Page 88 of The Last Aether

“Yes, she could,” Phoenix said.

Riven glared at him. “Not helping.”

“This is exactly helping. Honesty helps. And if we’re worried about becoming monsters, then that won’t happen. It’s that awareness and concern that will help us stay on the right side of things.”

I toyed with the hem of my pajama top. “I like thinking of it that way. It gives the worrying purpose.”

Phoenix nodded. “You just can’t let yourself live there all the time. Then you paralyze yourself. It’s a heavy burden, trying to find the balance between empathy and strength. And we’ll inevitably get it wrong. The best thing we can do is own up to our mistakes and do our best to correct them.”

Atlas sent me a stern look. “You didn’t get it wrong today. Aiden didn’t give you any other choice. If you hadn’t finished things, everyone in that gym would’ve seen you as weak, a target.”

“I know.” The words were quiet, almost a whisper. “I just hate that this is what things have come to.”

A muscle in Phoenix’s cheek fluttered. “I’m sorry he put you in that position.”

“We’ve been over this. You aren’t responsible for his actions.”

“I know, but—”

“No buts,” I cut him off.

The corner of Kai’s mouth quirked. “Come on, Pip. I love your butt.”

I choked on a laugh. Kai was definitely partial to my ass. He showed me as much by putting his hands on it every time he got the chance. “That’s the only butt I’ll allow.”

He leaned over and took my mouth with his. “Thank fuck.”

I leaned back into Kai with a sigh. “Can we sleep in my room tonight? All of us?”

We’d only spent one night all together. I could tell Riven hadn’t wanted to push for more, giving me time to come to him as I was ready.

He glanced at me. “You sure?”

I nodded, smiling at him. “I need cuddles and to sleep for a week.”

Kai scooped me up into his arms. “I’ve got you covered.”

Riven dumped our bowls in the sink. “You mean you’ve got her ass covered?”

“Twenty-four seven protection detail.”

I snorted. “I think you might be taking that duty a little too seriously.”

Kai’s lips skimmed my ear. “Never.”

We made our way up the stairs to the room that still stole my breath. It was extravagant but cozy. And with my belongings and photos, it was starting to feel like home.

Kai deposited me on the bed and then headed to the bathroom. I didn’t have it in me to brush my teeth tonight. Hopefully one night off wouldn’t land me with a cavity. I burrowed under the covers, luxuriating in the feel.

A moment later, Riven climbed in next to me. “Hey.”

I turned so that I was facing him. “Hi.”

“You doing okay?”

“Better. How about you?”

He smiled. “I’m good now.”