Page 155 of Nyx

"It's what we do," she says, her smile gentle. "We're family."

"Family?" I ask, the word sounding so strange and unfamiliar.

"Our histories make us like sisters," she explains.

"We have too many sisters," I say with a frown.

"We do," she quickly agrees. "But we will always welcome our family with open arms. I'm going to head out and try to direct traffic in the main area. Do you need a minute?"

I nod. "I'll be out shortly."

Emmalyn steps out of the room, pulling the door softly closed behind her.

I drop to the edge of the bed and pull in a deep breath.

I imagine a lot of people would feel relieved to be in my situation, and I do on some level, but it also seems like too much effort for just me.

I close my eyes and dig deep, wondering how I would approach this situation if it were me making accommodations for someone else in the same circumstances.

I'd tell her she was worth it.

I'd assure her that everyone's safety is the number one consideration.

I'd tell her not to be ashamed to lean on someone.

I'd tell her that there are good people in the world who do kind things without expecting anything in return.

I pull in several deep breaths before standing and heading out of the room.

The common area is a bustle of activity, Cerberus members and partners shuffling around carrying in bed linens and personal hygiene items.

Several people carry in age-appropriate toys and books for the kids.

Gigi stands to the side, smiling at her husband as he and another man carry in a television. The way they look at each other makes me think I'm intruding on a private moment meant to have no witnesses. It says a lot about the love and relationship they have, still so strong after the chaos of raising five kids.

"That man is trouble," Gigi says when she notices me.

"I'm sure it's all him," I say with a laugh, knowing I got it right when she gives me a devilish smile. "What happens if no one wants to come?"

Her head tilts to the side. "From the shelter?"

I nod.

"Victoria took a poll. They're all coming. The guys go get them tomorrow morning."

"No one argued?"

She shakes her head. "I don't think so."

"Do you think it will be weird for everyone here?"

"Not at all," Gigi says as if she can sense my own need for assurance that I won't be in their way. "There are always so many people here anyway. What's a handful more?"

It seems to take less time than it should to finish everything up, but I guess a lot can get done with so many people helping.

Gigi splits off once her husband reappears, and from the look on both of their faces, they'll be busy for a while.

I take a step back, watching as everyone sort of lingers around, talking and laughing. They're very social in their interactions and seem to know each other very well.