Watching two little winged ones fly around with illusory fireworks sparkling robes was fascinating.
Bron stared at Cullen, emerald eyes flashing with amusement. “Son, you’re not helping.”
Cullen blinked at his father. “Who said I was here to help? You know me.”
That had them all laughing, the sound pouring out and filling the air like smoke. The illusory clothes sputtered out, and by the time that Lady Calla showed up, everyone had relaxed.
She arched an eyebrow. “Something funny?”
Cullen looked over and grinned at her. “Absolutely. Hey, Mom! What are you doing? Ready to get your picnic on?”
“I hope it was good with you that we came too.” Cosmo’s smile was patently false. “The kids wanted to come and play.”
She sniffed. “You know I love my grandchildren.” She waved a hand, and flowers sprouted all around the picnic blanket.
Corbin rolled his eyes.Tell me to just be good.
It wouldn’t do any good to be bad, would it?
No, no, it really wouldn’t.Corbin smiled, and if it was forced, no one mentioned it.
“Welcome everyone, I’m so glad that you’re here. My mate and I were so pleased to hear that you were all coming.”
You knew?Surely, Corbin would have told him.
Hell no, but that doesn’t matter, does it? What matters is that they believe she told us. She knows better.“We do have news I think everyone will be excited to hear.”
Ev nodded, and his horns ached to pop out. “We do, but I feel it’s appropriate to tell everyone as soon as my family arrives. In fact?—”
From the trees there was this rattling, a drumming and a thundering of hooves. He could tell by the wrinkle of Calla’s aquiline nose that she wasn’t pleased.
Yeah, you’re in trouble.
I’m devastated. I can’t wait to introduce the children to my brothers and father.
The rest of Calla’s party began murmuring to one another, alarm clear on their faces, even though they were obviously trying not to show any expression. They were of aristocratic blood, no doubt, and so they were used to being above all of this petty nonsense, Ev supposed.
Before anyone else could even say a word though, his father and brothers arrived in their hunt forms, moss dripping off their antlers, fire coming out of their noses. He had to admit it waspretty great because Calla and her people looked both alarmed and annoyed.
They’re amazing,Corbin told him.That is quite a show of force.
It’s stunning, isn’t it? They won’t hurt you.They wouldn’t dare hurt his lethean.
I’m not scared.
Little Tisi flew right over to his father, trilling happily, welcoming them.
Is it safe?Cullen whispered.
And Ev nodded once.I wouldn’t allow these babies to be hurt for anything.
I trust you.
His new brothers honored him.
“Bron, are you going to allow?—”
“He’s fine, Mother. Cullen knows his own son.” Bron’s voice was calm, sure, and absolutely unconcerned.
