Initiation

Samuel awoke the following morning to the slight noises of movement coming from the house. There was no denying the presence of others. Robyn and Adele cuddled into him, and he carefully eased out from under them. Before getting up, he kissed each of them tenderly on the forehead.

They looked so peaceful while sleeping—no, even more beautiful than when awake. The serenity of their faces was a rare contrast to the energy they usually exuded, particularly during their attempts to wring him dry, both physically and emotionally.

After a quick shower and dressing up, Samuel made his way downstairs. He didn't need to guess who had gathered in the meeting room; their presence was predictable.

He smiled casually at them as he walked in. "Good morning. I assume that last night the enemy made some moves.