The clubhouse was quiet, but not still. You could feel the movement—Kat with the boys and the moms in the common room, building lists like they were laying bricks for a future that finally felt solid. Koda’s voice carried through the hallway, all excitement and certainty. Jace’s quieter, steadier tone followed. Kat was guiding them, listening close, making sure every want and need was heard.
I stayed in my office.
Not because I didn’t want to be with them—but because I had to be here. The shield out back held Boris, and while he wasn’t going anywhere, we hadn’t had time to deal with him properly. That time was coming. Soon.
Luca and Matteo flanked the far wall, Salvatore sat near the window, his gaze sharp despite the exhaustion. My father leaned back in the chair opposite me, arms cros
