Those In The Forest

Part 36: Reagan

"We love you."

"What?"

My entire mind went blank. I peered behind Ivy, where my other mates looked... tense. Probably not as tense as I am. They're waiting. They're waiting for me to say it back.

I've been a complete ass all day, and Ivy just told me they love me.

"You don't have to say it back," Iris said, a little breathy.

But they want me to. They want me to love them back. The problem is I do. I do... love them, at least I think I do.

My mouth opened and closed. My breathing started to pick up.

"Reagan, please say something," Rose said, frowning at me. She didn't look angry, just concerned. Worried.

That scent was back again. I clenched my eyes shut. I hate it. I hate that I can both feel and smell their concern. It shouldn't even be possible. None of this should be possible.

Werewolves are supposed to be fake. Mating is something that is reserved for animals. Four women growing cocks should be un-fucking-realisitc!

I pulled away from Ivy. Her shoulders sagged. She looked like she regretted her confession. I don't want her or any of them to regret it. I just wish this was all in different circumstances.

"I want to go to bed," I said quietly.

It's not what they wanted to hear. I just hope they don't push this. I don't know what to do if they try to urge me to confess.

"Reagan-" Hazel started, but I shook my head.

"I want to go to bed," I repeated.

They all frowned at me but eventually nodded their head. They got in the bed. They were so stiff next to me. I don't know if I can sleep like this, but I don't want them to be anywhere else.

Ivy was to my right, with Iris next to her, and Rose was to my left, Hazel beside her. Reaching over, I grabbed Ivy's hand, placing it over my stomach. I didn't say a word as she tightened her grip. Pulling my hand back, I reached over and pulled Rose next to me.

I felt all of their hands somewhere on me. Their grip was tight, almost like they were afraid I would disappear.

"I'm sorry," I said once more. I don't even know what that apology was for, but I feel like it needed to be said.

They didn't say anything back. They just continued to hold me.

↞ ↞ ↞ ↞ ↞ ↠ ↠ ↠ ↠ ↠

Next day

When I woke up, Rose, Ivy, Iris, and Hazel were nowhere to be seen. I panicked at first but then quickly realized it was for the best. Better to avoid any awkwardness.

I came downstairs to Lennox and Avah sitting and talking with each other. They shared a look that let me know they had heard everything that had happened last night.

Sighing, I went to the couch and sat down, pulling my knees to my chest.

"Good morning," Lennox said, looking me over.

I looked down at my feet, not able to keep eye contact with them. "Good morning," I spoke back.

A few very awkward minutes passed, none of us even attempting to create any form of conversation.