Page 74 of Forbidden Moon
“Exactly! It would be even better if you were with me.”
RJ pulled him in for a quick kiss.
“Agreed. It’s a date.”
Jonah left the packhouse for last, knowing Evan wanted to speak privately with his mate before leaving for home. As they approached, RJ marveled at the unique underground construction and large windows.
“This is great! I’ve never seen one of these buildings up close before. Who built it for you?”
“Ben did. He designed and constructed everything here except the mobile homes. He’s really good.”
RJ’s brows lifted.
“Impressive, and I love the way everything blends in with the terrain and the trees. As if they sort of grew there like mushrooms. Cool!”
They went inside, thankful to get out of the sun for a while. As always, the building smelled like the next meal. The menu board confirmed it was pot roast with garlic mashed potatoes and gravy. Michelle liked to start it early in the afternoon and let it slow-simmer for hours until it reached melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
Jonah spied Robert and Cody standing in front of the pass-through window debating the merits of a recipe. Both men looked up with smiles and hurried over as Jonah and RJ entered. Robert opened his arms, wrapping them around Jonah for an affectionate hug. Without realizing why, RJ stepped closer to stake his claim by placing a hand on Jonah’s lower back.
Robert released him and stood back for a better view.
“You two are adorable! Jonah, wherever did you find this gorgeous hunk of man?”
Blushes ensued, and Robert reached out to shake RJ’s hand.
“RJ, this is Robert Atherton, Donna’s brother. He’s mated to Ash, a member of our security team. He’s a food critic, blogger, and a recent author. He also gives good dating advice when the need arises.”
Robert laughed and shook his finger.
“Hmm... best introduction I’ve heard in a long time. It’s great to meet you, RJ. You realize you’ve got yourself a keeper here, right?”
RJ smiled, even as he remained glued to Jonah’s side.
“Yes, Sir. I’d have to agree with you.”
Cody repeated the process, though somewhat less effusively.
“RJ, this is Cody, Ben’s personal chef. He’s mated to Abigail, who we saw on top of the house a minute ago. He also cooks here in our community kitchen from time to time, which we’re all thankful for.”
Cody let the compliment go and extended his hand.
“Welcome, RJ. I’d love to hear about your work with the DNR when we have more time. I hope you’ll be taking good care of Jonah. We’re all rather fond of him around here.”
Robert and Cody engaged them in small talk, making RJ feel welcome and included. Jonah appreciated the effort, knowing they wanted the man to stay almost as badly as he did. Once the others returned to their recipe discussion, Jonah followed as RJ looked around. Before long, Ben made a beeline for the two of them from his office. He hugged Jonah close and whispered something in his ear that RJ didn’t catch. When he reached out to hug RJ, the poor man jumped in surprise but went along with it. Jonah winked.
“We’re a tactile bunch here. You’ll get used to it.”
Ben pulled back and looked them over, pleased with what he saw and scented. Being mated suited his little brother well, and it showed. RJ’s behavior over the last few days demonstrated qualities any shifter could appreciate, and it was time to put them to the test. He turned to Jonah first.
“I got a call from your boss, Mr. Sheppard, this morning. He approved some well-deserved time off, and Dr. Follett agrees with him. He’s also asked me to congratulate you on your new relationship. Maybe the two of you can find a way to fill the time.”
Jonah knew most of that little speech was for RJ’s benefit, with more going on here than Ben wanted to say aloud. RJ seemed pleased at the idea and slipped an arm around Jonah’s waist as he asked Ben a question.
“Sounds good! Will Robyn be covering for me while I’m gone?”
Ben’s scent soured, and the look of concern on his face told Jonah something happened.
“Actually, her duties have been changed temporarily, too. Why don’t I let Robyn tell you about it? You’ll find her in the conference room, and when you’re finished there, I think Evie needs to see you. Meanwhile, Evan wanted a word with RJ before he leaves.”
