“Oh,” Sawyer added. “And just so we’re clear, there’s nothing wrong with the water here. It’s not fucked up or weird. It’s freaking beautiful. So don’t talk shit about Tenebrae to anyone. Okay?”
Dirk grimaced in pain. The welts on his skin from Ciaran’s toxin were red and angry. He’d be feeling the residual nerve pain for weeks, and Tobin thought it couldn’t have happened to a more deserving person.
Fray raised both arms, excited. “Late arvo boat trip to Strahan can only mean one thing.”
Sawyer and Beau stared at him. “What’s that?” Sawyer asked.
“Pizza orders!” he said. His smile was so infectious, so perfect, Tobin couldn’t help but laugh.
Tobin noticed Dirk staring at him, so he nudged him toward the door. “No pizza for you,” he said. “Now, Dirk, have you met my mate, Fray? He might look cute and funny, but don’t be fooled. He can zap you with enough electricity, you’ll be able to use your junk as a flashlight. Add that on top of Ciaran’s nerve burn, and you’ll actually beg Otis to rip you apart.”
“You’re all fucking weird, you know that?” Dirk said. “Weird and fucking crazy.”
Tobin laughed. “Oh yeah. We know.”
Chapter
Eighteen
AURIN
The rain had eased,and the six of them were taking advantage of the muted sunlight spilling through the water in shimmering ribbons, turning the shallow water near the rocks into a dancing mosaic of bronze and gold.
Aurin floated upside down near the surface, laughing as one of the babies latched onto his arm with all eight tiny tentacles.
You’re not supposed to eat me,he teased.
The little octopus puffed indignantly and changed colour from a happy, shimmery black to a grumpy, darker shade.
Apparently,Salem said dryly from nearby,he has decided you are food.
Salem drifted closer, carrying two more babies bundled against his body. One baby sat happily on his mantle, tiny tentacles draped over his forehead like a living golden hat.
Aurin burst out laughing.You look ridiculous.
I am aware.
But very cute.
The fourth baby suddenly zoomed between them in a burst of excitement, scattering a cloud of glittering bubbles. All four babies immediately chased after the bubbles, squeaking and chirping.
Aurin laughed and laughed, and Salem entwined one tentacle with Aurin’s so he could feel the full rush of his joy, his pride, and his love. The pure awe that this family was his.
Aurin would never tire of it.
A shadow crossed above them, something on the shore, and Aurin saw a flash of movement and colour out of the corner of his eye. A person. He instinctively grabbed for their babies, pulling them in close.Did you see that?
Get into the den, Salem ordered.
Aurin rushed into the small opening, clutching his babies, his three hearts hammering.Be careful, Salem. Don’t go out there. Don’t let them see you!
I’m right here, Salem said.Blocking the entrance.
Aurin peeked out, and he could see Salem replicating a shadowy mass. He knew he would be blending in against the rock and that it was an incredible camouflage, but still, he worried.Just come inside,Aurin said.Come in here with us.
Their babies squeaked in fear.It’s okay, little ones. Daddy has you,he told them.
And then he heard it...
