Page 24 of Goddess of Storms

Harper

Phoenix thought that I missed the clues about our bond. It’s not everyday that a man’s touch sets you on fire. He seems on edge as we stand in the check out line, I don’t know if it’s the cult coming for me or that it’s sunk in that we are connected.

Placing a hand on his, I watch as he gives me a weak smile. “Relax, we will be out of here in a few minutes and with any luck, Nile will be here with the Jeep.”

He leans in close, “There are a few weirdos that keep eyeing you. We need to make sure we aren’t followed.”

“Frack, so much for a smooth grocery trip,” I complain. “Let’s just act normal and maybe, just maybe we will get out of here in one piece.”

We pay the cashier and are loading up the bags on our arms when Nile pulls up in my Jeep. Sending a silent prayer to my father, I follow Phoenix out and load it into the back of the Jeep before climbing in.

Nile eyes me, but doesn’t say anything as the car starts to move. Phoenix and I click our seatbelts in at the same time as Nile speaks.

“What’s wrong? There has to be something going on. I know you and how much you love this Jeep, why are you allowing me to drive?”

“There were a few people watching us at the store. I want to get out of here and get on the road. We have to make sure we don’t have someone tailing us,” I reply.

“That makes sense. I’m on it,” Nile states with confidence.

“Did you give Stone directions to the cabin? Was there anyone at the office?” I assaulted him with questions.

“Yes, they were inside. Stone went in and grabbed your keys and brought them to me. I didn’t stay around to ask questions. I told him where the cabin was and how to find it. He also has my number if he gets lost.”

“I hate having to leave him there, but it’s only an hour before the office is to close. Hopefully, he won’t be too far behind us.”

“He’s got his hammer, he’ll be just fine.” Nile laughs.

“Thanks, as much as you hate him. I appreciate you trying to reassure me,” I smile.

“I don’t hate that douche, I just like you better.”

“What are the plans when we get to the cabin?” I ask.

“Well, I may have to do a little cleaning, it’s been a year or so since anyone’s been there. It will be a little colder, so we will have to gather wood for the fireplace. You and Phoenix got enough food to feed an army. What do you have planned for dinner?”

“I think Phoenix mentioned something about chili?” I say, and turn to peek at Phoenix in the backseat.

“Sure, I make it for the guys at the firehouse all the time. We got all the supplies, it should be about an hour to prep and cook.”

“Perfect, that will give me time to tidy up as Nile gathers firewood, and then maybe Stone will join us.”

“If you don’t mind, can I kick back for a little nap?” I ask Nile.

“Anything you want my love,” he replies, his eyes never leaving the road.

If he thinks all this sucking up will gain him an invite to my bed, he is sorely mistaken.

I lean back and close my eyes and it’s not long before sleep overtakes me.

* * *

Stone

I hated the idea of being separated from Harper once again, but I had to keep up appearances and lucky for me, my shift ended today with the weekend off. I ran in and grabbed the keys for Harper’s Jeep before anyone could corner me, they were all in Nicks’ office when I arrived. After I handed the keys off to Nile, I went back in and sat at my desk and pretended to do paperwork.

Nicks and a couple suits I’ve never seen before stop in front of my desk. I throw on my best smile as I gaze up at the three of them.

“What can I do for you three?” I ask.

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