Page 370 of The Gods Order

“It is very nice to have some time not surrounded by godly men,” I say.

The two of us smirk at one another.

“What’s wrong with godly men?” my dad asks as he, Meridamus, Derivius, and my men walk out onto the porch.

Mom snorts.

“Would you like the list alphabetically or by severity, sweetheart?”

Dad presses a hand to his chest.

“I have been nothing short of delightful.”

“You’ve also been nothing short of dramatic,” Meridamus says dryly.

My dad’s gaze widens as it bounces between him and Derivius.

“I’m the dramatic one?”

Derivius coughs to cover his laugh, not the least bit offended at the teasing aimed at him.

“You did act quite ridiculous about fifteen minutes ago,” he says.

“Gods,” my dad throws his hands up. “Because the two of you cheat.”

“Here we go,” Creed groans.

A laugh escapes me.

Gods. I love them. All of them.

Dad huffs under his breath, though the grin tugging at his mouth ruins any attempt at looking offended. For a quiet moment, no one says anything else. We simply enjoy being together.

After all this time, we’ve all settled into an easy rhythm. Meetings, Deliverances, Coming-Of-Age Days, celebrations…they all come and go.

This…

This is what matters. The moments in between.

Mom finally pats my knee before pushing herself to her feet.

“We’re going to head home too. I’ll see you tomorrow, my girl.”

“Okay. Love you. Be careful.”

She grins at me.

I’ve said it every time they leave me.

Despite there not being much left in the realm to worry about, I’ll always say it.

Dad leans down to me, wrapping his arm around me as he gives my forehead a kiss.

“I love you, my shooting star.”

My eyes close.

“I love you, Dad.”