“It shouldn’t matter,” Liam points out. “If their friendship is strong enough, it will remain. However, I agree that it is better to avoid stirring up unnecessary drama. Especially if you need to bring it up later. Just make sure she doesn’t come close to Annalise.”
“We are all keeping an eye on her,” Steve promises.
“Good,” I nod. “Mom was already incredibly worried as it is. She and Dad called me daily, multiple times.”
“They were really relieved that Liam put Beta Aryanna at your side. And that you moved in with her and Ella.”
I nod before mind linking Celine and Harmony.It’s not going to be long before I move to Liam’s pack.
You are ready?Harmony asks.
I think I'm more ready.I admit.After the guys harassed me, I was a bit… shocked and went into denial. I think Liam didn’t want to push me too much then. We agreed on one month.
You won’t need that long?Celine says. She has a warm look in her eyes but also seems a bit sad.
I doubt it.I answer honestly.I feel so close to him already.
“Now it’s my turn to ask what you are doing?” Liam says, amused.
The three of us flush. “Nothing of interest,” Celine mutters.
“Just girl talk,” Harmony adds.
Liam’s eyes glint. “Oh, you were talking about me?” He pokes my hips slightly. “I will need to inquire about that further later.”
“Hey,” I laugh, trying to wiggle out of his grip. “You are playing unfair!”
“I told you,” Liam smirks. “Never trust an Alpha. We are the worst!”
“When did you ever say that?” I tease. “Make up your mind, Alpha Liam.”
He flashes me a seductive smile. “I like when you say my name like that.”
“Goddess, is this how we will be too when we find our mates?” Steve asks in disbelief.
“I thought it’s just Mom and Dad, but I’m starting to reconsider,” Harmony agrees.
“Seems like mates develop a second personality,” Steve mutters.
“No.” I shake my head. “It's more like something resting deep inside us has finally awoken.” I try to explain, but I am not sure how to word it. “A missing piece was finally replaced.”
“It’s almost impossible to explain,” Liam adds. “I have always heard that the mate bond is strong, but just like you, I figured… It’s only my parents. Now I know that if you allow it to happen, the bond pushes you further and further, makes you stronger and allows you to grasp your full potential.”
“Sounds scary,” Steve mutters.
“That’s because you are still a child,” Harmony teases.
“Hey, I’m not a kid anymore,” Steve complains.
“How old are you, Steve?” Liam asks.
“16, almost 17.”
Liam raises his eyebrows. “That’s a surprise. You are pretty tall. You look older.” Steve seems to swell with pride at his words.
“Oh please, don’t tell him that,” Harmony chuckles, rolling her eyes.
I let them bicker for a moment and instead leave to get us some cake. When I’m about to return, I halt, though, something catches my ears.