Sang Unleashed

Chapter Twelve

The bed jostling pulls me from my sleep. I open my eyes to see predawn light spilling in through the windows. Mr. Blackbourne sits on the bed beside me, adjusting his glasses and scrolling through messages on his phone.

“Good morning, Owen.” I say quietly, trying not to disturb North’s sleeping form behind me.

“Good morning, Sang.” He says to me in that sleep roughened voice that is so unlike the melodic cadence that he usually has. “I apologize if I woke you, but it appears the elder Mr. Taylor wishes to have a word with me and I will have to hurry if I’m to make it to school on time.”

I giggle at the thought of what Uncle might want to discuss with Mr. Blackbourne. “Maybe you should put off speaking to Uncle.” I suggest to him. “He came in last night when I was getting into the bath and saw you and North together in bed. Alone. And naked.”

The grumbling laugh behind me alerts me to the fact that Mr. Blackbourne and I weren’t being as quiet as I had thought.

“Let him stew on it for awhile.” North says in his unique growly tone. “It’ll teach him better than to barge in here whenever he wants.”

“Very well.” Mr. Blackbourne says. “I’ll let him know that breakfast at the diner will be out of the question this morning. But I can’t avoid this conversation forever. I’m going to have to discuss this with him eventually.”

“Or you could let me talk to him.” I say tentatively. “I could tell him the truth.”

“No, Baby.” North says. “If anyone is going to talk to Uncle, it’s going to be me.”

“We should just tell him.” I argue. “Erica took the news of Nathan and Kota sharing me surprisingly well and she isn’t even Academy. I think we’re making a big deal out of this for no reason.”

“Perhaps.” Mr. Blackbourne says. “But are you willing to risk both Taylors’ relationship with their uncle if you’re intuition is wrong, Miss Sorenson?”

“Of course not.” I reply. “And why Miss Sorenson again? This isn’t sexy time, is it?”

North barks a laugh behind me and snuggles in closer, nuzzling my ear. “Maybe not for him, but you and I don’t have to be anywhere for several hours.”

I shiver in response and can’t help but rub my ass on his bare front that he has pressed up against me.

“I really must go. Please don’t tempt me to stay and make me late.” Mr. Blackbourne says in warning.

“Nobody’s keeping you here.” North growls back.

“Stop it, North.” I admonish. “Let me say bye to Owen and I promise I’ll come right back to bed. Okay?”

“Fine.” North huffs.

I pull away from the warmth of the bed and grab one of North’s dress-sized t-shirts to slip on. I scurry into the bathroom to take care of business and brush my teeth as fast as I can so I can have just a few more minutes with Mr. Blackbourne before he has to go. It feels like all I ever do is say goodbye to him, which is silly since I know I have to say hello in order to say goodbye.

I meet Mr. Blackbourne in the living room and find him leaning against the wall by the door and I flush when I remember exactly what happened last night up against that particular wall. I take in his appearance and my jaw clenches in envy at how put together he looks even after everything that happened last night. Not a hair out of place or a wrinkle in sight.

“I would like for you to take Mr. Griffin to the diner for dinner tonight.” Mr. Blackbourne says. “I understand that both Taylor brothers will be working and I need you to see how the elder Taylor is treating his nephew. I trust you to read his emotional state better than any of the boys would be able to. Can you do that and report back to me? Please, don’t discuss anything with him without first speaking to me.”

“Of course.” I reply. “Anything you need.”

Mr. Blackbourne’s millimeter smile appears at my words and he beckons me to come closer. I make my way slowly to him and stop when I’m less than a foot away.

“Yes, Owen?” I say.

“What I need is you.” He whispers softly to me and leans down to press a gentle kiss to my lips.

The difference between the Mr. Blackbourne from last night and the one whispering sweet words to me, offering such gentleness, is such a stark contrast that I’m rendered completely speechless.

“I love you, Sang.” He says with his lips brushing mine.

“I love you too.” I reply just as quietly.

After one last gentle kiss, he pulls away and is out the door. I stare at the closed door until I hear his car making its way down the gravel drive and I return to the bedroom where North is waiting for me.

By the time I convince North to let me out of bed and take a bath, one that actually makes me smell nice, we barely have enough time to eat and then head to my assignment. Well one of my assignments. I guess the boys weren’t lying when they said that girls are used a lot more than guys in the Academy since I have two assignments at once.

Since the drive to 2 Scoops is through some of the heavier traffic, I decide to use the commute as an opportunity to discuss my new assignment with North.

“After the ice cream place, who will be taking me to meet with Wil?” I ask.

“Probably whoever is coming to pick you up.” North replies gruffly, obviously still uncomfortable with me taking the additional assignment.

“Not you?” I ask.

“I have to be at the diner.” He says. “And will probably be dealing with shit from Uncle. You can wait until another day when I’m free if you want me to be the one to take you. Or I can blow off the diner and take you today. Just say the word.”

I frown. Is he avoiding the diner or does he not want me to go without him? His phrasing has me confused.

“Do you not want me to go without you?” I ask, hoping to get at least part of my question answered without starting a fight.

“I just don’t like you being around another Academy team without me being there. The Toma team’s full of good guys and Kayli is, well she’s not nice but she won’t let them harass you out of respect for me. I don’t know, Baby, it just makes me uncomfortable.” He explains.

“Okay. I’ll call Uncle and tell him you have to go with me and you’ll be at the diner afterward.” I say, seeing the solution is obvious. Academy assignments come before diner work, Uncle will understand.

“No.” North almost shouts. “Leave Uncle to me. You can go to your assignment without me. I’m sure Kota will take you anyway and he’s the boss.”

Now understanding North’s mood, I slide my hand over to cover his. “You know he already suspects, right?” I say quietly. “As long as you talk to him with Luke, he’s not going to be as angry as you think. He might be hurt that you didn’t tell him from the beginning and chose to lie instead, but he won’t be angry.”

“I just don’t like the idea of him changing how he treats you, Baby.” North replies gruffly. “He adores you right now, but if he knew about our family dynamics, that might change.”

“I’m not in a relationship with Uncle, North.” I say. “I care about him, but I don’t need his permission to love you and your brothers.”

“And what about how Uncle treats Luke after he finds out?” North asks. “Luke would be crushed if Uncle suddenly pulled away from him.”

I sigh, now knowing how frustrated Mr. Blackbourne used to get with me. “We can’t play the what-if game, North. And I think you’re projecting. You worry about how Uncle will treat you, too. The way I see it, you have two options. Come clean and accept however Uncle feels about it or pretend to be in a homosexual relationship with Mr. Blackbourne for the foreseeable future.”

North manages a small chuckle at my joke, but sobers quickly. “I’m nervous. He’s not the type of person to explode and then calm down like I am. Luke got his temperament from Uncle. He goes into his own head for a long time and I don’t know if I can handle that.”

I nod, considering. Luke isn’t the type that can have issues dumped on him suddenly and bounce back quickly. He’s the type that has to see how something will work before he can accept it. Like the day we came to visualize the diner together. Maybe Uncle just needs to see that a relationship like ours can and does work. I don’t think using our family as an example will be enough since we’re so close to him. But maybe if we had help from an outside source, maybe that might work.

“North?” I say pensively, still working out the details in my mind.

“Yeah, Baby?” He replies.

“What if I invited Lily and her guys to the diner for dinner with Nathan and me tonight? You think you can put off a conversation with Uncle until then?” I start, the plan really forming now. “I mean, if he’s like Luke, then seeing is believing. Right? So if you can show him a family that works and has worked like ours for years, then it would be easier for him to accept. Right?”

“That’s not a bad idea.” North says, considering. “Actually, that’s a really good idea.”

I smile, pleased that I can offer North some comfort right now.

“I’ll give Liam a call and see if he can meet you at the diner around 6:30. Make sure you’re not late. So that means, make sure you give Nathan a heads up that he’s gotta get his broken ass out of bed soon to start getting ready.” North says.

I giggle, looking at the clock. Nathan has five hours until then! “I think he can manage.” I say. “That will cut it close if I’m going to see Wil before coming to the diner.”

“It shouldn’t take long to talk to Wil.” North says, making a face that lets me know he still isn’t thrilled with me talking to Kayli’s brother.

“What’s wrong, North?” I ask.

“I just don’t like it. I mean, those guys are great and do good things for the Academy, but they aren’t like us. They take on the more dangerous jobs. I don’t know if it’s a good idea to get that kid mixed up with them.” North explains.

“I can understand that. But that should be Wil’s decision, not ours.” I say.

“Fuck it. I can’t worry about their family problems. If they want to sacrifice a favor for you to chat up your buddy from school, they can.” North relents.

Finally, I won an argument with North. Okay, so maybe it wasn’t a real argument, but I’m still calling it a win. Feeling energized now that we’ve come up with a plan for Uncle and because I won a spat with North, I pull out my phone to get everyone on board.

Sang: I’m having dinner with Lily and her guys at the diner tonight. Hoping Uncle sees them and can accept our relationship easier.

Mr. Blackbourne: Very well thought out and considerate plan, Miss Sorenson

Luke: So we’re telling Uncle? Why?

I ignore the rest of the responses for a moment to giggle and consider how best to respond to Luke.

“What?” North demands.

“I was telling the guys about my plan for Uncle.” I explain. “Apparently, no one knows about what happened yet.”

“Don’t you dare tell them, Sang Baby.” North growls.

I quickly type a response to Luke, “too late.” I say cheerfully, smiling brightly at North. To which he growls again and slumps further in his seat beside me.

Luke: He caught them where!?

Mr. Blackbourne: There will be repercussions for that, Miss Sorenson

Sang: I look forward to it, Mr. Blackbourne

Before I can address any of the other text messages, we arrive at 2 Scoops and Dr. Green has my door open before North comes to a complete stop.

“Pookie, I’ve missed you!” He greets me.

“Hi, Sean.” I giggle back, earning me a swift kiss from the good doctor.

“Can’t have you giggling all night.” Dr. Green says when he pulls away. “North, give her a kiss so we can go or we’ll be late.”

I turn and give North a soft kiss and murmur my love to him. His return kiss is a little deeper and insistent.

“I love you too.” He says. “And hopefully soon, I don’t have to hide it from Uncle.”

I smile before jumping from the jeep and following Dr. Green into the ice cream shop. Before the two of us can make it across the room, the clerk is heading in our direction. She offers a cheerful farewell and is out the door. I just shake my head. She must really hate her job. I can’t understand why. This place is amazing.

Our usual ritual of helping customers and waiting for children goes quickly and I notice that they are quite late when I look at the clock. As a matter of fact, I’m due to leave in a few moments and we still haven’t seen them or heard from Mr. Buble. Beginning to worry, I look to see if Dr. Green shares my concerns and see that he too is looking at the clock, his expression reflecting my own.

The door jingles and the happy clerk walks in, followed by Mr. Buble and to my surprise, Mr. Blackbourne. I meet steel grey eyes and ask what’s wrong and receive a minute shake of his head to indicate we can discuss it away from outsiders.

I smile at the clerk and bid her farewell, following Dr. Green to the door where the two suited figures wait. I make my way outside and just barely allow the door to close before I start asking my questions.

“What happened? Where are the kids?” I ask them.

“The children were not permitted to leave today.” Mr. Buble explains. “I was told that they all had homework and would be required to stay home to finish it.”

“We were promised by the school that none of the children would be given assignments they couldn’t finish in class this week.” Mr. Blackbourne says.

“That may be.” Mr. Buble says. “But I was not in a position to argue with the foster parents.”

“But…” I start to argue before Mr. Buble motions for me to stop.

“I did, however, manage to receive this note.” He says, handing me a folded piece of paper. “I believe she intended it for you, Sang.”

I take the note and open it carefully. The simple words inside make me smile, and then I frown in understanding.

I need your bodyguard tonight. I’m sorry it’s short notice, but it’s really important. Please? My address is 225 E. Palm Ave. and my bedroom is the one with the screen missing from the window. Have him watch through the window. I’ll make sure he can see.

Thanks, Cecelia

Things must be getting worse for the kids at home if the parents are keeping them away from their social worker. But really, how long do they think they can use excuses about chores and homework?

“We have to send Silas.” I say to Mr. Blackbourne.

“That’s what we came here to discuss, Miss Sorenson” Mr. Blackbourne replies. “It appears we are running out of family members for this mission. Mr. Korba will need appropriate backup and both Taylors and Mr. Coleman are unavailable due to the diner. Mr. Lee is supposed to assist you on your secondary assignment and Mr. Morgan is being paraded around his home by his mother.”

“I’ll go” Dr. Green speaks up immediately. “I should be there in case the children need medical attention anyway.”

“What about the hospital?” I ask. “Don’t you have to be there tonight?”

“Dr. Roberts will agree that this is more important, Pumpkin.” Dr. Green says, giving me a smile. “We have to take care of those little kiddos.”

“If it would be acceptable,” Mr. Buble says, “I would like to be there as well, as I’m acting as their state sanctioned Social Worker.”

“I can agree with that. Owen?” Dr. Green says, turning to face Mr. Blackbourne.

“It sounds like my presence was quite unnecessary.” Mr. Blackbourne replies, offering me his millimeter smile. “It seems to me that Dr. Green is becoming quite a good mission lead.”

“I agree, Mr. Blackbourne.” I say smiling. “You should buy him a boat.”

Dr. Green laughs at my joke, but Mr. Buble just frowns, not understanding our banter.

“Right, well. Should we be off then, Dr. Green?” Mr. Buble says.

“Um, actually, I have something I need to take care of really quick.” Dr. Green says. “Do you mind if we meet at my condo in 30 minutes?”

“That would be fine.” Mr. Buble says before turning to Mr. Blackbourne and offering him a handshake. “Owen, a pleasure as always.”

“Likewise.” Mr. Blackbourne returns.

We all watch as Mr. Buble makes his way to his car and then exits the parking lot. No one says anything until his car is out of sight.

“What exactly do you need to take care of?” Mr. Blackbourne asks Dr. Green.

“Oh, well.” Dr. Green says, “I need to administer the giggle cure to Pookie, of course.”

I giggle at his words, as if on command and he quickly swoops in to steal a kiss.

“There, see?” He says. “Right on time.”

I blush and turn my eyes from Dr. Green to Mr. Blackbourne. “And what about you, Owen? Did you come all the way down here just to help Mr. Buble give me that note?”

“No, Miss Sorenson,” Mr. Blackbourne admits, “I told Mr. Lee that I would be handling your transportation to his house.”

I nod my head, understanding that he wants to kiss me as well but wants to wait for a more private moment. I turn back to Dr. Green, “see you tomorrow?” I ask.

“We can play tonight by ear.” Dr. Green says. “It’s possible our appearance here will be unnecessary tomorrow if we can manage to catch the foster parents in the act of abusing one of the children.”

“Okay. So you’ll keep me updated?” I ask, not just because I want to know about tomorrow’s plans. I really am worried for the children’s safety.

“Of course, Pookie.” He says. “Now run along, I hear you have quite a full night ahead of you.”

“I do.” I agree. “I just hope Uncle takes it well.”

“He will. I’m sure of it.” Dr. Green says and then gives me another swift kiss before he hurries off to his own car.

“Shall we?” Mr. Blackbourne says, gesturing that I should walk with him to his car parked in front of us.

The ride to Kota’s is quiet and my mind begins churning with what I might say to Wil. How would someone convince me to have a conversation with my own sister? Can the situations even be compared? I’m not even sure what kind of relationship Wil has with his sister. What has caused them to not speak to each other all school year? Are the issues Academy related?

“Miss Sorenson?” Mr. Blackbourne says, and then I notice that we’re stopped on the shoulder of the road a few miles from Sunnyvale.

“Yes, Mr. Blackbourne?” I reply.

“What’s on your mind?” He asks.

“Just going over what I should say to Wil.” I reply.

“Might I suggest something?” He says.

“Of course.” I say, happy to receive any guidance he’s willing to offer.

“Simply tell him that you met his sister and she asked if you knew him.” He says. “And if he seems to become tense at that, let the subject drop. If he seems curious, offer to meet with both of them together.”

“So I don’t have to try to convince him to talk to her?” I ask. “I just have to see if he’s okay with the idea of seeing her?”

“In a way,” Mr. Blackbourne says. “No one on an Academy mission will ever force another person to do something they seem uncomfortable doing. Even if that thing is as simple as a conversation with a sibling.”

“We force the guys into talking to each other all the time.” I say, wondering over the difference.

“We are an Academy family.” Mr. Blackbourne explains. “We either talk to each other and work through our issues, or we are no longer an Academy family.”

“So we aren’t forcing the conversations,” I start, “we’re encouraging the family to stay together?”

“Yes, exactly.” Mr. Blackbourne says.

“Alright.” I say. “I think I’m ready for my kiss now.”

Mr. Blackbourne turns in his seat to face me fully, “and what gave you the idea that I stopped here to kiss you?”

“Nothing” I reply. “But I was hoping.”

My response earns me a millimeter smile and a soft kiss on my cheek.

“Please, Owen.” I say.

My borderline begging pushes Mr. Blackbourne over the edge and I’m pulled into a bruising kiss that’s sure to leave my lips red and swollen. When he finally pulls away, we rest our foreheads together and share the same air until we’ve calmed down enough to speak.

“I love you” I whisper.

“And I, you.” He whispers back.

Without any further conversation, Mr. Blackbourne continues to Kota’s house and the sight on the front lawn has me giggling in my seat. Jessica is chasing a wet and soapy Max around the yard while Kota and Nathan recline on lounge chairs watching the show.

“That really is no way to treat a young lady.” Mr. Blackbourne says, pulling the car to a stop.

“Oh leave them alone.” I say, still giggling. “If I know Jessica, she won’t let Kota help.”

“You keep talking to me like that, Miss Sorenson,” Mr. Blackbourne warns, “and your punishments Saturday won’t be limited to a few spankings.”

“I look forward to it, Mr. Blackbourne.” I reply sweetly and then step from the car before he can let me out. I know that will earn me another reprimand, but his punishments so far have been so very pleasant.

I skip my way over to kiss Nathan and then curl up on the lounge chair with Kota. It’s so nice to be able to be open with at least these two here since Erica and Jessica are aware of this part of our relationship. According to them, though, only Nathan and Kota are sharing my love. We decided Erica wasn’t quite ready to learn the full truth.

“Did you have a good day?” Kota asks, chuckling at Jessica who just barely misses Max and ends up laying facedown in a puddle. “Need help yet?” He calls to her.

“Never” Jessica announces.

“I had a good day. Did you hear about the kids asking to borrow my bodyguard?” I ask.

“I did.” He says. “That was a good plan.”

“Thank you.” I say.

“What’s this about us having dinner with the Anderson’s? What happened?” Nathan asks.

“I can’t tell you or Mr. Blackbourne will spank me.” I say cheekily, watching as the man himself comes to a stop next to us. “But after everything’s said and done tonight, you should definitely have a chat with Uncle.”

“Miss Sorenson” Mr. Blackbourne says in warning and then shocks me by turning to the little girl and dog running amuck in the yard. “Max, heal.”

Immediately, the dog stops running and slowly trots over to stand next to Mr. Blackbourne. The girl in question glares at her savior and stomps over angrily.

“I asked Kota to let me do it without help, Mr. Blackbourne.” She says, maintaining a modicum of respect but still letting her irritation show.

“I apologize,” Mr. Blackbourne says, “but Miss Sorenson needs to get into the house to change for dinner and I didn’t think she would like getting wet in the process.”

“Right, blame it on me.” I giggle.

“I honestly cannot wait until Saturday.” Mr. Blackbourne says to me quietly. “Gentlemen, I expect you to take care of her tonight?”

“Of course.” Kota answers.

“I will check in with you over the course of the evening and night. Plans for tomorrow may change.” He says.

“Okay. I’ll stay up until I hear from you.” Kota says.

“That won’t be necessary.” Mr. Blackbourne says. “Sleep as usual, just know that Sang may or may not be required back at the ice cream shop. You can get the information when you wake up.”

“Fair enough.” Kota replies, standing to help me out of the chair. “Ready to go change?” He asks me.

“I have to change?” I ask in reply.

“Mr. Blackbourne says you do, but I don’t care if that’s what you want to wear to dinner.” Kota says.

“I don’t care either.” Nathan adds. “It’s not like I get to touch you until tomorrow anyway.”

“Oh no!” I say, “I didn’t even thing about that.”

“It’s okay.” Nathan says. “We can sleep tonight and then I can wake you up in the morning.”

“Ahem” Kota interrupts, turning to eye his sister who is absently rinsing the dog, but has her head tilted and is obviously listening.

“For exercising” Nathan adds, shrugging his shoulders in apology.

I laugh at them both and turn to Mr. Blackbourne, “I’ll text you after my conversation with Wil. And then again after our conversation with Uncle.”

“Very good.” He says and then turns to get back into his car.

“Are we ready to go?” I ask Kota.

“Hold on.” He says, turning to his sister. “You got this or do you want me to stick around until you’re done?”

“I’m almost done.” She says. “Go ahead. And bring back cake.”

“Okay.” He laughs.

The three of us make our way back to the car. I let Nathan sit in the back for once so that he can stretch out. I giggle at the circular thing he puts in the seat before sitting down.

“What’s that?” I ask.

“It’s a donut for when you hurt your backside.” Kota replies.

Continuing to giggle, I don’t even notice when we pull into the parking lot of the grocery store Wil works at.

“Wish me luck” I say, stepping out of the car, only to face a tattooed, scary-looking man.

I blink and take a step back, falling back into my seat in Kota’s car. Before I can freak out and yell for Kota to get out of here, Kayli steps around to stand by his side. I breath a sigh of relief at her presence, and look back at the man standing next to her. After the initial shock of being cornered by a man that terrifying, I recognize him as one of the guys from her team at camp.

“Hi, Kayli.” I greet her, genuinely happy to see her. And not just because she saved me from a heart attack.

“Sang.” Kayli greets me in return, not quite as happy to see me as I am her. “Thanks for doing this. I hope he’ll talk to you.”

“Why wouldn’t he?” I ask. “He talks to me at least once a week at school.”

Kayli readjusts her stance and I can see that my words have made her uncomfortable. “He doesn’t have a crush on you or anything, does he?” She asks.

I just laugh in response, unsure if he would want me to share my theory about his relationship with Ms. Johnson with his older sister and her behemoth boyfriend.

“Why is baby bird laughing?” The scary man asks.

“Because she thinks he might have a girlfriend.” Kota answers, finally coming to stand beside my still opened car door. “Though we haven’t been able to confirm that.”

“Right.” I say. “So, I’ll just be going now.”

“Wait.” Kayli says, grabbing my arm. I see Kota stiffen beside me, but surprisingly, Kayli’s touch doesn’t bother me. Maybe all the boys surrounding her all the time makes me feel like she’s less of a threat. “What are you going to say to him?” She asks me, ignoring the glare Kota has turned her way.

I gently place my hand over hers on my arm and it seems to shock her that she’s touching me because she quickly snatches her hand back.

“I plan on telling him that you’re my friend and he came up in conversation. That we realized he was a friend of mine as well.” I say. “And if he doesn’t run away screaming, I’m going to ask him to come to lunch with the two of us.”

“Just like that?” Kayli says skeptically.

“Just like that.” I reassure her with a small smile.

“Okay.” Kayli relents, stepping back so I can get out of the car.

Once I’ve taken about 20 steps toward the door of the grocery store, I hear Kayli yell “wait!”

I turn just in time to see the big man put his hand on Kayli’s arm and in a growly, accented voice say, “Wife. Just let her go. She has a good plan.”

I raise my eyebrows at the term ‘wife’. Shaking my head, I walk into the store to face Wil Winchester.

My conversation with Wil was brief. So brief that all their faces fell when I walked back out to Kota’s car.

“Was he not there?” Kayli asks.

“He was there.” I answer her. “We’re having breakfast at the diner Saturday morning. 9 o’clock.”

“Really? Just like that?” She says, incredulous.

“I told you, we’re friends.” I reply, shrugging my shoulders. What more could I say? He said he finally had things in a place for himself that he wouldn’t be a burden to her anymore. He said that he’d be thrilled to see her, that I didn’t even have to be there if I didn’t want to. I didn’t think she needed to hear any of that, so I just didn’t say anything.

“Thank you, Sang.” She says. “I really owe you one.”

“I just hope all my assignments with the Academy are as easy as this one.” I reply. “It really wasn’t a problem.”

“Thank you, Baby Bird. You have given my wife peace. You call Raven anytime, for anything.” The large scary man says to me.

I just nod in reply and scurry to get into my seat. I don’t mean to be rude, but he really does terrify me. I can see what North meant about that team not being like ours. He just seems so much…scarier.

“Let’s get out of here before he makes me pee my pants.” I whisper to Kota.

Kota and Nathan laugh at me the whole drive back to the diner. When we pull into the diner parking lot, I can already spot Lily’s old-fashioned car in the parking lot. I start bouncing in my seat in excitement at seeing her again. It’s been weeks since the last time I was able to make it to their house for cookies. I can’t wait to tell her about the assignment with the kids. I frown at the thought. Am I allowed to talk about my assignment with the kids?

“Kota?” I ask him quietly.

“Yeah?” He says, putting the car in park and turning to meet my questioning gaze.

“Can I tell Lily about the kids? Is that allowed?” I ask.

“You can ask Lily’s opinion about their mental health since she’s got the background for it, but you can’t give her all the details of your assignment.” Kota says in response.

“So no telling her about my great bodyguard idea?” I ask.

“If you can word it in a way that appears that you’re asking her opinion on the health and well-being of the children, you can. Otherwise, you have to wait.” He says.

I smile, understanding what he’s saying. This is an Academy diner. Most of the customers and staff are all Academy, but there are still some that aren’t. I’ll have to be careful with what I say, but as long as I am, I can get the praise I’m seeking from Lily. It seems silly, but I want the praise of the bird that made it with a dog team all on her own.

The three of us make our way into the diner and I’m immediately swept into a tight hug. “Fuck, Trouble, I know I just saw you Monday, but it feels like it’s been forever.”

“Hi, Meanie, I missed you too.” I say, giggling as he tries to walk with me over to our table.

I see that the Anderson’s have taken their places already with Lily sandwiched between two of her men and Liam taking the seat at the head of the table, leaving three places across from them for us. I tap Gabriel’s arms to let him know I want him to put me down and plant a soft kiss on his cheek when he does. His cheeks pink a bit and then he winks at me.

Kota holds out my chair for me and I giggle again when Nathan places his donut-thingie in his seat before he sits down.

“I don’t know why you’re giggling.” He says in mock indignation. “I sustained an injury for you.”

“I didn’t hear you complaining.” I retort cheekily.

Kota tries to cover his laugh with a cough. Once we’re all seated, we greet the older team in front of us and enjoy a tiny amount of small talk while Gabriel takes our orders.

“So what’s this all about, Sang?” Liam says in as much a whisper as he can manage in the busy diner.

“Uncle.” I say back, though my words are much quieter. “He needs to see your family and that it works before we try to tell him about ours.”

“So you’re just using us?” Henry, one of Lily’s men says laughing.

“That we are.” Nathan replies, grinning at his friend.

Kota, Nathan and I have made good friends with the entire Anderson in the last month or so. We have all made it a point to drive out to their secluded house and just chat as often as our schedules allow. Lily’s presence doesn’t make me uneasy as much as other women and it’s nice to have an older female figure to talk to about things.

Uncle and North deliver our food and Uncle gives me a beaming smile. “Well hello there, little bird.” He greets me. “I didn’t think I would be seeing you this week.”

“I just wanted to get some dinner with our friends and maybe bounce some ideas about my latest assignment off Lily.” I reply.

“And what about all these dogs? It seems a bit excessive for girl chat.” Uncle says, eyeing the three older men, as well as Nathan and Kota, in suspicion.

“This is Lily’s team.” I reply, unsure of what else to call them since we’re in a diner full of people. I definitely don’t want anyone uncomfortable. “She doesn’t go anywhere without her team.” I add.

“My husbands, Sang.” Lily speaks up. “It’s okay to call them my husbands.” She gives me a reassuring smile, which I return.

“Husbands?” Uncle asks. “As in, plural?”

“Yeah” Liam interjects. “Is that a problem?”

“No.” Uncle shakes his head. “I’ve actually heard about your team, but I thought you were like the lochness monster or big foot. Ya know?” He says, trying to joke, though he’s obviously uncomfortable.

I giggle, imagining Liam as bigfoot and try to stifle it with my hand. Through eyes flooding with tears of laughter, I risk a glance at Liam and dissolve into giggles again.

“I’m sorry.” I manage to mumble before jumping from my seat and hurrying to the office past the kitchen.

Once I’ve closed myself off into the office, I realize that my giggles were more than likely some pent-up tension releasing and feel a little guilty for leaving the guys to deal with Uncle alone. I take a steadying breath and prepare myself to head back to the table when the elder Taylor steps through the door.

“Can I talk to you for a minute, Sang?” He asks.

“Of course.” I answer. “Is everything okay?”

“I don’t know.” He replies. “You tell me.”

“Wh-what do you mean?” I ask, trying to buy time. I have a feeling he’s cornering me without the boys on purpose and I know neither North or Mr. Blackbourne will be very happy if I let this conversation continue.

“Has that poly family brainwashed you?” He asks me, taking a seat at the desk and turning his chair to face me.

I laugh at the ridiculous question. “What?” I ask.

“Is that family filling your mind, and my nephew’s minds, with ideas?” He clarifies.

“You mean are the Anderson’s trying to convince the Blackbourne team to share me?” I ask.

“Yes. Is that what’s been going on?” He asks. He doesn’t look angry, hurt or any of the emotions I would have expected. He just looks confused. “Because, I hate to tell you this, but I’m pretty sure North and Owen are, uh, together.”

His words make me crumple into a heap of laughter on the couch and I can’t control my next words. “Oh, Uncle. That really wasn’t what it looked like, I promise.”

He stiffens at my admission to knowing what he’s talking about. “How do you know what I saw, or that I saw anything at all?” He asks.

“Uncle?” I start, “what is it that you want from me right now? What do you hope to accomplish with this conversation?”

“I want some answers, dammit.” He says, starting to show his emotions now.

“Then start with a simple question.” I say.

“Okay. How about this one. Are you cheating on Luke with North?” He asks.

My mouth pops open and my eyes widen at the choice of words he used. “I would never be unfaithful.” I say honestly.

“Okay. Try this one. Are you in love with North?” He asks.

“Of course I am. How could I not be?” I reply honestly.

“What about Luke?” He says.

“You mean am I in love with Luke too?” I clarify. “Of course I am. He’s amazing. Everything I could have ever hoped or dreamed of in a man.”

“Then what are you going to do about it?” He says quietly, obviously trying to figure out a solution to a problem he sees.

“I’m not going to do anything about it.” I reply. “They don’t want me to choose.”

“What do you mean they don’t want you to choose? You have to pick one.” He says tersely.

“Could you?” I ask him quietly. “If you could only have North or Luke, could you choose which one to keep?”

“It’s not the same.” He grumbles, sounding more and more like North as our conversation progresses. Maybe he does have a bit of North’s attitude after all.

“No, it’s not.” I agree with him. “But if you did have to choose one of them, it would hurt the other one. Would it not? How can you ask me to hurt one of them? They don’t want to hurt each other and we all realized pretty quickly we had two choices. Either we’re all together or we’re not. They decided they would rather have each other and me, than lose me or lose each other.”

“Fine. So they’re sharing you.” He says. “I still don’t understand why North and Owen were buck naked in bed together.”

I can’t help the small giggle that escapes. I know his brain has probably been through the ringer today trying to figure that out, but I was there. I saw what he saw. In his position, it would have looked pretty bad.

“I was in the bathroom taking a bath.” I answer him, sitting up straighter in preparation for a fight.

“Oh thank God.” Uncle says, leaning back in his chair and rubbing his palms over his face. “Are they being respectful to you?” He asks. “Because no matter what kind of weirdo relationship you all think you want now, I still expect them to be respectful.”

“They haven’t ever been anything but respectful.” I reply. “Except maybe North, I think he picks arguments with me just because sometimes.”

It’s Uncles turn to laugh at my words. “That he does. I heard him tell Luke the other day that you look like a pissed off kitten when you argue. He thinks it’s cute.”

“That…I can’t believe…ugh!” I say indignant.

“Sang?” Uncle asks.

“Yes?” I say, unsure now.

“If things ever change with this Blackbourne family,” He says, “don’t ever forget the Academy rules, okay?”

“You mean about the Academy being there for me?” I ask.

“Yeah.”

“I won’t forget, Uncle. Thank you. And thank you for respecting our decision to try this.” I tell him.

“I was a teenager once myself. I know better than to argue with a bunch of stubborn teens.” He smiles at me.

“I hope this is more than a passing teen phase.” I say. “They’re all more than I could ever dream of and I don’t think I could ever find anyone to fill my heart like they do.”

“That’s because that heart of yours is too big for your own good, little bird.” Uncle says. “Now send my nephews in here. We’re going to have a chat about how to treat a lady and how that does not include letting her take a bath all by herself after, well, whatever it was you three did.”

“Yes, Uncle.” I reply, scurrying to the door only to find North and Luke both leaning against the wall.

It’s obvious they were listening by the tears in Luke’s eyes and the smile on North’s face. “You handled that beautifully, Baby.” North gruffly says to me, pulling me in for a quick kiss.

I turn around just in time to see North and Uncle embrace in a tight hug, causing my heart to do a little flip.

“We’re going to be okay.” Luke says quietly. “Our family is going to be okay.”