LOGIN“Mom and I were planning to play later,” Alexis said. “You can too if you want.” “Really? Thanks,” Caden immediately brightened. “…So you based the décor on the diner you used to work in,” Macey said after listening to Ava’s brief retelling of her past. “Were you thinki
Silas’s embrace tightened. He hated thinking about the trials she went through without him. Ava leaned against him relishing his comfort and support. Their past was not as important as their future. “You two aren’t going to go all kissy-face, right?” Theo asked. “We’re in public and
Two Months Later The restaurant was lively. Guests had been arriving for the past two hours eager for a unique dining experience. The staff was well-trained providing exceptional service despite the rush. They had been drilled in their duties by the restaurant’s manager, a tyrant the
She nodded. “Going down?” Silas repeated. “Just what have you three planned now?” “It was more like a hunch,” Lexi said. “Sean found something real interesting when he deep-dived Ryker Holdings. So we asked Duncan to keep an eye on someone, just in case.” “D
“Late? A test for what?” Silas asked not following. “Are you serious?” Tracy snorted a laugh. “Ava, you’re going to have to be a little clearer,” Opal chuckled. “Remember, it’s his first time.” Silas glanced from one to the other even more confused. Looking
“There you three are,” Tracy said as the trio returned to the party. “We were just about to send the search party to find you.” “Auntie Tracy, you’re so silly,” Alexis giggled. “How are you feeling mom?” Ava hugged her tight but Alexis didn’t feel any tension or strain in
“Oh Auntie Tracy this is the goon squad,” Alexis introduced. “Mister Peppermint is Mike. Old Spice is Don. Smoky is Jake and Lilac is Matthew. He’s the only one with a girlfriend.” “H-how did you know that?” Matthew stuttered. He hadn’t even told his partner about his new girl.
“Me?” “Of course. The more people who know you’re mine the safer you’ll be.” Silas stroked her cheek. “Will you go with me?” Ava didn’t trust her voice but nodded. “Good.” He kissed her. “Maybe we shouldn’t go shopping,” Alexis said, “at least no
“…A waitress…” Silas muttered. How? Why? Who did this to her? She should have been playing for sold out concert halls not bussing tables. He looked at the birth certificates again. January eighteenth. Was there something special about that date that made him cringe? Then his gaze
“So what’s this about?” Theo asked as he and his brother flopped on one of the couches in the living room. Alexis was ensconced on the other while their mother nervously stood by her. It had been two days since their grandmother swept in and they had suddenly been asked to join Silas i







