"He hasn't changed a bit," Serena remarked the moment they were on the other side of the portal.
Garrett exhaled sharply, jaw tight. "No. He didn't waste a second pulling threats."
He poured her a glass of whiskey, and handed it over. "Welcome to Darkhowler."
"Garrett," she said. "How are you alive? I watched you die."
Garrett stared at her for half a second. Then he burst out laughing. "Good to see you too, Serena."
He crossed the space and pulled her into a hug.
He pulled back just enough to look at her. "I'm sorry, Serena. I was supposed to protect you." He shook his head, voice cracking. "If I'd known you were alive, I would have found you."
"How did you know I was..." Serena started. Her voice trailed off, not wanting to say it.
Garrett took a sip of his whiskey and sat down in a leather armchair and Serena sat in one across from him. The fire warmed her soaked combat suit and damp hair.
