Chapter 56

** Paige’s POV ** When the back door shuts behind them, it makes my chest ache. Ryder, Parker, and Remy vanish into the night together. I stand there far longer than I should, staring at the door like it might swing back open, like one of them might come rushing back with a grin and an apology that they couldn’t bear to leave me tonight… but no one does. I press my lips together and turn away, blinking hard. I want all of them around me. They’re my mates, my anchors, the ones who make me feel whole without even trying. The house feels too big when they’re gone, too still, even with Callen here and Jaxon tucked up safely in his bed. I can’t complain. I won’t. This is about safety, about keeping me and Jax alive while hunters still want to get to us. They’re out there, risking themselves, while I get the luxury of warmth and shelter. That should be enough. It doesn’t stop the disappointment from twisting in my stomach, though. What stings most is Remy. Everyone insisted he should take th