Cade finally lifted his eyes from the floor and looked at his brother. A slow, rare smile tugged at the corner of his mouth.
“Wish we could take a picture,” he said.
Killian smirked back, sharp and satisfied. “Frame it.”
Ryker burst out laughing. “Oh my God, you two are fucking menaces.”
Cade shrugged, calm as ever. “If we’re going to be criminal deserters, we might as well enjoy the perks. My father having an aneurysm would be wonderful.”
"He'll come for us. For her," Killian said, looking at his brother, something unspoken passing between them.
"We'll be ready." Cade said with certainty. "And we'll be together."
Chapter 22: Killian
Little Bird’s scent filled my room.
So strong, so close to heat.
Her backpack sat on the floor beside my bed.
Inside it, her plant, packed carefully in a small box.
The old copy ofTreasure Island.
A few articles of clothing and toiletries.
One of her father’s photos from his Arca personnel file.
That was it.
All she wanted to take.
Cade said her guitar was too big. Said he would get her another one once we settled.
I could feel her through the bond. Sad. Nervous. Scared.
I signed to her,Youokay, Crane?
“I don’t like waiting,” she said impatiently. “I’m ready to leave.”
“When Cade says go, we go.”
She groaned and buried her face in my neck, breathing me to steady herself.
“This place was just starting to feel… like home,” she whispered.
Home is you,I signed.
Home is us,she signed back, then kissed me.
Soft lips. Cherry red. Honey, vanilla, and almond scented.
Her arms wrapped around my neck. More kisses.
Hands slid under my shirt, tracing scars that were finally healing.
Her touch always did that.
