“No.” Sarai took the phone back. “Family weird.” Saniya nodded. “That makes sense.” Sarai typed. Sarai: Thank you for saying it plainly. She paused. Then continued. Sarai: You are not confusing me. I know what we are not. I also know Silver Crest became part of me in ways that did not end with the release. The reply came after a minute. Darius: That means more than I can say. Sarai: Do not make me manage your emotions, Alpha Vale. Darius: Yes, ma’am. Sarai laughed softly. Sarai: But I accept the protection. From the right place. Darius: Then you have it. Sarai looked at those words for a long moment. Then typed: Sarai: Tell Danica I am proud of her. Darius: She is standing beside me pretending not to read over my shoulder. Sarai: Tell her I said that is rude. D

