Page 19 of My Boyfriend Marks Trees

The cop glanced behind him then back at them. “Afraid no one’s going to be allowed inside that block of homes until the inspectors deem them safe.”

“But…” Overwhelmed, she lost her voice, but Greta didn’t. “Where are we going to sleep?”

Trust Ares to have a ready solution. “My house.”

Chapter 7

Ares managedto convince a cop and then a firefighter—by name-dropping his association with Derek—to let Charly run in to grab a few things for her and Greta. Poor Rudolph lay on his side in the front yard and, given the big dent in its ribs from being stepped on, might never be the same.

An ashen Charly emerged from the townhouse with two bulging bags.

Greta in the back seat asked softly, “Are we moving again?”

“More like going on a holiday at my house for a few days.”

“But it’s almost Christmas. How will Santa find me?”

He paused as he waited for inspiration.

His wolf had it.Tell her Santa is like a wolf. He can sniff out little kids who’ve been good.

Ares modified the advice. “Santa knows all. I wouldn’t worry. He’ll find you just fine.”

He stepped out of the car and popped the trunk for Charly.

She huffed as she heaved her haul into the space and slammed it shut. Only then did she eye him. “Are you sure we won’t be intruding?”

“If you ask me again, I am going to kiss you until you can’t talk.”

She blinked. “That’s not really a great threat.”

“Then go ahead and ask me.”

Her lips pursed. “Not the time.”

“Agreed. Now, can you drive? If you can’t, then I’ll leave my truck here and figure out a ride to work in the morning.”

“I can drive.”

“You sure? Because it’s not a big deal if you can’t. I know this came as a shock.”

“Wasn’t my place that burned.” Her lips twisted. “Which is awful to even say. Especially since I know the lady who owns that house. Thankfully she wasn’t home when it happened. She is—was—my babysitter. I’m going to have to call in sick to work tomorrow until I can find a new one. Which, again, sounds selfish.”

“No, it’s you being a mom. And don’t worry about Greta. I’ll just start my holidays a day early.”

No alarm.His wolf liked that bit.

“You shouldn’t be so quick to volunteer. It’s one thing to spend a few hours with me around and her toys. But you’re talking an entire day with a kid who will get bored of television.”

“I live on a farm, remember? More than enough stuff to keep us busy. And I won’t be alone. Mom and Selene don’t leave until late afternoon.” Maybe. The forecast was calling for snow.

“We shouldn’t have to impose for long. While the place smells smoky, there doesn’t seem to be damage. The fireman seems to think we’ll be cleared to move back in within a few days.”

“Don’t be in a rush.” He meant it. He had a feeling once he got used to having them around, he wouldn’t want them to leave.

“I hate intruding.”

“The house has tons of room. The biggest issue is going to be Mom and Selene.”