“I’m a lucky man,” he said. “I know you said you’re fine, Mo, but I’d be a whole lot more comfortable if you spent a little more time around here. At least until I find out who was behind it.”

“I’m okay, Ethic,” she assured. She wanted to do exactly what he was proposing. Retreat to him, to the safety he guaranteed, but she knew it might ruffle Bash’s feathers, and she couldn’t rock the boat right now. “I just want to be at home. If I feel unsafe, I’ll come to you. I promise.” She lied right to his face, and it made her feel horrible because if no one else deserved her honesty, he did.

Ethic pulled Morgan in for another hug before they joined the rest of the family in the living room.

“Mo, I can try to fix that hemline if you want. I should remember enough of what Nannie taught me to do that,” Alani said as soon as Mo walked into the room. It was just like her to see a need and attempt to fulfill it. The people she loved hardly ever had to ask. Alani sat on the couch holding Messari to her chest as he fought the sandman with all his might. His little eyes closed every few seconds only to pop back open, then droop again. Morgan warmed at the sight of the two of them. Alani really filled a huge void in all their lives. Her children called her their La La. Morgan loved the way Alani loved on them.

“Thanks, Alani. That would be perfect,” she answered. “I can take him.”

“He’s fine right here, Mo. I love holding him,” Alani said, closing her eyes for a few seconds as her hand rubbed circles against Messari’s back three times, and then she gave three pats. A pattern that lulled him to sleep. “He’s getting so big. I have to do this while I can. They grow up so fast.” Alani opened her eyes and changed the subject. “How do you feel about a graduation dinner?”

Morgan frowned as uncertainty crept up her spine. “Hmmm. I don’t know. The last party in my honor was a disaster,” she said.

“Doesn’t have to be a big deal. Just family. You worked really hard. You deserve to celebrate with the people you love,” Alani said.

“I guess something small couldn’t hurt. Maybe just dinner at a restaurant or something,” Mo answered. “Where’s Bella and Eazy?”

“Eazy’s out back with Yolly. We’re about to plant some things in the garden. Bella’s with Hendrix,” Alani answered.

Morgan lifted stunned brows to Ethic. “By herself?”

“I got eyes nearby,” he said. “The illusion of freedom.”

Morgan snickered. “Is that what you did with me?” she asked.