Page 130 of My Only Luna

Kiara smiles and nods, having full faith in her brother.

“Hmm.” I shake my head. “Westwood boys… All the same…”

I leave the twins to take their boots and coats off as I glimpse inside my oven. The cookies are almost done. Now, where did I put those triple chocolate muffins and cinnamon rolls I made earlier?

“So let us have some tea and I will start on dinner. Now come and help me set the table.”

Kiara giggles as she hurries to help, whilst Liam pouts with a tilt of his head before he goes and begins getting the dishes out. I say nothing, letting them decide what dishes to take to the table. That’s how kids learn some independence, although I have no doubt that these two are independent enough, considering they came here all by themselves.

Another ten minutes go by. Liam has put some music on theradio, after twiddling with it for a bit. The boy is smart, selfless, and patient. Yet I can see how that same selflessness could become a test for him in the future.

Oh, how life is so unpredictable. I smile slightly as I look out at the falling snow outside the window.

Indeed, it is.

Once the table is set and the muffins, cookies, and rolls are placed in the middle with three mugs of steaming tea, we all take a seat around the table.

“Now, why don’t you both tell me, why didn’t you tell your parents that you came here?” I ask.

Kiara’s eyes widen as she looks at Liam, who instantly puts the cookie down. Both wondering how I saw through their lies.

“I forced Kiara to come here, and I was the one who lied,” Liam says quickly.

Ah, ever the one to protect the rest… If only he realised, I can see through his lies.It had indeed been Kiara’s wish to come here, I think. The guilt in her eyes speaks louder than any words can.

I raise an eyebrow.

“Oh? Well, I’m sure your father won’t be happy with that!”

“Umm…” Liam hesitates.

“It wasn’t Liam’s fault, he only came because I said I wanted to come,” Kiara adds, taking her brother’s hand protectively.

“Now that’s better. I prefer the truth,” I state, sipping my tea.

“Will you send us home?” Kiara asks sadly.

“Don’t you want us here?” Liam adds, blinking his innocent, blue eyes at me.

I scoff. “Now don’t pull those puppy dog eyes on me! You two enjoy your treats, and I will go pop dinner in the oven. Then how about a little game?”

“Grandma Amy, can you play that game with those cards?” Kiara asks in excitement.

I pause, glancing back at the hopeful child.

“Very well,” I say after a moment’s hesitation. Ever since the first time I brought my cards out she’s been entranced and that is dangerous. They’re young yet, but one day they won’t be, and they’ll realise and question my actions.

Hurrying to finish the task at hand, I then head to my bedroom and open a locked box, taking out a pile of cards.

“Oo, Grandma’s fancy cards!” Liam exclaims, trotting back to the table, having placed all the dishes to the side.

Kiara is wiping the table, and I smile at them.

“I love the teamwork you two have, and I hope no matter where life takes you, that you will always be there for one another,” I remark.

“What do you mean?” Kiara asks. “I’m never leaving Liam!”

“Yes, Kiara has to stay by my side. She is my best friend!”

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