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“I insist,” Josiah said. “Besides, I’m taking the coffin home, so you need money, and you can use this to make a home for yourselves. I don’t want to find that your house has crumbled completely when I come back to visit.” Josiah winked.
“Thank you, I’ll consider it a bonus for putting up with your brother.”
“If he ever gives you any trouble, don’t be afraid to send him home.”
“Don’t worry, I will.”
“I’m right here,” he said, nudging his younger brother. “Now, get out of here before the sun starts to rise.”
Josiah hugged his brother tight, and Gideon sensed his reluctance to leave through the humor.
“Look after her,” Josiah said, hugging Aerin tight. Gideon noticed her claws pop out as he caught her off guard.
“Don’t worry, we’ll look after each other,” Aerin assured him, putting her claws away. “And we’ll have you and your family to visit once it’s safe.”
“Try not to miss me too much in the meantime,” Josiah said.
“Okay, that’s enough flirting with my woman.” Gideon peeled them apart.
Josiah blew Aerin a kiss as he boarded his yacht and gave his brother a final salute before heading inside. Gideon intertwined his fingers with hers, surprised by the sadness he felt watching his younger brother leave.
“It’s okay to be sad,” Aerin said, reading his emotions. He kissed the back of her hand, thanking her for reassuring him. “But this is your last chance to leave this cozy little seaside town,” Aerin said, resting her head on his shoulder.
“I’m not going anywhere. You’re stuck with me for a little while longer.” “How long’s a little while?” she asked, mocking him. “Maybe I should start charging you rent?”
“I think this ought to cover it.” Gideon nudged the chest.
Aerin knelt down and picked up a few gold coins. She whispered something into her palm, and held her closed fist over the water.
“What are you doing?” he asked, curiously.
“I took something precious from the sea. The Sea Goddess kicked up the storm that lead me to you, so I’m returning something precious in tribute,” Aerin said, dropping the coins into the water. “We’re even now.”
“You and the Sea Goddess might be even, but I’m still upset about you sending the Kraken after me,” he huffed, while she sealed the clasp on the rest of the gold.
“And how would you like me to make amends?” She stood on her tiptoes and kissed one cheek and then the other, toying with him.
“I can think of a few ways.” Gideon tossed her over his shoulder and picked up the treasure chest in his other hand.
“You’re going to ruin my reputation, Mr. Blackwater.” Aerin giggled, not putting up a fight.
“Reputations are overrated. Now let’s go home and ruin something else,” Gideon said, holding her tight.
“Sounds like the perfect way to start eternity together,” Aerin said as they found their way home, together.
