Shattered Girl (Emmy)

Chapter 38

Michael, still grumbling to himself, walked over to Patrick's mother, who was still sitting on Liam's lap. He leaned down, kissed her, then picked her up off Liam's lap, set her on the ground, smacked her butt as he walked around the island, and began cutting up the remaining vegetables. Sharron just shook her head and started pulling things from the fridge. Liam stood up, gathering plates and silverware, and set the table.

I loved how Patrick's parents interacted with each other, and I could picture the guys and I being like that someday. Patrick had led me back to the couch and cuddled next to me. Placing a kiss on my head, we began to talk quietly about our day. Our phones went off almost simultaneously. I saw Jake's message that they would be at the house in about ten minutes. I told Patrick, and he let the rest of the family know.

A few minutes later, Conner entered the kitchen, going straight to his wife and kissing her. He gave Michael and Liam each a slap on the shoulder and came over to greet Patrick and I. It was strange seeing the head of the most powerful crime family in the city sitting on the couch with us in a t-shirt and shorts. It was all so ordinary it was hard for me to wrap my head around it.

We chatted with Conner about our day, how fascinating the fish and other creatures were, meeting the two penguins, and our plan to help

with the next rehab release. As we talked, Conner's phone alerted us that a car was at the gate.

over to greet them, giving each a kiss before returning to the couch. All four guys entered the kitchen, greeting Shannon with hugs and kisses. After they greeted everyone, Jake stayed in the kitchen, helping Shannon

me in his lap. Josh and Mike are on either side of him. I began to talk excitedly about my

They do quite a bit of work at the local zoo and aquarium. Is that something you would be interested in pursuing?" I paused, thinking about the chance of doing something I knew I would enjoy. "Thank you for that idea, Conner; I will have to look into it more. I'm not ready to start this semester, but I will look at the possibility of spring classes." I was excited to research what the university had to offer. "Well, you let me know what you decide; I know someone in admissions, as

are their age, we still act like that," I said quietly. Drew tightened his

will angle." Drew said, smiling as I

14

I tried to cover

the time we are their age." I smiled at Josh, thanking him for his sweet promise and for not teasing me about my random verbal

1

with steaks and roasted veggies that smelled amazing. My stomach gave an embarrassingly loud growl that made me blush again. All the guys laughed this time. Drew placed me on my feet and, standing up, led me to the table, pulling out a chair for me. Jake and Josh snuck into the chairs on either side of me, and Drew inoved to an empty seat, "giving the twins a grumpy look. I giggled at their antics and took the plate that