Page 73 of Claimed

Standing in front of the mirror, I see it comes to mid-thigh. It feels a little short, like if I bend over… I turn around, bend low, and—yep, there’s my ass cheek peeking out. I’ll have to be careful in this one.

I find the bag they said had “hair stuff” in it and dump it out on my bed. Excited to see a hairbrush, clips, headbands, and hair ties. I take my time brushing my hair out, thinking about how I want to try showering soon. Maybe someone could help me…

I pull a chunk of hair from the front of both sides of my face and clip them back together at the back of my head, liking how my face isn’t as covered now. My eyes move down to the ring hanging around my neck, and I place my hand on it, my heart jumping at the memory of Bain giving it to me while down on one knee.

It’s pretty much the most romantic thing I’ve ever witnessed in real life.

I rummage through the bags for a pair of white socks and white sneakers. I notice all the footwear is practical, and there isn’t a heel in sight. Probably a good idea considering I smashed my head on the glass door this morning.

Glancing at my forehead, there is no trace of the injury. Gage had been right; it was completely gone by the time we finished breakfast. My embarrassment from tripping on nothing took a little longer to dissipate.

Turning back and forth in the mirror, watching my skirt twirl, I’m pleased with my new look and decide to go find my mates. Now that I’m human, it's time I start using my voice.

It’s not hard to find them all leaning on the kitchen counter, exchanging low, heated words.

“Hello mates,” I say loudly as I step into the room, my hands clenched behind my back as nerves fill me. Will they like the way I look in these clothes?

Everyone stops talking as they all turn to me. I freeze in place as their eyes roam over me, taking in my appearance.

“Is this okay?” I ask when nobody speaks.

“Baby girl,” Hunter says, the first to step toward me as a smile spreads across his face. “You look fantastic.” He grabs my hand and lifts it. “Twirl for me.”

I do a quick spin, and several growls ring out from the kitchen. I glance over and see Bain shaking his head. “You’re not wearing that in public.”

I press my lips together, trying to hide my smile before I tell him, “You bought this for me.”

He nods as he moves closer. “So I can see you in it. Nobody else can, unless you’re wearing pants under it.”

My hand flies to smooth the dress over my ass as he steps up in front of me. “Did-Did you see my butt?” I whisper.

His lip twitches as his hand reaches out to touch the ring hanging at my chest. His finger trails up my neck, tilting my chin up toward him as he leans down and presses his lips to mine, in the briefest teasing of a kiss. Then his lips move toward my ear and he whispers, “Yes.”

It takes me a second to remember what I asked and my cheeks heat. He grins proudly and steps away.

Hunter pulls me to his side and guides us further into the kitchen, where the others are still staring at me.

“You look beautiful, sweetheart,” Maddox says with a soft smile.

“Hot as hell,” Chase says with a grin, making me blush as I smile back at him in thanks.

“That color suits you,” Gage says, his eyes still roaming up and down my body.

I lean on the counter as I glance around at them. I clear my throat before asking, “So, what are we all talking about?”

They all start to exchange nervous glances, and I slam my palm down on the counter.

“Nope.” I shake my head. “No talking through the bond without me.”

I give them each my best attempt at a glare as I explain, “When I was stuck as a wolf, I couldn’t speak up for myself. But now that I can, and I’m part of the pack bond, you have to stop leaving me out all the time.”

“Baby,” Hunter says, his arm squeezing me to his side. “We aren’t leaving you out. We just don’t want to upset you.”

“Do you think I’m fragile?” I ask, turning to him. “Do you think if I hear what you’re talking about that I’ll crumble and freak out?” I glance at Maddox as I ask, “Is this because of my nightmare the other day?”

“No,” he says, shaking his head. “To all of your questions. Don’t mistake our need to protect you for thinking you’re weak.”

“Don’t use protection as an excuse to keep me in the dark,” I fire back.