Brenna, Killian, and Brenna's father—Gabriele Rossi—stood next to a bed containing the still form of Sharon Rossi.
Sharon had been almost fifteen years younger than her, with a new baby to boot, and yet she lay in the stillness of death.
It seemed unfair.
Her dragon said softly, We can't bring her back to life. All we can do is love Brenna as if she were our own and help her any way we can.
Lorcan stopped behind her and wrapped an arm around her waist. He said nothing, but she leaned against him for support.
They stood there watching the family in the room when Bram's voice said from behind her, "I think it's time we enter and console them."
Stonefire's leader hadn't blinked twice at postponing negotiations with Lorcan. He truly cared for his clan.
Lorcan pulled her to the side to allow Bram to enter first, and then they followed.
Bram placed a hand on Gabriele's shoulder. "If there's anything I can do, Gabriele, tell me. You're clan and we look out for each other."
Gabriele nodded. "Thank you, Bram."
Bram spoke again. "Evie and I insist you stay with us for at least a few days. We can help take care of wee Ethan while you handle the mourning arrangements."
Gabriele swallowed, but didn't cry. Brenna, on the other hand, was pale as a sheet, the poor dear.
Caitlin lightly touched Lorcan's side and he released her. She went to Brenna. "My condolences, Brenna. I know that means little, but you will always have
me, if you need a motherlike figure to talk to."
Turning, Brenna gave a small smile. "Thanks, Caitlin."
She hugged her and Caitlin held her tight. Brenna was at least grown, but glancing at her baby brother, it reminded her too much of her own children losing their father early in life.
Once Brenna released her, Bram took his turn hugging the female.
Killian touched her shoulder and Caitlin embraced her son for a few moments. More than ever, she was determined to make the most of the time she had left on earth, never taking it for granted. It would be her goal to get her children, their mates, and their families all together in one place again. Even if she had to reach out to the various dragon clans in Ireland, she would do it to help make her goal a reality.
Her dragon spoke up. Let Teagan handle it.
Killian's voice prevented her from replying, "I hope you understand that we're going to have to cancel our dinner plans for tonight."
She touched his cheek. "Of course I understand. Your mate and her family need you. And you are always there for those who need it." Uncertainty flashed in his eyes. She stood on her tiptoes and whispered into his ear. "You are still reliable, Killian O'Shea. There may be a few obstacles coming, but you love hard and deep. You won't fail any of us."
"She's right," Brenna interjected.
Killian glanced at his mate with guilt. "I can't guarantee it, Brenna. You know that. But I'm thinking of taking up Trahern's offer to act as a test subject."
Anger flashed in Brenna's eyes. "Don't even think about it. I'm not about to lose you as well."
"But—"
"No buts. I love you, Killian O'Shea, and that means any and everything that entails. The question is whether you love me enough to try for a future together, rather than deciding one on your own."
Caitlin had no idea what had transpired recently between her son and Brenna, but she held her breath awaiting his answer. She only hoped he wasn't a fool to be noble and throw his chance at happiness away.
He finally answered, "Together, then."
Brenna nodded. "Good." She sighed and some of the fight ebbed out of her posture. "Then the first thing is for us all to go home and take care of Ethan. We can return to the real world tomorrow." She glanced at Bram. "I hope it's okay we stay with you too?"
He nodded. "Aye, of course." He moved his gaze to Caitlin. "You can come as well, as long as your mate promises not to kill me in my sleep."