78. Margo

Margo clutched the phone to her ear, tears of relief streaming down her face as she listened to her parents voices. They were scared, confused, angry, but safe.

I dont understand, her mother said, her tone wavering between fear and indignation. Why do we have to hide? We didnt see any crime committed, and we cant testify about anything, so why do we need to be in the witness protection program?

Its just a precaution, Mom. The people handling the case were afraid that the cartel would kidnap you to blackmail me so I wouldnt testify against them.

It wasnt a complete fabrication because the fear was that the Doomers planned to use her family as a negotiation chip, just not for the reasons she had told her parents.

I see. There was a long moment of silence. How long do we need to stay away? Robs wedding is in three weeks, and so much still needs to be done. Lynda is going to be hysterical.

Margo closed her eyes. Shed forgotten about that.

Everything was already paid for, and all the invitations had been sent months ago. They couldnt postpone the wedding now.

Two weeks max, Mom. I know its terrible timing, but what can we do?

Her fathers calm voice came on the line. We know its not your fault, Margo. Im just grateful that youre okay and that we have people looking out for us. He paused, and she could almost see him running a hand through his sparse hair. Are you safe, though? Are they taking good care of you at the place they are hiding you in?

A watery chuckle bubbled up in her throat. I couldnt be safer locked up in Fort Knox. I have a lot of people taking care of me. Her gaze drifted to Negal, Kian, her best friends, and their mates. Im surrounded by wonderful people.

After a few more assurances and tearful I love yous, Margo ended the call.

As the adrenaline that had been fueling her during the call drained away, leaving behind bone-deep exhaustion, a wave of dizziness swept over her, and she leaned against Negals chest. Im so glad this is over, she whispered. Well, almost. She looked at Kian. Two weeks, right?

He nodded. Turners people planted hidden cameras around both homes. Lets hope no one suspicious shows up over the next two weeks.

I sincerely hope not. If they have to stay in hiding longer than that, my future sister-in-law is going to assassinate me. Margo let out a shuddering breath and burrowed deeper into Negals embrace.

Sweeping her gaze over her friends faces, old and new, she felt a rush of gratitude for all they had done for her.

Toven, a god, a royal god, had been ready to drop everything and fly to her familys rescue.

Thank you, she said, her voice thick with unshed tears as she met Tovens gaze. For being willing to put yourself at risk for me and mine. I cant even begin to express what that means to me.

Toven smiled. Theres no need to thank me, Margo. Were family now. Besides, I would have been in no danger, and Im not saying that to boast.

I dont know about that. She chuckled. I don’t mean about your formidable godly powers. Im well aware of those. I dont know if we are a family yet. That depends on whether I will turn immortal.

You will. Kian surprised her by the conviction in his voice. I can welcome you to the clan with full confidence that you will meet the necessary criteria, which are immortality and loyalty to the clan.

Mia heaved a sigh. I wish Dagor, Aru, and Negal could join the clan as well so we could all be together.

Margo swallowed past the sudden tightness in her throat. She wished for that, too, but it was impossible to get everything she wanted.

Well make it work, Mia, she said. If everything goes well, and I transition, Frankie and I will call you every day from the trail. She looked at Frankie. Right?

For sure. We have satellite phones, and they work everywhere.

It was a bittersweet promise, and Margos heart ached for Mia, who would be left behind. But Mia had Toven, her family, and an entire warm and tightly knit community of the clan, so it was all good.

Margo had Negal, Frankie, Dagor, Gabi, and Aru, and that was enough. She would miss her family when she trekked through Tibet or wherever else their search for the missing pods led them, but as much as she loved her parents and her brother, knowing they were well and safe would have to be enough for now. Perhaps she would be able to go for a short visit before leaving the country.

Besides, immortality meant that one day, she and her besties would get to do everything they had dreamt of doing together as little girls, including having families that would be close to each other and husbands who would be best friends.

If she transitioned, all of their shared dreams would be fulfilled, just not all at the same time.

Kian rose to his feet. Thanks to the merciful Fates, one more crisis has been averted. He chuckled. I hope my chat with Jasmine wont lead to the next one.