Chapter 23
SHANE
My feet touched the ground once Liam helped me out of the car. The cool breeze caressed my face, and in that instant, I felt like everything could change. Slightly nervous and excited, I followed Liam to the house entrance. It might be an ordinary day for many, but for me, this moment marked the start of something new.
Mrs. Rosa, Liam’s mother, stood at the door. Her figure was warm and palpable, exuding a kindness that could only come from a home filled with love. But before I could process the situation, Liam approached her and gently kissed her cheek. I watched him out of the corner of my eye. There was something about that small interaction that made me feel like I belonged.
“My little one,” his mother said in a soft, low voice, “are you alright? Are you feeling better from the heat?” Liam nodded, but said nothing. Happiness shone in Rosa’s eyes. “Does she know?” I flinched, because I knew what she was asking, if I knew what Liam Thomas truly was. A goddamn werewolf with a double transformation. Liam nodded, and she stared at him as if they were having a conversation.
Then, Liam turned to me, holding my gaze. Time seemed to stop for a moment, and it was just him and me in the world. He moved closer and kissed me on the lips, a sweet, firm touch that resonated deep within my bones. A spark of electricity, warmth, and unspoken promise told me that everything would be alright. Yet, I couldn’t prevent the small knot of anxiety that formed in my stomach as he pulled away.
“I’m going to the office, but I’ll see you later,” he informed me, his bright eyes assuring me he would be back. Though unvoiced, unease consumed me.
“Yes,” He turned to his mother, who smiled maternally, and before I could speak, Liam had moved to his car and started driving away. I watched him go, and a sigh escaped my lips.
“Hello, dear!” Mrs. Rosa called out, approaching with open arms. I received her embrace, rewarded by the warmth and affection radiating from her. It was comforting to encounter someone who understood the weight I carried on my shoulders.
“Hello, Mrs. Rosa. It’s a pleasure to be here,” I said, trying to mask my nervousness. She led me inside. The kitchen had undergone a renovation, and although my eyes scanned the renewed facade, anxiety made me remember all the details that weren’t under my control in my life. I felt on autopilot, despite being here to see the kitchen renovation I designed myself.
“Oh, honey, I’m so glad you’ve come back. I’ve missed you,” she responded, stepping back to look me in the eyes.
“I’ve missed you too… I love how the kitchen turned out,” I changed the subject, not wanting her to see my inner struggles. I felt grateful to be here, but the question that gnawed at my mind remained: would I be able to stay?
“Thank you. If it weren’t for your amazing experience and talent, none of this would be possible.” Her pride resonated in her voice.
As we both examined the details, a small sense of relief washed over me. Here, in this kitchen, I could let my anxieties melt away. But as we immersed ourselves in conversations about rugs and curtains, I couldn’t shake the unease about what Liam was facing. The struggle engulfing him felt imminent.
“How are you feeling about everything that’s happened?” Mrs. Rosa asked suddenly, with her inquisitive and understanding gaze.
“Overwhelmed,” I confessed, biting my lip. I knew I shouldn’t burden her with my problems, but this place made me feel so safe that, somehow, my defenses slipped. “There’s a lot to process.”
“Liam cares about you more than you imagine. He’s a good man. Despite his nature… we’re all good people.” I could read between the lines, “We’re all good men and women werewolves”. Still, I couldn’t help but feel anxious and overwhelmed by everything. I wished I were in my apartment, yet here I was, waiting for Liam.
My thoughts flew to him. I saw him as a strong and protective man, but even the strongest have their shadows. Uncertainty mingled with hope. As I inspected the beautiful kitchen, a latent desire grew within me: to be a part of his world, of his burdens, and of his sweet moments.
“Certainly, he is.” I smiled, remembering that kiss that made me feel like everything fell into place.
I looked towards the window, where the sunlight began to lower, casting golden streaks across the sky.
“I should have imagined you would be here.” Alec’s voice made us both turn towards the kitchen entrance. Liam’s father, in his wheelchair, scanned me as if searching for something… but I didn’t know what.
“Mr. Thomas,” I snapped out of my stupor, approaching him to shake his hand.
“Alec, after all, we are family.” I tensed at his grip, which didn’t last long. Rosa was pure joy floating in the air; she led me to the living room, with Alec right behind us.
“I know this is a lot to take in, but believe me when I say we are very happy for you two.”
I forced a smile and nodded. I wasn’t sure if coming here was a good idea. Rosa was kind and tried to make me feel comfortable, but what I truly wanted was to be back in my apartment.
“Thank you. I’m glad to hear that,” I truly did.
“Honey,” Alec interrupted, “could you go to my office and tell me if the meeting has already started?”
Rosa shot him a sharp look and Alec put on an innocent face; she sighed before getting up.
“I’m going now, Shane.”
“Go ahead.” I said to let her know it was okay.
Rosa left, and Alec turned to me. We stared at each other for several long seconds.