They sat around a large wooden table, children squeezed between adults, food piled high on every available surface.
Kaya found herself wedged between Veer and Mira, directly across from Kite, who kept watching her with that unnerving, knowing smile.
"So," Raven said, cutting into a piece of roasted meat. "Father sent word that you've been training the young warriors."
"I have," Kaya confirmed.
"And they haven't quit?" Talon asked, grinning.
"A few tried," Kaya said. "I didn't let them."
Talon laughed, slapping the table. "I like her already. Veer, you did good."
Veer's hand found Kaya's under the table, squeezing gently. She didn't pull away.
"How's Father handling it?" Raven asked, more serious now. "The marriage. The changes."
"About as well as you'd expect," Veer said carefully. "He showed up at the wedding. Didn't object. Even gave Kaya Mother's bracelet."
All three brothers went silent.
"He what?" Raven said slowly.
