House of Artifice

by Lyn Forester

  I smile at a fellow demi-Councillor that passes by before responding. “We’re both playing parts tonight.”

  “Not for much longer.” The murmurs around him become louder as he moves through the crowd. “I heard my brother talking on the way here. Negotiations are settled. We’ll be back to APA within the next twenty-four hours.”

  My heart trips with excitement. “Finally.”

  Weariness fills Declan’s voice. “Please tell Felix to be more circumspect. He’s going to get himself in trouble.”

  I spot the twins making their way back to me. “Tell him yourself. Hold on.” My hand lifts to my ear, and I hesitate. “Declan?”

  “Yes, Sparks?”

  “I missed you.”

  His voice roughens. “I missed you, too.”

  I pull the earbud free as Connor sets a jar of pale amber tea on the table. I reach for it and carefully drop the earbud in its place. When his eyes meet mine, I whisper, “Give that to Felix.”

  Connor takes it without comment and waits for Felix to pull out his chair for him before slipping the device to him. Felix’s eyes widen with surprise before he scurries away, hand over his ear.

  Connor sighs. “He’s not subtle at all.”

  “Nope.” I nudge my knee against his. “I heard good news.”

  “Oh?” He lifts his eyebrows. “Care to share?”

  “We’re going home.” When Connor looks confused, I add, “Back to school.”

  A broad smile spreads across his face. “Second best thing that’s happened tonight.”

  Heat creeps toward my cheeks, and I reach for the iced tea too cool me off.

  I never thought I’d say this, but I can’t wait to get back to the gilded cage of APA. Whatever might happen there, it will be better than the last week.

  I’ll have Connor, Felix, and Declan by my side with enough time to fight for our futures.

  ABOUT THE AUTHOR

  Lyn Forester graduated with a Bachelor in English and an Associates in Graphic Design. She worked in the graphic design industry for ten years before deciding to pursue her other life long dream of becoming a writer. She grew up reading mostly fantasy books, though later in life found a love of urban fantasy and science fiction. She currently works from her home in Washington State where she squeezes in writing time around a busy schedule. When not working, she can be found experimenting with new recipes, reading, or playing video games and the occasional board game.

  Follow on: Facebook and Newsletter, or visit her website at www.lynforester.com.

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