“I’m scared to change any of what we have,” she whispered. “I don’t want to lose this and who I am. I’m happy.”
“I know, but we cannot stay the same forever. One of us was bound to find someone who would love them, and sister dear, it looks like that is you. It will take time to adjust together, Ellen, but is it not worth at least trying if you love Gray?”
“He didn’t want to try,” Ellen said. “And what do you know about working things out?”
“He had just found out thugs had hurt you and rushed over here not knowing what he would find. Gray walked into your room and there you were lying on your bed bruised and hurting. Surely, he is allowed a moment of panic-induced rage. Love does not make us sane people, sister.”
“What do you know of love, Leo?”
“Absolutely nothing but what Uncle Bram and Aunt Ivy have taught us.”
“I fear our differences are irreconcilable,” Ellen said.
“Don’t be pathetic, of course they’re not. The man is knee-deep in love with you. Fight for him, Ellen, and then be my strong, domineering sister and show him how he cannot live without you just as you are.”
One minute she was looking at Leo’s smiling face and the next she was back with the naked man. But this time he was turning, and she saw his identity.
“Ellen!”
Leo was shaking her when the vision faded.
“It’s Brownly,” she whispered. “He is the naked man. The one with the tattoo on his forearm.”
“Brownly, the man who came to the bookshop saying he’d bought theBlackstead Bestiary?”
“Yes. He has the tattoo, Leo. Don’t you see? It connects him to everything.”
“Are you sure?”
She nodded. “He came to get the book, but if he’s one of them, perhaps he knew George was dead, or did he send someone to kill George, and they couldn’t find the book… I don’t know. But we must tell Gray!”
“Take a steadying breath now, sister. You are not yet back to full health. We will inform Gray, but I must have your word. You will do as I say and take no risks?”
“I promise, Leo.”
“Good girl, I almost believe you mean that. I’m sure your besotted detective would have.”
They walked slowly back inside.
“I’ve been looking for you two!” Alex ran down the stairs.
“Well, you didn’t look far. We’ve been seated outside for at least thirty minutes,” Leo said.
“Do not speak to me in that voice.” Alex pointed a finger at him. “You could have both died.”
“When Gray’s Aunt Tilda showed me your watch, Leo, and Ellen’s Lottie necklace, I knew you were in danger. Uncle Bram and I left the house at a run, and when we reached you, we didn’t know…” His words fell away as he exhaled slowly.
“I’m sorry, brother.” Leo gripped his shoulder, and Ellen took his hand.
“We are all right, Alex.”
“I keep reminding myself of that.”
“Now what is it you wanted us for because we need to go at once and find Gray, Ellen has had a vision,” Leo said.
“I think Gray is in danger,” Alex said. “His Aunt Tilda showed me a grave, and it had his name on it.”
“What? No!” It was a cry torn from Ellen.
