Page 134 of Rogue Mission
“You remembered. It’s so perfect. Just like our love, forged from heat and pressure in the most unconventional way. And yes,” her voice softens, “I’ll be Mrs. Cruze.”
Wrapping my arms around her, I press my cheek against her stomach, letting myself laugh. And cry. All at once.
I’m a disaster, and happier than I ever thought possible when someone smashes a cupcake in my face.
FORTY-EIGHT
Justice’s T-shirt is soft against my skin and smells like him.
There’s a touch of soap, a little cupcake icing, and whatever addictive chemical men must secrete when they’re in love.
My favorite scent ever.
As I wiggle into my new yoga tights—from the drawers full of new clothes Justice had delivered to me—there’s a delicious reminder of last night.
Bites on my neck. Handprints on my hips. A lingering heat in my womb.
A slow smile curves over my lips.
Time to find Justice.He’s been gone for an hour and I’m ready to feel his arms around me.
I wander out of our room, wondering if he’s already raided the kitchen for breakfast, when I hear quiet conversation from the cave’s main lounge.
His voice. And a woman’s.
Liberty’s early morning flight must have arrived. My heartbeat lifts, excitement making me walk faster.
The instant I see him, I get a deeper, warmer glow inside.
Justice is sitting on the plush leather sofa with a woman who looks so much like him there’s no question—this is his younger sister.
She stands the moment she sees me, the fall of dark hair around her face highlighting whiskey-brown eyes that are a shade lighter than his.
Her expression is cautious, a little shy, like someone who hasn’t been welcomed many places lately. I know that feeling well.
With my smile, I try to ease her concerns. “You must be Liberty. I’m so glad you’re here and can’t wait to spend time with you.”
She hugs me carefully, and when she steps back, her shoulders are lower, like we just released a pressure valve.
“She just got in,” Justice says with a husky warmth to his voice. His gaze is hopeful, something about his expression softer than I’ve ever seen..
“The one and only Rosalie,” she says quietly.
“That’s me. I’m so happy you came. We’ve been really looking forward to you being here.”
There’s a flicker in her eyes as she glances at her brother. Disbelief, but fading. And then something softer.Hope.
Justice’s gaze locks on me. “Love you,” he whispers roughly.
There’s another message there too. This one unspoken.Thank you for seeing her. For treating her like she belongs.
“I wasn’t sure…” Liberty glances around, then down at her hands. “I didn’t want to intrude.”
“You’re not,” I promise as I motion for them to sit on the couch again. Trust me, if Justice minded, you wouldn’t have made it past the military checkpoints, cave guards, or the terrifying security system on this property. You’re here because we want you here.”
He grins, shaking his head, but she’s still worried.
Sitting down, still looking conflicted as she fidgets with the thin silver necklace she’s wearing.
