“But I was under watchful eyes.” Valerie batted hers at August, mocking him. When he didn’t laugh, she took his arm and wrapped hers around it. “I lived. Now let’s go, or we’ll be late.”
“You shouldn’t go anywhere alone. What if something happened?”
“Then I would handle it, August. I’m not incapable.”
“I don’t know why I even bother anymore,” he sighed. “Maybe we should hire a different assistant? I wish you’d let me interview them with you. I have expectations.”
“You are not my keeper. Teresa is more than qualified. She knows this place inside and out. It was just a bad first day. Tomorrow will be better.”
“I know you hate surprises, but I have a surprise for you,” August said, laughing as he opened the door to the Facility’s large conference office.
The attendees stood as they entered, and instantly, her eyes settled on Jasmine. There was no hostility or irritation. Just a slight annoyance she was not notified or prepared in any to see the woman she attacked the week before. However, this irritation was far more manageable than their meeting at Mike and Major’s funeral. Valerie laughed and approached the woman as an equal instead of the threat she felt like before.
“Well, this is a surprise. Jasmine, I am so sorry for the way I acted.”
“Valerie, it is so much better to meet you under easier circumstances. I overstepped myself. Between grieving and the… feelings,” Jasmine said, motioning in the space between them.
Valerie knew. The closer they were, the stronger the magnetic charges repelled them both physically and emotionally.
“But now we have this!” Jasmine held up her wrist, which was wrapped in an elegant copper bracelet.
“Oh my goodness! They did it!” Valerie’s eyes went wide as she spun to August who beamed at her and nodded. Mouth gaping open, she swung back to Jasmine and hugged her. “I’m sorry; I’m just so thrilled. Like suddenly, I don’t feel so alone.” She wiped a tear away.
“I absolutely agree. But there is more news,” Jasmine said with an even wider smile.
“Oh, dear, I don’t think I can handle much more.”
Jasmine turned to the man who stood at her left, whom Valerie hadn’t noticed before. “This is David Murray. He arrived in Denver yesterday from New Mexico,” Jasmine said. He was a tall black man whose smile stretched his entire face. He sported a similar thick copper band on his arm. He joined hands with Jasmine and extended the other to Valerie.
“Nice to meet you both. I’m thrilled to join you and your cause. I’ve observed you through the media since the beginning. I apologize for the hesitation in reaching out.”
“We are fortunate to host you here in the Facility,” August said, shaking David’s hand after Valerie.
“Well then, I suppose we should get started.” Valerie took August’s arm, and he led her to her chair at the head of the enormous conference table. Valerie looked to the screen with Jacqui’s remote feed. “Did you see that?”
Jacqui smiled and clapped her hands together.
Duke called the meeting to order and gave Valerie the floor.
“It is extraordinary to have eight DiaZem in the United States together. We thank you all for the many gifts you’ve sent to our growing family.” As Valerie spoke, she reached over and held August’s hand. “It was a refreshing distraction from the attack on the Colorado State Capitol Building. We must discuss this threat objectively if we are to maintain our own morality and order.”
Valerie took her seat and allowed Duke to continue the meeting with intelligence gathered during the investigation. Her emotions still ran high in regards to the threats against her family.
“The Reactance is claiming responsibility for the attack on the capitol building,” Duke said. “Though they do not claim to be a terrorist sect, this event was an act of terror.”
“Then what do they want?” Valerie’s anger boiled beneath the surface.
“According to individuals currently in custody, the group is widespread with the goal of neutralizing the newly apparent genetic differences. They simply want life to go back to the way it was before the Awakening.”
“Simply?” Valerie was unamused.
Duke took a slow breath and went back to addressing the group. “Those in custody also claim to have no knowledge of the attack. Their stories are consistent—they were given duties for some kind of demonstration but not given any details as to what was going to transpire. This leads us to believe there are key leaders within this group, orchestrating the attacks from within the city government.”
August turned to Valerie, who remained stone-faced. She knew. Kevin fit every suspicion, but they needed more to go on.
“They are accomplices regardless of knowledge,” August answered.
“The Cherry Creek Mall incident was not an idle threat. The temporary quarters where Kevin Burton was staying were broken into while he was away last night.”
“Where does the Council lie in all of this?” Valerie questioned.
“With the progress of technology, our own and reports of the Council weapon, they still remain the largest threat to the region,” Duke answered.
“The Reactance killed my father, and you think bullies are the biggest threat?”
August placed a hand on her shoulder and stood. “Starting immediately, for the safety of our region, we will begin the deportation of all eastern allies. We will continue the investigation into the capitol attack and punish the inside threat accordingly. The country is teetering on the brink of war. Civil or otherwise. Until we identify specifically who is responsible for the attack and their motives, we cannot, as a just region, retaliate. What we can and will do is work to protect those within our authority from acts of terror. Jacqui, how long until the fleet is ready to receive DiaZem?”
“After incorporating a stringent screening process of service members involved, next week should see us fully staffed. I recommend the movement of all accepting DiaZem within five days of then.”
“When do you plan to depart to Hawaii?”
Jacqui smiled. “In two days. San Francisco is waiting for you, Jasmine and, assuming Mr. Murray will accompany you, the city welcomes you with open arms.”
August looked to Jasmine and David who nodded in agreement.
The Dallas DiaZem team displayed a map of the country. Mr. Hampton began his explanation of military assets. “Here is the progress of ground troops along the eastern border to protect against domestic attacks… There… need… wall… filtering… immigration…”
Valerie felt Lucas’ sporadic energy close by causing the feed to cut in and out. “Thank you, John.” Valerie stood. “I apologize for cutting you off, but we’re experiencing interference. I recommend we discontinue the meeting for now. I will post updates through more secure channels.”
Valerie pulled the power from every broadcast channel. She chewed her cheek and wondered how she would explain Jarrett’s energy to the visiting DiaZem.
August answered her worry, though, by changing the subject and addressing the couple. “David, Jasmine. You are welcome to stay here in the Facility; however, the accommodations at the neighboring resort are second to none. The train will take you straight there. We reserved the presidential suite for your stay before you head off to California. I am sure you are aware of the ceremony over the next couple of days. Our very own Hyka and Jack are getting married. I’m sure I speak for Valerie, as she has worked very hard over the past week to plan a special event for our dear friends. We would be honored if you both joined us in the much needed celebration.”
“Well, I’ve never been one to turn down a party invitation,” David laughed. “Count us in. It’ll be a nice send off as well.”
“Very well. Duke, will you show them to the platform?”
The pairs traded pleasant goodbyes. August led Valerie toward a nearby door.
“How much longer until this ghost is under control?” she whispered through clenched teeth.
“Come with me.”
“I’m serious! What if he finds a way to report our plans to the Council?”
“This way.”
“Ugh, are we going to the TTC? Can’t we use the baby’s room for secret meetings now? I need to have Duke radio Teresa and let her know where we’re going.”
“No. I dismissed her for the day.”
Valerie rolled her eyes and took a breath to curse him, but with just one step into the wide expanse of the TTC nausea gripped her. She yanked the closest wastebasket toward her and threw up.
“Water please?” she whispered.
Hyka produced a small bottle of water, and she immediately understood why he sent Teresa away.
“Thank God. You all can start, I’m listening,” she said as she sat on the floor right where she was.
“Along with the bracelets for your counterparts,” Doctor Kingston reported, “we developed a device to contain the rogue energy within the Facility. This is a simple locket.”
The man, dressed in all white, dangled a copper locket from a chain and offered it to Valerie. She accepted the gift and opened the latch. Inside held a picture of her on one side and August on the other.
“Why?” Hyka asked. She must have known Valerie was apprehensive about wearing a picture of August around her neck.
“Because if Dr. Jarrett still holds the DiaZem characteristics, he is drawn to Mrs. Russell. We believe his jealousy for August will cause him to attack the locket to destroy something she holds dear. Chances are he will try to destroy it to weaken your resolve, ma’am. In doing so, he will get trapped inside.”
“So, I have to wait for Jarrett to attack me and close him in this locket?”
“We developed the locket from copper and infused the metal with your DNA for further attraction properties. We lined behind the photos and around the lip and clasp with the same technology that mutes the DiaZem gene. August will give this to you as a gift at the rehearsal dinner. We want you to wear it from that night on, outside of your clothing. When you go to bed, make a routine of opening it and leaving it on your nightstand. This might put you a little further from harm's way, seeing as he likes to attack while you sleep.”
“How will I know if it worked?”
“Because we fitted the outside with your DNA. When his energy reaches inside to the pictures, it will close on itself like a magnet, locking Dr. Jarrett’s energy inside.”
“This is pure genius,” Valerie whispered as she rolled the locket over in her hand.
“Well, thank you, Queen DiaZem. We’ll do whatever we can to keep you safe.”
“You need a different assistant,” Hyka said when they boarded the train.
“Damn it, will everyone get off Teresa’s back? Seriously. It’s her first day. You’re not very welcoming yourself, Hyka. You yelled at me when I asked you if you would wear earrings during your wedding.”
“I get stressed out, okay?”
“I’ll be careful around her, but I won’t fire her after one day.”
When they reached their apartment, August turned the key and let Valerie and Hyka in. Jack waited inside with Kevin and Caleb.
“I hope you don’t mind,” Kevin said apologetically as he stood. “I thought I would spend time with Caleb before the rehearsal tomorrow.”
“Well, how nice of you,” Valerie replied “And since we’re all here, August and I want to offer you a position.”
“A new position?” Kevin’s jaw clenched.
Valerie looked to August who nodded at her to continue. “Yes! I really need some representation on the aircraft carrier. We were hoping you could command the military forces involved with the fleet. The highest military rank on the ship.”
“Val, I can’t leave the way things are right now.”
“Dad wanted you both to go.” Valerie studied her brother’s reaction. “He gave me a letter at the cabin before…”
Kevin nodded and wiped a hand down his face. “His dying wish was for me to live in the middle of the ocean?”
She nodded to her brother, not wanting him to get the hint she was trying to keep an eye on him. “We can discuss it more later. Are you hungry?”
“Pizza rolls!” Caleb yelled.
“Pizza rolls?” Valerie laughed. “When have you ever had a pizza roll?”
“Max makes garlic bread knots with pepperoni and cheese in them. The kid loves them,” Jack explained. “We had them for lunch, but there are extra in the kitchen I can heat.”
“I’ll do it. Thank you, Jack. August, are you hungry?”
“Beef Wellington? Prime rib? I can only imagine that the most amazing woman I know can make the most amazing dishes.”
“With a five-second notice, I can cook something in the microwave. I’m sure there’s a can of Spam floating around here.” The news of Jarrett’s impending capture made it easy to cover the apprehension she felt around her older brother. “I’m kidding. I had fresh steaks delivered today. Thank goodness we have time to try out our new kitchen.”
“Sold!” August said, pointing at her like an auctioneer. “I’ll change and be back to help prep.”
She watched him leave with a smile on her face. It wasn’t until the door closed she realized the two men were watching her.
“Well, that’s progress,” Jack said.
“Stop your speculating,” she said and pointed at the men.
Valerie heated Caleb’s dinner while she prepped for the adult’s meal. August returned to the kitchen in a white T-shirt and jeans. He looked comfortable. Not just in his clothes, but like they had always been together. The familiarity made her miss Scott. Instead of dwelling on the pain, she looked at August and smiled and threw a bundle of asparagus at him.
“Can I trust you know what you’re doing with this?”
“I do. I could get used to this,” August said, reaching for her hand.
“I’m trying.”
“I’ve noticed.”
“None for us, thanks,” Jack said, walking Hyka to the door.
“Okay, we’ll see you guys tomorrow then,” Valerie waved a knife goodbye as they made their way out. “Kevin, you’re staying, right?”
“I think I’ll try my luck with your cooking.”
“Hardy har-har,” Valerie mocked.
She worked dutifully, determined to remember how to make the perfect steak. Scott liked his medium, and cooked all the meat the same. If August requested his well done, she might seriously reconsider their relationship.
Kevin helped Caleb set the table for the meal. Deep down she wished this was the norm and not the exception to moments with her brother. Eggshells under foot, Valerie knew he could switch his demeanor on a dime.
“So. You got a new assistant. She seems nice.”
Valerie raised an eyebrow at her brother. Compliments usually came with harsh criticism. “Yeah? Do you know her?”
“I bumped into her today. She’s the one who showed me to my suite in the living area when I got here. Teresa, right?”
“You think she’ll be a good fit?” August asked him.
“Uh, yeah. I don’t see why not. I mean, other than leaving her bag in the apartment. She said you were kind of rough on her and her first-day jitters got to her. Especially after being dismissed early.”
Either Teresa had lied or was too distracted to remember where she had left her purse. “Are you advocating for her?”
“Nah, just explaining in case you didn’t see things from her perspective. Something about Hyka being mean and you two almost dying in an elevator.”
August stopped chewing and sent Valerie a look.
“We were never in any real danger. Everyone keeps blowing things way out of proportion. I promise I will start a fresh slate with her tomorrow.”
No one spoke for the rest of the meal. Valerie worked over everything Kevin had said. Why would Teresa divulge so much information to him in a chance meeting in a hallway, unless he was digging for information?
“Good thing y
ou moved in when you did. Did you hear what happened to your place?” Valerie asked.
“Oh, that it was broken into?” Kevin said, wiping his mouth with a napkin and placing it over his plate. “I told Dad months ago we had to do something about the hostility in the city. Now look what happened.”
“He’s dead, Kevin.”
“I know, Valerie.”
“Enough,” August said firmly. “Thank you for joining us for dinner, Kevin. I think it’s time to call it a night.”
Valerie put Caleb to bed after letting him say goodbye to his uncle. Desperately searching for some peace, she opened the door from her room to her daughter’s, turned on the light, and looked over the space again. After a few minutes, she took a deep breath and crossed the room to the rocker next to the crib. She rocked and placed her hands on her growing belly, humming a song she had learned in another life when she was little. Her mother had sung it to her.
Don’t you know that you are mine
That I will carry and feed and warm
That I will always see and watch you
Don’t you know that you are mine
Don’t you know how small you are
That I will fight and worry and love
That I will suffer and hurt before I let you
Don’t you know how small you are
Don’t you know that you have me
That I will fear and cherish and cry
That I will wait for the call from you
Don’t you know that you have me
She wondered who the little growing girl would be and whispered a prayer against being as stubborn as she was. There were so many hopes and intentions to protect her from ever knowing the pain and loss Caleb had lived though. Valerie wanted nothing more than to be there for her daughter, even when she grew up and found her own DiaZem partner.
August quietly opened his door to the room. “It feels like you’re gone when you’re in here. Like a part of me is missing. I’ll give you space; I just wanted to be sure you were okay.”
“I’m fine. You’re welcome to come in and be a normal person for a few moments with me.”
Shifting Power Page 15