Page 93 of Sin and Deception

"You might think you live in a bubble, but that’s not true," I said, hoping to share some wisdom with my sister. "The blood that runs through your veins carries a rich history you can’t ignore. Believe me, I've tried to escape it myself. But now, I understand the value of embracing and leveraging our heritage to our advantage."

Fiona shifted uncomfortably in her seat, her voice brimming with determination. "But I believed I was doing the right thing by writing the book. Once I found out they were coming after the boys too, I thought…" She trailed off.

Despite my recent conversations with Theo and Xander about family unity, it was my turn to convey this message to my sister. "Communication is essential for our family," I gently reminded her, feeling a pang of guilt for my hypocrisy. "We are a team, and no one should act alone.”

"Do as I say, not as I do," I said with a rueful tone, which made her smirk and relax the tension in her shoulders.

"I know," Fiona reluctantly conceded, her impulsiveness overshadowed by regret. "I won't act thoughtlessly again. I didn't think about how my actions would affect our family. That was a mistake."

"I'm always here for you," I reassured her, offering a comforting hand on her shoulder. "You can come to me no matter what, and we'll figure things out together. We must always stand united against our enemies."

"I understand," Fiona admitted, her earlier determination replaced by humility. "I've learned from this."

"Good," I said warmly, kissing her forehead. "You'll keep growing and learning like we all have."

Man, I sounded like an old lady.

What the heck?

Fiona's face lit up with excitement. "I have some fantastic news," she exclaimed.

Her infectious smile spread to my face. "Tell me! I could really use some good news."

"I got accepted to Boston University!"

"What!" I couldn't hold back my excitement. "That's amazing!"

"Yeah, I didn't want to tell anyone until I was accepted, but I plan to start once my semester at Arizona State is over."

"Fiona, this is wonderful news!" I hugged her tightly. "And you'll be so close to family now! I was worried about your loneliness after Mama and the boys moved back here. This is perfect!"

"Thanks, Nerine," she said with a grateful smile before leaning in for a kiss. "With all the craziness in our lives over the last few years, I'll feel much safer being closer to home. And to you."

I narrowed my eyes playfully. "You're just coming back to sneak in and take my job?"

"That too," Fiona beamed. "But there are also two little boys who are a big incentive."

"They're all yours," I said, shaking my head with a smile. "But be careful; they’re pure chaos in human form. Charis managed to get to the other side of the house last night. Hayes even found one of the secret passageways. Who knew he was strong enough to push open a false wall?"

Fiona laughed with me. "I can't wait for the twins to arrive. We'll have to have them babysit and see how long it takes before they run out of the house screaming."

My heart swelled with love and happiness for my sister as I watched her carefree and silly after everything we had been through together.

Fiona's voice bubbled with excitement. "Do you thinkthe boys are awake? I want to read them a story. I bought them a new book."

"I think Theo and Xander have already put them to bed," I replied, pausing for a moment. "You know what? They might be asleep on the floor in the boys' room. Hayes and Charis aren't used to the routine, and they can be difficult to settle down and get to bed."

Fiona laughed, tilting her head to the side in amusement. "You look happy, Nerine. The shadows in your eyes have vanished."

"I've never been happier," I reassured her. "Having my family together at last, after all this time? I can't even express how relieved I am."

"I know it was hard for you to be away from everyone," Fiona said sympathetically. "I'm so glad to see your little family together now. You truly deserve this."

"Thank you." My eyes filled with tears of gratitude.

“I can’t wait until we start planning the wedding.”

I held in my moan. “I’d rather a justice of the peace officiate it and have it over and done with, but Xander and Theo overruled me.”

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