Mei fell into step beside me, her presence quiet but steady, a silent guardian. She didn't say anything, just walked with us through the darkened streets back to the guest house. When we reached the door, she moved ahead to open it, holding it wide as I carried Ruby and Teddy inside, the warm light from within spilling out like an embrace.
"Sofa," Mei said softly, already moving to clear the cushions and grab a blanket from the back of the chair.
I lowered Ruby carefully onto the couch, mindful of every bruise, every injury. My tail remained curled around her ankle even as I released her from my arms, unwilling to break contact completely. She stirred, her eyes fluttering open, unfocused at first. "Teddy—"
"He's right here," I assured her, keeping one hand on Teddy's back as he clung to me, his small body still trembling. "He's safe."
Mei was already in the kitchen, and I heard the sound of water running, the clink of a kettle being filled, the familiar domestic sounds a balm after the violence.
"Come on, buddy," I said quietly to Teddy, my voice gentle. "Let's get you cleaned up and into your pajamas."
Teddy's grip on my shirt tightened, his fingers digging in. "Don't wanna leave Mama."
"Your mama's right here. She's not going anywhere, and neither am I. We're just going to get you ready for bed, okay?"
He hesitated, his eyes darting between me and Ruby, uncertainty written across his face. She managed a small smile, though I could see the effort it cost her. "Go with your dad, baby. I'll be right here when you get back."
The word ‘dad’ from her lips sent a wave of warmth through my chest, settling something deep inside me.
I carried Teddy to the bathroom, setting him down gently on the counter. His face was streaked with dirt and tears, tracks cutting through the grime, his clothes dusty and torn. As I ran a warm washcloth over his face, wiping away the evidence of the night's horrors, his bottom lip trembled. My tail stroked gently along his back, offering comfort in the way of a Stranac, a soothing rhythm that seemed to calm his trembling.
"It's okay," I murmured, my voice low and soothing. "You're safe now. Everything is okay."
I helped him out of his dirty clothes and into his pajamas—soft blue ones with little spaceships on them, the fabric worn and familiar. His movements were mechanical, like he was somewhere far away in his head, processing things no child should have to witness.
When we came back to the living room, Mei had Ruby settled with a steaming cup of tea, the herbal scent filling the air, another blanket tucked around her shoulders. The bruises on Ruby's throat were already darkening, spreading like ink beneath her skin, and I felt that familiar rage simmer in my chest. But Peanut was dead. The moment he put his hands on my mate sealed his fate. I'd snapped his neck without a second thought. He couldn't hurt her anymore. He couldn't hurt anyone anymore.
Teddy immediately climbed onto the couch next to Ruby, curling into her side. She wrapped her arms around him, wincing slightly but not letting go.
Mei straightened, brushing her hands on her pants. "I should go and let you all rest."
"Mei," Ruby said, her voice hoarse but sincere. "Thank you. For everything."
Mei's eyes glistened, fresh tears threatening to spill. She moved to Ruby first, bending down to hug her carefully, mindful of her injuries. "You're my best friend. I'd do anything for you."
Then she turned to Teddy, pressing a kiss to the top of his head. "You're so brave, little man."
Finally, she looked at me, her expression complex—gratitude and relief and something deeper. For a moment, I thought she would just nod and leave, but then she stepped forward and wrapped her arms around me in a tight hug, surprising me with its intensity.
I stiffened, then slowly returned the embrace, feeling the tremor in her shoulders.
"Take care of them," she whispered against my chest, her voice fierce. "They need you."
"I will," I promised, the words a vow. "With my life."
She pulled back, wiping her eyes. "I know you will."
As she headed for the door, I followed. "Mei."
She turned back, her hand on the doorframe.
"Thank you," I said, meaning it with everything in me. "For being there for them."
She smiled, sad but genuine. "That's what family does."
And then she was gone, the door closing softly behind her.
I turned back to find Ruby and Teddy watching me from the couch. Ruby's eyes were red-rimmed and exhausted, dark circles already forming beneath them. Teddy looked small and lost, his face pale against the colorful cushions.
