The Luna and her Quadruplet Pups by Jane Above Story

Ethan

I can’t hide my frown. I’m touched that Paisley wants to stay with me, even over than being with Jane and her siblings, but it’s impossible. First, because I meant it when I said I want her to enjoy just being a kid, especially after all her medical problems. Second, because it’s simply not safe.

The doctor’s warnings are still ringing in my head, and though Paisley might not be at risk for attacks from potential Alphas hoping to eliminate their competition like Parker and Ryder are, the episode in the Southern Isles prove that she can be targeted in other ways.

Moreover, if I can’t heal myself, I won’t only be unable to protect my precious girl, I might be a threat to her myself. Yes, I made Matthew agree to put me down before I go truly insane, but what if he’s not fast enough? What if he doesn’t realize how far gone I am until I hurt Paisley?

“Paisley I wish you could stay with me, but it’s not possible. I sigh, rubbing her back and breathing in her familiar scent.

But then who will take care of you?” She argues, narrowing her eyes at me. Her energy is dangerously close to tantrum territory, and though she’s never been very prone to throwing fits, when she does have a meltdown she doesn’t hold back.

Doctors and nurses and other people I hire.” I answer, using the most soothing tone of voice I can muster.

But tha’s not the same!” She objects. “You need someone who loves you. Doctors and nurses aren’t going to hug and kiss you when you needs them.”

They might, if I ask nicely enough – or if I pay them lots and lots of money. I joke.

“Daddy be serious.” Paisley admonishes, glaring at me. This isn’ a funny business.”

I think you mean a laughing matter.” I correct gently, wondering why I’m bothering when l love hearing her childish misappropriation of words and phrases. Because it’s your job to teach her. My wolf reminds me bitterly. Just like it’s your job to protect and care for her.

You know, you choose the worst times to be reasonable, I complain, internally groaning. My wolf is the one who most often pushes me to be emotional rather than logical, but he can often surprise me when it comes to things like this. He wants Paisley and our family here too, but his protective instincts are stronger than that desire.

Turning my attention back to the disgruntled bundle in my arms, I continue, “And I know you want to help me, but stress isn’t good for little girls. I don’t want you worrying about me.”

But I’m gonna worries about you no matter what.” Paisley insists. An’ I’ll worries less if I’m here. Besides, you keep saying I’m growing ups. I won’t be little for much longer.”

exactly why you have to

of me all that time I was sick. Paisley reasons.

all about. It’s not your job to take care of me.” I share. If I lived to a grand old age the tables might eventually turn in precisely the way she’s suggesting, but she’s still just a pup, and I’m probably not going to live to be an old man – even if I get better. Alpha’s don’t

Daddy -” Paisley

voice. “I love you, but this isn’t up for discussion. You can’t stay with me, as much as I want you to

to go to bed. They’re determined to wait up for Santa, but Jane is well practiced at wrangling puppies

know, Santa won’t come if you stay up.” She sighs, feigning regret. “He only visits pups that are sleeping. And the sooner you

trying to hide yawns of exhaustion. They obviously don’t want to risk Santa skipping the penthouse, but they’re not entirely convinced – not yet at least. But okay if you’re really determined, ” Jane continues throwing up her hands. “I

okay!” They exclaim in

clamber into their beds, actually taking their proper places in the four bunks rather than creating the puppy pile in which they normally

me she loves me, but I know there’s nothing to be done for it. I step from the room as Jane moves forward to wish the pups

I hover just beyond the doorway, listening as my mate takes a seat on one

try to trick me and Daddy that way.” She

Mommy, we’ve seen you and Daddy k!ss afore, and we know

sad ever

sounding less confident than

should be

I’ve been sad?” Jane murmurs, sounding both guilty

why else do you think we’ve been trying to get you back togethers?” Parker asks, and I can hear an eye roll in

to Daddy because you miss

not the only

continues, and I can hear slight movements, pups leaving

our family to be

the edge of the door, seeing all four of our little ones snuggled up to Jane. She’s seated next to Riley, but Parker, Paisley and Ryder are halfway in her lap, their little pajama covered feet dangling in the air. “You all have stop worrying about me. She