Page 66 of Heron's Flame

The plane ride had felt long and tedious, but only because I couldn’t wait to land in Hawaii. My birth parents, Kai and Lolana, were eager to meet us.

My phone buzzed, and I checked the screen, surprised to see Carrion’s text.This is the happiness you’ve been waiting for.

Touched, I responded.Thanks, brother.

Once Rebel and I returned to The Roost after our flight, I found Carrion. Despite my initial anger and the miserable three days I spent apart from Rebel, I knew I had to patch things up with him. Thinking back on the conversation, I smiled.

“Heron. You’re both home.” Carrion appeared relieved. “You found her.”

“I did.”

He nodded, a grim smile on his face.

I couldn’t imagine the burden he carried, walking with the secrets of every member of the club and forced to endure horrible visions of the future. He must run into so many situations that would worry everyone else but not Carrion.

He found a way to work through every obstacle until he found a way to prevent disaster or harm. It occurred to methat he’d done the same for me and Rebel. He learned of her kidnapping and went through every possible scenario to ensure the right outcome.

How many times did he see his loved ones suffer? How often did he intercede so we survived and didn’t lose anyone?

The toll that must take on his soul, I bet it consumed him.

He shrugged. “I see you get it now.”

“I do.”

“It’s my burden to carry.”

“And you do it without asking for anything in return.”

Before he could reply, I rushed him, throwing my arms around him to give an enthusiastic bear hug. I didn’t care who saw or judged. Carrion risked his sanity, life, and peace of mind to ensure my Rebel lived. He saved my woman.

I wouldn’t have my mate without his help.

“Thank you, Carrion. You’ll never know just how much you saved me.” I choked on the words, hugging him tighter. “Brother, I fucking love you. Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.”

Even now, I fought the urge to cry. I would always be grateful for what he’d done to save Rebel’s life.

Carrion:Take pics. I’ve always wanted to go to Hawaii.

Me:Next time I’ll bring you with us.

Carrion:I’ll hold you to it.

“Who are you texting? Crow?”

Crow had texted us since the moment we landed. I hadn’t had a chance to answer since I was busy finding our luggage.

“No. Carrion, actually.”

She smiled. “Carrion is my favorite.”

I shot her a look.

“After you, your crow, and that beautiful phoenix.”

I snorted. “Uh-huh.”

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