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Then turning to his sister, he added, “Welcome back,” and leaned down to kiss the top of her head. “Enjoy your party.”

“Wait, I just got here—”

Alessandra stood with him. “I want to hear all about your summer,” she said to Laria, “after I walk Lawrence out.”

She didn’t give him a choice. When they reached the massive double doors, Alessandra grabbed his shoulder, putting some of her Cheld strength into it. He likely couldn’t walk away if he tried. Since he didn’t wish to embarrass himself in front of Kenton, he didn’t attempt it.

“What happened?”

“Nothing.” Hoping she didn’t notice the strain in his smile, he nodded back to the others. “Go catch up with Laria. I’ll talk to you later.”

She quirked her brow at him but didn’t question him further.

Lawrence opened the door. “Time to lurk in the shadows.”

“Good luck,” she said, leaving him with a soft smile. She closed the door behind her, but Lawrence didn’t move. He looked across the way to his own house, enveloped in darkness.

Could he do it? Could he really make a home in this place?

“You fool,” he said aloud to himself.

He’d lost his home, and he’d never have another.