“But I could have protected them!” Our parents did everything for us. Worked, took care of me and Liam, kept a roof over our heads even after we started moving around. And on top of that, they were also protecting us from a whole other world? I can’t help but think of every time I didn’t listen to them or got upset. They didn’t deserve it.

“Now they’re gone,” I say softly. “They’re all gone.”

“Family doesn’t end with death,” Anna says with one of her terrible reassuring smiles. “They’re still there for you, just not in the way you might think.”

I almost laugh. Only Anna would think ghosts are a comforting thought. Something leans into my leg, and I look down to find Max’s tail curving around it.

“And you’re not alone,” she adds. “It’ll be okay.”

The words flip a switch, and my anger dies. It’s such a normal thing to say, and yet I needed to hear it. Liam said it to me a thousand times, his unyielding optimism sometimes more frustrating than our situation. Even as we sat on the side of the road eating cheap burgers and soggy fries, he’d say it. It’ll be okay.

Optimism. Hopefulness and confidence about the future.

We have new information about Kaden and the man he works for. We made it back safely.

And I’m not alone.

Anna leads me toward the house, Max trotting at my heel. The front door swings open on its own, and we’ve barely taken a step inside when a voice rings out. “Annabella Neviah Ballinkay!”

Nora’s in the kitchen with her hands on her hips. Max takes one look at her and bolts back out the front door. I wish I could follow—she has the exact same you’re in so much trouble look on her face my mom would get.

Anna shrinks as if she might disappear into her sweater. “Yes?”

“Gran called. You went after a wraith?”

“Um, it was an accident?”

Before Nora can respond, another voice booms, “Anna? Is that you?” A bear of a man emerges from inside the kitchen. His features are soft and kind, melding together as he grins.

“Uncle Roy!” Anna goes to hug him, but he beats her to it, scooping her up and lifting her off her feet. He spins her once and sets her down with a laugh.

“I’m so glad you’re home!” she exclaims. “I’m surprised the house let you in.”

Roy grins. “We’ve come to an understanding.” He pats the wall and the paint comes away on his hand, where parts of his pale skin are wrinkled and red with old burn scars. He makes a face and wipes his hand down his pant leg.

“Did you bring me anything from Ireland?” Anna asks hopefully.

Roy barks a laugh. “Again? I’m here nearly every month!”