Our relaxing weekend came to an abrupt halt just a few hours later. We were up at the crack of dawn, preparing for the trip. The twins had planned ahead, and already had a suitcase packed for each of us.

Alec had this uncanny ability to pop right out of bed and head for the shower. Kade trudged down to the kitchen on my heels, following the scent of caffeine. Two cups later, I no longer felt so cold and bleary. I left Kade in the kitchen to finish his own, and joined Alec in the shower.

“You nervous, doll?” Alec asked me, kneading the shampoo into my scalp while I leaned helplessly against him.

“Mm, just a bit.” I replied, sighing when he stopped to let me rinse. My throat clenched momentarily, the words heavy. “I don’t want anyone dying for me.”

Alec knew what I was talking about. They had also thought of the worst possible outcomes and what they might mean for us. War was a very strong possibility.

“I think it’s more than that now. It’s not only