christmas tree. My breath catches when I see the bright lights and beautiful hand-painted ornaments. Evidence of a home full of love and warmth.
I’ve felt that warmth ever since I arrived.
As they notice me, a few people walk over, eager to meet me. Rowen introduces each one. “This is my mother, Jasmine, and my sister, Ivy. That’s Taren and her mate, Neal. The little one in her arms is Aster.”
The little boy ducks his face against his mother’s chest, clearly unsure of me.
“Hi.” My voice sounds too soft, so I clear my throat and try again. “Hi. It’s nice to meet you.”
Jasmine gives me a smile that could thaw a frozen river. “We’re glad you’re here, Tobias.”
Glad I’m here? I don’t know what to do with that. So I nod awkwardly, trying to keep my hands from fidgeting.
She tilts her head. “Would you like some tea to settle your nerves?”
My laugh comes out thin. “I’m too full from the stew.” Then, not wanting to appear rude, I add quickly, “Maybe later?”
She cups my shoulder and returns to the kitchen.
