And freeze.
“Anton.”
“Hm?”
“Why are we going to Grandma’s neighborhood?”
“Because that’s where your grandmother lives.”
“But—” I sit up straighter. “That’s Jasper’s car.”
“Is it?”
“And that’s—” My heart starts racing. “Is that Lev’s SUV?”
Anton says nothing. Just keeps driving.
We pull into Grandma’s driveway. Behind Jasper’s car. Next to another black SUV that I definitely recognize.
“Anton.” I turn to stare at him. “Why is everyone here?”
“You’ll see.” He kills the engine. Comes around to open my door. “Come on.”
“I’m not moving until you tell me what’s happening.”
“Then I’m carrying you.”
“You wouldn’t—”
He scoops me up. Just like that. One arm under my knees, one behind my back.
“Anton!”
“You had your chance to walk.”
He carries me up the driveway. Up the porch steps. Kicks the door open.
And stops.
Because everyone’s here.
Everyone.
Grandma’s in her kitchen, Nurse Ruth beside her. Jasper is leaning against the counter, looking like he’s about to vibrate out of his skin. Mateo, next to him, camera around his neck.
Lev and Dima are standing near the door. Both in suits. Looking uncomfortable but… Are they smiling?
Boris is here too. Leaning against the wall. Arms crossed. But his eyes are warm.
“What—?” I start.
Anton sets me down. Gently. But keeps his hand on my waist.
“Mary-Cat,” Grandma says. Her eyes are wet. “Come here.”
I look at Anton. He nods.
I walk forward on shaky legs. “What’s going on?”
