Page 64 of Beyond the Darkness

Hudson planned to have several of his dragons attend, along with the ones who already worked at Kit’s bookstore. They absolutely were not taking any chances.

After hanging up, Hudson sat back in his chair, allowing himself a few moments of contemplation. His life had certainly become interesting here of late.

He wouldn’t change it for anything in the world.

With a slight smile, he got back to work. The rest of the afternoon passed swiftly as Hudson attended meetings and reviewed documents that required his attention.

HUDSON WAS just closing his laptop when Connie showed up in his office.

“Are you done?”

“I am. You?”

“Yes.” Connie checked his watch. “Kit should be home any minute now. Want to play a round of pool while we wait on him?”

“I’d love to,” Hudson said. There was a communal living area that had a pool table, a dartboard, and video games that his dragons could use.

They’d just finished when Kit and Beckett walked in the door. Since they’d eaten in Hudson’s private quarters the last several nights, they decided to eat in the communal dining room.

Kit, of course, mentioned something in passing about their wedding plans, and suddenly it was the only discussion at the table. All of Hudson’s inner court was enthusiastically involved.

Dinner turned into a lively dialogue about everything from potential wedding cakes—Audrey was enthusiastic about a lemon elderflower option—to the prospect of meeting Marilyn Stokes the next day.

Kit was very excited about meeting the wedding planner, but also a little nervous. As far as Connie knew, Kit had never met a magic user outside of the one who was part of Kage’s clan.

“She’s just a person, Kit. Her abilities may be different, but she’s stilljusta person. Besides, I hear she’s the best,” Connie said as they ate dessert. “Marilyn’s expertise could elevate the whole experience of our wedding planning.”

“I’m all for elevation,” Kit agreed. “Sorry, I don’t know why I got a little wigged out about her being a magic user.”

“It’s something new you don’t have experience with,” Hudson said. “That’s understandable.”

“I’m really looking forward to it.”

As they laughed and planned into the evening—with help from half of Hudson’s court it seemed—it felt like nothing could dampen their spirits.

After dinner, they retired to their quarters and spent the rest of the evening on the couch, discussing everything from flower arrangements to guest lists.

It was just so normal, and Hudson loved that feeling. It was those moments of ordinary joy that reminded Hudson why every effort was worth it—because it led back here, to this feeling of home with Kit and Connie by his side.

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN – CONNIE

THURSDAY MORNING, Connie and Hudson were on their way into San DeLain when Connie’s phone rang.

“Oh, it’s Mom,” he said, checking his cell phone. “Hey, Mom! What’s up?”

“Good morning. You wouldn’t happen to be around Hudson, would you?” Henrietta asked.

“I am, actually. We’re heading into the office.”

“Perfect. King Hudson? I am officially requesting permission for myself, Leo Bennett and Ford Bridgemar to visit Connie. May we have permission to enter your territory?”

Connie didn’t bother to put the phone on speaker. He knew Hudson could hear his mother perfectly well.

“Good morning, Henrietta. Of course you and your mates can come visit. I am officially welcoming you to my territory,” Hudson said.

“Thank you, Your Majesty. Now that the formalities are out of the way, when would be a good time for us to come, Hudson? I understand there has been a lot going on lately.”

“Whenever is best for you. How are things in your court?” Hudson asked.

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