51 Lets Go Home Ash (2/2)

She blinked up at him in disbelief. ”You honestly think so? I don't think I'm all that nice. I've been told I'm selfish for keeping my power to myself when it could be used to benefit others.”

No doubt by her terrible relatives. He almost wished her uncle was back in front of them so he could tear the useless fairy limb from limb.

”You are not! I told you before; I was the coven leader so it was my job to be selfless and deal with it no matter how I felt. My kin cared for me in general terms but never bothered to learn what I wanted or show any real degree of consideration. You did back when we were practically strangers,” Ash said fervently.

”You are the kindest fae I have ever had the good fortune to meet. You are fun to talk to, make me laugh, and have overall been an excellent distraction while my world was falling apart. You almost make me believe that I can actually continue living on even though everyone I loved is gone.

”Yes, your skills are helpful but I don't want us to stay friends because of that. It's because I enjoy spending time with you. My friend Ruby Gardner. Nothing more, nothing less. Do you understand?”

Her cheeks pinked adorably and a dazzling smile lit her face. ”You really mean that, don't you?”

Ash nodded. ”Yes. I do. So why don't we forget about revenge and moneymaking and your uncle for now and go home. I'll keep you safe inside the blood barrier until this all blows over; I finally figured out how to do a full dome.”

Ruby tilted her head quizzically. ”Home?”

He coughed in embarrassment. They had been staying together so long that it came out due to habit. ”I meant my castle. You did use it as your permanent residence on the bank account application and you already have things set up there for your comfort so I thought—”

She placed her hands on both sides of his face and squished his cheeks so he couldn't talk anymore. Her smile this time was even more brilliant than the one she gave him before. It was filled with joy and her eyes crinkled at the corners like they wanted to join in on the fun.

”I get it. Let's go home, Ash.”

Something tight in his chest loosened at the way Ruby said his name. It was similar to the way Ariadne and little Ezra used to say it; infused with genuine affection.