Page 51 of Guardian of Shadows

“Thank you, My Queen.”

“Elledan, when you catch up to Grevolus, if you wish, I will take him to the realm where the other dark fae now reside with my brother.”

“And if I wish to handle him myself?”

The Queen’s eyes sparkled. “Then you have my blessing to deal with him as you see fit.” Zarina walked to where Nekoma was watching. “You have my gratitude, Nekoma of Autumnvale. I do ask that you use discretion when traversing between our two realms.” With that, she turned and opened a swirling vortex, stepping through without a backward glance.

“I need a drink,” Tessa stated. “Let’s take this party inside.” With that, she returned her weapons to the bracelets and strode toward Gregor. “Come on, Stone.”

When Tabitha did the same with her swords, Nekoma asked, “What is this sorcery?”

Lilly giggled. “Not sorcery. Witchcraft.” She waved her wand, then it too disappeared back onto her arm.

“Witchcraft? I like it.” Nekoma was entranced with Lilly, and Elle couldn’t blame him.

“Come on, Lass. There is rum to be indulged in.” Dominic held out his hand, and Lilly took it, smiling at her mate. Nekoma followed them with his eyes. When he caught Elle staring, he dipped his head, a blush staining his cheeks.

“Can you stay awhile?” she asked her other siblings.

“We can. I’m interested in this rum,” Thran admitted.

Elle turned to Nekoma. “And you? Will you stay as well? We have much to discuss.”

“Like going after our father?”

“I prefer the term sire. He was no father to me.”

“No, he wasn’t. Will it bother you if I end his life, Elledan?” Nekoma asked.

Elle threaded her fingers with Tony’s. “Please call me Elle. I have a feeling there will be a line for those wanting a piece of him.”

“You’re damn straight,” Tessa called from the door. “Now get your asses in out of the cold. This liquor isn’t going to drink itself.”

“I like her,” Nekoma whispered.

“I like you too, Raven. Now, come on.” Tessa winked before going through the door.

“She heard that?”

Elle laughed. “Shifter hearing”

Nekoma cocked his head to the side. “Shifters?”

“Every one of Tony’s family is a Gargoyle. I’ll have him show you later. Come on.” With one hand in Tony’s and the other around Nekoma’s arm, Elle walked back up the steps, followed by her older siblings and Tabitha.

Once inside, Elle removed her parka, and Tony took it, placing it over the back of a dining chair. “Are you hungry?” he asked.

“I could eat.”

“Is chicken parmesan okay?” Tabitha asked.

“I’ve never had it, but if it’s what you had for supper, it smelled delicious.”

“Anyone else hungry?” Tabitha pulled a plate from the cabinet and placed a serving of the chicken on it.

Yari and Thran declined, opting to follow Tessa into the living room after Elle assured them she was fine. Nekoma sniffed the air, and Tabitha arched a brow? “Is that a yes?”

“Please.” Nekoma looked around the house. “This is amazing.”

---