side of my head like it was his brotherly way of comforting me.
"You probably know the honest truth, but I'm not sure if I'm okay," I admitted. "Just taking a moment at a time and trying to get lost in the positives of our current situation. Is your news going to throw that over the ship of instability?"
"Not really," he admitted. "Just that Professor Phoenix wanted me to inform you that they've caught a mafia group that confessed to being the culprits of Leia's predicament."
I turned my head slowly to look at him as he stared forward. His eyes were full of seriousness, and it almost left me wondering if he was avoiding my gaze solely because he wouldn't be able to hide his thunderous anger.
"Three of them confirmed Ricardo's involvement and orders. He most likely found a way to give out orders in jail but the evidence is showing an added bonus."
"What's that?"
"Her sister aided with the kidnapping."
That was something I wouldn't have even guessed, and Fuwa took the moment to look my way and nod. "The FBI is still investigating, but there's more than enough concrete evidence that proves her participation, including her encouraging Leia to enter a warehouse, which we believe is where this group knocked her out and proceeded with their plans."
"I thought her sister was sick," I whispered and looked forward as I tried to ignore my riled emotions.
"Sick as in mental. Bipolar disorder, PTSD, and a shit ton of other stuff that essentially makes her a walking psycho rather than a prostitute," he seethed. "Sad that she was being threatened because she wanted to help her sister. Little did she know her sister wanted her out of the picture because she wanted Ricardo's attention only on her.”
I didn't say anything as I took a moment to acknowledge this new information. Wherever Leia was, I wondered how she'd even fathom the truth. If she could even see what the ultimate source of her demise was.
All I could do was mentally pray she was in a place of peace.
"What's going to be the punishment, then?" I finally asked.
"Not sure. Ricardo may get the death penalty. He has enough crimes on his list. But I think they're trying to locate every associated gang member, so they can ensure there's no backlash with his death."
"Intriguing," I replied as he slowly picked Elsa up and flicked the ball of underwear to the bed, which made me smirk. He rose up and turned to face me.
"Other than that, the professionals are handling things. I simply wanted to keep you informed."
"Thanks, Fuwa."
He bobbed his head. "Have fun."
"You're not aiming to interfere?" I inquired out of curiosity.
"Nah," he replied and turned around. "I figure you all deserve a bit of quality time."
Rising up from my spot, I moved to give him a hug from behind. It had to be unexpected to him because he stiffened just a bit, but then relaxed.
"W-Why are you hugging me?"
"I wish I could remember the life I lived in the realms above to be blessed with a protective brother like you."
There was a moment of silence between us before he sighed and whispered, "You will one day. Until then, get used to your protective familiar brother."
"And Elsa's uncle," I concluded.
"Ugh. Sure," he huffed. "Only because I'm in-"
"Yes, yes. Cause you're all godly and mighty. Go away," I concluded and released him.
"Rude," he whined but sounded pleased before he turned around and reached out to pat my head. "Let go a little," he encouraged softly. Then he was gone before I could even question the hidden motive.
"Fuwa is such a caring familiar brother," I whispered with a tiny smile.
Guess I'll take his advice.
5
Romantic Date And Blowing Flowers
"What is this?" I inquired as my lips curled up as I admired the romantic setup in one section of the backyard. The spot was like a sectioned off patio with a huge hot tub.
That was only the icing on the cake because the entire fenced space was decked out with hanging lights that were each lit with tiny candles, the flames adding to the cozy aesthetic. Red and black roses were set out in various places to add to the mood.
There was a table covered with various wines and beers, and soft music played from the mini speaker on the other table that had various finger foods.
Even with it being early winter, the entire spot seemed to be heated, from the black wooden surface beneath my feet to the way the