Page 9 of Consuming Logan

The tears Monique rarely shed slid down her cheeks. It was moments like this that reminded Logan of how awesome Ava was. She had the ability to form lasting bonds with others—family, friends, patients—she was easy to love.

Ava squeezed the young woman tighter. “Yeah, me too. I hope you liked your gifts.”

Monique struck a model pose. “As you can see, I love the care package you sent. This shirt is my favorite.”

Ava clapped her hands. “The kimono. Of course. That one was a winner.”

Ready to hold Ava in his arms, Logan gave Monique a stern look. “You. No more skipping classes.”

“Okay,” she grumbled and then proceeded to stop by the nurse’s station to talk with Spencer, the sole male pediatric nurse on staff.

“Hey, sweetheart,” Logan reached for Ava’s hand. He gestured to the crowd. “Did you know about this?” How had she kept the news from him?

Holding up both hands in mock surrender, she said, “As if I could.” She knew he hated secrets between them. “I bumped into Tyson on the way in. He told me.”

Tyson offered his hand. “Congratulations are in order, my brother.”

Logan accepted. “Thank you, Tyson. Truly, it is an honor.”

“You’re welcome, Logan. Think of it as an early wedding gift from me and my brother.”

His brogue, polished yet distinctly coarse, added to Tyson’s formidable presence. The tailored suit and copper hair did nothing to curb the fighter’s spirit, the cunning behind his piercing green stare. Tyson had an old country medieval vibe; powerful, calculated, and dangerous. Thankfully, he and Tyson O’Connor wore the same team jersey.

“Indeed. Me and my absolutely gorgeous fiancée accept.”

Tyson threw an arm around Ava, embracing her in a brief hug.

“Anything for your warrior princess,” he smiled.

She gave a mock frown. “Are you teasing me, Tyson.”

“No,” he said, lengthening the ‘o’ sound. “My brother, Maximus is the joker. I’m thanking you for your service.”

“You’re welcome,” Ava replied, taking one step back. “Is your brother traveling with you this time?”

“He arrives in the country tonight.”

Why was Tyson standing so close to Ava? Behind his eyes Logan could see Tyson studying everything about his woman. Was he sizing up Logan’s woman? No, that was his possessive streak talking. But Logan trusted his instincts.

Before Logan could pull Ava into his arms, Susan stepped in front of him.

“Ava,” the older woman opened her arms. “I didn’t know you would be here.”

Logan watched the two embrace. Why did his mother delight in causing Ava grief? He knew it bothered his woman that their families were like oxygen and an open flame, combustible.

“I needed to see my guy,” she said, moving to his side.

Logan noticed a change in her tone, the rigid posture. Something was wrong. What troubled her?

Susan laughed, “Logan. You are lucky you found the one and managed to keep her.”

“All true,” he agreed.

Logan took in Ava’s wide grin—aimed at him. They had never been more connected, more in sync since her return home. He’d do anything to ensure she always looked at him with love in her eyes—anything to keep her happy.

“I’d better get home if I’m to see you tonight. Wouldn’t want to miss the rare occasion when Maribelle is on her best behavior.”

Beside him. Ava’s soft chuckle entered his ear. His mother would not ruin this for Ava. Logan had every intention of protecting his bride if and when needed.