Page 5 of Rejected Plus-Size Mate

April pulled out the milk. "No. Like I said, a vacation."

If that were true, Riley wouldn't have looked like someone punched her. She looked like she wanted to vomit all over the place, which told me there was more to the story.

"Besides, I figured it was time to come down and see you," April poured in some milk. "Since you won't come see me."

It plucked a nerve, and I scowled. "You know that I can't."

"You could," she countered. "You chose not to."

"No, April, I can't. I was shunned. I'm not allowed back in the pack."

April placed the milk down a little harder than necessary, and she glared. "Then maybe you should have thought about that before leaving."

I ground my teeth together. This was how most of our conversations went. We would get along for a little while before she would bring up the past, and we would start to fight.

"For once, can we not do this," I said, waving a hand between us.

April ground her teeth together before she sighed. "Fine."

I ran a hand through my hair. "You still haven't said how long you'll be in Honeyville."

"A couple of weeks. I had some PTO I could use and figured now was a good time with the holidays and everything. We rented an apartment for the time we’ll be staying here."

I glanced at Riley, who had remained quiet. Riley was always a little quieter and more reserved, but this was a lot for her.

I felt that tug to get closer to her. My wolf growled in my head with need, and I ignored it. I hoped it would simmer down over the years, but it only seems to have grown. My want for Riley was almost painful now.

I could still remember all the times I ran into her, all the times I protected her growing up. I accepted the hugs of thanks and greetings. I accepted the kiss on the cheek one year for Thanksgiving and always wanted more.

But the four-year age difference made it hard. She was just turning fifteen when I left. Sure, people were starting to figure out who their mates were at that age, but I didn't think it was appropriate. Riley still had so much growing up to do at that age. She still had a whole world to see, a life she deserved to decide on herself.

"Well, I'm glad you guys are here. I can show you guys around, and we could even travel to the nearest towns if you want."

"Sounds like fun," April said, turning her attention to my kitchen. "Now, where is your sugar?"

Chapter 3 - Riley

My phone buzzed in my pocket once more, and I tensed up. It was the third time since we got to Cayden's apartment. While April and Cayden were getting the sugar, I slipped my phone out, knowing who was messaging me.

It was Brad, and he was pissed. My stomach clenched as I opened his messages, finding a long list of insults and swear words. Even miles away, I could still hear how he would say them. They sliced in my heart, making tears build up.

You bitch!

You think you can just walk away?

Did you really think I wouldn't notice you not here?

You better answer your phone when I call you.

Answer your phone, Riley! This is not some fucking joke! Where the fuck are you.

Riley! I don't know what sick game you think this is, but when you get back home, help me.

My throat tightened, and I quickly shut my phone, sliding it back into my pocket. I glanced at Cayden and April, who were still turned away. I wiped my eyes and took a steady breath, hoping I didn't look like someone on the brink of falling apart.

April was coming down for a vacation, but I was coming down to get away. I had left Brad a letter detailing how unhappy I was and that I wasn't coming back. I took a few things that were mine, and I didn't want to leave them behind, and left the rest.

I figured a break like this was the way to do it. I could get away while he was mad; hopefully, by the time I returned,he would be calmer. I hoped things wouldn't be such a goddamn mess.

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