then I’m all for it.” She gave Greyson a look of apology, since she likely knew he’d want to discuss the matter before agreeing to anything. Not that he couldn’t blame her for wanting to jump at the chance to have a more normal life.
“I’d still like the chance to mull it over, but we appreciate the offer.” Greyson was grateful that Thayer and Juno let it go and they reverted back to small talk while Thayer finished cooking and they sat down to what was a truly remarkable meal.
But best of all was the change in Juno. It was as if a weight had been lifted off her shoulders, and he couldn’t remember if he’d ever seen her looking this genuinely happy and relaxed, her smile lighting up her face. And it turned out that Juno’s change in mood was all it took to change everyone’s perspective on the evening.
Greyson sat back, finally full after wolfing down an amazing steak, which was paired with a tasty mushroom sauce, creamy, garlicky mashed potatoes, and a side of parmesan asparagus. “Can’t say that I expected you to be this good a cook, Thayer.”
“It’s a good skill to have, especially when it’ll not only keep me fed, but will keep the ladies happy.”
Of course, Thayer shot Juno a killer smile, which had him wondering just how smart an idea it would be to agree to his plan, since it was clear he still wanted her.
And yet, none of that mattered, because Juno was his, and he trusted her. She was his fated mate, and no one could take that away from them.
Of course, leave it to Ryder to keep things from escalating with a quick change of subject. “I don’t know about you, but that pool looks far too enticing.”
And it really did, since the pool was completely illuminated, so the water seemed to glow like an oasis in the desert, especially now that the sun had started to set.
Looking a bit disappointed, Juno leaned into him, to whisper in his ear. “I didn’t think to bring a swimsuit, Greyson…”
A smile sprung to his lips as he thought of how very human she still was—which was only to be expected, given that she’d only gone through the Change mere weeks ago. “You’re a shifter now, love. Nudity is perfectly acceptable and completely natural. It doesn’t carry any sense of indecency or taboo, as it does for humans.”
“Maybe not, but…” Her gaze shifted to Thayer, still looking a bit uneasy. “I guess if it doesn’t bother you, then I’ll get over it. After all, thanks to Flint, I’m now a shifter.”
Fuck…nothing could be easy for her, could it? “Speaking of Flint—have you heard anything on his whereabouts, Thayer?”
Because as long as Flint was out there, Juno would continue to be on edge and feel uneasy—but there was more. Greyson wanted his revenge. He wanted to tear the fucking bastard to pieces and make him suffer for what he did to Juno. And he needed to make sure she never again came to harm, so she could finally move past this.
“I might have an idea as to where he’s hiding. Do you want me to take care of it—or do you want the honor?” Thayer gave him a knowing look, though it wouldn’t take a genius to figure out that Greyson wanted to make Flint pay for hurting Juno.
“He’s mine.” The mere thought of Flint had a low growl rumbling in Greyson’s throat, even if it earned him a reproachful look from Juno.
“Perfect. We’ll just add that to the list of ways you want to try to get yourself killed.” She pushed her seat back and stood up. “If you’ll excuse me, I’m going to go and call my parents about breakfast.”
There was no point in telling her he’d be fine, since it wouldn’t stop her from worrying. And though he had no doubt Flint would put up a decent fight—it wouldn’t do anything but delay his inevitable death. “Once you’re done with your call, why don’t you go and hop in the pool? It’ll give you a bit of privacy while you get in.”
She nodded as he pulled her to him and stole a kiss, desperate to