Lavender and Lightning (Pack Saint Clair, #2)

by Thora Woods

I need graham crackers and fresh towels. Whiskey and old books and dark chocolate. Lemonade and ozone. Mulled wine. My beta. My alphas.

“Look up to?” she repeats skeptically. “Well, not literally. You are fun-sized, after all,” I tease, kissing her forehead again. “When I have both my arms again, I’ll show you how fun-sized I am,” she grumbles, and I can’t help but laugh. “I’ll make sure to have the step ladder on hand, so we can talk eye-to-eye,” I volley back.

“Take what you need, Lydi-bug. I’ve got more than enough,” Lucas calls from the bed. “Lydi-bug?” I ask in an amused monotone. Lucas grins bashfully. “Too cutesy?” My smile softens, heart melting a little. “No. I like it. Just... maybe not in bed,” I reply with a laugh.

Turns out, you’re never too old for a good, old-fashioned make-out session.

“Family isn’t the people who share your blood. It’s the people who are there for you when no one else is, who see all of your flaws and still stick by you. That’s what this means.” I break off, leaning back to tap at the spot on my ribs where the pack motto is tattooed. “Lex, Rhett, Lucas, and I chose each other, and we’ve chosen you, too. If family means half a dozen kids between us, or just the five of us sticking together until we’re old and gray, then that’s what I want.”

“I’ve got you, my lovely little omega. You’re here with me, and I’m going to take care of you. Just stay right here, where you belong,” she purrs, all softness and gentle touches.

“Remember this and keep it with you, sweetness: I claim you, Lydia Anderson. You belong to me, and I will always take care of what’s mine.” I like it when you take care of me.

“Do you really think you could leave us, sweetness? That there is anywhere you could go where I wouldn’t find you?”

“You came into my life like a bolt from the blue. You shocked me awake and changed everything I had planned. Electricity is what makes the heart beat, and that’s what you are to me, Mateo. The pulse in my blood, the light in the darkness, the jolt I needed to stop being so afraid.”