“How do you know I have crazy thoughts in my head?” Aaron grumbled.
“Because I know you.” Bastian clamped both hands on Aaron’s shoulders, holding him in place. “There’s nothing wrong with you. Carter is lucky to have you as a mate. Don’t mess things up just because you’re scared.”
“He could do so much better than me,” Aaron whispered.
Growling, Bas shook Aaron. “You always do this.”
“Do what?”
“Act like you’re not an amazing person. You are. I would have been lost without you growing up. I was so angry. It was you that pulled me in and made me your friend. Same with what you did for Leo. We would have lost him a long time ago to the devastation of losing Gavin and his family. It was his need to protect you that he fought so hard to come back from the darkness. You are the glue that holds us together,” Bas claimed.
“It’s always everyone protecting me,” Aaron said. “Just like today. I couldn’t protect Carter. I needed you and the family.”
“There’s nothing wrong with that!” Bas practically shouted. He winced. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to yell. It’s just bullshit. You gave us the warning we needed. Who cares if you can’t shift like the rest of us.”
“I care!” Aaron’s own voice rose.
“Well, you shouldn’t!” Bas snapped. “Why can’t you see yourself the way we see you.”
“Because I feel weak! Like the weak link. Every time you and Leo have to protect me. I have these vague dreams or visions that don’t even help.” Aaron fought back the tears that wanted to fall.
“You are not weak!” Bas shook him again. “You’re stronger than me and Leo combined. And your heart is the best part of you. Even after all that we’ve been through, you still care so much about other people.”
“I do care,” Aaron said.
“I know. I’d already given up on people, human or paranormal. I was willing to help those in need, but I always expect the worst out of them. Leo is different now that he’s found Gavin, but even he’s waiting for something to happen. You though…you see the best in everyone.”
“Not that it does me any good.” Aaron hated feeling so useless.
“Let us help you,” Bas said. “We can do the heavy lifting. And from what I’ve seen from your mate, Carter has the need to protect and help as well. That’s why he is perfect for you.”
“Maybe,” Aaron allowed.
Bas hummed before pulling Aaron into a hug.
Taking advantage of the fact that Bastian really wasn’t a touchy-feely person, Aaron hugged his old friend hard. It didn’t make him feel any better, yet Aaron was totally going to take advantage. Hugs were the best.
“Just so you know,” Bas said as he drew away. “Carter is a smart man. He might not give you the choice of whether or not you’re going to have the conversation you’re trying to avoid.”
“That’s what I’m afraid of,” Aaron admitted.
“Great!” Bas smacked him on the back. “At least you get dinner out of it.”
Aron groaned.
“Fun times!” Bas said. “I’m so glad I found my mate first.”
“Shup up.” Aaron stomped all the way down the steps.
* * * * *
Aaron
Carter finished setting the table as Aaron played with the puppies in the living room. Aaron had offered to help but he’d also already admitted to being a complete disaster in the kitchen. Carter liked things the way they were. Allowing Aaron to relax after working all day as Carter took care of him.
It hadn’t been until Carter had taken full custody of Hudson that he realized his love language was taking care of others. Carter might not have ever figured it out if it wasn’t for his brother.
Aaron laughed loudly before he gently scolded Legolas for jumping on Aragon.
