Page 216 of Red Marked

This again.

I roll my eyes. “Magma. Let’s not⁠—”

“No, wait. Just because you’re related, it doesn’t mean you’re going to turn out like her. I wish you’d give yourself a break already. Just once. You are not her. You are fucking awesome. You’re loyal, smart, intelligent⁠—”

“You’re already mated, and I’m sorry to tell you, but I’m not into males.”

He barks out a laugh. “Seriously, asshole, you deserve good things. You deserve love.”

“Yeah, yeah. I’m fine. I swear I am. This has nothing to do with my mother, or my upbringing, or anything else that’s in your head. Star and I were always about getting her home. The sex was good, but that’s all it was.”

The sex was insane.

I don’t say that part.

“Is she going back to the center with you tomorrow?”

“I don’t know. It all happened so fast.” I rub my eyes. “If I know her, she’ll want to fetch those females herself. I can’t see her leaving that to me. So yes, I think she’ll be back.”

“Right now, she’s with the ex?”

“Who might not be an ex anymore.”

The thought kills me. I hope she doesn’t take him back.

“Look,” I say. “She’ll get her friends out. She’ll get her life back. Thank you for caring so much. I appreciate it, I do, but you can stop. I’m good.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes. Very fucking sure.”

“What are you doing for the rest of the day?”

I laugh. “Are you seriously asking me that?”

“I am. I’m worried about you. Do you want me to fly over? I can be there in a couple of⁠—”

“No! You have a pregnant mate and a job to do. I’m fine. I swear I am. I’m going to the beach. I’ve been wanting a swim in the ocean. Then I’m going to chill. Maybe grab some dinner later. You have nothing to worry about. Less than nothing.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes. How are Ridge and Robyn holding up?” I ask. “I spoke to Ridge. The whole thing is terrible. I know how much they were hoping to be parents. I can’t imagine what they’re going through.”

“They’re taking it hard. They were so excited and now…” He blows out a breath. “I feel like shit, if I’m honest. I’m about to be a father to twins. How the fuck did I get this lucky? I don’t get it.”

“Stop that. You have nothing to feel guilty about.”

“I know. It still feels shitty, though. Every little milestone…” He stops. “I didn’t tell you. I can feel them kicking now. Both of them. They’re strong too.” He laughs. “They definitely take after me.” He laughs again, but then the laugh dies. “But how do I get excited about kicking babies when Robyn will never get to feel that?”

“You can, and you should. They’d want you to. It’s terrible, and they’re going through hell, but they love each other. They’ll get through it.”

“Yeah. You’re right.” He sighs. “They’re going to babysit all the time. That’s what they don’t realize yet.” He sniggers. “They’re godparents to one of these two. That means diapers. It also means waking up at three in the morning.” His voice changes. “And don’t think I didn’t notice you changing the subject. Call me if you need me, Flint.”

“I told you. I’m fine.” I’m smiling while I say it.

“Call me,” he says again. “I mean it.”

“I thought you’d be happy to have me off your back.”