“Hello,” Ria said, her golden-brown eyes flicking nervously between the camera and Marcus.
Calan shifted his hair to reveal his pointed black ears, and Kitto’s tail flicked into view.“We’re like you,” Calan said, understanding her shyness.
Relief flooded Ria’s features, and she nodded, some of the tension leaving her shoulders.Marcus’s protective stance relaxed as he saw her comfort level increase.
“Ria’s been the only one in our community with unique traits,” Marcus said.“She’s been looking forward to meeting others, but she’s not much for big groups.”
“We understand,” Hedrek said.
Sienna felt her heart sink.“We don’t have passports.None of us do.Papa and the boys don’t exactly blend for official photos and interviews.”
“That’s not as big a problem as you might think,” Saber said.“I have contacts who specialize in helping shifter families with unique circumstances.People who understand the challenges of documentation for those who don’t fit the standard mold.”
“Is that legal?”Tamsin asked.
Saber smiled.“It’s more about knowing which forms to fill out, which officials to speak with, and how to handle the photography discreetly.These contacts have helped other families in similar situations.”
“But surely the photos—” Jago began.
“We can handle those with proper lighting and angles,” London finished.“It’s not about deception, it’s about presentation.Official documents need clear identification photos, and there are ways to achieve that.”
Hedrek and Tamsin exchanged a look of amazement.
“Would you really arrange this for people you don’t know?”Hedrek asked.
“You’re family now,” Saber said, consulting his notes.“Liam’s family, which means you’re ours too.Hedrek, you’re potters, yes?”
“We are.It’s been our family trade for generations.”
“Perfect.”London pulled out a tablet.“I’ve been researching local clay sources.There’s a farmer about twenty minutes from town with excellent deposits who’s looking for a partner.He’d provide the raw materials, and you’d bring the expertise.He takes a percentage of sales; you get access to quality clay.”
Tamsin leaned forward, interest sparking in her expression.“That sounds ideal.Working with local materials.”
“There’s more,” London said.“We have two empty retail premises in town.One would be perfect for a pottery studio and shop.The tourist season brings thousands of visitors looking for authentic handmade goods.”
Kitto had been unusually quiet, but now he spoke up.“What about other opportunities?I mean, besides pottery?”
London’s face lit up.“I’ve seen some of your work.Niall showed us photos of the hearts you painted.Have you ever considered digital art?”
“Digital?”Kitto’s ears pricked forward with interest.
“Online commission work.Fantasy art, character designs, illustrations for books and games.The market is enormous, and you could work from anywhere with an internet connection.I could introduce you to some contacts.”
“Really?”Kitto bounced in his chair, his cat ears twitching with barely contained excitement.
London grinned.“Yes.”
Sienna leaned forward despite her earlier reservations.“What about housing?”
Saber nodded.“I know of a cottage available that’s fully furnished.You could stay there while you get established.No charge for the first three months, then we’ll work out something reasonable.”
“That’s incredibly generous,” Tamsin said, tears brightening her eyes.
“It’s practical.”Saber’s expression seemed genuine.“Close families build resilient communities.We want you to succeed.”
Niall cleared his throat.“I had a thought last night.Hedrek, you mentioned your land in Cornwall.”
“Yes, it’s family land passed down for generations.I hate to abandon it, but the taxes…”
