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“I abandoned you.” I suck in air as I take another cold bite.
“Are you kidding?”
“No,” I whisper.
“Savy, shit. You didn’t throw me out on the street. I lived with people Granny trusted. They gave me everything I needed. I was safe. My magic was dangerous, and I needed to learn how to control it in an environment away from the people I love most. What brought this on?” she asks softly.
“Archer didn’t have anyone to rely on when he was young.” I drop my treat and slip my hand under my leg. “It got me thinking that perhaps you felt that way.”
“Sis, I knew I had people who loved me.”
“Aria, give me a serious answer. Was there ever a time you felt alone?”
“Alright,” she says, blowing out a breath. “I missed you and Granny. I wished I could be with you. I was homesick. But you didn’t abandon me. You both sent me gifts for every holiday and birthday. We talked on the phone all the time, and we found a way to talk in dreams. Several times a year, we escaped together on vacation and stayed up late doing spells. Granny showed me love just as much as you. We hid from our parents, but not each other. Mateo came to visit often and took me on shopping sprees. I’ve always felt protected and loved.”
“Truly?”
“Yes. I wouldn’t lie to you. I’ve only recently felt unsafe.”
“Okay, good.” I relax and pick up my snack. “Wait.” I frown. “Mateo offered shopping sprees?”
She laughs. “At least once every couple of months.”
“What a turd,” I breathe.
“He told me to keep it a secret.”
“Ohh…he’s going to be in so much trouble.” The minute I see him, his hair will turn pink.
“Wait until I get there. I want to see it.”
“No promises.” I resume eating.
“Where is your soul bond?”
“He’s sleeping.”
“Why aren’t you with him?”
“First, I slipped into Brad’s dream.”
“Eww…he’s still dream cheating on his wife?”
“Yes, unfortunately, I made an appearance.” I wrinkle my nose. “His dream me.”
“That's unfortunate,” she scoffs.
“Yeah. So, I got out of there as fast as I could. I landed in Archer’s dream.” My heart aches all over again thinking about it. “I don’t want to reveal anything unless he gives permission.”
“I get it. I can tell that it was bad. Did you help him?”
“Yes. I’m hoping he sleeps well.”
“I’m sure he will. But now you can’t.”
“I’m used to it.”
“I know. I’m hoping he can change that,” she whispers.
