Chapter 12 - New Year Special 2023

Nevada sighed. He wasn't a fan of chummy events such as the usual family reunion they had every new year. However, he would be lying if he said he doesn't miss it at all.

The annoying relatives, aunts, uncles, and cousins, it's sort of refreshing that he didn't have to meet them this year. But the ones he was close with, and the little children he loved to tease, he kind of wanted to see how they were doing.

"Little cub," a voice called. Nevada woke up from his daze and glanced at Shiloh, who was looking out the window to follow his line of sight. "You look down."

"Just the cold. It's making me somber," he replied.

"Come here," Shiloh called and tapped his lap.

Nevada stood up from the window seat and made his way toward Shiloh. Shiloh gently pulled his hand when he was finally within reach. He placed Nevada on his lap and snuggled his neck.

Nevada let out a contented breath after feeling his warmth. A smile formed on his lips and he said, "I'm sorry for making you worry. I just had… a long dream during my afternoon nap."

"What kind of dream?" Shiloh asked with a muffled voice.

"A happy one."

Shiloh's hold on him tightened as he asked again, "Like your dreams from before?"

"Yes."

"Is that why you're sad? Because you said that…" Shiloh trailed and looked up at him. "...that they make you feel like you don't want to wake up, but you have to so you can stay with me."

Nevada, who was busy brushing his hair, paused his movements. He gently pushed him back to see his whole face. He was still as dashing as ever, even with the crease on his forehead and reddening eyes.

"What's a big guy like you doing with this puppy-like expression?" he teased and tapped a finger on his forehead once. However, when Shiloh didn't accept his joke, he embraced him tightly instead and kissed the top of his head.

"Don't be so anxious anymore. I'm the most content when I'm with you. I'm the happiest when we're together. No dreams or wolves or even witches or vampires can tear us apart."

Nevada heard Shiloh's soft sigh and felt him snuggle his chest.

Feeling the much lighter atmosphere, he added, "But if we're together all the time, I might just get sick of you. We'd need to separate then."

Shiloh moved and boldly bit the side of his neck. Nevada jolted, making the alpha grin, and he said, "You'll never get rid of me."