Page 68 of The Second Sight

“Through mutual friends,” Seven answered without hesitation.

I arranged the food containers on the coffee table, grateful for something to do with my nervous hands.

“Dad, the food’s all laid out for you in front of the TV,” I said, trying to redirect his attention. “You might need to microwave some of it?”

Dad glanced at the food, then back at Seven. “Will you be joining us?”

“I’ve already eaten, thank you,” Seven replied.

“Daddy, Seven’s going to drive me to his place,” I said. “His sister is having a little house party.”

Dad’s fork paused halfway to his mouth. “Tonight?”

“Yeah, we’re all hanging out,” I said. “But first, I need to grab something from my apartment.”

“I’ll wait for you in the car,” Seven said, his eyes meeting mine with silent communication. “Nice to meet you Mr. Bacchar.” Seven opened the door and left without waiting for a response from my father, which was good because he wasn’t going to get one.”

“Kasi, what are you doing?”

“I’m going over to Seven’s place.”

“Why?”

“Daddy, eat your food. You met him. He’s fine.” I headed for the door, feeling my father’s eyes follow me. “Enjoy your food.”

“When will you be home?”

“Probably tomorrow. I’m text you in the morning. Love you.” I took a few steps to kiss my father on the cheek. “Goodnight.”

“Hey, I love you.” My daddy grabbed me by the shoulders and pulled me into a warm hug.

“I love you too.”

“Your location stuff still on?” He asked.

“Yes, I never turn it off. Go warm up the food.” I stepped outside, closing the front door behind me.

In the night air, I walked the path and crossed in front of Seven’s parked car. Kei’Mani was standing out of sight on the side of the garage.

“This way,” I whispered, beckoning her to follow me around the side of the house.

I led her toward my apartment staircase. Dad had converted the space above the garage into an apartment for me when I turned eighteen. It was his way of giving me independence while keeping me close, especially after Mom left.

“Be quiet on these steps,” I warned. “They creak.”

Kei’Mani nodded. At the top, I fumbled with my keys before unlocking the door and ushering her inside.

“Nice place,” Kei’Mani said, her eyes taking in my personal space with obvious curiosity.

“It’s not much,” I replied. “But it’s home.”

Kei’Mani moved to the window that overlooked the driveway, positioning herself to see both the main house and the street. “You need to go back to the vampire,” she said. “I’ll stay here and watch over your father.”

“You’ll need to stay hidden,” I said. “He can’t see or hear you. He doesn’t know about any of this fairy stuff.”

“I’m very quiet,” Kei’Mani assured me.

“Thank you for this, looking out for my father.”