Oh, God. Carver closes his eyes tight, fighting past the lump in his throat. Forget it, he wants to say. That doesn't matter. That was all a bad dream. Pope wouldn't hurt you, he loves you, he loves all of us so much. We're family, don't you remember? We don't hurt each other.

But that would be a lie, wouldn't it?

He tucks his head against Bossie's, pulling him close. Rocking him gently. "It's okay," Carver whispers. "David, it's okay. I'm not gonna test you, I swear on Matthew."

This is the greatest oath they have. The only one even God cannot touch.

"I'm not gonna test you," he repeats.