41. Kassian

Chapter forty-one

Kassian

Friday, December 22, 2023

I 've been working on the intricate carvings with Aiyana's dad for the last four hours. My back and hands are killing me, but I'm acting as if I'm completely unbothered because I know the moment I stop, he'll try to help.

I've got maybe twenty more minutes of carving to do before I'm finished and can head home to ice my hands.

"Thanks for this, Kas." He smiles down at me, gripping my shoulder as I work.

"Anything for my favorite guy." I peer up at him, then continue working, my hands beginning to shake a bit.

"You still planning to marry my daughter?" He chuckles, and that has my attention. I set my tools down and turn to face him.

"That's always been the plan," I tell him, my voice steady and clear. This is a man with a heart bigger than anyone else I know, but he values respect and tradition. The way I broach this conversation will decide my fate.

He grips my shoulder more tightly, his eyes sharp as they bore into mine. He gives me a nod and releases me from his grip. "Better finish up in here. I'll grab you a drink for the road," he tells me as he heads back into the house.

My shoulders sag, and I drop my head into my hands. "Fuck," I grunt, shaking my head. That didn't sound promising.

I finish up, ensuring every detail is perfect before cleaning up and putting the tools away, dumping the shavings into the compost pile by the garage door before heading back in the house.

I wash up in the bathroom sink and grab the drink from the counter, chugging it down in just a few gulps.

Zuni leans against the kitchen counter with an easy smile across her ruby-red lips. "You know, we're both very proud of the man you've become. I don't think we tell you that enough," she tells me, making my heart swell in my chest.

"Thank you, Etsi . I appreciate everything you've both done for me. Truly."

"The pleasure is all ours, Kas. Now, tell me, what have you and my daughter got planned for the holidays since we'll be on our cruise?"

I chuckle. "She hasn't told you?" She shakes her head. "We're spending the holidays with Alessandro's family."

"Ah, so your sister finally pulled it together then, huh?"

I smile, loving how invested we all seem to be in their relationship. "Seems like it." I wink.

She pushes off the counter to envelop me in a hug, pulls away, patting my cheek, and says, "Maybe my daughter will do the same, hopefully soon, for your sake." She winks, turning on her heel to head out of the kitchen, leaving me stunned.

Did she really just say that? I won't deny that it's pretty validating to hear her voice the words I've been thinking for years. But I can't help but wonder how Aiyana would feel if she knew.

***

When I get back, I shower and send Aiyana a text to update her.

His cough is better. He saw the doctor today and he got the all clear to go on the cruise tomorrow.

Little Viper

Thank you Kas, it means a lot that you check on him like that.

Anything for you.

Goodnight my little viper 3

Little Viper

Goodnight Kas.

I crawl into bed and pass out within minutes, exhaustion from the day taking over.