Page 98 of Thicker than Water

“You’re definitely not what?” a smooth voice from behind me asks.

I turn around, slightly startled.Howdoes she move so quietly? It’s going to take me a while to get used to it.

I flash Lily a conspiratorial grin. “Oh, nothing. We were just chatting about…clean up crews.”

“Sounds dull,” Celine replies. “I’m glad Renata deals with that sort of thing.”

She takes me by the waist and kisses me. I swoon in her arms, leaning into her kiss.

Never mind…I’mnevergoing to get used to this. I always want to appreciate it.

“Bye, Lily!” I call as we head over to the elevators.

We take advantage of every moment together, kissing in the elevator like teenagers. She holds me so closely, I feel like I could melt.

I know how dangerous this world is…but still, I feel so safe with her. I know she would do anything to protect me.

And I would do anything to protect her.

Too quickly, we make it to the rooftop floor. It’s still winter, so it’s completely deserted, except for the two of us. I wave my hand tomagically unlock the service shed and retrieve my broomstick stashed inside.

“It’s a clear night!” I shout joyfully, looking up at the wonderful expanse of dark blue sky.

“A perfect night,” Celine echoes, already hovering slightly off the ground. Then, with a mischievous wink, she takes off, up into the air.

“Hey, wait for me!” I laugh, swinging my leg over my broom handle and clearing my mind.

I swoop upwards into the night sky, joining the stars and the perfect sliver of the moon.

It’s different, riding in the city. It’s so much brighter. The buildings are reflected in the nearby lake, their lights shimmering on the glass-like surface of the water.

I do miss the country sometimes, and its long, sunny days.

But as I feel the thrill of the crisp wind against my skin, I can’t help but think…

That the night sky isn’t so bad.