Page 108 of Black and White, Twice the Might

Xander scoffs. “You’re not old, Grandpops.”

John laughs and hugs Xander. “Thanks.”

“How about a coffee?” I offer, leading the way out of Enoch’s bedroom and down the stairs. The boys follow.

“Perfect, thanks. This house is amazing, and perfect for the four of you.”

“It really is, and it’s thanks to Enoch that we found it. He spotted it from the road.”

“Yep, it’s all down to me. I’m totally amazing.”

Xander playfully pushes Enoch into the wall. “You wish, dweeb.”

Enoch pretends to glare at his brother. “Did you find this house? Nope, loser.”

“Brat,” Xander shoots back angrily.

“Turd,” Enoch spits out.

I go to tell them to behave, as I can see a full-on argument breaking out.

“Okay, enough you two,” John gently chastises. “Everyone’s had a fun evening, don’t ruin it now.”

Enoch drops his head. “Sorry, Grandpops.”

“Yeah, sorry,” Xander says.

“I would just like to go on record and say that not all of us had a fun evening,” Sly points out.

I smile my husband’s way. “Well, I did.”

John laughs. “Did the light witches finally beat the grey and dark ones?”

“Oh yeah, and in spectacular fashion, involving rain, lightning, boulders, and us being awesome.”

“Next time,” Sly mutters.

I pat his arm. “Sure love.”

We have drinks, and a little while later, John leaves. We all wave as he drives off. I usher everyone inside and lock the front door. Sly walks off to the kitchen.

“Time for bed,” I tell my brothers, “And no staying up late playing games either.”

“We won’t,” Enoch says, breaking out in a yawn.

“Me either. Can I use your book ordering account? Some of my books were destroyed, and I want to read them again.”

“Use my account, Xander,” Sly says, walking back towards us from the kitchen. “You know my passwords.”

“Thanks. I won’t go mad; it’s only three books.”

Sly shrugs. “I’m not worried, I trust you.”

Xander gives him a blinding smile. “Thanks. I’m off to bed now, see you both in the morning.”

Enoch starts up the stairs. “Me too, night brothers.”

After a round of nights, the boys go up to their rooms.