A Warning

“Now I understand what was so important. She just doesn’t give up, does she?”

Olivia nods, not finding it very funny.

“My mum doesn’t care, as long as I’m alive. It’s Mel who can’t leave things alone.”

Alaric nods. “She’s just worried – overly worried, yes – but at least you have someone to worry about you.”

Olivia laughs. “Trust me, it’s overrated. Sometimes I think it would be better to not have a family.” She looks at Alaric guiltily, realising what she had just said. It was inconsiderate of her; he had lost his family decades ago.

“Sorry, I didn’t think. I doubt not having a family for so long is much of a good thing.”

He laughs, shaking his head.

“As I said, Olivia, it runs in my bloodline, so my family are there, just none from when I was born. I do see family from time to time. Most stop shifting after a