You would do this for us?Aurin asked.
Of course I would, Tobin replied.You have a lot of soon-to-be uncles up there very excited. And one aunt. Pania wanted to know what she could do to help. If you need anything.
They... they know?Aurin asked, his voice small.
Yep. Kellan and Ciaran held a meeting.
Of course they did,Salem mumbled.
They said we all need to do whatever you need, whatever you want. We’re on protection detail, basically. And food delivery.
Oh.Aurin sniffled.That’s so sweet...
You are very loved, my little one, Salem murmured.
Tobin could feel their emotions: Aurin’s trepidation, his vulnerability, and Salem’s outpouring of love for him.
It was so freaking beautiful.
But Salem was missing one important point.
And you, Salem, Tobin added.You’re as much a part of our consortium as any of us. I mean, I know Aurin is the star of the show right now, but don’t think you’re not included. We’re doing this for you too.
Aurin sniffled again, and Tobin could feel the love between them. Salem, on the other hand, felt... surprise and a rush of sentimentality, of gratitude.
You are loved too,Aurin murmured, and, wanting to give them this moment of privacy, Tobin pushed his shield outside of himself so it encased only them.
It wasn’t long before the boat engine sputtered again and headed out of Tenebrae. Humans never stayed any longer than was absolutely necessary.
Tobin let his shield snap back in and was hit by the wave of mental exertion in its wake.
They’re gone,Tobin said, though he was sure they’d heard.You two okay?
Salem answered.Yes, thank you.
Tobin smiled at him. He couldn’t see Aurin’s eyes, just an arm or two coiled around Salem’s arms. Salem had him all bundled up, safe and snug. It made Tobin’s hearts full. And itmade him miss Fray. He was just about to say goodbye when he heard other voices.
Ah, you have more visitors incoming,Tobin said.Kellan and co. by the sounds of it.He waved an arm.Over here.
Kellan, Dylan, and Hendrix came over.
We thought we’d come and check up on you, Kellan said.Dylan’s been worried about you, Aurin.
Aurin peeked out from behind Salem with his big eyes, and Dylan shot past Tobin to give Aurin and Salem a hug. Hendrix laughed, and Kellan smiled as he watched them.
Dylan and Aurin had always been close, and they’d certainly been through a lot in the past few weeks. They all had. And now this....
Fray’s waiting for you,Hendrix said.Not very patiently, I might add.
He’s trying, Kellan added gently.
Hendrix snorted.Very fucking trying.
Hey, Hendrix,Tobin said, then held up eight middle fingers.
Hendrix laughed.Oh, your tattoos are glowing again. Must be the darker water now that Salem’s back.
Tobin held up the arm with the small blue heart. He hadn’t noticed the tattoo just now, but he had noticed the water. It was dark again, moving in ways it would seem water shouldn’t.It’s amazing, isn’t it?
