or something to be here though?" I inquired. "Like any benefits?"
"Nope," the two of them answered in unison.
"Then...you're just here to protect me?"
"Essentially," Gabriel replied.
"Technically speaking, we're going to be dorm mates," Keru revealed.
"That hasn't been confirmed," Gabriel argued.
"Nothing needs to be confirmed," Keru fought back. "We're technically bonded with her now. Unless you want three other strangers around her all the time."
"What do you mean by bonded?"
"You talk too much," Gabriel scolded Keru. "We're going to be late. We'll talk about the details of everything later. Alice, make sure you bring your wallet since you're going to need a student ID card made."
"Right." I'd forgotten about that from the instructions.
I guess I really have to ask the rest of my questions later.
"Can Cyrus come to school with me?" I inquired, noticing how she was now relaxing on my leg when I tried to get up.
"Yup. Familiars are allowed on campus and in class, but I'd let her stay here for now. It's going to be a little hectic today and you don't want her getting lost," Keru suggested.
"Or attacked by other familiars," Gabriel added. "It's against the rules, but there are always a few rotten apples that love to break them."
"Alright." I leaned down to scoop Cyrus up, and looked at the island for my new phone that Keru had set up. "I'll let her stay in my room then. I'll be back real quick."
"Remember your ID," Gabriel called out as I raced up the stairs.
"Okay!"
After placing Cyrus on my bed and making sure she had some food and water placed for her, I quickly gathered my wallet and anything else I'd need.
Staring at the mirror, I was impressed to see that thrilling joy was still thrumming through my expression. All the information I'd obtained so far was definitely overwhelming, and yet, I was even more excited about all the possibilities to learn and grow.
Lowering my stuff to the little desk, I quickly opened my phone and fund the text bubble Keru had shown me. Finding Dad's number, the only one in my phone so far, I decided to text him real quick.
* * *
ME:
Hey Dad. This is the first time using such a nice phone. Keru presented it to me, and I couldn't be happier. I've always missed receiving gifts from you. I know Grandma and Grandpa meant well, but it makes me so happy to be able to at least talk to you. I'm heading to my first day of class... I'm super nervous that I'm going to screw up, but I will do my best not to. Just thought I'd let you know...and thank you for this phone and sending Gabriel, Keru, and Westley over to protect me. I'm not sure if it's worth their free time, but maybe they'll end up being my friends while I'm here.
* * *
"Alice!" Gabriel called out. "I will abandon you here if you don't hurry up!"
"Coming, Angelic Asshole!" I huffed back, quickly sending my message and adding a final message.
* * *
ME:
Never mind. Gabriel's an Angelic Asshole. Oh. Don't show Grandma that. Thanks, Dad, and love you very much - Alice.
* * *
Smiling at the screen, I quickly closed the app, only for the phone to vibrate and a response to flash on the screen.
* * *
DAD:
Glad to hear you're safe and enjoying the company of those three. Yes, Gabriel is rough on the edges but he means well. I'm sure he'll soften up within time. I'm happy my gift can make a difference for you, Alice, and don't be nervous. Be who you've always been and try to have fun. I love you, too, and no worries. Won't be showing anything to your grandparents (they hate my guts, remember?). Have a good first day of school.
* * *
My heart leaped out of my chest, and I almost squealed in happiness. The thought of being able to communicate with Dad so easily was like a gift from the heavens, and it made today even more special than I'd originally thought it would be.
New school, the ability to talk to my dad, and being around three intriguing guys. I may need a few lessons on blazing history, but school may start off on a positive note.
"What is that?" Gabriel questioned with a judgemental stare.
"A granola bar," Keru answered.
"We just had breakfast ten minutes ago."
"And now I'm hungry!" Keru whined. "Why are you bothering me?"
"You eat too much!" Gabriel complained.
"Is your stomach the one growling up a storm this morning? No,"