The ink on the deed to the land that the orphanage sat on was barely dry, but everyone had been celebrating all day.
The Orphanage for Shifters was now a paid-off institution, owned by Ada. When we’d given her the money—which she was smart enough not to ask about—she’d surprised me by insisting that Robin and I take up positions on the orphanage’s board.
I wasn’t sure what life had in store for me, but I’d said yes right away. This place had been my home for years. I’d found a family here. I owed it to the orphanage and wanted to help in any way possible. And I wanted to help them. Even if I didn’t plan on physically being in Vegas for long, I’d do anything I could to make these kids’ lives easier.
A deep, familiar laugh sounded across the lawn, and my insides twisted with pleasure. I found Robin on the farthest side of the property, near the make-shift targets. An older kid was leaping around, pointing at a target he’d sunk a bullseye into. His exuberance was contagious, and Robin and the others cheered him on.
Tears pricked in my eyes, as they had so often these last few days. Not wanting to go full-on waterworks and embarrass myself, I sniffed and focused my attention elsewhere.
Tinker and LJ were partaking in a fierce game of corn-hole against Will and Munchie. Alan was singing with a group of little girls, and Tuck played soccer with the older kids. Once again, I thanked the ancients we’d all left the Oasis alive.
“If I could have your attention, please? Attention, everyone!” I turned to find Ada waving. “Come around the front, I have a surprise for the group!”
The children, even the older ones who were generally concerned with looking cool, dashed around the building, unable to contain their excitement. A chuckle escaped me as I watched them. I was so engrossed that when Robin slipped his hand into mine, I jumped.
“Sorry, Mar-Bear. Didn’t mean to scare you.”
“Don’t apologize for holding my hand ever again.” I leaned closer, and tingles ran through me as our lips met. God, I’d missed his lips so much.
“Hey, you two! Stop making out for five seconds and get over here!” Tinker, dressed in her usual goth and hot pink attire, stood by the main building of the orphanage, her hands on her hips. “Everyone’s waiting for you!”
“Whoopsie,” I murmured, and Robin laughed.
As soon as we rounded the building, my mouth dropped open.
Ada stood in front of the children, holding a monstrous pair of scissors. At her side, LJ held a similar pair. Someone had strung a red ribbon in front of the door. My eyes darted from Ada to the ribbon and back again, confused.
Ada caught my gaze and beamed. “Get over here, double trouble.”
“What’s all this?” Robin asked as we joined her.
“The dedication ceremony.”
My eyebrows furrowed. “Dedication?”
“Yes, dearie. The orphanage dedication—like a reopening, since you gave this place a new life.” Ada winked. “We want you and Robin to cut the ribbon. You’re our benefactors. The ones who made all this possible. Therefore, we’re renaming the orphanage after you.”
A lump rose in my throat. “Ada, you didn’t have to do that. It’s too much,” I choked out.
“No. You really didn’t,” Robin agreed. “Seeing the orphanage saved and all these kids happy is enough for me. I don’t even need to be on the board. I trust you to decide what’s best for the kids. You always have.”
Ada shook her head. “You two deservesomecredit. And besides, I’m an old woman. After my death, someone will need to step in, and while I’m not saying that it has to be you, I’d like you two to be involved in selecting that person. I trust your judgement.”
Tears streamed down my face.
“Thank you, Ada. It’s an honor,” Robin said after a few moments of stunned silence.
I took the scissors that Ada offered. Robin accepted the other pair from LJ.
Ada turned to the kids, tapping the microphone for their attention. “Many of you know Robin and Marian. This place, previously known by supernaturals as the Orphanage for Shifters, was their home for many years. I’d like to think we provided them with a good one.”
“Absolutely,” Robin and I murmured together.
Ada smiled. “Just days ago, our home was in danger of being shut down, but Robin and Marian stepped in and saved the orphanage. As a token of gratitude, I’d like to dedicate the orphanage to Robin and Marian. Henceforth, this building, the home for any shifter child who needs it, will be the Marian and Robin Orphanage for Shifters.”
The staff, and a few children who understood appropriate timing, clapped. Within seconds, the polite sound grew and morphed into whooping and cheers.
My heart swelled at the sight of everyone laughing and smiling. Was this real life? My tears multiplied, and I began to ugly cry. Ugh, why was I one of those women!? Why couldn’t I cute cry?
