Page 54 of Brick
“Thanks a lot.”
“How’s domestic life treating you?”
Brick clicked the tongs and flipped the steaks. “You know what? I love it. Freaking domestic bliss is where it’s at. Happy mate, happy life, I tell you what.”
“I really never thought I’d see the day when you’d be manning a grill and hosting a housewarming.”
Brick grinned. “I don’t know how I got so lucky, but I’m not questioning it.”
Leo shook his head. “It wasn’t luck. You both fought for each other. She went through hell to get here and you went through hell keeping her safe.” He waved his free hand toward the house and yard. “You two earned this.”
“I couldn’t have done it without the pack. You guys are family to me, just as much as my parents.”
“I’m happy for you, but I’m also jealous as hell. I don’t know when I’ll find my truemate.”
“Trust me,” Brick said, looking at Jade as she laughed at something Cinder said, “she’ll show up when the time is right.”
“I hope it’s soon.”
Brick did too, actually. Leo was one of his best friends, and he hoped he would find his mate soon. And Solan too. They both deserved all the happiness.
The food was served with help from his mom and aunt, and they all found seats at the picnic tables. Before they enjoyed the meal, his dad stood and raised his drink.
“I’d like to toast Brick and Jade. May your new home be filled with love, laughter, and just enough mischief to keep your lives interesting. Cheers to a sweet future and a lifetime of happiness.” He raised his glass higher, then said, “To Brick and Jade!”
The group cheered and echoed, “To Brick and Jade,” as glasses clinked.
Brick gave Jade a kiss.
She smiled at him, her eyes sparkling with happiness. “This is the best night. Our pack is here, our family. I really, really feel like I belong and it’s because you opened your life and heart to me.”
“I love you, sweet wolf,” he whispered.
“I love you too.”
As they ate, conversation flowed around the tables, the backyard filled with the hum of chatter.
“How’s things going with the pack and the new safety measures?” Brick’s dad asked.
Even though Brick had been off for the last week, spending time with Jade after their mating and getting the house ready,he’d been part of the new security measures they’d implemented around the town and pack’s hunting grounds.
Adam cleared his throat and the group quieted. “I’m happy to report, just as a general update, that it’s been quiet this week. No signs of H. A. S. or Foley. Our territory is secure with our new safety measures and the Wiccans’ protection wards are holding strong. After everything we’ve been through the last couple of weeks, it’s safe to say we can take a breath and focus on what matters most: moving forward. Of course, it doesn’t mean we let our guard down, but our pack has proven time and again that we can face down threats to our own and we’re stronger because of it.”
“Unbreakable,” Cinder said.
“Exactly. I’m proud to be alpha of this pack, and I’m thankful that my cousin finally has a mate to soften his rougher edges.”
Brick grinned.
He freaking loved his pack and family.
And he loved Jade more than that.
His heart was so damn full.
She leaned on his shoulder and sighed. “I’m so happy, Brick.”
“Me too, sweetheart.”
