Page 16 of Dark Endures

And with that, Otto and I are the only ones left to share.

“What did you learn about Maddox?” Jacko pets Pretty Girl, my rainbow python.

Otto stands up blushing the entire time. That kid needs to learn to hide his emotions. “I learned that Maddox doesn’t do anything but work.”

“Tell us something we don’t know,” Enzo shouts from the back.

“There isn’t anything else. Not one fun picture outside of the Adders. Nothing.”

The group turns to me with pity in their eyes. Don’t they know all of this takes work to run smoothly?

Time to get the focus off of me. “I learned that Otto got into the best vet school in the country.” Which doesn’t happen to be in Urbium like we had planned. Plans change and we adapt.

The guys let out a rowdy cheer.

“Take out the good stuff. It’s time to celebrate.”

A while later, as the guys start to filter out, I say, “Otto and Dawson, don’t leave. I need to talk to you both.”

Dyce hasn’t moved from her spot on the bar. I’m just going to pretend she’s not there for a while.

“I just want to say congratulations again. Getting in that school is an impressive accomplishment.”

A smile breaks across Otto’ face.

“As you know, all the costs are covered by the brotherhood.”

“Yes, I know. About the location—”

There hasn’t been a Deathadder that moved away for school before. “Is that where you want to go?”

He nods.

“Then it isn’t an issue. You need to get set up there soon or all the apartments will be taken.”

“I…Um…”

“The money you need will be in your account in the morning. And the jet will be ready for you then, as well. If there’s anything the brotherhood can help you with while you’re there, reach out.”

“Um… Yes, sir.”

It feels like I’m sending another of the kids off into the world. Only Otto will be back. “And we expect you back during breaks and holidays.”

When Otto leaves, I turn my attention to Dawson.

“I’m sorry. I thought it would be funny. I didn’t mean anything by it.”

That I believe. “What is one of our founding principles?”

“Respect,” Dawson answers instantly.

“You didn’t show that to a brother’s wife. Two brothers requested a lesson.”

Dawson’s shoulders sag.

He should know by now the lesson I divvy out suits the offense. “For the next month, you’re going to work as security at a women’s shelter.”

“A month?”

---