“I plan to.” I grinned, flashing my fangs at her. “You will, too. Have a good night with Lorian.”
“I always do.” She smiled.
Drecken snapped his fingers, and we dropped through his teleportation portal.
We landed on warm stone in the foyer of my family estate. The overwhelming scent of roasted vegetables and meats hit me along with the voices.
My parents had invited every single one of my mates’ families, too.
Laughter bubbled from the dining room, and the seven of us walked in.
Aunt Maelis was humming softly while bouncing baby Mason in her arms, and the baby’s eyes took everything in.
My heart spread with warmth.
Thiswas what home was supposed to feel like. Loud, loving, and comforting.
Jesper led the way toward Nymera and Maelis, who were cooing over Mason.
“I’m so glad you all came.” I leaned down and pressed a kiss to Mason’s forehead; he squeaked cutely.
Nymera’s smile lit her face. “Rune, sweetheart, we wouldn’t miss it.”
Maelis looked up, her blue eyes bright despite everything she had suffered. “Mason has already melted a spoon.”
I snorted softly.
Before I could respond, a burst of heat whisked past as Koa’s mother, Solene, practically sprinted toward us. Her red eyes glittered as she cupped my cheeks dramatically. “It’s been far too long, Rune!”
“Mom,” Koa choked behind her. “I haven’t seen you in just as long.”
Theron followed with a calm smile. “We are happy to finally meet the rest of our son’s bond.”
Mom strolled by them with her wineglass in hand. “We’ve smoothed everything over,” she told me.
“I’m glad our children ended up being mates,” Theron told Mom, who smiled.
“Yes, Koa is a good man.” A flicker of guilt passed over her expression, and I knew it was because she hadn’t found the evidence to clear Theron herself.
“He is,” Sora agreed, greeting me with a quick hug.
Slater’s family found me next, and Melinda hugged me so tightly I momentarily lost the ability to breathe. “Rune! How are you doing?”
“I’m great! How are you?” I replied, pulling back and looking at Charles, who stood beside her. “Thank you both for coming.”
“We’re doing good.” Melinda smiled warmly.
“Thanks for having us.” Charles waved politely.
Bram approached slower with Pandora tucked close at his side.
I threw my arms around Pandora enthusiastically before pulling back. “You came! It’s beensolong! How are you?”
“I’m doing good,” she rasped softly, a smile on her red lips. “Your home is so beautiful.”
“Thanks!” I grinned. “My dads have been cooking all day for this, so hopefully, you’ll enjoy it.”
“I’m sure we will,” she assured me.
