Chapter 21 #2
When there was a lull in the conversation, Bayu got everyone’s attention.
“I have a favor to ask. You know how Gargoyles seal the mate bond, but tigers do things a little differently. The animal bond is the same, but the human half has a commitment ceremony akin to human weddings. Since I do not know what I will be tasked with or when, I would like to have the ceremony this evening. That will be the perfect opportunity for Juniper to take a family picture. It is short notice, and we can have a more proper gathering with all your friends and family at a later date, but I feel it is imperative we complete our bond sooner than later.”
Juniper’s fork clanked against her plate when she set it down. “I have my camera. Are we dressing up?”
“Not this time. We can certainly change out of our swimsuits, but formal attire is not required.”
“I agree. As for the ceremony, the words are what matter, not how we are dressed. We can always have a reception of sorts later,” Carleigh countered. “Now to convince Juni to wear something other than a swimsuit.”
“Me fwim?” Juni piped up.
Carleigh laughed. “No, sir. No more swimming today. We’re going to have our picture made.”
“Oh.” Juni went back to eating.
Juniper stood from the table. “I refuse to have my picture made with pool hair. I’m going to take a shower.”
“I did not mean to imply we would have our picture made now.”
Carleigh patted Bayu’s hand. “We know, my tiger, but some of us are fussier than others.”
Once everyone had finished eating, Bayu excused himself and made his way upstairs to their bedroom.
He wanted a moment to collect his thoughts before the ceremony.
The words were simple. Nothing elaborate, but they would bind him to Carleigh for however long he lived.
He wished he had a token of his affection to give her, but maybe when he was off on his first trip, he would be able to find something for her.
Someone knocked on the door, and Bayu opened it to find Juniper holding something in her hand.
“May I come in?” Bayu stepped back, and Juniper closed the door behind her once inside the room.
“Carleigh mentioned earlier about the ceremony, so while I was out getting my camera, I took the liberty of buying rings. If you already have one for Carleigh, I can take this one back, but I wanted you both to have them, just in case since you’ve both been hiding out here.
” She handed over the box, and Bayu opened it to find a band of alternating emeralds and diamonds. Simple yet elegant.
“It is stunning, Juniper. Thank you. I will pay you back.”
She waved him off. “Consider this your welcome to the family present.” Juniper pulled him into a quick hug before stepping back. “I am so glad you and C found each other.” With that, she left him alone. Bayu studied the ring, thankful for her thoughtfulness.
Bayu stowed the box in the dresser drawer with his underwear, and then he showered.
Afterward, he applied the serum to his hair and combed it in place.
Jon had brought most of his clothes from the apartment, so he had plenty of options.
Maybe after Violet cast her spell to shield him, he could go gather the rest of his belongings.
He would need to break the lease, but he had the money to do so.
While choosing a shirt, Carleigh joined him in their bedroom.
She pressed her chest to his back and rested her cheek there. “We need to get the rest of your stuff from the apartment.”
“I was just thinking that. I would like for you to go with me to decide what to keep and what to put in storage. Or, if we do not need the furniture, I could donate it. Maybe we can go tomorrow after Violet shields me.”
“About that. Are you beyond positive you want her to cast a spell on you?”
Bayu turned and slid his arms around Carleigh’s back, clasping his hands at the swell of her butt. “Yes. I will not put you and Juni in any more jeopardy than I already have.”
“Okay. I won’t ask again. Now, what to wear?
” Carleigh patted his chest before stepping out of his embrace and into the closet.
It was large enough for both of them to peruse their side without bumping into one another.
“You might want to get dressed. I have a feeling Juniper is going to burst in here to raid my clothes. She’s not that vain, but she will want something besides shorts and a T-shirt. ”
Bayu owned two pairs of jeans, so he opted for the dark wash with a blue polo. He did not bother with shoes. Carleigh chose a blue sundress, and Bayu admired her body while she changed. If things went the way he planned, they would have sex later, and Tiger would give Carleigh his bite.
Juniper knocked. “Are y’all decent?”
“Decent? No. Dressed? Yes,” Carleigh joked.
Juniper walked past them both, pausing only to eye their clothes. She then went into the closet and closed the door.
“I’m going to freshen up my face and do something with my hair. I’ll meet you downstairs.” Carleigh pushed up on her tiptoes and kissed Bayu.