Page 31 of Primitus

I looked over and saw Shannon asleep and breathing deeply.

“We’ll take her home and find any files she might have been keeping. She’ll never remember any of this.” Jesse picked her up bridal style, and Shannon’s head flopped back on his arm.

“I hated to do it, but it’s for the best. Our baby’s life could depend on it.” I looked down at the precious bundle I was holding. Her head was covered in black fuzz, and she was staring at me with amber eyes that matched mine.

I felt a tear roll down my cheek at the sight of her. My sweet baby had a little of me and each of her fathers in her precious face. There was Frosty/ Rue’s dimples; I hadn’t even thought of his nickname in the longest time… it was too painful—Sly’s pale skin, and John and Jesse’s midnight hair.

I looked at John and Jesse, and they were both staring at her with reverence.

I had a thought, and I knew it was meant to be. “Her name is Reverie.”

John and Jesse both nodded in agreement.

“It fits her perfectly.” Jesse breathed.

“Yes, it does.” John agreed. “Let’s get Shannon home so we can get back. I don’t want to leave you both alone for long.”

Moxie chattered in irritation.

John laughed, “I know you’ll keep them safe.” He scratched behind the raccoon’s ear. “But we don’t want to be gone long, just the same.”

I looked back at the beauty in my arms. She was my life now and a part of all of us. The only thing I had left of Sly and Rue. I’d kill anything that threatened her safety. Reverie was meant for great things, and it was our job to keep her safe so she could achieve that goal.

I had a feeling that the fate of Aurathions depended on it.

I kissed her little head, and for a moment, I could see Sly and Rue gazing down at both of us with love. “I vow that I’ll do whatever it takes to keep our daughter safe.”

Of course, there was no answer, but in my heart I knew they heard me.