Shattered Girl (Emmy)

Chapter

110

Josh set me down at the kitchen island before making our coffee, Jake wandered in as he handed me my cup, followed by Patrick and Drew, Josh gave them all dirty looks as they teased him about what had happened, but I kept my mouth shut wisely. Mike was the last to arrive, walking over to Josh and slapping him on the back.

"Hey brother, sorry about my naked takedown earlier. I just reacted."

Tm Glad to know you are willing to protect Emmy regardless of your state of dress." Josh chuckled before coming back over and offering me his hand. Taking his hand, he led me to the balcony with our coffees while Patrick and Mike started pulling out breakfast stuff. When we stepped outside, I smiled. The morning was beautiful and still cool enough to be outside. A light breeze brought the scent of roses and fresh- cut grass, Josh led me to an outdoor couch and sat down before pulling me into his lap. I leaned forward to set my coffee cup down before it accidentally spilled, then leaned back against him as he gathered me in another hug. We sat quietly, enjoying each other's quiet company, before Josh spoke.

"There is a lot to do today. Would you be okay on your own for a few hours?"

"Of course I will, don't worry about me. What do you have to do?

"Jake and I need to go to campus to sign some paperwork. We will probably be gone for several hours. Drew and Mike are scheduled to meet with their base commander, and Drew will meet with his dads to review some business stuff," Josh explained.

"It's no problem. I know we can't spend all day every day together, even if we want to, but I will be fine. I can entertain myself for a few hours, I promise. Josh nodded at my reassurance. We had just finished our coffee when Drew stuck his out of the door and told us breakfast was ready. Josh set me on my feet with a slap on my ass that caused me to squeal.

Josh led me inside as I rubbed my ass with my free hand. I thanked Drew when he handed me a plate loaded with toast, scrambled eggs, and fruit

for

out the library and maybe shop while you are all busy." I told them, standing to bring my plate into the kitchen. I turned and kissed them each, telling them to have a good day and that I would see them later. While Mike and Drew were at home, they would be in virtual meetings all day trying to figure out an extended emergency leave plan, so

up the broad steps and into the cool quiet of the library. I took my time exploring; it was twice the size of the one I used to spend most of my time in, and I enjoyed browsing through the massive selection of books. Finding several books I wanted to read, I added them to my growing pile, then looked around for a free place to sit. Spotting a comfy-looking chair, I took my stack of books and made myself comfortable.

the first chapter, 1 looked up. The weird feeling of someone watching me made my skin crawl, but when I looked around, I didn't see anyone paying particular attention to me, so I picked up the second book, setting the first one aside to check out. I continued working through my pile of books, picking out four of them to check out. I had continue

to pick me up. I texted Drew telling him I would see them soon and brought my books up to the checkout counter. Thanking the librarian, 1 loaded my books into the reusable bag I was grateful for grabbing, and went

deep voice. I snorted at his attempt to be scarry and handed him my bag of books which made him groan when he took

the time," I rolled my eyes at Josh, then squeaked when he cocked his eyebrow and

was already close to the back door of the SUV, so giving him my sweetest most innocent smile I

he stood still looking surprised which gave me just enough time to slide into the backseat

I don't want to get in trouble."

I can't help you when you poke the bear." Jake tells me, twisting in his seat

he gives himself a

into the very back. Seeing a blanket. I wiggle under it and clap a hand over my mouth trying to quiet my heavy breathing and occasional giggle.

unlocks the door for his brother. When Josh opens the back door and sees