By the time we get to the house, my bladder is nearly bursting. While trying to keep Xander distracted today, my mind didn't even register how badly I need to use the bathroom. Leaving the bags in the car with the promise to grab them later, I quickly usher Xander towards the house.

Luckily, he doesn't seem upset at all by the surprise party. His blue eyes light up when he sees his family and friends gathered in his house, bringing a birthday cake out for him.

"Kai, honey, thank you so much for keeping him busy today," his mom, Isabel, thanks me.

"That's why you kept dragging me all around town today?" Xander tries to glare at me, but ends up only looking even more adorable

"Surprise," I laugh, although the action puts even more pressure on my bladder. "I really gotta pee now though. Be right back!"

Having been to their house countless times, I already know my way to the upstairs bathroom. I slam the door shut and click the lock; my nose wrinkling at the strange smell in the bathroom. I sniff the air, picking up traces of my brother's scent along with Landon's.

Oh, you've got to be fucking with me.

I've lived with those two long enough to recognize how a room smells after they've gone at it. Curse my heightened sense of smell.

Shaking my head, I pull my pants down just far enough so I can relieve myself. I sigh, tilting my head back as my bladder empties its contents into the toilet. Laughter floats up the stairs from the living room, bringing a small smile to my lips. 

Our home used to sound like that. Laughter pouring out of every corner of the house. My parents teasing each other like the best friends they were. The four of us gathered for a movie night, which led to all of us shouting at the characters and throwing popcorn at the TV. Our home was so warm, so welcoming.

Nothing like it has been for the past few years.

Don't get me wrong, I love living with Ryland. He's done his best to take care of me ever since our parents died. But... I miss having a full family. It's helped a little having Landon live with us, but it's still not the same. In fact, I probably feel more alone now. Ryland is usually preoccupied with his mate, and I'm glad; he deserves happiness. Even if it does make me feel a little bit... left behind.

A tugging sensation on my chest snaps me out of my thoughts, and I realize I've spent an awkward amount of time in the bathroom. Zipping up my jeans, I quickly wash my hands and bound downstairs. The tugging on my chest grows stronger and stronger, practically leading me towards the front door.

The scent of spiced rum and dark chocolate hits my nostrils at the exact moment I make eye contact with the source of the tugging.

Goddess above...

Standing among the group is a man I've never seen before. Can I call him a man? It doesn't feel right; it feels too... plain. But calling him a 'rich chocolate sculpture carefully chiseled by the Goddess herself' sounds too dramatic, so... man it is.

Tattoos decorate his strong arms, leading all the way up to his neck. Piercings lay in ears — which I always thought were for girls but he somehow makes it look extremely manly. Dark curls rest on top of his head with a few strands dipping down just above his eyes.

Goddess, his eyes.

Bottomless pools of ink, just waiting for me to drown in them. My pulse is rushing as my soul tingles with excitement. His eyes flash briefly as our mate bond clicks, and Kieran starts howling happily.

"Mate," I whisper, verbally marking him as mine.

"Wait, what?" Ryland cuts in, brows furrowed as he stares at me. "What mate? Who...?"

"Shit," my mate curses under his breath. The sound of his voice sends a shiver down my spine, and I smile.