Page 92 of Three Scorched Kingdoms

“Both,” I say, laughing.

“They’ll survive,” he assures me, smiling. “Besides, we need this break.”

“Aries is right,” Leo says. “Tonight, you’re off duty. Now, come on, and let me pour my queen a drink.”

Leo pushes past us, Elyra in tow. She tosses me an apologetic look that has me smiling ruefully. She and I have become close these past few years. That’s still strange sometimes too. Knowing one of my best friends—and now sister—used to be a hellhound who was apparently just cursed and trapped into the body of one by her evil stepmother. Thanks to that nightmare, Elyra’s healing is ongoing, but there’s a light in her eyes that grows brighter every week.

“You up for this?” Aries asks, and I realize I’ve been standing still too long.

Leo and Elyra disappear around the corner, and I look over at my mate, offering him a smile. “I am.”

“Because we can go home right now,” he offers. “Spend the evening alone…”

“As nice as that sounds, we’re here,” I say pointedly. “But let’s plan for that ‘alone’ portion when we get home.”

He winks, and I tug him along toward the sound of voices.

We round the corner, and I see the others gathered around a sitting area that’s been transformed since the years I called this place home. Much of the common areas have been, in fact, but the former break room is my favorite.

Twice the size of what it used to be, the space is basically a communal living area. The hard-backed chairs and scuffed tables are gone, replaced by a cozy couch and chairs scattered over a worn rug. The full-sized fridge remains though it’s been updated to an industrial size with automatic dispensers and countertops lining both sides.

On the other side of the space, a long dining table with chairs enough for at least twelve has already been set and laden with food. In the far corner, a bar is stocked with drinks and snacks. Mag stands behind it, pouring and mixing cocktails.

“You made it,” he calls, flashing us a handsome smile.

Aries releases my hand and makes his way to the bar, greeting Mag with some sort of special handshake.

“You’re here!” Blossom grabs me in a hug, her high ponytail tickling my shoulder before she releases me.

“Why do you look so surprised?” I ask.

Blossom winces. “I actually had ten pieces on you not coming at all. I thought the little monsters would’ve dragged you back before you got two steps out the door.”

“We considered it,” I say, shaking my head. “The gnomes are probably regretting all their life choices right about now.”

Mag snorts. “Those kids are nothing compared to what we’ve handled.” His tone is gruff, but there’s a twinkle in his stone eyes. “Though, from what I hear, Uncle Leo has started teaching them to fly early.”

Blossom raises an eyebrow at him then me. “Already? I thought you were waiting for spring to start flight lessons.”

“I was.” I glare at Leo. “He had other plans.”

Leo shrugs. “I’m helpless against their charms; what can I say?”

Aries returns to my side, offering me a drink. Mag follows, passing drinks to Leo and Elyra.

“The king allowed this?” Blossom asks, smirking at Aries.

He sips his drink, clearly amused. “They’re eager. Can’t blame them for that.”

“And the fire-breathing?” Mag asks, eyes sparkling with mischief. “Have they set anything else on fire besides the garden?”

“Just the gnomes’ hats,” I admit.

“Ah, well, better than the whole castle, I suppose,” Blossom says. “Next time you want a night out, Mag and I will babysit. At least, he can’t be burnt to a crisp.”

“It’s a deal,” I say with a laugh, but deep down, I’m so grateful that Blossom and Mag managed to synchronize the library’s measurement of time to Astronia’s so they can be more present for the triplets.

We all sit down at the long table, passing food and serving our own plates while we talk and laugh. The conversation flows easily, filled with lighthearted banter, shared memories, and stories of our adventures—both past and recent.

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