by Kelly Hall
Rebekah would never see herself as an old woman, and while that might seem like a good thing in an old woman’s eyes, Rebekah envied Lulu in ways that seemed ridiculous to explain. So she wouldn’t.
“I can’t believe they are falling for each other. What else has happened since I’ve been gone?”
Lulu pulled out a chair. “Pop a squat, honey. I’ll tell you everything you missed.”
Rebekah took a moment to take the towel off her head and toss it into the bathroom hamper, and then she hurried back to join Lulu. “I’m not sure I want to know all I missed.”
Lulu nodded. “I’m not going to lie. It’s been pretty bad. The kids had been at each other’s throats for days, with tensions high, but thankfully, once that smartass Gimble boy left with his suck-up friends, it eased up a bit. Of course, that wasn’t before those saucy photos of you dressed up like a tart in that whore-red dress were passed around.” She gave Rebekah a sideward glance.
“I know what it looked like, Lu, but—”
“But you like the bad boys, don’t you?” She waved her hand. “I’m not here to judge you, Huntress. I was a hot little number in my day too, and I stripped my knickers for a few bad boys myself.”
Rebekah shook her head. “But I didn’t strip anything.”
“Relax, honey. I’m telling you I’m not here to judge. I saw the photos. Who knew evil incarnate could be so sexy?” She fanned herself with her rag.
Rebekah looked down at her hands, which she wrung together. “You know what I was sentenced to do?”
Lulu hadn’t quite heard the verdict. Sometimes, the rumor mill was on snail speed. “I can imagine. The Church is a one-trick pony. They’ll make you prove yourself. That bunch of assholes is always wanting everyone to choose them. Well, I have news for them. I’m putting in my notice soon.”
The news came as a shock to Rebekah. She’d never guess that Lulu would want to leave the kids. “Are you?”
“Things are falling apart. The Church might be bringing in new gear and throwing me an extra soup bone or two, but I’m not stupid enough to think it will last.”
“What are you going to do?”
“I don’t know,” said Lulu. “Sit at the casinos and gamble, I suppose. At least until I can find a kitchen. I’ll find my way.” Lulu felt the sting in her heart but choked back her tears. She was too old to start over, and if she could find some kind of purpose, whether it be paid or volunteer, she’d be okay.
Rebekah hated to think of the woman not having a greater purpose, and knowing how much she loved Canter, Jarreth, and Delilah, she knew exactly where she belonged.
“You’re right about the Church wanting me to prove myself. They have sentenced me to hunt Kayne. They want me to bring him in, dead or alive.”
Lulu laughed. “What in the hell do they think they can do with him once they get him? He’ll rip them apart and eat their corpses, that one.” She had heard many tales whispered in the chow line about the vampire over the years. Wild speculation mostly, of that she was sure, but there was always a little bit of truth in every lie, and the same was true for idle gossip.
“I know it’s a fool’s errand, but I’m forced into a corner. If I want to keep my Fellowship intact, I have to make an effort. I’m gathering those closest to me to help me in my hunt. It’s going to take a lot of strategy and clear thinking. Planning.” She took a deep breath, hoping the woman would go for her idea. “Lulu, have you ever been to Ireland?”
The question came out of left field, and Lulu shook her head in response. “No, I’ve traveled many places but never Ireland. Always wanted to. I hear it’s beautiful.”
“I own a castle there, as you might know, and I’m sending Frankie there along with Liam and Mace Soto. I’d feel a lot better if you were there to look after them, keep them fed. And I have a kitchen there, three times as big as the one here. You’d be in charge of it, earn a decent salary, free room and board. And best of all, when me and the others get there, including Jarreth and Canter, you’d be back with your favorite bunch of hunters.”
She shook her head. “That’s a long way for Jarreth to go without his Delilah.”
“He’s already promised, and we’re going to get Delilah. If she knew you were going to be there, it just might help convince her.”
Lulu sat up straight in her chair. She didn’t want to jump on the offer. Instead, she needed to make it look like it took some contemplation. “Well, I guess I could help you out. You say free room and board, and I get the run of the kitchen? I won’t have some Irish asshole looming over me to get things done?”
“No, you run it your way, on your schedule, and you’ll make the budget and menu.” Rebekah hoped that last part would sweeten the pot.
“You’ve got a deal, Huntress. Just tell me when to pack.”
“You might want to get on that. I’m sending the others as soon as I leave. They have no place here and will be better off away from the new second commander.”
“I’ll be ready.” The old woman gave a wink, and then the biggest smile spread across her face.
A rare sight. Rebekah would remember it always.
The woman got up to leave, and as Rebekah helped her take her cart and dishes out of the room, footsteps sounded in the hall.
Before she could get around the cart and back into the room, Commander Fisk saw her. “Huntress?”
Lulu gave an apologetic look, and Rebekah waved her on her way. She turned and got a good look at the man causing everyone so much misery. His hazel eyes and ash-brown hair made him almost handsome, but they didn’t make up for the too-narrow face, and close-set brows, which made him look constipated or permanently annoyed, or perhaps that was just for her. “Commander Fisk.”
“You’re not supposed to be in the academy, so I’m sure you have an excuse ready for being here.” His voice did all it could to make him even less attractive. The holier than thou tone didn’t do him any favors either.
Rebekah shrugged casually. “I came to get my things. I was living here, remember?”
“You could have sent for them along with your assistant. I was under the impression that Commander Timms was taking care of that.”
Father Timms walked around the corner and frowned, seeing Rebekah had met the new commander. “Ah, Rebekah. You’re here quicker than I expected. How was your trip?”
“Fine, thank you, Father.” Rebekah and Father Timms had worked out their story on the plane ride home. “I hate that I couldn’t give you more notice.”
“It’s fine.” He looked over at Fisk and could see the man’s wheels were turning so fast in his head that they were about to start smoking.
Fisk stood up straight and glared down his nose at them both. “Did you enjoy your hot shower as well? Or did you wash your hair in the sink?”
Rebekah realized her hair was still hanging damp on her shoulders. “Yes, sorry. I did have a shower. I wanted to put on some clean clothes. I’m weary from travel.”
“Then you should stay the night,” said Father Timms. “It’s already a late night, and considering all you’ve been through—”
“I’m afraid that’s not possible. The Immortal Huntress has been banned from the academies and will not be permitted to stay, as I’m sure you’re well aware of.”
“Oh, I’m aware,” said Rebekah. “But I’ve come to help Frankie pack as well. She is my personal assistant, and Liam is in my care, and we’ve asked Ms. Soto to join us as well.”
“The academy will be glad to have the extra room. I hear the new counselor will be arriving soon, as well as Dr. Spencer.”
“Dr. Spencer?” Rebekah’s blood boiled. “Why is Dr. Spencer being allowed back in the academy?” But she already knew the answer. The Church saw him as a hero. “Are you aware that he threatened a pregnant woman and her unborn child?”
“The Church has no reason to believe that claim. Frankie Collins has more than proved herself as unreliable, not that what the Church decides is any of your concern now.
Gather your things and your friends and go, Ms. Ward. Before I have to call this in to Elder Wick.”
She gave him a hard look. “Of course.”
“And be sure that you do not come in contact with any of the trainees. It is the Church’s wishes that you have no further influence here.”
“Of that, I’m well aware. I’m sure your influence will be sufficient.” She knew that his attitude wasn’t going to win anyone over to the Church’s side.
“I was just coming to tell Commander Timms that more new gear has arrived.” He turned and addressed him, “Make sure you’re wearing the proper attire, Commander. I sent yours with Frankie. I’m sure the Church will be happy to know that their commander and priest will no longer be shacking up with their former counselor.” With that, he turned and left. When his footsteps were long down the hall, they walked into the room.
“He’s a ray of sunshine.” Rebekah had known it was going to be bad, but she couldn’t help but think it was so much worse, when she thought of that asshole running the academy. Knowing Father Timms would be joining her and the others before long left the academy with no hope at all.
“He’s completely loyal to the Church,” said Father Timms.
Rebekah wasn’t impressed. “Where’d they find him?”
“You mean you didn’t see the resemblance? He’s Elder Wick’s nephew.”
“Then I was right. There is no hope for this academy once you’re gone.” Rebekah walked to the kitchen to pour a glass of water. “So, what’s all this talk about you shacking up with Frankie?”
“Vicious rumor.” He shrugged as he walked over to join her at the counter.
She turned and leaned back against it. “Any truth to them?”
“We understand one another. We’re friends.” He shrugged it off like it was nothing, but in his chest, his heart beat a little faster.
Rebekah smiled. “Well, I’m glad you’re getting along. I guess I should go pack. Call Frankie and have her round up the others. We’re leaving sooner than we thought.”
Chapter 17
Jarreth lay in his bed while Canter finished up in the shower. He had already taken his turn and was now packed and ready to go. A knock sounded on the door, and he got to feet to answer it.
When he opened the door to find Aziel, he rolled his eyes. “I guess you’re going?”
“Yes, but don’t worry. I’m not going with you.” Aziel knew that would make the guy’s night.
Jarreth narrowed his eyes. “What do you mean?”
“Rebekah wanted me to give you the news. She has to go help Ignis. He was attacked by shifters, and they stole Stella and Luna.”
“Holy shit.” He let out a long breath. “Del sure picked a bad time to have a meltdown.”
“Yeah, I’m not sure that kind of thing works on a schedule, you know?” Aziel pegged Jarreth with a hard stare. “Just go get her. And don’t come back without her.”
“I don’t plan on it.” Jarreth shook his head, thinking of how stubborn and strong-willed Delilah could be. “You know her. Once she’s made her mind up, that’s it.”
“Except when it comes to you. She walks a thin line for you, and you know it. She took you back after being so determined she shouldn’t.” He leaned against the door jamb, knowing Jarreth wasn’t going to let him in, but then the young man surprised him.
Jarreth walked over and sat on the bed. “It took her two years to take me back and really mean it. How long will it take me this time?”
“I hope not long. I hate to think of her in that camp. It can’t be good.”
Jarreth looked up at him. “Thanks for giving me more to worry about. I swear, if Grady and the others are there and they let anything happen to her, I’ll kill them all.”
Aziel nodded. “I’ll help.”
Jarreth noticed the certainty in the angel’s eyes. “Do you love her?”
The question came so fast that it surprised Aziel. “Not like you do. But come on, she’s an amazing person and friend. How can I not love who she is?”
“Fair enough. And for the record, I wish you were going. I think if anyone could make her come back to our side, it’s you.” He still couldn’t believe that Delilah had chosen another side from him.
Canter walked out of the bathroom, drying his hair with a towel. “Hey, what’s going on?” He wasn’t used to seeing the two having such a heart to heart.
Jarreth took a deep breath to explain. “Ignis was attacked by shifters who took Stella and Luna, and Rebekah’s not going with us now so she can get them back.”
“Damn. A lot happened when I was in the shower.” He put the towel around his neck and turned to Aziel. “Are you going?”
“I’m going with Rebekah. I think she could use me with the shifters. You two can get Delilah and then call us. We’ll meet up and go with Rebekah from there.”
Jarreth was ready. “That sounds like a plan. I guess we don’t have to wait until morning, then.” He looked at Canter. “If we head out now, we could be in Utah by morning and halfway to the camp.”
“I’m not sure we can catch a ride out of here at this hour.”
“I’ll see if Father Timms can make that happen if you want,” Aziel said. “Where are you going?”
“Into the city. If someone could drive us away from the academy, we’ll Uber the rest of the way, at least as far as we can. Rebekah will have to give us those instructions tonight.”
“Then let’s sneak down to the commander’s quarters now and figure this out.” Jarreth couldn’t find Delilah fast enough. “Worst case, we’ll have to wait until morning, but I don’t think he’ll mind.”
The three of them headed out and managed to make it to the commander’s quarters without running into anyone but Frankie, who was on her way back to her room with an armful of Church issues.
As they walked into the room, Rebekah looked up from where she helped Liam with his bags. “Did Aziel tell you what happened?”
“Yeah,” said Canter. “What’s all this? Getting a jump on the morning too?”
Rebekah rolled her eyes. “Your new commander wants me gone, so I’m going to send them off. What’s going on? What, are you getting a jump on your morning?”
Canter exchanged a look with Jarreth.
Jarreth cleared his throat. “Yeah, if we can get permission to have someone drive us out. We’ll pick up a ride in town and get to the camp sooner. I don’t like her being there with a bunch of strangers and Grady Gimble. No telling if she even made it in one piece.”
Rebekah put her hand on his arm. “I’m sure that she’s fine.” She walked over to Father Timms. “They need a driver.”
“Get Eric Downey to do it,” said Father Timms, who was there to take the issued clothes from Frankie. “I can count on him coming back with the car in one piece.” He gave a wink.
Jarreth remembered the time they’d returned with the car a mess of blood. It had been in one piece, but he wasn’t going to argue.
Aziel clapped Canter on the back. “I’ll go tell him. I’ll make sure the car is gassed up for you.”
“Thanks, man. Take care of our Huntress.” He shook the angel’s hand.
Jarreth stuck his hand out, surprising Aziel. “Thanks. Wish me luck with Delilah.”
Aziel nodded, and without another word, he left to make the arrangements.
Rebekah walked over from the kitchen counter where she had written down the information they needed to find Delilah. “Ignis is better at giving directions, but this should get you there. Watch for traps on the perimeter. They don’t like anyone coming into camp unannounced, and they’ll take you directly to the leader. Tell them you’re looking for Delilah. Tell them your Huntress admired their leader, Patrick, greatly. That could help.”
“Thanks,” said Canter, taking the paper. “Take care of yourself. And we’ll see you soon, I guess.”
“Yeah, once Mace’s laundry is done and we’re all packed, I’m taking them by the airport. Lulu is going to go alon
g, so you’re leaving just in time. No telling what Commander Fisk will do about breakfast.”
“I’m sure the first years will be put to work,” said Jarreth with a laugh. “I’m just glad I don’t have to eat it.”
With hugs and well wishes, they left to sneak back up to their room.
Jarreth walked over to the closet and took out their duffels. “I don’t know about you, but I’m packing all of my personals. I doubt we’ll ever see this place again.” He looked up to see Canter staring at the floor. There was so much pain in his eyes that Jarreth knew it was about more than just leaving the academy behind or any of the other bullshit that the Church had brought upon them. “Are you going to go say goodbye?”
Canter swallowed a hard lump. “I don’t know what to say. I’m glad we’re going to get Delilah, but I can’t help hating the idea of leaving her behind, even though I know it’s how it has to be. Even if I could convince her to be with me, she can’t go. Her parents would never let her, and she’s still healing.” Even though she’d returned to training, she’d been on light duty.
“I’m sorry, man. I know it sucks.”
“That’s the understatement of the year, but I’ll be okay. I made my choice, and I guess I have to live with that.”
Jarreth didn’t get him at all when it came to women. “I guess. It’s not like you can’t change your mind, though.”
“Now? When I’m leaving? I don’t think that would be a good idea. Besides, she spent the past few weeks with Grady before he left.”
“I think that was more him than her, if it makes any difference. She was injured, and they do have a past. Plus, there was that whole you dumping her thing. I’m pretty sure it was just a rebound reaction and nothing more.” Jarreth hoped to make him feel better because he did care, and because he had to spend a car ride with him to Utah.
“I appreciate you trying, but could we please stop talking about her and just get out of here?” The longer he stayed, he had the urge to go and beg her to wait for him. It was bad enough he had to leave her in the academy under the rule of the Church.