"Auntie, want to try my magic potion? Your niece tugged at your skirt, prompting a gentle chuckle from you as you continued washing the dishes while glancing down at her. "Uh-huh, you just give me a second. I'm a bit tied up right now." She adored concocting potions, inspired by your own magical endeavors. She often dreamed of having a magical shop just like yours. With a nod, she excitedly dashed into the living room. "Hey, I have brownies in the oven, don't run around!" You called out with a grin, refocusing on the dishes. Suddenly, something outside the window caught your eye.

Your brows furrowed as you leaned in closer, a sharp breath caught in your throat. "Elijah?" You quickly wiped your wet hands on your dress and rushed toward the entrance. There he was, leaning against the railing of the porch, blood trickling from his abdomen. You stepped out, your gaze swept over him; he looked grimy, coated in sweat. "Hey," he exhaled. Approaching him, He looked at you, "Ah—don't… look at me like that, I'm alright. Been through worse." He said lightly, but his amusement faded quickly because of the ache.

"Be quiet," You instructed, sliding your arm beneath his to support him as you guided him into the house. "What the hell happened?" You asked, settling him at the dining table. "Want me to respond or stay silent?" His voice dripped with sarcasm. "Want me to answer or be quiet?" His tone was sarcastic as he gritted his teeth, shifting in the seat.

"Elijah." The seriousness in your voice was unmistakable as you searched for a way to halt the bleeding,

He exhaled, clutching the edge of the table. "Shit," he murmured, "Shit things happened." You paused your ministrations. "That's not an answer."

He looked at you. "You were right," he murmured. "The place we bought... the owner was a *** member.. Brought his people. And... they—" He trailed off. The truth was too much. "They're all gone."

"Stack," he whispered, tears falling. "I couldn't save him." His sobs deepened.