Going Down in Flames (Going Down in Flames #1)(106)

Weird. “I thought you grew up together.”

“Walk and talk.” Zavien grabbed her elbow and pulled her along. “Your grandmother walks fast for an old woman.”

As they walked down the hall, a light several hundred yards away became brighter. The back wall was constructed entirely of glass. Potted plants lined the floor, leaving a narrow path for walking.

Her grandmother stood in an open area surrounded by blooming plants. The sweet fragrance of different flowers mingled in the air, creating an exotic perfume. White, wrought iron tables dotted the indoor courtyard. One of the tables was set with fine china. Napkins folded into swans sat on top of the plates.

She realized her grandmother was waiting for a response. “This is beautiful.”

“Thank you. Everyone please have a seat.”

Bryn sat and accepted the cup of coffee Zavien offered.

Abigail served plates of French toast with caramelized bananas. The luscious cinnamon, banana, and maple syrup smell made her mouth water. Before anyone could ask a question, she took a bite of French toast and savored the sweet cinnamon caramel combination.

“Bryn, how do you plan to comport yourself when you return to school?” Lillith asked.

So much for eating in peace. And what did comport mean? Not wanting Jaxon to realize she didn’t know the meaning of the word, she guessed. “If Jaxon annoys me, I’ll shoot fireballs at his head.”

Zavien chuckled.

Jaxon rolled his eyes. “I’ll avoid her. She’ll avoid me.”

“People will expect you to behave the way you always have,” her grandmother said.

Bryn sipped her coffee and considered the situation. “It’s not unreasonable to believe we’d return to school on better terms. Jaxon came here to prove he wasn’t behind the poisoning.”

Jaxon’s eyes narrowed. “I also did it to help you.”

“I saved your life. Don’t get snippy with me.”

His coffee cup hit the table with a smack. “I came to secure protection for your life. Might I add that my father was less than pleased with my choice?”

“Fine. The fact that you stood up to evil incarnate cancels out what I did for you.”

“My father is not evil.” Jaxon spoke through clenched teeth.

Unaffected by his temper, Bryn sat back and crossed her arms. “Well, he’s not warm and fuzzy.”

Frost shot from Jaxon’s nose as anger made him lose control. He glared at Bryn, unable to speak without shooting frozen flames.

“Temper, temper,” she teased.

He growled, rattling the plates on the table.

Lillith patted her son’s arm. “Calm down. You’ve both helped each other. When you return to school, your relationship should be less inflammatory. You two should learn to coexist. You never know what the future might bring.”

“When you return to school, try cold civility,” her grandmother said. “Some people live their entire lives that way. It’s manageable.”

It was also sad, discouraging, and pathetic.

Zavien cleared his throat. “I won’t be riding back with you. I need to fly back to school and see to the campers. We’re supposed to pack up at noon.”

Crap.

After Zavien excused himself, Lillith reached down beside her chair and picked up two shopping bags. She handed one to Jaxon and one to Bryn. “I took the liberty of replacing your book bags since they were damaged in the explosion.”

Bryn pushed away the memory of searing heat and flying debris raining down on her. She reached into the bag and pulled out a midnight-blue leather satchel. It felt like silk. She inhaled the new leather scent and ran her fingers over the silver stitching. It was beautiful.

“Thank you. I’ve never seen anything like this.”

“Try looking over here.” Jaxon did not sound pleased.

His satchel was the mirror image of hers except the stitching was black.

“Don’t you like it?” she asked.

“It’s an exceptional bag. However, it is one of a matched set.” He pointed at her new bag.

Bryn laughed in spite of the situation. “Lillith, did you buy us matching his and hers bags?”

“I found yours first, and I loved it. When I saw the matching bag with the masculine stitching, I had to buy it.”

Bryn hugged the bag to her chest. “I’m keeping mine. Do what you want with yours.”

“Thank you for the thoughtful gift, Mother.” Jaxon’s words dripped sarcasm.

“You’re welcome.” Lillith grinned. “I love giving people gifts. I’ve already started my Christmas shopping.”

“Speaking of the holidays, Bryn, I think you should join us for Christmas Eve dinner,” her grandmother said.

She almost spat out her French toast. After swallowing, she said, “I’d love to, but I planned on going home.”

Her grandmother’s chin did that jutting out thing again.

“Maybe Mom and Dad could come here with me?” Bryn said. “We could all be together. Wouldn’t that be nice after all these years?”

She held her breath.

“I suppose I could speak to your grandfather about having all three of you for a brief visit.” Her gaze came up to meet Bryn’s. “If he says no, will you still come?”