Penelope’s eyes widened and true fear glittered in the golden orbs.
“She’s fine,” he said quickly, realizing she was expecting the worst. “In fact, she’s here.”
“She’s here!” Penelope shot to her feet.
Before she could step away, Obsidian reached for her, grabbing her wrist and pulling her back down.
“I need to see her,” she said, attempting to pull away.
“First, we need to discuss a couple of things.”
“Like what?”
“Well, for starters, your friend doesn’t have any idea who we are. Orwhatwe are.”
Penelope frowned.
“And until I discuss the situation with Michael, you can’t say anything. I’ve asked Reidar to keep her separated from the others for the time being. And you’re more than welcome to hang out with her, but under no circumstance can you tell her about us.”
“Why not?”
“We took a vow to keep our existence a secret from the humans. And until Michael gives us the go-ahead, we have to protect our identity.”
“So why did Reidar bring her here?”
Figuring it wouldn’t hurt to tell her, he smiled. “Looks like your best friend is Reidar’samsouelot.”
A smile slowly formed on her beautiful face, then Penelope laughed. “Seriously?”
“Yes.”
“So she’s what? Moving in with him?”
Obsidian shook his head. “The last member of thefiestreighwho found hisamsouelotwas cast out by Michael.”
“Cast out?”
“Of Heaven. For the time being, of course. He was allowed to live out the remainder of his days with his beloved here on Earth.”
“Where is he now?”
“Oh, they’re both in Heaven. This was nearly three hundred years ago.” He squeezed her hand. “I have to discuss the situation with Michael. He’s the only one who can decide whether Reidar and hisamsouelotremain with us.”
“And if they don’t?”
This was the difficult part. “Michael will wipe their memories and implant new ones.” He kept his eyes locked with hers. “Winnie won’t know you if that happens. It’s for your safety, as well as hers.”
“Would he do that?”
“He’ll do what he feels appropriate to ensure the safety of the humans we’ve vowed to protect.” Giving her hand another squeeze, he forced a smile. “Why don’t you go see her. They’re in the game room on the second floor. I’ve got to meet with Michael before he gets wind of this.”
“How come Michael didn’t cast you out?” she asked as she got to her feet.
“Because I’m a warrior. My mission must be carried out regardless.”
Penelope seemed to study him for a moment before she leaned down and kissed him. “If it’ll help, tell Michael I said please.”
Obsidian chuckled. “Go on now. I’ll come find you once I’m done.”
