“Not likely.” Alden spoke factually, not the sort of trash talk that Conrad and I excelled at. And probably also literally because he usually did win, whether we were playing casually at their apartment or with Professor Tuttle for the show.

“I believe in you.” Milo saluted me with his water glass.

“Thanks.”

“Who needs more food?” Professor Herrera brought over a big platter of sausages and grilled vegetables, and Milo was first to leap up to help him arrange the food, as always. Thanks to Milo, I already knew the location of every specialty grocery store near us as well as exactly what size chicken our tiny oven would hold.

“I’m stuffed. But I’ll help with dishes,” Milo said, moving so Professor Herrera could pull up a chair. “And what’s the deal with the flyer on the fridge? You looking to replace me so soon?”

“You? You’re irreplaceable.” Professor Herrera gave him a fond smile.

“I agree.” My loyalty got a round of groans from everyone else at the table who was tired of us being so adorable. They could just deal with us being so in love. I’d waited forever for something like this, and I wasn’t wasting it.

“Actually, we enjoyed having Milo so much that we’ve decided to add a renter or two this fall.” Professor Tuttle tapped his cane against the patio.

“The Gamer Grandpa expansion pack. I dig it.” Kellan sat back in his chair with one of the sausages in a roll we’d brought with us from the city.

“They don’t have to game.” Professor Herrera laughed. His continual bid to get Professor Tuttle interested in different hobbies had been the source of great stories when Milo had been living with them in the spring.

“They don’t?” Conrad faked horror.

“They will learn,” I said all ominously to big laughs.

“Goof.” Coming around the table with his empty cup, Milo dropped a kiss on my head.

“You love me.” Tipping back in my chair, I gazed up at him.

“I do.” His eyes were as serious as ever about that. He could joke a lot more easily now, but never about that. And I never got tired of hearing it, either. “Now go win your game for me.”

“Yes, dear.” I pretended an obedience we all knew I’d never reach.

“Are you staying here or at Jasper’s parents’ place?” Jasmine asked as she grabbed one of the cookies.