Dakota found Gage sitting in the main lounge of the compound. He was trying desperately to compose a text message on his phone with hands that shook violently. Probably an attempt to reach him. But there was no need. Leaning on the doorframe, Dakota cleared his throat. “How is life?” he asked in Creole. He was pretty proud of the pronunciation. And of his dramatic entrance.
“Oh, you bastard!” Gage’s voice cracked. He jumped up from his seat, ran over to his boyfriend, and embraced him. “Oh, you f**k. I thought for sure they got you. Or worse. You couldn’t call or anything?! God damnit!”
“I wanted to get back as fast as I could. And, nahh, c’mon now. There were only two of them, and we have magic necklaces. Ruined a good pair of jeans though.” He gestured downward at the damaged pants. “J
