Putting on Airs

Seeing is Believing

***Happy Valentines Day to my fabulous readers from the future!***

Chapter 8: Seeing is Believing

We drive in silence. Kota at the wheel with Nate, Gabe and myself riding along as passengers. I have a vague impression that Kota lives nearby, but since I have been keeping out of sight and essentially doing only what was required to "blend in inconspicuously with the kids my age", I haven't exactly been strolling around the neighborhood introducing myself.

The guys all decided that they'd just rest at Nate's house to save transportation time and allow extra sleep. All of the guys except Owen and Sean, that is.

Being almost 6 in the morning, I don't expect Marie to show up for a bit yet. Nate suggested I stay at his house for a couple hours and rest so I don't wake the household, and I agree easily.

We all troop inside and find any flat surface to sprawl out on. I'm almost ready to fall asleep on the floor where I landed, when long, smooth fingers thread through my hair.

"Princess, take the couch," Victor requests with his melodic voice.

Instead of answering, I lift my hand and wave it like I'm shooing a fly. Everyone laughs quietly, but the subject is dropped.

~~~~

"Sorry Sweetie. I let you sleep as long as I could, but it's time to get up now if you want to get your stuff packed and taken to your new home. You can eat breakfast first. North made eggs and stuff," Kota tells me with exhaustion evident in his voice.

Getting off the floor is harder than I expected. I'm tempted to just stay still, but I know moving is necessary if I'm going to be able to do anything in the near future. Kota and Gabe each gently lift me from my crouched stance with my arms over their shoulders. With their arms grasping my waist, we stand in synchronicity.

I absently note the blanket that falls to the floor in my wake, and the pillow bearing the shape of my head is left behind as I'm half carried into the kitchen.

"Take a seat, Baby. I'll get you a plate," North orders.

No problem, buddy. I'd take all of the seats if it means I can lay down again, I think snarkily. Nate brings a carafe of coffee to the table, then makes a couple more trips to bring the mugs and coffee doctoring implements.

I hold a steady glare at North, daring him to say anything, while I coat the bottom of my mug with sugar. Adding cream next, I ignore the grunts of disgust. Finally, I add just enough coffee to fill half of the mug and stir with one hand while the other shovels food into my mouth.

"Silas, are you still willing to help me move out?" I ask once my coffee flavored cream is gone.

"Of course, Aggele. Should we bring North to help carry?" Silas asks after wiping his mouth with a napkin.

"No. I think I can help you if you have trouble carrying anything out," I reply while holding in a grin enjoying the group's laughter.

"I'll come along anyway, Sang Baby," North rumbles with a half-smile.

Grabbing my backpack and slipping on my shoes, I lead the way out the door and to the road. We're running a little behind schedule and I don't wait around while Silas gets his car started. I don't need the car there yet to pack anyway.

Scuffing behind me alerts me that North made good on his offer to help. I stop to wait for him and am shocked as all of the guys join me. Seeing Brother Dearest's car in the drive alongside Marie and Brand's van makes me glad for the backup.