Chapter 766: Cupcake

I didn't linger. Went immediately to Meira's quarters, shed the ridiculous outfit, slipped back into my jeans and food-coated t-shirt while my sister waited for me in her bedroom. Emerged to hug her.

"You call me anytime," I said. Leaned away. "Any. Time."

Meira sniffled, shrugged. "I'm okay," she said. "But that was harder than I thought it would be."

"Want to come home for the night?" I reached for the veil, felt Ahbi welcome me. Her sadness joined with mine. Odd to find her upset, considering it was her idea to make Dad Ruler in the first place. But my demon grandmother changed a great deal since her soul bonded to the Node keeping Demonicon's planes in alignment. Softened and became more human, if that was possible. Lost the deep, compelling drive of political maneuvering, which had existed most of her life.

Amazing I loved her way more dead than alive.

Meira shook her head, backed away with a firm smile. "I have to sit through the banquet," she said. A little too brightly.