She reached down to pet Luana’s head, who leaned into her touch with a pleased huff. “She’s welcome anytime. I don’t exactly have anything to watch movies with, though.”
My eyes widened in mock-horror. “You don’t have a TV or DVD player?”
“Nope.” She turned back to the house, her brows drawn together. She gave my forearm a quick squeeze. “I’m going to check on Etienne.”
Her worry flickered through our bond, a sharp thread of protective warmth tangled with unease. I ran my fingers over the spot she’d squeezed, the echo of her touch lingering.
I waited a few beats to follow her in. The soft rise and fall of their voices drifted from the kitchen in familiar, easy banter.
It reminded me of Teddy’s and my relationship. I pulled out my phone and thumbed out a quick message before I could overthink it.
Me: Movie night tonight at your place? Finley and Etienne will be there.
Her reply came fast. No hesitation or questions. Just Teddy being Teddy.
Teddy: Always. Everly and Alastor arrived a little while ago. We’re at my place in Respandora.
My stomach tightened. Why would they have crossed the veil?
Me: Are they okay? How come they’re here?
The conversation dots appeared instantly, and when her message came through, her words stung just as they should. Guilt settled low in my belly.
Teddy: Alastor is as well as someone can be after ALMOST DYING. Thank you for telling me btw.
Me: You were in a hurry. I would’ve told you tonight. Is he all right?
Teddy: He’s annoyed with my caretaker abilities but otherwise okay.
I exhaled, the knot inside me loosening.
Me: Javi took good care of him. He’s been the perfect nursemaid.
Teddy: Alastor said the same thing. He also said you and Finley saved his life.
My thumb hovered over the screen. There wasn’t a single version of that day I could easily put for her.
Me: We did what we could.
Teddy: Thank you, brother.
Brother. It rooted deep inside me. No matter how much the world around us shifted and changed, that never would.
Me: Thank me by not picking a horror movie that’ll make me look like a coward in front of my mate.
Teddy: I heard you’re quite the damsel in distress as it is.
I huffed out a laugh, my smile stretching so wide it almost hurt.
Me: Is nothing sacred to Alastor? Is he incapable of keeping secrets?
Teddy: He’s excellent at keeping secrets. Mainly his own.
Teddy: Are you guys staying the night with us or at your own place?
I glanced through their window, where Finley held her stomach as she laughed at whatever Etienne told her.
Me: Mine. I’ll make it up to my nieces and nephews another night.
