Page 77 of Forbidden Moon
Nowthathe could do. The kids all wiggled themselves into place, and RJ began. He wasn’t familiar with this book—something about a friendly dragon wrongly blamed for burning down an entire village. The memories of hearing his mother read to him returned like a warm blanket, and he threw in the appropriate voices to make it more interesting. When he reached THE END, the kids clapped and asked for another one.
Evan intervened with a quick announcement.
“No time for another book right now. Jonah needs to take RJ home, and all of you have chores to do. Tell our guest thank you, and then go see what Lance wants you to work on.”
The twins shouted out their thanks and tore out of the room like scalded cats. The triplets approached as a group, allowing one to speak for them all, and asked RJ to come back again soon. Evie dispensed hugs and skipped off to wherever the boys went. RJ let out a breath as he watched her go.
“I’m not used to kids. Did I do all right?”
Evan nodded.
“I don’t think you have anything to worry about. They like you, and anyone willing to read stories goes to the top of the “favorites” list!”
RJ looked relieved, and Jonah reached for his hand.
“He’s right, you’re a natural. It wouldn’t surprise me if they started calling you Uncle RJ.”
Despite the laughter, Evan caught the scent of sadness pouring off both of them. It was time for Jonah to take RJ home, and neither of them wanted to face it. He saw them to the door, and after hugs, left RJ with a final word.
“You’re welcome here anytime, day or night. The guards at the front gate will let you in whenever you choose to visit, and I’m sure Jonah wouldn’t object to having you stay with him. Let us know about supper tomorrow night.”
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THE SHORT DRIVE ONLYtook a few minutes, and RJ invited Jonah inside when they arrived. The sight and smell of spoiled food and crusty dishes caused both to wrinkle their noses. After opening several windows, the pair set about cleaning up the aftermath of their short-circuited date on Saturday night. Once the kitchen and dining room were clean, Jonah stripped and replaced the bed linens while RJ wiped down the bathroom.
A few more minor adjustments put the house to rights again, leaving nothing else to delay the inevitable. It was time for Jonah to say goodbye. RJ pulled him close, holding him tightly while their lips met. Why did sending him back home feel so wrong? They’d spent nearly four days together, soof coursethey needed to resume their everyday lives, right? His heart disagreed, wanting even more time with this incredible man, uncertain he could ever get enough of Jonah Blair. Admitting such things hinted at an unhealthy obsession, and he didn’t want to do anything to disturb the wonderful dynamic they had going.
Unaware of his mate’s thoughts, Jonah restrained himself—unwilling to clutch pathetically at his man like a swooning maiden. Instead, he sought to memorize this exact bubble in time—RJ’s scent, warm body, muscled arms, and soft lips. If necessary, he’d replay it over and over when his heart threatened to burst. His wolf did not understand why he must be parted from his mate, mournful howls echoing in Jonah’s head.
RJ put a stop to the sweet torture when he drew back to look at Jonah’s face.
“When can I see you again, Jo? Ben wants us to have supper with them tomorrow, which is OK with me. I’m not going back to work yet, so we could hang out if you want.”
Jonah’s pounding heart threatened to break a rib.
“YES! I mean, I’d like that. Maybe meet up for lunch?”
“Sure. I’ll call you around eleven, and we’ll make plans.”
RJ walked Jonah to his car, pausing for one last kiss before saying farewell.
“Promise you’ll miss me?”
“Oh, yes. I’ll always miss you, Rascal.”
