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.

I thanked Drew

plans for

I thought I would go check 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 to keep them from worrying, I promised to keep my phone with me, and once everyone left,

app alerted me that my driver was there just as I walked out the door, so I hurried down the driveway, greeting the older man as 1 slid into the back seat and told him where I was going. Twenty minutes later, I was at the library. Thanking him for the ride, I made my way 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. Promising myself I would only read the first chapter of each book to make sure it

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.

were on their way to pick me up. I texted Drew telling him I would see them soon and brought my books up to the checkout

girl, would you like a ride?" Josh said in a deep voice. I snorted at his attempt to be scarry

more then that bag and you have no problem carrying me around all the time,"

door of the SUV, so giving him my sweetest most innocent smile I shook my head no, and lunged for the door. Chapter

still looking surprised which gave me just enough time to slide

lock my door, I don't want to get in trouble." I

Jake tells

shock wears off because he gives himself a shake before heading toward the door I

a blanket. I wiggle under it and clap a hand over my mouth

his brother. When Josh opens the back door and sees the back seat is empty he turns to Jake. "Where did she go?" He