“Family is family, Phoenix,” Kian says ominously. “No matter how they come to be.”
“Right. We’ll see how this plays out.”
“That we will. Does anyone else know?”
“Only Matvei.”
“Not your parents?”
“f**k no,” I bark. “And I don’t intend to tell them anytime soon. So I’d appreciate it if you don’t, either. And don’t tell your brother. Uncle Cillian can’t keep his goddamn mouth shut.”
“Jesus. I feel like I’m back in high school.”
“You were never in high school,” I point out.
“You’re giving me the experience now.”
“I don’t know why I call you.”
He chuckles low. “Don’t stop, okay, kid?” he says affectionately. “Any time, day or night. Just ring me. Your secrets are safe with me.”
I know I can trust Kian not to share this with his brother or my parents. They’re a tight-knit circle, but
