It seemed only moments before Nikki burst through the back door, clutching a shopping bag, smiling and giving Lauren a hug.“I may have to go back af...er lunch to help my Mum get ready for some people who are coming for dinner, but she said she’d ring.” said Nikki, switching the kettle on. She took both Lauren and Mike by the hand.“What happened to the house rules then?“In a minute,” said Lauren, “Nikki, can I tell you something upstairs, just for a moment?”Lauren looked at Mike. He looked at. Are you two going with me or staying? I'd like someone to be here to keep an eye on Monique. She might try to hurt herself and may need assistance if my commands don't hold."Chloe's eyes widened at my last statement. "Master, you're strong. You shouldn't doubt your abilities." The strength of my commands haven't been tested against the manipulations of another Mind Magi yet, so we can't be sure. I would rather have someone here that can call for help than no one at all."Chloe got up and dropped. Her home had been showcased in Boston Magazine for its creative restoration. Mostly it was just home to her, not a show house. Her design studio was on the lower two floors with a smaller space for her retail shop. Her calendar was booked at least two years in advance for the larger events but she always found time in the schedule for her local clients, many of whom were now her friends. None of the success went to her head though, she just loved her work and was so very grateful others enjoyed. " Thank you, honey, I do feel quite nervous—this is the first date I've been on since I met your father. I don't count you, of course," she smiled, "you're special."The doorbell rang; Eddie had brought flowers and expressed his appreciation for how Mum looked, then she introduced him to me. He was a little shorter than me, stocky with broad shoulders but starting to develop a gut. He didn't look in the peak of physical condition, but he seemed pleasant enough, and he was most attentive to.