Thrive (Addicted #4)

by Krista Ritchie

She replies quickly. Do it. I’m studying :P – Lily Did you just stick your tongue out at me? :P – Lily

“I remember now, why we’re friends.” Connor steps into his costume’s black pants. “Every man needs a dog.”

“I’ll just meet you fucking down there.” Ryke heads to the bathroom. “No,” Connor says. “A man never leaves his dog behind.”

“Just use your nose,” Connor says. “Dogs have the best sense of smell.”

“RoRy?” he questions with a grunt. “Yeah, also known as evil siblings Rose and Ryke,” I tell him. “They needed a name.”

Daisy is one of the most soulful people to be around, and maybe if I opened up a little sooner, I’d have felt this joy from the start.

He takes a deep breath. “I want to marry Rose on that day, if you’ll let me.”

Connor kisses Rose’s forehead and I read his lips: I love you.

“Love is for souls, not bodies.” – SCARLET WITCH, GIANT-SIZE AVENGERS VOL 1 #4

Lo’s face reddens in anger. “Get this through your head.” Every word is emblazoned with power. “I will never subject a child to this fucking torture. I’d rather be burned alive than live knowing I put someone through this kind of hell.” It’s like a fist has torn out my heart, snapping each artery terrifyingly slow. And he just continues on. “So destroy all of those goddamn dreams of grandchildren.”

When we break apart, his forehead on mine, he whispers, “You and me.” I smile against his lips. “Lily and Lo.”