A slow smile spreads over my face and I shake my head, turning to look at him. “Nope.”
His brows furrow in confusion, and I bite my lower lip to keep from laughing. “I already have everything I could ask for.” And it’s the truth. All my friends are here. I have the most amazing boyfriend who consistently puts me and my needs first. And I’ve got the support of a Pack. Even if I’m not an official member.
I’m happy and I’m healing. I couldn’t ask for anything more.
His face cracks into a wide grin as he turns me to face him, then dips down and he presses his lips against mine in a tender kiss. But one nip of his bottom lip has him deepening the kiss and I gasp, opening my mouth to drink him in, silently asking for more.
Voices groan behind us before wandering off.
“Get a room,” Jordy calls out and I pull away, fighting hard not to blush.
“Fuck off,” Rafael says, though there’s no heat in his voice.
Jordy rolls his eyes then pries me out of Rafael’s embrace. “You’ll have Isa all to yourself soon enough. Today you have to share.”
I squeal as he lifts me into the air, throwing me over his shoulder and racing into the backyard with me, Rafael hot on our heels. It’s strange to think that a few short months ago I was adrift. Lost to my pain and consumed by my grief. I didn’t think I’d find happiness again. Not like this. But I’m not numb anymore. I feel my emotions like a kaleidoscope of sensations, and I relish each and every day.
The entire crew moves outside. Rafael’s parents—Maria and Melchor—Desmond, Zheng, Lila. Even Josué, Damien, and Kai made the drive up from Star Valley to celebrate with me.
Jordy sets me on my feet before gripping my hand and dragging me to the center of the yard. Music is playing on the outdoor speaker system and he draws me into dancing with him as Rafembai’s “Me Voy” plays. Meiying joins us and the three of us sing off-key, dancing without a care in the world because that’s how I’ve chosen to move on.
So much happened that I didn’t have control over, and the threat of what tomorrow brings is always there. I need to focus on today and live my life without fear. I’ve lost so much. More than most people in my short eighteen years. But I don’t want to live a life full of fear and what ifs. Which brings us to today. I’m eighteen, and I’m getting the keys to my first apartment this afternoon. Rafael is moving in with me, which Maria and Melchor aren’t thrilled about, but we’ve all made some compromises.
I’m not a member of the Southwest Pack, but their Alpha—Rafael’s dad—has given me a formal invitation to join. He’s giving me until graduation to make a decision. Rafael and I are going to live just outside the Compound’s sprawling territory. We’re still on Pack-controlled land so Maria and Melchor feel better about their son leaving home, but we’re also not within the Compound gates giving me some much needed separation.
I love Rafael. And I think I can grow to love his Pack. I just want the time to make that decision in my own time because giving up on the prospect of returning to Star Valley is a hard pill to swallow.
Thankfully, Rafael knows this. He’s even gone so far as to offer to leave his Pack and join my old one with me. So, who knows what will happen next? For now, we’re taking things day by day at least until graduation.
I spoke with Brian earlier today. Natalia set up a meeting with him this morning and I explained that I was moving out. I thanked him for taking me in after my mother’s death and told him I’d made other arrangements now that I was a legal adult. He didn’t look happy about it, but Natalia managed to smooth things over and help with some of the awkwardness.
He’s letting me keep the car, a birthday gift of sorts. He also gave me access to a trust fund that I have no intention of using, but I’m glad it’s there. It helps with some of the stress and what ifs, knowing I don’t have to rely on anyone else.
Rafael smiles at me across the lawn, a beer in his hand as he stands with Zheng on his right and Des on his left. Meiying stands surrounded by my boys from back home, soaking up all their attention, and I fight a grin when I see Desmond’s murderous glare aimed their way.
Something makes me think there’s something going on between the two of them, but neither has mentioned anything and I haven’t asked. I’m just happy. Content, for once. And looking forward to what comes next for us.
It only takes a few lingering looks before Rafael sets his drink down and joins me on the lawn, his hips swaying in sync with mine as his arms wrap around me. “You’re so beautiful,” he tells me.
I can’t help the smile that blooms over my face. “You’re pretty good-looking yourself,” I remark, giving him an obvious once-over and letting heat build in my gaze.
His eyes gain a wicked glint. “I’m so fucking lucky.” He presses his lips to mine again before whispering against my mouth, “And I love you so fucking much.”
God, this boy. “I love you, too,” I say, flinging my arms around his neck and hugging him tight. No matter what our future holds, I know he’ll be by my side, and I can’t wait for what our next chapter might bring.
Interested in seeing more from Hellbound High?
Savage Wolves & Dangerous Deals
Blood & Magic : Hellbound 2
is coming soon!
You can pre-order the book on Amazon today!
And for a bonus scene of Rafael and Isa,
