Inequities by Jambrea Jo Jones Page B

the water when she got there. He motioned for her to join him. She hurried in. She was cold and the water was so warm. Vivian needed to be clean. To wash away the last couple of days. He seemed to understand just what she needed. Russ’ hands caressed her body. Sudsing her up, taking special care with her breasts. She chuckled until his fingers moved to her clit. They pinched and squeezed, but didn’t stay for long. This wasn’t about sexual pleasure. It was about feeling clean.
    Vivian returned the favour, running her thumbs over his nipples and abs, tickling his sides. They hugged each other close before rinsing off. Russ wrapped her in a big fluffy towel, drying her off with sure strokes.
    The two dressed and headed to the kitchen. It was quiet in the house.
    “Where is everyone?” Vivian asked while opening the fridge.
    “They are headed back to the house. David and Bella gave Max the all clear. The only ones still here are you, me, Peter, Greycen and Ryerson.”
    “I see.” Vivian shuddered at the name of the mad man who had almost killed them.
    Russ pulled her in tight and gave her the support she needed. She’d take it. He released her and she went back to digging around in the fridge for food.
    “It will be okay. You’ll see. We’ll leave for Greenland tonight.”
    “Greenland?” Vivian cocked her head, sure she hadn’t heard right. Why would they go there?
    “Yes. Your parents want to try Ryerson in your homeland. Something about cleansing the den. I’m all for it if it will make things smoother for you. I’d like you to have a family.”
    “You are my family. Everything I need is here. Do we really have to go?” She hoped she didn’t sound as whiny as she felt.
    “Yes. We need to get everything straightened out. I want open communication between all shifters. We’re going to need it if we’re to be exposed. Humans are dangerous as a whole and I want things to be as smooth as possible.”
    “You’re a great leader. And I love you. Okay. Greenland . Tonight. Got it. What about now? What are you hungry for?” She didn’t want to think about being so near to Ryerson. If she never saw that bastard again she would be happy. But she would do anything for Russ. Even this.
    “You.”
    Vivian squealed when Russ grabbed her from behind and bit her sensitive neck.
    “I’m not an option.” Vivian swatted his hands away.
    Russ’ chuckle rolled along her skin. She loved that sound. He had the best laugh. And he was happy. Settled once again in his own skin.
    “Okay. What are our options?”
    “Looks like there’s some left over pizza, eggs.” Vivian moved a few things around. “Looks like some steaks, maybe some—yes—bacon.”
    “Did you say pizza?” Grey walked into the room.
    Vivian looked over, happy to see her friend was alive and well.
    “I did.” Vivian took it from the fridge and handed it off to Grey.
    “That looks good.” A soft voice came from the doorway. Peter had joined them as well.
    “Where’s Ryerson?” Russ demanded.
    Vivian gulped, not wanting to give her nervousness away. But she wanted to know too.
    “Tied to a chair that is chained to a wall as well as blindfolded and gagged. After we eat, I’ll get him something and we can get what we need together for the trip.” Grey paused and looked at Russ. “If that’s okay with you?”
    “Okay. That’s—okay. Grey, share the pizza with Peter and I’ll whip together some bacon and eggs.” Busy work would keep her mind off Ryerson and going to the homeland. She really didn’t want to speak to her parents, but Russ was right. They would need a strong front when humans found out about shifters. She hoped the others were back from Africa before that happened. She missed Ive .
    “Sounds good. Let me grab some toast.” Russ’ voice pulled her out of her thoughts.
    Breakfast. That would be good. She was hungry.
    “Scrambled okay with everyone? I think I saw some cheese too.”
    “Sounds good to me.” Peter