Pandora smiled. “I wasn’t going to pick. If things get strange, I can just fog out. Knur and Zhin will understand.”
Gia grinned. “Have they closed on the house yet?”
“Yeah. It was a quick sale, and we were given possession while the paperwork churns through. It even has a nest if I need it.”
“Do you think you will?”
“I have no idea. I haven’t had a heat while solid before. You?”
“Um, no. Have you had sex before?”
“No, but I keep imagining using Knur’s horns as handlebars, so let’s see where that goes.”
They were both laughing when the car and SUV showed up. It devolved into giggles as they hugged and went their separate ways.
Inside the car and relaxing, Gia looked at Ornolf. “So, how was your night?”
He snorted. “You really took down the Stronghold tonight?”
“Yeah. We did. We won. The ladies are here, and the guys there are powerless.”
“Then, this is worthy of a celebration.”
“That is sort of what I was planning.” She shrugged with a smile.
“What did you have in mind?”
“Ice cream and straight to bed.” She glanced at him. “I am insisting that you join me in at least one of those.”
His hands clenched on the steering wheel. “You what?”
“Well, I know you have a sweet tooth, so the choice is yours.”
“Do I have the option for both?”
“Depends on how much ice cream you eat.”
He chuckled. “I will pace myself.”
He put his hand between them, palm up, and she slid her hand along his, locking her fingers to his.
He asked quietly, “Why tonight?”
“We didn’t want to chance pregnancy when we were barfing power everywhere and standing near homicidal Elite. It wouldn’t have been safe.”
He flexed his fingers around hers. “That is an understatement. What did you do about the dark mages?”
“We didn’t see any as far as I know. Pandora said she found her friend in a portal, but nothing came through.”
He paused. “Her friend? Kay?”
“Yes. I mean, they aren’t friends; I mean, they work together.”
He nodded. “Right. She was very quiet when I drove her home, and now, I can’t remember where her house is.”
Gia blinked. “Is that normal?”
“No, it is not.”