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“Savy is my soul bond,” I inform her, and hold out my hand again.

“Oh…ohhh…” Margarete stares at my hand as Savy steps toward me, lacing her fingers with mine. “This is spectacular.” She presses her palms together, holding them in front of her mouth. “We need to celebrate.”

“No,” I say firmly.

“Why?” she whines, dropping her hands to her hips. “This is the best news I’ve had since Rome bonded with Mara.” She throws her arm toward them. “Now they're happy, but the excitement has dimmed. They hardly leave their house, and have all these rules for my visits.”

“We had you over three days ago,” Rome says.

“Adeline was complaining the other day,” she continues, ignoring him. “We need to have a family dinner.”

“Will you invite your husband?” Rome asks slyly.

“You, hush,” she chides.

“Margarete, I appreciate you,” I say, and glance at Savy. “It’s been ten minutes since we met. We need some time.”

“Of course you do,” she says softly, smiling.

Rome grunts. “You just said—”

“I know what I said, Son,” she grumbles, tossing a strained smile over her shoulder. “It was just a suggestion. If Archer says he needs time, then he does. I’ll respect his wishes. I’m not that intrusive.”

“Should I list all the ways you are?” Rome drawls.

“Margarete, thank you for your understanding,” I say quickly. They could go on forever. I know they love each other, and Rome enjoys her presence most of the time. I’ve witnessed his mom’s deep dedication to her family, and we would never intentionally hurt her feelings.

“I’ll report back to the others,” she says. “Reach out when you have time.”

“I will.” I step forward and kiss her cheek. “I didn’t intend to worry you.”

“I know.” She presses her palm against my chest and stares at me. “I’m so happy for you.” She nods and moves away. “Savy, I look forward to getting to know you better.”

“Yes,” Savy says.

“Mom,” Rome says, pulling her to face him. “We’ll set something up.” He hugs her. “Say hello to Dad.” He releases her, and Mara squeezes her arm.

“Lace, how rude of me.” She escapes Rome's grip and jogs toward Lace. “Good to see you.”

“The day has been full of surprises,” Lace laughs. “I forgive you.”

“I better go. I left Arthur on a hammock,” she giggles, waves her hands, and disappears.

The silence almost hurts as the energy of the room leaves with her.

“I never thought I would meet someone with more energy than me,” Savy says, tightening her fingers. “I’m very curious, bond. Can we talk alone?”

“Yes.” I pull her from behind the counter. “Don’t interrupt us,” I command, glancing at each of them.

“I said the same thing,” Rome says.

“We won’t,” Lace says.

“There's a lamp back there. It’s glass,” Mara says.

“One gust of wind will shatter it,” Rome says.

I don’t bother to respond. Holding her hand tightly, I guide us through the shelves to the back of the room. There's a sitting area with a couch, chair, and a coffee table. Reluctantly, I release her as she sits on the couch. Standing in front of her, I hesitate, staring at my beautiful soul bond.