Page 130 of Reaper’s Wrath

“We were nearby and decided to come early for a drink,” Tessa informs me. “I was just telling Kai about the Guggenheim museum—it was so incredible.”

“The city is a great place for artists.” My gaze cuts to Kairos while I pour myself some wine. “Have you two discussed your plans any further?”

Kai takes a deep breath. “I think I’m going to stick around and connect with some of my extended family. I did some digging into what brought about the Greek’s attack on my parents, and I have questions.”

“If you’re sticking around, and I’m going to stay, I suppose it only makes sense for Tess to stay, too.”

When we look over at her, she’s already wearing a grin so bright it could double as a lighthouse beacon.

“Does that mean I can have my own place?” she asks, her words cautious.

As the oldest, Kairos tends to be the head of our little family. I look at him to see what he thinks.

“You are twenty now. I⁠—”

She cuts him off with a giddy squeal. “Thank you, Kai. I swear, I’ll be so super careful. I’m so excited. I’ve been imagining what it would be like, and I know exactly what color I want to paint my bedroom. There’s going to be lots of windows, and I’d love a balcony so I can get fresh air.”

I chuckle. “You’ve got quite the wish list. How do you propose to pay for all that?”

She sits a little taller, a touch of haughtiness coming over her. “I suppose if you two aren’t paying for it, I’ve heard stripping brings in good money.”

Kairos chokes on his wine, and I snarl at her. “Don’t even joke about that.”

Tessa’s features remain serene. “It sounds like we’re in agreement—I’ll pick the place, and you’ll pay for it.”

My gaze snaps to Kairos, and we exchange a wordless commiseration. We taught Tessa well. Maybe too well. She’s fucking ruthless.

“A toast to my new adventure.” She raises her glass, and we reluctantly follow suit.

“What are we toasting to?” Out of nowhere, Michael appears at our table.

“What the hell are you doing here?” I ask, dumbfounded when he seats himself in the vacant chair next to me.

“Isa told me you were here, and I was close, so I thought I’d stop by.”

“You really are a nuisance sometimes, you know that?” I rib him, knowing he won’t take it personally.

“Elio,” Tessa chides me. “Don’t be rude.” She smiles at Michael. “It’s good to see you again. We were discussing future plans. Elio was about to tell us what he’s planning for himself.”

“I was?” I arch a brow at her.

“Yes, Kairos and I have already commented on our plans, so naturally, it’s your turn.”

Fair enough.

“I’ve decided to team up with the trafficking rescue team Isa works with. I don’t know the particulars yet, but I think it will be a good fit.”

“That’s perfect, man,” Michael says, touching his fist to my shoulder. “When do we start?”

My gaze narrows. “I never said anything about you.”

“You said it yourself that we make a great team, and that sort of work is right up my alley. Plus, Evie would love to help, too. I bet they could use a licensed therapist to consult with if they don’t have one already.”

Shit, he’s not wrong.

I peer at Kai, who is flashing a rare smile, and sigh. “I guess it’s going to be a team venture.”

“And the Calypso?” Kai asks.