Page 81 of Gryphon’s Fire

“An understandable doubt, one that has proven itself false.”

“So it would seem.”

Grandmother softly smiled. “I should like to say goodbye to him before you leave. I would also like to thank Lazarus for his understanding and aid in these difficult times.”

“He’ll want to say goodbye to you too.” Lazarus was currently organizing our flight back home. From what I understood, our pilots were already at the airfield, prepping the jet and making certain all would be ready when we arrived in a few hours. Jenna would accompany Duncan across the Atlantic. As before, Jenna would leave us at JFK and Duncan alone would guide us back home.

“And Jima, I assume he’ll be going with you. Riding in a seat this time and not inside your suitcase.”

“There’s enough seating for him,” I reassured Grandmother. “And if there wasn’t, he’d just transform and ride on my lap on the way home.”

“He is an interesting individual. I have to admit, he is the first ferret shifter I’ve knowingly encountered. If he is representative of his species, then I should like to meet more of them in the future.”

I wasn’t certain if that was true or not and said as much. “Jima might be one of a kind.”

“Then I am even more fortunate to have met him,” Grandmother answered before leaning across the table and grasping my wrist in her hand. “If I live another five centuries, it would still not be enough time to express my remorse or my gratitude, grandson. Lavinia would be so very proud of the individual you’ve grown into. Of that, I am certain.”

My eyes burned from holding back tears. “Thank you, Grandmother. I…” I shook my head. There were no words to express my own remorse.

“You don’t need to speak, Keir. I already know.” Grandmother offered up a watery smile before leaning back into her chair, her demeanor all business once more. “Now, if I’m not mistaken, you need to head to the airport soon. I’m certain Lulabelle will want to offer her own goodbyes.” Standing, Grandmother walked around the small table and opened her arms. “I fear this hug will need to content me for many years to come.”

Pushing out of my seat, I pulled my grandmother into my arms, squeezing as tight as I dared. “You are always welcome in Minnesota.”

Patting me on the back, Grandmother pulled away but kept me within arm’s reach. “That is good to hear. I would very much like to meet my great granddaughters.” Grandmother shook her head. “Wyvern young. And I thought raising gryphon young was challenging. For what it is worth, I wish you good fortune with the little ladies.”

Despite the warning, my grin stretched from ear to ear. “I’m looking forward to this particular challenge.”

Grandmother cupped my cheek, leaning forward to kiss my opposite one. “And I have every certainty you will rise to the challenge just as you have all others. Go in peace, my grandson. And go in love.”

“I wish you could stay longer,” Phina said, her eyes downcast.

“As do I.” It was a partial lie. I wanted to visit my sister longer, but the pull to go home was even greater. Running my fingers through Phina’s long, golden hair, I realized Grandmother was right. This more grown-up version of my sister reflected our mother. “If you need anything⁠—”

“I know exactly who to call,” Phina quickly answered.

“And you won’t hesitate to do so?”

“No.” Phina shook her head. “Never again. I… Thank you, Keir. As long as I live, I don’t think I’ll ever be able to say those words enough.”

“You have nothing to thank me for,” I argued. “You are my sister. When I learned what happened, when Eldon came to me for sanctuary…there was no other choice.”

Phina softly smiled. “Not for you, dear brother. I am sorry I ever doubted you. You are the brother of my memories, not the one I was lectured about.”

I shuddered. “I hate to think what you were told.” It wasn’t difficult to imagine the vitriol Jaakobah and our father filled Phina’s head with.

“Then do not think of it. They were only words and as they say, actions speak so much louder—Jaakobah’s actions, Father’s, and yours. The truth will continue to reveal itself. Grandmother and Lulabelle will make certain.”

“You’re damn right I will,” Lulabelle huffed as she walked into the room, her eyes scanning the space. “Where’s that handsome wyvern and the cute ferret shifter? I come bearing gifts.” Lulabelle held up a small container full of sweet breads, cookies, and other yummy-looking snacks.

“They’re helping load the vehicle,” I answered. Not that there was much to actually load inside. Lazarus and I’d traveled light, and considering Jima had stowed away, he’d packed even lighter. “They should return shortly.”

Lulabelle nodded before going to a nearby table and setting the box down. Arms now free, she reached for Phina and tugged my sister into her arms. Phina let loose a little yelp before giggling. Goddess, Phina’s laughter was the best sound in the world.

“I’m sure Grandmother told you, but just in case she didn’t, let Eldon know he’s welcome here anytime,” Lulabelle offered after releasing Phina. I noticed Lulabelle kept one arm casually draped over Phina’s shoulders. My sister would need the physical reassurance for a while, and I was glad to see Lulabelle already taking up the role.

“I’ll be sure to let him know,” I promised.

“Who are we letting know what?” Jima asked as he bounded through the door. Phina immediately left the warmth of Lulabelle’s embrace to scoop Jima into her arms. His muffled meep sounded more like surprise than distress.