Grandpa’s going to be okay. Hehasto be.
As I step back into the bedroom, Cami’s already sitting up, the sheet pulled over her chest, wavy locks falling loose around her bare shoulders.
“Everything okay?” she asks, raspy from sleep, concern flickering in her eyes.
“My grandpa fell last night. They’ve admitted him. Broken hip, maybe.”
“Oh, Knox…” She sits up straighter, the sheet sliding low against her chest, worry sharpening her features.
“I’m driving up to Vermont this morning.”
“Vermont?”
“Yeah.” I settle beside her, hand wrapping around hers. “That’s where I’m from.”
Cami’s hand squeezes mine, the warmth in her gaze steadying me in a way no one else ever could.
“Then you need to get on the road.” She tosses the covers back, already headed for the closet, every bare curve testing my focus when I can’t afford to be distracted. “I’ll pack your bag while you shower.”
“Hey, wait—” I catch her wrist before she gets too far, tugging her gently back toward me.
She turns without hesitation, easing onto my lap, knees bracketing my hips as her arms loop around my neck, her signature scent nearly pulling me under.
I brush my mouth over hers, slow but hungry. “Come with me.”
Blue eyes search mine before she murmurs, “But, the kittens?”
“Do you think the Trouble Triplets would love to hang out with them?” A grin tugs at my mouth despite the worry about Grandpa pressing in. “Honestly, I don’t think they ever planned on giving Stripe and Shadow back last time.”
Amusement sparks in her eyes, full lips lingering near mine. “Millie did threaten to keep them. Again.”
“Right?” I shake my head. “I’ll text her. And if they’re in, we’ll drop our spoiled fur brats off with copious instructions.”
“Shall we pack then shower?”
My gaze roams over her, the heat between us igniting as always.
“How about we shower…then pack?” My hands glide down her spine, savoring the warmth of her skin. “I’m happy you’re coming with me.”
“Nowhere else I’d rather be.” Her lips graze mine, assurance in how she breathes me in. “You were here for me when I needed it. Now it’s my turn.”
Before I can even lift my hand to knock, Millie opens the door in a floral robe and fluffy slippers, her eyes crinkling like we’re about to hand-deliver another lottery check.
“There they are!” Her hands are clasped like she’s been waiting all morning. “My sweet fur babies!”
“Morning, Millie.” Cami smiles as she steps past me with their litter box.
“Come in, come in.” Millie waves us inside. “We’ve got their spot all set up by the bay window.”
“Thank you again for doing this.” I follow them inside, playpen in one hand, carrier in the other. “Really appreciate you three.”
“Please. It’s an honor,” Millie says, already crouched down to peek inside the carrier. “We absolutely love spending time with these gremlins.”
The familiar blend of cinnamon and fresh coffee greets us, a scent that clings to this house like a welcome mat. Sunlight glints off glass figurines in the window, scattering little rainbows across the shiny hardwood floor.
Millie opens the carrier door, and both kittens tumble out as if they own the place. Shadow immediately darts toward the curtains while Stripe starts climbing Millie’s leg like she’s a cat tree.
“See?” Millie beams. “This is their second home.”
