Page 118 of Sacrifice
"Go home," Runes tells me. "Nothing more to do tonight. We'll deal with whatever comes tomorrow."
I stand to leave, but Magnus catches my arm. "They're safe, brother. The loft's solid, the dogs are early warning, and Saga's armed. Trust your preparations."
"Yeah." But trust is hard when you've got everything to lose.
The ride home is longer, taking different routes, checking for tails.
By the time I pull into the garage, I'm exhausted but certain I wasn't followed.
Inside, I find perfect chaos.
Elfe's on the floor with Luna, teaching her tricks.
Saga's in the kitchen with Rex glued to her side.
Odin's spread across the couch like he owns it.
"How'd it go?" Saga asks.
"Productive. The new crew's serious but we're prepared." I pull her close, needing the contact. "Tomorrow we'll increase security protocols. Maybe get you both some range time."
"Okay." She studies my face. "How bad is it?"
"Manageable. We've faced worse."
"That's not really an answer."
"It's the only one I've got right now."
She accepts this, understanding the balance between truth and comfort. "Hungry? Elfe made pasta."
"Starving."
We eat together at the dining table I've never used.
Elfe chatters about the dogs' personalities, their quirks already emerging.
Saga adds observations, both women falling in love with our security assets.
"They're so smart," Elfe gushes. "Luna already knows which room is mine. And Odin! He checked every window before settling down."
"Guard instincts," I explain. "They're working dogs. They need jobs."
"Their job is being perfect," Saga declares.
"And protecting you," I add. "Which they're already doing. Notice how they position themselves? Always between you and the doors."
"I hadn't noticed," Elfe admits, looking at the dogs with new appreciation.
"They're subtle about it, but watch. They'll always keep you in sight.."
Saga murmurs. "Everything's tactical with you, isn’t it?"
"Survival usually is."
After dinner, we establish routines.
Dogs out for final bathroom breaks, perimeter check, alarm system armed.
