352 Kitten Troubles

(Winona)

The sun’s setting as we make our way back to Gus’s mansion. Viktor walks beside me, his quiet presence seeming to keep the kids in check as they walk just in front.

I push Henry in his pram. Maybe they are all worn out after-all.

Bobby is walking behind us, carefully carrying the kitten he found. It’s curled up in his arms, purring contently. I can tell he’s already attached, and that’s probably going to be a problem.

Jayden has never been a fan of pets. I’m not sure how this will go.

The mansion looms ahead, grand and overwhelming. I hope Jayden will be back soon.

I glance over at Viktor. “I’m still not comfortable with how far apart everything is in the house. The kids’ rooms are nowhere near us. What if they need something in the middle of the night?”

He nods, understanding. “The staff will be very watchful, and there are monitors you can turn on in each room. You’ll be able to hear them, even if they’re far away.”

“That helps,” I admit. But the truth is, I don’t like it.