Chapter 42 Corbin
Corbin
Winnie let us take her down to the nest store on the same weekend that final fittings for her dress and the other bridesmaids’ dresses were happening.
We were not allowed to go with her to the fitting, though.
It was a strictly girls-only activity. So we rode up the bay for a while and had lunch near the public beach.
Now we’re in The Nest Store, and how people don’t get lost in this fucking place is beyond me. It’s four levels of high ceilings and fluorescent lighting, laid out like a maze. And it’s busy today. Floor-to-ceiling people.
When we walk through the door, Eli looks from the first wall of pillows to our mate. Winnie takes pity on him and asks him to take Deputy to the nearest park to let him run, saying it isn’t fair to keep a puppy stuck in a place this packed.
Eli looks so relieved he might have kissed her right there if he didn’t need his mask on.
Every few sections are model nests. Some luxurious, some cozy, some themed around nature. We wander for an hour before I see one that I know will catch our omega’s eye.
“Sweetheart,” I call to her. She’s arm-in-arm with Rafe. When she turns, her entire expression lights up like a kid on Christmas. Her hand flies to her mouth as a big smile forms.
The nest is floral without being gaudy. Plush throws in soft pastels. Pillows embroidered with tiny flowers. But it’s the hummingbird accents that I knew would draw her in.
“I’ll get an employee,” Zeke says, likely feeling her excitement through the bond.
And in no time at all, we’re done. Winnie orders several things for the master bedroom too, including a pack bed.
“Are you happy?” I ask as we walk out of the store arm in arm.
“Very,” she says, rising onto her tiptoes to kiss my cheek.
I slow, just a little, tightening my arm around her. The words hit me all at once. The nest. The life we’re building like it’s the most obvious thing in the world.
“I love you, Winnie,” I say quietly, just for her.
She doesn’t hesitate. Her fingers curl into my sleeve, grounding and sure. She tilts her face up, eyes warm and steady.
“I love you too, Corbin.”
Something in my chest settles, deep and permanent.
I’m happy.