I couldn’t bringanyoneof my choosing home to my family.
It was one of the reasons I’d left.
I just wanted the peace to live life on my terms, doing a job that I deeply cared for, with a few hobbies in what little downtime I had. It might be a simple life, but it was free offamily demands, and though the cost to live this way was high, in the end, it had been worth it.
My phone pinged with a text.
My stomach dropped. I didn’t need to hear from my father today. Or from one of my brothers. It was the same request, just phrased differently depending on who it was coming from.
Luch, I know you have a job there, but it’s time to put your foolishness to bed. You have a responsibility here and having spoken to Dad today, he’s worried about your protection. You’re unprotected and at risk without us, putting us in jeopardy. It’s time to come home.
“Subtle as a brick through a window, bro.”
Sighing, I flicked the screen only to see a photo with a bundle of flowers that I’d left for Faelan.
Are these from you?
I smiled,my mood perking, and slid the salmon into the pan before answering.
My, my, popular lady. First a date with someone else, and now a secret admirer?
My date was with Sophie.
I think Sophie’s taken, but I’m not really up on the gossip in Loren Brae.
I laughedwhen Faelan sent a rude gesture emoji back at me.
“Who are you talking to?”Oban sidled closer, likely not used to me smiling at my phone. Typically I was swearing and tossing it across the table. If I wasn’t on call, I’d turn the damn thing off half the time.
“None of your business.”
“I can pee on your pillowcases when you’re gone, you know.”
“Bloody hell, you’re a wee shite at times, aren’t you, Oban?” I glared at him and he chuckled. “It’s Faelan, all right?”
“I like her.”
“I know you do.” I’d transferred the asparagus to cold water and now tossed them back in the pan with some butter and garlic. “Because she healed you. Or so you claim.”
“You know it as well as I do. I’m telling you, Luch. I was close. Too close.”
At that, I inhaled through my nostrils, steadying myself. I hated knowing I’d almost lost him. He was my best friend, confidant,and a damn good dog.
“I know it. It’s terrifying to think about.”
“She pulled me back. She’s more powerful than you think.”
“Maybe. Or maybe it was just luck. Not everyone can play with magick, Oban.”
“I don’t get the sense she’s playing.”
My phone pinged again.
You didn’t answer my question.
And you didn’t answer my question.
What question was that?
