“Alright,” Kay laughed, “I’m in. You two get our house in order, and in the spring, I’ll join you and show you how it’s really done.”
They all chuckled, but James didn’t doubt for a moment that Kay would get the votes she needed. And he couldn’t wait to see her do it. Or for the time when the three of them would work together, finding a way to finally bring their Order into the light.
Eventually, he and Zach would stand for reelection and ask the Order to officially support their nominations. And that would be as it should be too.
“Good. It’s decided.” David leaned back, grinning, clearly deeply satisfied with his plans for long days in the ocean and taking care of the woman he loved.
Emma handed out thick slices of acorn bread slathered in rich butter and drizzled with honey, and James nibbled his, enjoying the nutty density. They had climbed the mountain, and now they had peace for a little while. And the next mountain they climbed, they’d do it together.
He pulled Riley even closer, letting her scent, her warmth, and her vibrant Shadows fill him. “I love you,” he whispered.
Riley turned her head and grinned back at him. “I love you too.”
The stars wheeled slowly over the sky, reflecting in the still water of the lake. Shadows surrounded them—Riley’s, his family’s, the growing things, and the steady earth.
And he was grateful, so grateful, to be part of it all.
