Page 105 of Crimson Skies

The little boy nodded. Morgan unlocked the terrace door and stepped outside. A soft breeze tickled his skin and ruffled Noah’s hair as he crossed the terrace.

Loki’s sleepy voice rose behind them a moment later. “What’s the matter?”

The imp rubbed his eyes and padded over barefoot to where they stood by the pool.

“Papa,” Noah repeated confidently.

He pointed north.

Loki sucked in air. He met Morgan’s gaze, his own round with shock. Morgan swallowed and dipped his chin. There was no denying the message his soul bond was relaying.

Cassius was close.

Tears welled in Loki’s eyes.

A star flashed in the dark. It rapidly grew in size, lighting up the sky above San Francisco.

By the time Cassius landed silently on the terrace, Loki was sobbing and Morgan’s cheeks were wet with tears. Only Noah remained composed, although he couldn’t hide the awe brightening his face as he watched Heaven’s Light fade around Cassius.

“Papa,” he mumbled.

Cassius’s chin trembled as he beheld their son for the first time.

Noah wriggled in Morgan’s arms and reached out to the demigod. Morgan put him down gently. The boy hesitated before tottering toward Cassius. He lost his balance a foot from him.

Cassius scooped him up in his arms before he could fall. He propped the little boy on his waist and gazed solemnly into eyes an identical shade of gray to his own. “Hello, Noah.”

Noah touched his face with a chubby hand. He beamed. “Papa!”

Cassius’s face melted into an expression of pure adoration.

Morgan rubbed his eyes with his hand. Loki wailed, tears and snot making a mess of his face.

Cassius finally met Morgan’s gaze. The bond that tied their souls burned brightly as his mouth curved into the most dazzling smile.

“I’m home, my love.”

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