Not long after, the two of them dropped Lily off at the academy.
Along the way, Bruce contacted Lucy, letting her know he was already back and had just finished seeing Lily off. He added that he'd be home shortly. Ash remained with Lily at the academy. Somewhere during Bruce's absence, the little dragon had grown fond of the place, and even more fond of Lily's classmates.
Bruce liked it that way.
Lily needed Ash's constant protection. If the academy had become a place where Ash was comfortable staying, then it was best for the dragon to remain by her side at all times.
Soon, he and Sophie reached home.
Lucy was already there.
After the initial greetings and a brief exchange of warmth, nothing dramatic, just the quiet comfort of family, Bruce felt the familiar weight settle in his chest. This was something he had been thinking about for a long time now. Something he'd put off again and again due to the frequent interruption from his busy life, of trials and everything...
