“You mean it?” I asked.
“Yes, and no you don’t have to leave Crystal Glass,” she chided me. “I just can’t have any more lying, okay? I need honesty.”
“I can do that.” I grinned.
Slipping out of her front door, Mara kissed me as I pulled her into my arms.
“Your grandma can move with us to Ember Abyss,” I said quickly.
“What?”
“I’m not sure the best way to get you to work every day, but I can fly you both there. The accommodations will be a little different from here, but you’re both more than welcome to my home,” I said quickly. Mara had tears in her eyes, and I heard her grandma in the background almost yelling in excitement.
“Your grandma is going to have to agree to see royal healers, though,” I added sternly.
Mara nodded her head vigorously. “She’ll do it. Anything to live in Crystal Glass.” Mara’s smile faded slightly. “I’m sorry I took pictures of the castle, by the way. The only person who’s seen them is my grandma.”
I nodded, relieved she didn’t angrily send them off to some tabloid or newspaper.
“Actually, how about you quit that window painting job?”
She laughed, bemused. “Why?”
“If you’re still wanting to make and illustrate children’s books, I’d love to be your patron,” I said, trying to sound casual. She laughed again, but there were tears in her eyes. Happy tears.
“I would love that so much—that’s my dream, you know,” she wiped her eyes, but more tears came.
“I know,” I gently brushed the fresh tear from her cheek. “When can you move in?” I teased.
“How about tonight?” she quipped back.
Unable to hold it back any longer, I kissed her, swearing I’d never let her go again.