Last night, when the police announced the last of the criminals were caught, we used the excuse to celebrate. Dad made a batch of his award-winning chili, and we delivered it to John. Sometimes it’s the little things that help the most.
“He’s amazing,” I tell Ella. “He’s sweet, thoughtful, and kind. Good-looking too, if you’re wondering, but in a broody, stoic way.”
“And the sex? You’ve had sex, right?”
“The sex… it’s, uh…” Even in the car, I flush, recalling how last night we fucked in front of a mirror.
Ella squeals, understanding my silence completely.
“Don’t tell anyone. I’m not ready. With everything happening right now, not even my parents know. A friend of theirs is in critical condition, and I don’t want to add anything more to their lives right now.”
“Okay, I won’t.” She pauses. “Sorry about your parents’ friend. All things considered, I’m just glad you’re all right. You need to stay safe, okay? I want you at my wedding.”
I swallow, freezing up, unable to reply. I don’t exactly feelall right.This ricochet between paranoia and lust is a rollercoaster. Adrial’s true form still haunts me. How his host body morphed, eaten by worms. I can’t shake the memory of his disgusting grin. My stomach roils with nausea, my vision blurring as my hands tighten on the wheel.
“I’ll be fine. Anyhow, how are you?” I ask.
“Busy too, I suppose. So many decisions for the wedding. I want it to be perfect, you know? Oh, and I should send you an email with a few ideas for bridesmaid dresses. Can you tell me which you like? I’m thinking blue to match your eyes. Or maybe an emerald green.”
“When are you dress shopping?”
“I was thinking of scheduling something for late next month. Although you don’t need to be there, there’s no pressure. The travel… I know you’re worried about money. Just tell me your size, and I can order it for you.”
“That sounds good. Send the email over, and I’ll reply as soon as I can.” I owe her. “In the meantime, keep me updated?” I park the car and tap my fingers on the steering wheel. A vacation does sound nice, and for a moment, I fantasize about traveling with Zuriel. “Don’t worry about the money. I’ll see what I can do. Sorry, again, that I’ve been quiet. I want to be there for you.”
“Okay.” I can practically hear her smiling on the other side. “I hope you can make it. And it’s okay. Life happens, and with everything, I’m glad you and your parents are safe. I’d love to see you. Oh, your man is invited too, if you’d want to bring him along. I’d love to meet him.”
“Umm…”My gargoyle doesn’t get out much.“I’d love for him to meet you too…”
“Sounds good. Talk later? It’s really good to hear your voice—just crazy seeing Elmstitch on the news.”
I chuckle. “Crazy, yeah.”
“Take care of yourself.”
“I’ll try.”
“If you need me, I’ll be there in a heartbeat.”
“Thanks,” I say, not sure how to add,stay the hell away from here.“Talk to you soon.”
As I unload Ginny, another car pulls up, parking nearby, a pink one I recognize all too well. Katie’s at the wheel, Carol’s daughter. The passenger door opens, and I spy her mom.
I stiffen. “Carol!”
Rushing to her, I help her rise from the car. She’s slow, deliberate in her actions, her motions certain and steady. The bruising on her arms is mostly gone, though there’s a scar on her cheek. I have to fight the urge to hug her—that’s not something we do. “It’s a relief to see you,” I say instead.
Katie waves, retreating into the shop while Carol lingers with me. Her kooky clay and cat scent, the sight of her dyed red hair, the pink of her sweater, every detail is more welcome than ever.
“I wanted to see the shop,” she says, casting her gaze over the sunset-colored street. “Katie says she’s been working hard.”
Her shop, like the jewelry store, looks good as new. The windows were repaired weeks ago. Most of the street has reopened, the nightlife busier than usual, and at this hour, the Watering Hole is just starting to draw a crowd. Elmstitch is always lovely in the golden glow of the evening.
Except for Bread & Bean, the red brick facade is still ash-covered.
Hopkins’ Museum is another holdout from the merriment. I haven’t dared reopen the curtains, and it’s not like I can manage the museum and be up all night. It’s just easier this way, staying dark and sleeping during the day.
Zuriel’s light, it’s more than enough for me.
