Unlikely [C]

Chapter nine: Grace

Kuza was the first to see it. A ship on the coast. He wasn't sure what it was but he could several other small families of creatures hurrying towards it. He let out a soft cry, jumping in the air at the sight. Angelo gently kissed Chris's cheek, the shifter visibly relaxing.

"A little further." Chris whispered.

The four trudged on, passing by slowing families. Kuza and Ricky struggled to keep up with the older creatures, letting out pitiful whimpers every time they stumbled. It was hard for them. They weren't used to being so weak. Ricky finally collapsed onto the ground. Angelo stopped, glaring at Chris who tried to pull him forward. They both knew the consequences of being late but Angelo didn't care.

Angelo easily lifted Ricky, kissing his cheek as he ran with him. Chris let out a soft sigh as he picked Kuza up. He hated his lover being sad and knew if they left both behind he would be. Chris easily matched pace with Angelo. Kuza and Ricky clung to the older men, smiling as they finally relaxed.

Kuza didn't like the bright light. It hurt his now unchanging eyes. Angelo had managed to find a pair of sunglasses but knew they'd have to take them off. Kuza looked up at the large ship, his mouth open wide. He had never seen something as large as it and was amazed. He smiled at the word Graceland on its side.

"Safe?" Kuza whispered, looking at Chris.

"Yes." The shifter panted as they neared a ramp. Angelo slowed down, quickly yanking the sunglasses off Kuza.

"They'll be curious. It's best to come clean." Angelo stated. He gently stood Ricky on his feet. Chris did the same, gently grabbing his hand. They slowly walked up to the ramp, a lady with bright blond hair waiting for them.

"Hello!" The woman greeted. "I'm Maria. I'll be helping you board today."

"Um I'm Angelo and this is my family." He whispered, tired.

"Hm. Are you an angel?"

"Yes but I'm fallen. This is Chris, my husband, he's a shifted."

"And who are these two little ones?"

"Kuza and Ricky."

"What are they?"

"I'm a demon." Kuza giggled. He twisted his fingers together, tilting his head.

"Gargoyle." Ricky whispered, scared. He hid behind Kuza, blushing.

"Adopted?"

"Yes." Angelo nodded. He bit his lip as the woman wrote it on her clipboard. She stepped aside, smiling at them. "We can.. go?"

"Yup. Someone will meet you on board to give you your rooms." Angelo quickly hugged her, small sobs escaping his lips. "I do ask one thing. What's wrong with Kuza's eyes?"

"He... He got attacked." Chris stated. "A poacher had gotten him when he was a baby. It's how we found him." Chris quickly lied. The woman nodded, giving the small demon a sympathetic look.

Angelo and Chris smiled as they guided Kuza and Ricky onto the ship. Kuza clung to Angelo, confused about Chris's lie. "Why did he say that?"

"Sometimes it's better for a white lie than the truth." Angelo whispered, kissing forehead.