Page 20 of Flying Blind

“Your second mate works for the entertainment industry but also spends time at the local Ren Faire. His sister also runs a booth there.”

Zara smiled. “I will have a sister?”

“It doesn’t quite work that way for us, but yes, your second has a sibling.”

“What about my third?”

“No, he’s an only child, just like me.”

“Does he still have parents?”

“He does, and your second still has a father.”

“And you have Emma.”

“And my parents are halfway around the world. I haven’t seen them in years, but they are still around.”

Zara blinked. “Oh. Right. I can’t remember my family. I think I have some, but I can’t say for sure.”

“It disappeared when you were branded.”

“Right. I think there was something there.” She rubbed her head. “I wish I could remember more.”

His hand warmed the back of her head. “The idea is to separate you and make you dependent on us.”

“Yeah, I recall that. It just feels weird. Were they cut off, too? Do they remember me and wonder where I am?”

He kissed her temple. “We will find out as soon as the brands are sealed.”

“Can’t wait.”

Alita chuckled. “It is a good look for you, Rayd.”

He kept his arm around her. “I agree. It certainly feels right.”

Zara had to admit he had a point.

Emma was next to Zara and holding the cake. “Hello, Luna. This is Zara’s offering to the mother-to-be.”

Zara could see the pattern that was Luna taking the cake.

“This is stunning.”

Zara said, “Aw, I can make a cake with my eyes closed.”

“I am going to carry it out to the party, but I would like you to follow me.”

“Sure. No more playing obstacle course.”

“Spoilsport.”

Zara smiled and walked after Luna through the house, and Emma left her there with the rest of the Book Club.

Seeing Roane shook Zara. She was large, glowing, and very nervous. Luna walked up and said, “Roane, this magnificence was created for you by Zara. Lemon blueberry.”

Roane said softly, “Thank you, Zara. It looks amazing. Is that frosting?”

“White chocolate ganache with the blueberries in it. The lemon is a light lemon sponge cake. I just wanted to say congratulations on the pregnancy, and I am sorry if I have been rude to you. I was looking for a villain so I could become my own hero.”

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