Chapter 162

When my eyes opened I noted two pleasant things: the sun was still present as it fell toward dusk, and Sam had returned and was currently in the house. I quickly showered and dressed and met Paul and Sam in the office.

Paul was cradling the baby in the crook of his arm, and he gave me a quick peck on the lips.

Sam smiled at me and gave me a brief hug, which I welcomed.

"Paul has been showing me your office and, well, you have quite a mess here," she said.

My head ducked in embarrassment.

Sam gave my hand a motherly pat. "Not anything that I can't fix." Her eyes met mine. "Before I get started I realize that there are some things that you need to do …"

She was referring to my need to bite and to assure her allegiance to me as well as mine to her. I nodded. "Are you okay with that?"