She figured you’d live up to your names, hmm?

Mael

Pretty much.

Echo

What about your dad? Was he okay with hellions?

Mael cringed. He was so accustomed to everyone on the island knowing their story and not having to dig into his troubled past.

Mael

He left when we were young. His opinion doesn’t matter.

Echo

I’m so sorry.

Mael

Don’t be. We’ve been more than fine without him. My mother is tough.

Echo

Well, I can’t wait to meet them. Hopefully not all at one time, though.

Mael

Why not all at one time? Might as well get it over with.

Echo

Being surrounded by a bunch of predators might be a bit much. You alone are pretty overwhelming.

Mael

You got over that fast

Echo

Who said I am?

Mael

You asked me to come back. I doubt I’d get that invite if I was still overwhelming.

Echo

It’s harder to find someone overwhelming after you’ve seen their come face.

Mael barked with laughter.

Mael

Is mine bad?

Echo