Was there time to grab a cookie? That snickerdoodle had looked good. “Just a plan I have in mind. An impossible one.”

“Those are the best kind,” Emma said, smiling. “Keep in mind that you’re going through some major changes genetically, too. It’ll take you a few months to regain all of your strength, but then it’ll be amazing. So give yourself some time.”

Faith had already warned her about how tired she’d be. “Thanks, Emma.”

“Also, I looked at the blood sample I took from you the other day, and I still haven’t identified that foreign material in your system.”

Grace felt fine, albeit a little tired. “Is it something to worry about?”

“No, but I’d like to know what it is, and if it has something to do with being a Key. I’ll keep at it.” Emma reached for another cookie in her jacket pocket.

Grace had more important things to worry about than Emma’s research at the moment. “Hey. Do you have an unlimited supply in there?” Grace asked.

Emma grinned and handed it over. “No, but I can get another one from the kitchen.”

Grace accepted the treat before Emma could change her mind. She worried her lip for a moment. “Do you think the Realm will really declare war on the Seven?” It didn’t seem like a fair fight, but what did she know? The Seven had powers nobody realized, she was pretty sure.

“No,” Emma said, sobering. “Too many family members are part of the Seven. But I think the Realm might have to distance itself for a while, just to get things back on track. If we can.” She glanced at her watch. “I have to go. Already said goodbye to Faith and the rest of the gang. Stay safe, Grace.” With that, the queen turned and headed back toward the kitchen, no doubt for another cookie.

Grace munched contentedly on the pastry. Her burner phone buzzed, and she lifted it to her ear. “Hello.”

“Hey, friend. How are things?” Bobbi sounded a little frazzled.

“Good. How about you?” Grace dusted her hand off on her jeans.

Bobbi cleared her throat. “Not great. Brian broke his leg and will have to have surgery, my sister has lost her mind and gone back to her crazy husband, and Rosy has strep throat.”

Grace winced. “That’s terrible. I’m so sorry.” She wished she could tell Bobbi about the Realm splitting up and her mate becoming a possible enemy of the strongest immortals on earth, besides him, of course. Keeping this friendship one-sided was difficult. “Can I do anything to help?”

“Well, yes. I hate to ask, but I’m desperate. Is there any way you could come stay with Rose for a day or two while I take care of Brian in the hospital? I feel so torn—I don’t know what to do.”