Page 10 of Fated for Dawn

“And we’ll do whatever we can to help,” he added.

“Fine. And let me be clear: I only agree because we’ll have Alister back by then. Just make sure I’m not stuck in any potion classes. Instead, get me into tactical defense, or I’m not going.”

Chad grinned, breaking the tension. “And we can resume training together again. Plus, you’ll get to meet my brother Thad! He started at the Academy this year.” He leaned back in his chair, a mischievous glint in his eyes. “He’s the best. Alister is going to love him.”

Lucien groaned. “He’s your exact twin, Chad. Like a mini version of you. It’s already a handful with one; imagine two.”

Chad gave a mock bow. “It’s a burden being this charming, but someone’s got to do it. And just wait until Brad starts next year!”

“Fuck, there’s a third one?” Lucien exclaimed.

Despite everything, a small smile tugged at my lips.

Lucien leaned back, his gaze settling on me. “By the way, we gathered all your stuff from your dorm room. It’s in your room now. You might want it back soon, though. Chad’s music is insufferably loud at night—he has absolutely no concept of headphones.”

Chad grinned, completely unbothered. “Hey, good music is meant to be shared!”

Lucien rolled his eyes. “I’ve been sleeping in your room because of it.” Then his voice softened. “But once we get Alister back, I’ll move out. You’ll need it again.”

I blinked, the words hitting me. Lucien had been staying in my room?

“Are you all staying here now?” I asked, suddenly realizing I’d been so wrapped up in my grief I hadn’t noticed.

Chad perked up. “Yep! We’re all squatting in the mansion. Do you think Alister will be mad? Once we get him back, that is.”

“No,” I said with a smile, remembering Alister’s happiness when he showed them their rooms. “He considered you all family. He would have wanted you guys to stay here.”

“You should see how expensive it is to keep up a place like this,” Chad grumbled.

“Says the only one who’s still in school and not actively paying the bills,” Lucien retorted, giving Chad an exasperated look.

“We figured it made more sense to base ourselves here,” Rafe explained. “There is more space, and it is easier to coordinate everything. The new teacher who replaced Miss Clarissa is now occupying the cottage.”

“Yeah, we all know what happened to her,” Chad said, making a snapping sound with his fingers and grinning widely.

“We all bonded over our shared grief,” Rafe sighed.

“And our desire to get revenge,” Lucien added.

“Although it’s been an adjustment. Someone already caused two fires in the kitchen.” Lucien smirked, glancing at Chad.

Chad gave a mock shrug. “It was the pancake’s fault. I was trying to make them like Evelyn likes—extra crispy.”

“I like them extra crispy?” I asked.

“Yeah, you always said my charred pancakes were the best,” Chad replied, his eyes wide.

“I think she was just trying to be nice, Chad.” Rafe chuckled.

“Nuh-uh?! Tell them, little witch,” Chad insisted.

I smiled.

Their lives had moved on while I was gone. It was strange to think about it, but I was happy they had each other. In the meantime, returning to the Academy might be a good idea.

After I get Alister back.

4

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