Frankie’s face became like stone, but Snod could feel a glimmer of anger. “Please, give me back
whatever you stole. I’ll return it to him and make it clear that I won’t tolerate this behavior.”
Snod growled softly. He had his own ideas for making Mark go away, but he knew Frankie wouldn’t
allow any of them.
Athaliah pouted, handing over the pilfered wallet, groaning, “Ugh, whatever. You’re no fun.”
“Well, what else happened?” Frankie asked, trying to brighten the mood back up.
“Obe’s our new cook,” Mandy announced proudly, quickly launching into an exciting recap of Snod’s
culinary adventures that evening, including how successful it was.
Athaliah also emphasized how great the food had been, and even Rees grumbled a few compliments.
“Hell of a night,” Frankie laughed, leaning close to Snod. He reached for Snod’s hand, asking
cheerfully, “So, ready to head home, master chef?”
“Yes,” Snod replied, looking to Athaliah. “Are you ready?”
“Actually,” Athaliah began, glancing back at Mandy and grinning. “Mandy and I have been talking.
She invited me to stay with her until I can get my own place.”
“Athaliah,” Snod said sternly.
“Obie,” Athaliah mocked, imitating his firm tone. “It’s just gonna be for a little while, I’ll be fine.”
“I promise I’ll take good care of him,” Mandy assured him.
Snod grimaced, but knew this was a losing battle. He pulled Athaliah into a crushing hug, mumbling,
“I just got you back.”
“It’s okay,” Athaliah soothed gently. “I’m not going anywhere! I’m here. You’ve gotta let me be free,
Obie.”
Despite his heavy heart, Snod couldn’t deny his brother’s request. They were both free, and he had to
respect his wishes. He nodded stiffly, saying, “You’d better be at work on time tomorrow. I love
you.”
“Love you, too! I will be!” Athaliah promised, giving Snod a big hug and waving at Frankie. “You
boys don’t stay up too late now. And try not to wake up your neighbors!”
“I’ll make no such promises,” Frankie teased, playfully nudging Snod’s side.
“Ah, to be young again,” Rees snickered. “Don’t do nothin’ I wouldn’t do!”
Snod blushed furiously and refused to address any of their comments. He waved farewell to them all
as Frankie led him outside to drive them home. He talked excitedly during the entire trip about the
