Zack Lane—yes, that Zack—is also a part of my late childhood.
Back when we were kids, he used to follow Raven around like extra luggage.
But after we all hit adolescence, he stopped visiting often and evolved into the… flirty Labrador dog version of himself.
"Thank you, sweetheart. I was so glad you called, even though it was about—"
He didn't get to finish.
Before Zack could complete his sentence, Raven yanked me behind him and shoved Zack backward.
"Thanks for dropping by, mate. Why don't you wait outside? I'll join you soon."
Zack stumbled a step back into the corridor—but of course, didn't lose his stupid balance or his stupid enthusiastic smile.
"Ouch, so rough. I like—"
SLAM.
Raven shut the door in his face before he could finish that line.
Then he turned toward me, looking very pissed.
"You have an amazing talent for ruining the mood. Why did you call him?"
"I didn't call him!"
I raised my hands defensively. "I… kind of received your call by mistake while half asleep. He said something about a family meeting and being late, so I gave him the address to pick you up."
He exhaled sharply.
Thank god he was at least listening.
"I appreciate it… but next time, don't answer my calls. Ever. Okay?"
I nodded.
I knew this time it really was my fault.
No point arguing.
He stepped forward and cupped my face gently, tilting it up so I had to look into his eyes.
"I'll be back soon. Then we're going to talk. A sober talk. I promise, Chibi."
I held his wrist, feeling his anger fade into something soft and warm.
His sweet words… always get me.
"Fine. You better keep your word."
"I will."
He pressed a kiss onto my forehead—soft, warm, and full of a promise he didn't say out loud—then turned and walked out.
I watched his shoulders tense as he left.
I always knew his family wasn't normal.
I just… never had the courage to ask him what exactly was wrong.
I closed the door and leaned against it, feeling butterflies flutter in my stomach.
Maybe… maybe I should think seriously about his confession now.
Before I could even explore that thought, the doorbell rang again.
I opened the door quickly, expecting to see my kitten back already—
But instead…
"Who…?"