Nick, who’d been slouched in a chair half-asleep, smirked. “That’s where we come in, Mary.” His tone was that familiar mix of monotone sarcasm and quiet amusement.
Mary’s eyes flicked toward him, unimpressed. “Try not to get in the way.”
Nick grinned wider. “Wouldn’t dream of it.”
Byron rubbed his jaw. “All right. You heard the man. Let’s move.”
Chairs scraped back, half-empty mugs were set down, and everyone began drifting out to prepare. The lazy air of early morning had vanished; the manor buzzed with quiet purpose.
“Davina, can we have a quick chat?” Corey called before she reached the door.
She turned, curious. “Sure.”
When the others had gone, Corey folded his arms. “I’d like to spend some time with you, training. You need to learn how to fight.”
Davina blinked, amused. “To fight?” She laughed softly. “I’m Fae, Corey. Who said I couldn’t fight?”
He raised an eyebrow. She tilted her head, eyes narrowing playfully, she raised her hand and beckoned him to come, when he didn't move, she asked, “Is the little baby scared?”
Corey chuckled. “You really want to go there?”
She rolled her shoulders and raised her fists in mock seriousness. “Come on then.”
He grinned and stepped forward, taking a half stance. The first few exchanges were light, testing and playful. She deflected each hit easily; her movements were fluid and precise
“Not bad,” Corey said between breaths. “But you’re leaving your left side open.”
She smirked.
He threw another punch; she ducked under it and tapped his chest. “Too slow.”
He picked up speed. The air in the room shifted, punches, dodges, laughter bouncing off the walls. Finally, one of his jabs connected, grazing her arm.
“Ouch!” she yelped, clutching it dramatically.
Corey’s expression changed immediately. “Shit, sorry!” He rushed forward. “Did I—”
“Fooled you!” Davina yelled, sweeping his legs, she laughed triumphant, right until he caught her wrist and yanked her down with him.
They landed in a heap, breathless and tangled. For a second, neither moved. Her curls brushed his face. His hands still held her waist where instinct had grabbed her mid-fall.
Their eyes met. The world shrank to the space between them.
“I think I’m in love with you,” Corey said, dazed but smiling.
Davina smirked. “Does that mean I can start sharing a bed with you? I don’t want to be on my own anymore.”
He coughed, blushing just enough to ruin his composure. “Yes, of course. I’d love nothing more than to have you in my bed.”
She laughed, standing slowly and brushing off her clothes. “I bet you would.”
As she reached the door, she paused, glancing back over her shoulder. “I love you too, Corey.”
Then she was gone, the sound of her laughter echoing down the hall.
Corey lay there for a moment, staring at the ceiling, trying to remember how breathing worked.
A shadow leaned over him. Barnaby’s grinning face appeared upside down. “Big bros in love…”
