by T K Eldridge
Drake and I were both dressed a little nicer than jeans and hoodies, and I was nervous about riding on his back. Like Grizz, he had a leather strap that gave me something to hold on to, and he had me wear a cloak that I could tuck under and around my legs to protect me from the scales and the wind. When he shifted, I stared. The gorgeous man in slacks and a suit coat was now a dragon with scales that ran from russet to ebony, wings that spread out farther than my yard allowed, and a ridge that ran from about the base of his neck to tail. The strap ran between the first two ridges and he crouched down so I could step on his leg, then his shoulder, and stand between them. I wore a mid-calf length skirt over leggings with knee-high boots and a silk blouse, the cloak a warm cashmere wool lined with fleece.
I wrapped the cloak around me and straddled his back, then gripped the strap. “I’m ready,” I said.
His head turned until one golden eye saw that I was indeed seated and holding the strap, and he huffed a breath before a huge leap sent us soaring into the sky. It was twilight, so he’d just look like a large shadow above, and I would get the benefit of seeing the lights of the town below. It wasn’t a long flight to get to the Exile House as it was being called, and he landed more gently than I expected. I slid free and shook out my skirt and the cloak while Drake shifted back and adjusted his suit coat. I took off the cloak and laid it over one arm, then slid my hand through his proffered elbow before we walked up the pathway to the house.
A pair of guards, not Timon, thankfully, greeted us and opened the door for us to enter. Inside, a butler took my cloak and the riding strap from Drake, and told us we were to go on up the stairs to the main floor. I whispered a quick spell to fix my hair and smiled at Drake before we stepped up the four steps onto the main floor of the house. For a minute, I wondered where we were. I had been to the Commander’s house a few times, and it always felt like a hunting lodge with wood and stone, leather furniture and soaring ceilings that framed a massive field stone fireplace in the middle of the room. Now? It felt much different. Tapestries hung on the walls, and gorgeous rugs covered some of the wood and stone floors, but the furniture was a balanced mix of a few antique pieces and more current ones. Comfort seemed to be the theme, with light and color as the main event. A table with eight upholstered chairs sat off to one side under a beautiful crystal chandelier, the china and crystal settings catching the light.
Grandma Maggie came to greet us first, and gave me a hug and a kiss on the cheek. “I’ve missed you, dear girl. I’m so glad you could join us. And Drake – everything you and yours did with Grizzell is so deeply appreciated. I’m glad you two are together. You are together, aren’t you?”
“Yes, Grandma, we’re seeing each other. Taking our time with it,” I said.
“Good, good,” Grandma said, then turned and yelled towards the hallway. “Fionn, they’re here. Hurry up.”
Drake blinked and I chuckled. “You two getting along okay?” I asked.
It was Grandma’s turn to blush. “We’re doing just fine.”
“Mm-hmm,” I said and winked at her.
“Stop it, you impudent thing,” she whispered and I laughed again.
“It’s good to see you happy, Grandma.”
Grampa Fionn came down the hall at a jog and wrapped an arm around Grandma. “Sorry I’m late, I was in a video chat with some of the folks back at the palace. Everyone’s fine, don’t worry.”
“Let’s get seated so the Chef can serve,” Grandma said and led us over to the table. The four chairs at one end of the table had the place settings, so Drake and I sat together and Grandma and Grampa sat together.
Isen came out with the soup course and I smiled. “Hello, Isen. So glad to see you. Are you doing well here?”
He gave me a smile in return. “Yes, Princess. I have found it a comfortable place to stay and I enjoy the forests in my free time.”
I turned to Drake, to explain. “Isen and I met when I used to do research at the palace.”
“Nice to meet you, Isen,” Drake said. We waited until the royals had taken a spoonful of soup before we both started to eat.
“How are you two doing, really?” I asked as the soup bowls were removed and salads were set down.
“It was rough, at first,” Fionn said. “But once Maggie got the house whipped into shape and whatever we didn’t need moved to storage, it got better. I just don’t do well with chaos anymore. It stresses me out.”
“And being here, while there are still duties and management tasks, I’m nowhere near as busy and I have free time. I’ve picked up my fabric arts again and I’d forgotten how much I enjoyed knitting and quilting,” Grandma said.
“It sounds like you’re both doing well here, in spite of the circumstances,” Drake said.
Fionn looked over at Maggie and gave her the kind of smile one reserves for lovers. “I know this is going to sound wrong on so many levels, but I think it was the best thing that could’ve happened to us.”
“We invited you here because we had some ideas we wanted to discuss with you, Siddie,” Grandma said as the perfectly done steaks and baked potatoes were set in front of us.
“Would you be willing to help us sidestep this whole mess? We spoke with Liam Walsh and my Lissa yesterday, and told them we would be speaking to you tonight. We all think that you would be the ideal person to help all of us set up a governing board for the islands and the towns that served all supernaturals in a democratic way. We want to have representatives that serve all species, not just pure bloodlines, and it has to be current and capable of dealing with modern issues,” Maggie said.
“You would have all of us to help you get it all going, but we all think you are the most logical person to help get it started. You don’t have to run it or even sit on the board, but I think you should be a part of it. Your legal mind and your understanding of the ancient ways – and how those ancient practices still impact current needs, is unparalleled,” Fionn said.
“Wow, that’s a big ask,” I said and reached for my wine glass to take a sip. My mind was whirling at all of the parts and pieces. “I’m getting tired just thinking about how much work that would be.”
“That’s why we wanted to make sure you knew we’d all be a part of it, but for obvious reasons, none of us can be the face of it. You, however, could be. The opposition already thinks you’re with them, because of the hack. The other side is us and we know you didn’t do that, but now we have a way for you to turn it to your advantage,” Fionn said.
I still felt raw and violated when I thought about all that had happened, and I didn’t know if I was ready to step into that kind of chaos and public visibility yet. A whole new government for the community? Was I really capable of handling that kind of task?
“We’d have to have supernaturally aware humans on the board, too. We can’t just expect the innocents to go along with our plan to rework the whole community’s governmental system,” I said.
“Good point,” Maggie answered. “See? You’re already finding ways to make it happen.”
“I haven’t said I would, yet,” I reminded them. “I still have a job and a life that has been upended by all of this and it’s not yet back to normal. I’m still skittish after everything that went down.” And yet, I could sit in my own house while my grandparents were living in someone else’s place under threat of constant attack. Wow, Sid. Arrogant much? “I mean, I still have to figure out a few things for myself,” I amended.
“Understood,” Fionn said.
“But if you could…” Maggie started and Fionn gave her a look and shook his head.
“So, Drake. I hear you have only one vacant house left in your subdivision. How are people doing, settling in?” Fionn asked.
Conversation shifted to more general topics, but I couldn’t stop my brain from making lists on one side and screaming ‘no way’ on the other. It kept me distracted and a poor conversationalist until dessert when tiramisu and fresh coffee were served.
“I will think
about doing this, but I need to take some time to process the idea and do my research before I say yes. The idea, in and of itself, has a lot of merit – but I may not be the ideal person for the job,” I said. “I also need to know that Roisin and her crew are on board for this. I’m not fighting a war here. I’m setting up a counsel.”
“We can take care of getting Roisin on board,” Fionn said.
“Then give me some time. At least a week or so.”
“We can do that,” Maggie said and I let out a breath.
Drake reached for my hand under the table and gave it a light squeeze. That, right there, was why I let myself love this man. He had no problem letting me make my own decisions, and he supported me no matter what. Rare traits, in my previous experience.
We lingered over coffee and dessert for a good hour before I got to my feet, kissed and hugged my grandparents, and thanked them for a good visit and an excellent meal. Drake took a moment to thank them as well while I stuck my head into the kitchen where Isen and Chef were chatting over their own desserts.
“Thank you, both. Chef, that meal was delicious and very much appreciated,” I said.
Chef looked surprised, but Isen grinned.
“I told you she was a good one,” Isen said to the Chef.
“You’re most welcome, Princess. It was my pleasure,” Chef said.
I heard Drake say his farewells, so I gave them a wave and hurried over to where he held my cloak for me.
“Everything okay?” Drake asked.
“Fine. I was just thanking Chef and Isen for the meal.”
“You’re so considerate. That was a kind thing to do,” Drake said.
“The food was excellent and I enjoyed it. It only seems fitting to thank the creator for their artistry, doesn’t it?”
“Not many people think that way, Sidonie. It’s one of the things I love about you,” Drake replied.
The butler opened the door for us and we stepped out into the star-streaked night. The moon was bright enough for shadows on the ground, and I took a moment in the middle of the path to appreciate the beauty.
“Sid?” I heard from near the garage.
I turned to see Timon in the embrace of a man a little taller than he. He pulled back and smoothed his hair. “I didn’t expect to see you,” he fumbled as the other man put a hand on Timon’s shoulder.
“Tell her,” he said to Timon.
“Um, this is Farlen. He’s…” Timon stuttered.
“Hello, Princess,” Farlen said with a smooth bow. “Timon and I are partnered. I’ve been after him to let you know, but he didn’t want to shame you in any way or hurt your feelings.”
“Pleased to meet you, Farlen. This is Drake Eldhress, my Chosen. I’ve needed to tell Timon about Drake as well, but didn’t wish to hurt his feelings. Seems we were both avoiding each other for similar reasons,” I said. I turned to Timon. “You will always be a dear friend and I still care for you, but I only wish you every happiness. Maybe when things settle down, the two of you can join us for a meal at the farm?”
Timon smiled in relief and nodded. “I care for you, too, Sid. Congratulations on finding your Chosen. I wish you both all good things.”
“A meal after the siege is settled would be welcome,” Farlen said. “Safe travels to you both.”
“Stay safe as well, you two,” I replied, and Drake gave them both a smile and a nod before he escorted me away.
“That was beautifully handled,” Drake said. “I believe you are diplomatic enough to handle anything thrown your way.”
“I believe you need to get me out of here, because laughing out loud at the look of panic on Timon’s face when he saw us would ruin all of my diplomatic cachet.”
We both chuckled and he stepped into the middle of the clearing to shift forms. I got myself settled on his back and he thrust us into the sky.
Chapter Ten
Sin
When I got home after hanging out with Bastien, Mira had already put the kids down and was tucked in bed with a book.
“Whatcha reading?” I asked.
“A book,” she replied and gave me a ‘what are you up to?’ look over the top of her e-reader.
“What kind of book?”
“A good book.” She sighed and put the reader aside. “What?”
“What do you mean, what?”
“What do you want to talk about? You only get like this when you need my attention and have something on your mind,” she said.
“You know me well,” I replied.
“I used to think I did, but lately, I’m not so sure. So, tell me what’s on your mind.”
“How would you feel if I quit being a cop and went to med school?” I watched Mira’s eyes widen and a smile slowly curl her lips.
“Really?” she asked.
“Really. I never wanted to be a cop, but we had to in order to save our folks. I’ve been becoming more and more frustrated with my life path. Bast and I had a long talk, and he helped me realize I could take control of my fate once more. I love you, and our kids – and if the only reason I had to be a cop for a while was so I could meet you and Bast and the others that have helped make my life so rich, then that’s worth it. But I don’t want to do this any longer. I’m a healer, not a guardian.”
“Then do it,” Mira said.
“Are you sure?”
“I only want you to be happy and healthy, Sinclair. I know we’re both secure enough, financially, that our family will be fine while you do what you need to, to be happy. And I’ll be a whole lot happier with you doing a job that doesn’t involve getting shot.”
“When Bast helped me realize this, I got so excited, but I didn’t want to get too hyped up if you didn’t think it was a good idea. I told him you’d probably be okay with it, but I had to be sure. Thank you, Mira,” I said and pulled her down for a kiss.
“You’re welcome. Now fix your shit with Sidonie,” Mira said after we parted from our kiss.
“Yeah, I have to really apologize. I’ve been horrible to her.”
“Yes, you have been. Bring her a present and grovel. She didn’t deserve any of what you said or did to her, and I’ve tried to stay out of it, but the kids miss their Auntie Siddie and I know you’ve not been right since you fought.”
“I saw her freedom, and I guess I was jealous or angry – or something. My frustration got taken out on her.”
“Good things for you to bring up to Dr. Kyler tomorrow,” Mira said.
“You’re right. But for now, I’d like to show you just how much I adore you, Mirabella.”
Mira giggled and slid down next to me in the bed. “Show away.”
* * *
I went to my morning appointment with Dr. Kyler and they pretty much confirmed what Bast had helped me to realize. I still would be seeing the doctor on a regular basis, but once a week was considered sufficient, considering my ‘breakthrough’. My next step was to meet with the Commander.
I tapped on the door and waited for his ‘come in’ before I entered the office and closed the door behind me. “Commander,” I said.
“Sin – I didn’t expect to see you today. We didn’t have an appointment I missed?”
“No, sir. I just need a few minutes of your time,” I replied.
“Well, come sit. What’s on your mind?” He sounded genuinely concerned, which made me feel bad for worrying him and the rest of my family for so long.
“Sir, I’m resigning from the SPD. I’ve spoken to Mira, and Dr. Kyler, and while I know this puts you in a bind, it’s what’s healthiest for me.”
“I understand,” he said. “And I’m not really surprised. Also, understand that because supernaturals tend to shift careers many times over their lifespan, you will always have a place here. A refresher course and you can be back in uniform at any time in your life.”
“I appreciate that, sir, but I never wanted to be a cop. I only wanted to be a healer. Sid and I joined the SPD to save our family – but continuing with the SPD w
as losing me mine. Sid changed her tasks here to where she felt more aligned, and that’s great – but I can’t do that. I need to go to medical school as I originally intended, and follow my own path.”
“Whatever I can do to help you along that path, let me know. You will always be my grandson, Sinclair, and I love you, and admire you for being strong enough to do what is best for your own mental health. What you have given to the SPD will not be forgotten,” the Commander said.
I got to my feet when he did, and he pulled me into a hug. “Thanks, Grampa,” I whispered.
“Anytime, my boy,” he replied.
I left his office with a lightness I don’t think I’ve ever felt. I looked for Tasha and Grizz, but they were out on patrol. I decided maybe I needed to go talk to Sid before anyone else, so I left the station and headed to the farm.
I pulled into her driveway and shut off the engine. For the first time in my life, I was afraid to speak to my twin. That alone showed me just how far outside the lines I had gone. I picked up the bag of food and the milkshakes from Bubba’s Burgers, and headed to her door.
The door opened before I could knock and Sid stood there in jeans and a sweatshirt, feet bare and her braid twisted over her shoulder. It was the look of wariness in her eyes that broke my heart.
“I brought a peace offering,” I said and held up the bag. “May I come in?”
She pushed the screen door open and stepped back so I could enter, then locked the door behind me. We were on the farm and behind the wards, and she still locked the door. Yeah, I noticed.
“Kitchen or screen porch?” Sid asked.
“Whichever you like,” I replied, then followed her out to the screen porch. I watched as she moved her laptop and some papers to a side table, then gestured for me to take a seat at the table.
“I was working out here because the weather’s so nice,” Sid said.
“I brought your favorites,” I replied and set the bag on the table and handed her a milkshake. “I used a little magic to keep the hot stuff hot and the cold stuff cold, so the fries should still taste good dipped in the shake.”
