Page 205 of Axel

Grant hugs me harder than he ever has. Delphine does, too.

Jace gives me a sweet peck on the cheek.

Nash invites Axel and me on a trip with him and Vale, sans kittens.

While Sire and Wren want to do kitten playdates.

Nick invites us to his next game. Zar has luxury box seats.

The Queen wants to go dress shopping next week for my wedding.

And Loch? He’s leaving without a kitten because he has dogs, but…

“Hey, man.” Axel gently grabs his shoulder before he leaves last. “Can I ask you something?”

Loch turns around. “Sure.”

“Will you be my best man?”

“But,” Loch smiles, “shouldn’t it be Nash or Grant? They’re older.”

“No, I want my baby brother to do it,” Axel answers. “And so does Ruby.”

Axel and I talked about this in bed last night—everything we want for our wedding. I don’t know who will be my maid of honor. I’m blessed with so many sisters and queens.

But we don’t want Loch to be left out and lonely. It’s palpable on him. Jace handles heartbreak better, but Loch? I told Axel I’m worried about him, and that only made Axel hold me tighter.

“You’re such a queen,” he said. “You’re already watching out for everyone.”

“So, will you do it?” Axel asks him now.

“I’d be honored, man.” Loch hugs Axel, then he hugs me. “Thanks.” Loch squeezes me tight. “I needed this.”

“I know.” I pat Loch’s chest. “Has anyone ever told you that you kinda look like Reacher? You know the one?—”

“No, he doesn’t.” Axel laughs. “Not even fucking close.”

And after Loch leaves, Axel turns my way, his smirk devilish and delicious.

“Run,” he demands with flaring nostrils and a sexy nose ring.

“Halt.” My palm flies up. “Before you chase me, I need to know just how jealous I made you.”

His icy eyes gleam. He licks his lips. “When I catch you, my queen, your ass will find out.”

“So, how possessive will you be when I ask you to come with me to see my doctor tomorrow?”

“Why, baby?” His face falls. He immediately cares. “Are you feeling okay?”

“I’m feeling like I love you, Axel King, and I want to have your babies soon, so?—”

Axel’s face softens. He pulls me into a hungry kiss, cupping my face with his inked hands. “Fuck, I love you.” He breathes over our lips, nuzzling his forehead to mine.

“Now, run, Wildfire.” He vows, “Because I’ll never stop chasing you.”

EPILOGUE

RUBY

---