Page 87 of Spooks & Specters

“I don’t see why not,” Hudson said. “But I’ll certainly ask Raven if he has a problem with that.”

“A foundation, huh?” Connie mused.

“Yes! We can focus on LGBTQIA+ youth, but also incorporate elements that deal with mental health support or even scholarships,” Kit explained enthusiastically.

“It’s ambitious. I like it,” Hudson said. “We could really tailor it to provide support where it’s most needed.”

“We have enough resources and connections to make it happen,” Connie added thoughtfully. “We could really make a difference.”

Kit’s heart swelled at their support. “And we can ensure it represents all aspects of our community—from providing safe spaces to educational resources.”

“Is this going to be geared toward the humans only?” Connie asked.

“That was going to be my next question. The paranormal community takes care of its own, doesn’t it? I remember Austin saying they had members who were not daemons.”

“The daemons are a bit different than the vampires or the werewolves,” Hudson said. “For one thing, vampires have rules they’re required to follow when they enter an Area, which is otherwise known as a vampire’s territory. All vampires are bound to the laws of that Area.”

“Oh, wow, I didn’t know that,” Kit said. “So, if a vampire comes to San DeLain, they have to report to who? Raven?”

“Yes, as he is the Master of the City,” Hudson said. “Werewolves are also very territorial. When Axel was first rescued, it was a concern because he wasn’t a member of the two werewolf packs here in San DeLain, although Nox mimicked Axel and became the Alpha of the Crimson Fangs.”

“Huh.” Kit pursed his lips.

“And honestly, dragons are not well known for accepting members who are not dragons. I’m not saying it doesn’t happen. I’m saying it doesn’t happen often. You’re the first human mate in a long time,” Hudson said.

“What about the gargoyles?”

Connie shrugged. “They’re an extraordinarily private species, but there are humans who work for Wade. I mean, I’m not sure what the story is behind those humans, but gargoylesare stone during the day. Somebody has to run Ward’s castle and daytime activities.”

Kit raised an eyebrow. “Castle?”

Hudson nodded. “Oh, yes. It’s pretty awesome too.”

“The vampires do have human workers and feeders, too,” Connie added. “And Isadora is pretty good about accepting people, although she’d tell you she doesn’t claim territory or people.”

“So what you’re saying is basically paranormals take care of their own,” Kit said.

“For the most part, yes. That’s not to say there isn’t occasionally someone who falls through the cracks,” Hudson said. “But it’s unusual. Especially here, since the leaders of San DeLain have a good working relationship. Not all huge metropolises do.”

“Okay, then, I think we should focus on the human population.”

“Tomorrow morning I’ll start checking into that and see what all is required to set up a foundation,” Connie said. “We’ll also have to look into property, and that’s just to start.”

It wasn’t long before their quiet morning evolved into an animated discussion about potential names for the foundation, types of programs they would offer, and people they could collaborate with.

As they talked, it became clear that this new undertaking would be more than just a way to give back—it would be another adventure, a challenge they could tackle together.

“Okay, I can’t keep my eyes open any longer, but there’s something I want to touch on first. Maybe we could also provide some sort of support for those rare cases you mentioned, Hudson—the paranormals who fall through the cracks.”

“What are you thinking?”

“Resources would have to be provided quietly, of course, but I’m going to plaster pictures of the three of us everywhere, soeveryoneknows who’s opening this,” Kit said.

Connie nodded. “That makes sense.”

“And if any of the other paranormal leaders want to provide services to our foundation—like counseling by Dr. Frederick King, for example, then maybe any paranormal needing help hopefully understands it’s notjustthe dragons who are involved.”

“That’s brilliant,” Hudson said, “We could work on integrating services for those needing shelter or guidance because of their unique circumstances—like Axel would’ve needed if Kage hadn’t stepped in.”

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