Read Online The Purrfect Plan by Angela Castle - Free Book Online Page B

Storm of her grandmother: warm, open, friendly. Her constant warm chatter and involving Storm in setting the table as if they had been doing it forever, helped to ease Storm's nerves.
    "So you, um, turn into a cat as well?" Storm hesitantly broached the subject.
    "Of course. Do not feel ill at ease, we are more human than feline, have the same habits, work, laugh, play and love like any other. I can already see you are not one to let prejudices blind you." Maria set a large platter filled with roast chicken pieces in the middle of the table.
    Storm shook her head, swamped by guilt. "I really don't care about colors of skin or if someone can turn into a cat or not. I'm...I'm just not good around people, especially men." The words tumbled out of Storm's mouth, confusing her as to why she was being so open with a woman she'd only just met. There was an age of wisdom in the older woman's eyes that made Storm want to trust her and tell her of her past sorrows.
    "In life everything takes practice. We learn through trial and error and only hope through the pain we learn and grow stronger. I see great strength in you, and an honest and caring heart. My son sees this too. I can tell he already loves you."
    "You can't fall in love that quickly," Storm said, unable to hide her bitter tone.
    Maria took the potato salad off the counter and handed it to her. There was an understanding smile on her face. Her dark brown eyes, warm and trusting, making Storm feel lower than dirt for the way she had treated River. With shaky hands, she placed the dish on the table.
    "You are a true mate to my son, my dear. Love can come that quickly. You are the better half of each other's soul." Maria's expression saddened. "When I lost my mate, I understood just how deeply we were connected. I loved him from the moment I caught his scent."
    Storm could feel the hurt radiating off the woman; it was hard to comprehend the level of love Maria and her husband shared.
    "I'm sorry for your loss," Storm said with heartfelt sympathy. "I wish I had your faith and trust. It's not easy for me."
    Maria smiled, reaching out to grip Storm's hand. "You are not alone anymore. Perhaps it is time to put bad memories aside and open your heart to a brighter future. One filled with much love and laughter."
    Storm so desperately wanted that. It was why she'd done what she had done. She thought her child would bring her happiness and ease her lonely heart. She swallowed the lump in her throat, determined not to cry.
    River reappeared at that moment with another tall gorgeous man in tow. Storm guessed this was Hawk, his brother.
    "Hey." He studied her mournful expression, walking straight up to her, pulling her into the comfort of his arms.
    Storm couldn't help burying her face against River's chest, breathing in his scent as her mind mulled over all Maria had told her.
    "Just what have you two been talking about?"
    "Sorry, I'm a little tired. Your mother's been nothing but nice."
    "Are you sure?"
    She offered him a small smile, not wanting to cause any trouble in the family.
    "Okay." He kissed the top of her head, before turning her to face the other man.
    "Storm, this is my little brother, Hawk."
    "Charmed to finally meet the woman who has tamed this wild cat." Hawk grinned roguishly at her, giving his brother a playful shove on the shoulder. "Now I have someone to tell all the embarrassing stories to."
    Storm smiled despite herself. "I'm sure it can't be any worse than you being called Bank."
    Hawk barked with laughter. "Should have known he would have told you that. The rest is all lies, I assure you."
    " Venid, comed. " Maria clapped her hands behind them, regaining their attention.
    "And that's mother's cue to let her feed us." Hawk winked, only to have River growl at him. Hawk took no notice, only grinning wider.
    She took the seat offered, feeling oddly at home among the playfully bickering brothers and a proud mother.

Chapter Nine
    "Cookie, you look dead on your feet. You