Page 68 of Beautiful Exile

I tapped on our sibling group chat, noticing it had a new name today.Look What the Stork Dragged In.I snorted as I scanned the messages.

Cope

Has anyone checked to make sure Linc hasn’t burned down my house?

Fallon

I heard he did some redecorating. Glitter pink walls all the way.

She dropped a glitter explosion GIF.

Trace

Don’t talk about glitter. I’m still scarred from the glitter bomb you detonated in my truck.

Fallon

Sorry, broski. But honestly, ancient history, right?

Trace

Not when I’m reminded of it every time Keely wants to do an art project.

Kye

Pretty sure I saw pink glitter in your hair when we sparred this morning.

Rhodes

I think pink glitter could be a good look for you, Trace.

Shep

Pretty sure he’s got pink glitter polish on his toes right now.

Trace

I told you that in confidence. Remember this when my deputies write you that next speeding ticket.

Shep

It’s only Cope who has to worry about speeding. Maybe Arden. I play by the rules.

Cope

Hey, don’t throw me under the bus. I’m reformed. Precious cargo and all.

Cope sent a photo of Luca in a Seattle Sparks jersey, holding a puck signed by a couple of players.

Rhodes

Watch your back, Copey. Luca’s coming for your spot on the team.

A mixture of feelings swirled inside me, each one battling for supremacy. Happiness for Cope and what he’d found. Longing for it for myself. And a hollowness, knowing it would never be mine.

Cope

He’s got what it takes. Hey, Arden. Proof of life, please.

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