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“Nik,Jules,hi!”Natewaved at us from the door. His soft green cashmere jumper hugged his muscular torso and a warm smile sat on his lips.

I like this human.

“Did you have a good trip?”

“We did, thanks. My mum was so excited to meet Jules.”

“I can imagine.” Nikolai’s teammate grinned at us. “Vee and little Barney are out on the deck. Come on. You have a few minutes, right?” He led us through the living room and out onto a sprawling wooden deck. It still smelled of fresh wood.

Vee lounged in a chair, a sleeping Barnabas on his lap.

“Hey,” the massive Elvertritsch smiled at us. “Did you have a good time with your mother, Nikolai?”

Barney raised his antlered head at the sound of Bunny’s name. My pet gave a little yelp and launched himself into Nikolai’s arms. He tried to lick his cheeks.

“Yeah, we did,” he laughed, trying to get his face out of Barnabas’ reach. My heart swelled in my chest until I was so full of love I could barely breathe.

Bunny had replaced me as Barnabas’ favourite dad.

My little family.

“I think Jules might have enjoyed it, too. A bit?” Bunny’s eyes met mine. His bright grin made them sparkle.

“Oh, I had a fantastic time. I adore your mother,” I assured him.

“Sit down, please. I made pecan pie, a new recipe Nate’s mother gave me last time we visited.”

“It was my favourite pie when I was a kid.” The beautiful human gave his husband a dazzling smile. “And don’t tell my mom, but the one Vee makes is even better than hers.” He leaned down and kissed Vee’s brow. “What can I get you to drink, Nik?”

“Coffee for me. For you, too, baby?” Nikolai looked over at me. I reached out and threaded my fingers through his.

“Yes, thank you. Coffee is perfect.”

“Did you have a good time with Barnabas?” I enquired after I had tried the first forkful of pie. Itwasdelicious.

“Oh yes, it was wonderful.” Nate’s smile put his dimples on display. “He’s just so sweet. Vee was against having a pet, but I think Barney converted him.”

“Nonsense.” Vitus snorted, winking at his husband. “I simply don’t have any resolve when you pout at me, Frat Boy.”

Nikolai tried to disguise his snort as a cough and kept his eyes on his plate.

“We also loved taking care of the chickens.”

“I bet the girls loved you, Vee,” Nikolai deadpanned. For a moment, I thought Nate would choke on his pie.

He reached out and fist bumped Bunny, tears leaking out of his eyes.

“They made me their ruler, yes,” Vitus said dryly and took a sip of his coffee.

“You are welcome to see your subjects whenever, Vitus.” I didn’t know why I said it. It just slipped out.

“Oh my God.” Nate giggled so hard his face turned the colour of my favourite summer wine. Bunny’s shoulders shook as he tried to keep his laughter contained. Then it burst out of him. A disgruntled Barnabas jumped off his lap. My Wolpertinger gave him a scandalised look and settled back on Vitus’ lap.

“Sorry, Vee.” Tears slid down Nikolai’s cheeks. “So sorry,” he wheezed.

Nate seemed beyond words. He curled up in his chair, shaking with fits of giggles.

It was the arrival of another Elvertritsch that sobered the two humans up. I was sorry, but I hoped Vee wasn’t upset with me.