“You’re right, little bird.” To Midas, I say, “I’ll reach out.”
“Thank you.”
“Never thought I’d live to see the day that you would thank me.”
“Don’t let it go to your head. The day is young and you’re likely to piss me off before it’s said and done with.”
We share a smile. It’s strange. I used to hate being in the position I’m in. I thought Midas had done me a disservice by not leaving me in charge. As much as I bitch and moan, I can see the benefits of having others to share the burden. My gaze goes around the room, taking in the people here. Midas might have picked his successors, but it’s the women here who have made us what we are. I can admit that.
Dove pulls me aside and asks, “When can we leave?”
“In a hurry to get home?”
Her eyes dance. “I hid something in the woods. Maurice thinks he’s going to find it first, but my money’s on you.”
Chasing Dove in the woods has become one of our favorite bedtime sports. My cock throbs in my pants at the thought of a chase to bring in the new year.
My lips brush against hers. “Does this hidden surprise have anything to do with your visit to the doctor?”
I have my suspicious about my fiancée and the slight changes happening to her luscious body, and I am so fucking excited.
“Only one way to find out.” She takes a step away from me. “And the winner will be thrilled with his prize.”
Henri and Maurice wait for us at the door. I bite back a smile as I follow Dove outside, where it’s snowing.
I never believed in fairytales, but in this moment, I know they exist. I was the Beast. A man so cruel that no one could love me. But then this little bird entered my life, showing me things I never knew were possible. Not only that, but she loved my cousins as well. We are all better men because of her, and I can’t wait until she bears our last name. If my suspicions are right, she’ll be bearing our children soon, too. Our family is safe and full of love. The best ending to any fairytale if you ask me.
* * *