“Are you serious? We’ll have to ask Pops…”
Of course we’d have to ask Pops. The springs were enchanted territory — technically not within our jurisdiction. But Pops, Alek, had a history with that place. It was where he used to sneak our mother away when the world got too loud, too demanding, too cruel. She adored those springs. Said the water sang old songs, songs that reminded her who she was beneath all the titles and burdens. I figured Kat could use a reminder like that too.
"Already checked with Pops," I replied, letting a satisfied grin stretch across my face. “We have the green light.”
Keegan tilted his head and gave me a rare, genuine smile. It was the kind of expression he usually reserved for post-victory celebrations or shared beers after a hard training session. But this? Thi
