Page 113 of Demon and the Raven

“That it would want, more than anything, for you to no longer pose a threat, and then he’d want to gain control of the rift.”

“Why? So it can get across a legion of its nearest and dearest?”

“No,” he replied flatly. “So that it can make sure nothing else, and especially no gods, can ever cross through and end it.”

I shivered hard.

“It’s gonna be okay,” he promised. “I’m counting on us.”

“So am I.”

THIRTEEN

Lorne got us across town very quickly, and then we were out by a narrow part of the river, driving alongside it and then over a small bridge toward Haskell Manor. There was a long brick drive, under the canopy of tall elms, that I’d always thought was beautiful.

I could see where Allard Pace had begun work on the property. The circular parking area in the front had been cleared, and more red brick was visible again.

Lorne turned off the Jeep and twisted in his seat to face me. “Whatever happens, remember I love you.”

I shook my head at him. “You think you’re saying something comforting, but you’re really not.”

Flashing grin then, sudden and beautiful.

“You’re absolute shit at pep talks. James told me.”

“Don’t listen to my brother. He’s a liar.”

I grunted and looked around, hoping and not hoping to see the demon. It would materialize as someone; the question was who.

“Kiss me now for luck.”

I rushed him, taking his mouth and making him open for my tongue. The kiss was mauling, and I didn’t stop feasting on him until I got the moan I was after.

“I knew you two would drive out here if you knew the priest had come first.”

Breaking the kiss, we both looked toward the Greek-Revival-style mansion, where Tanner Murphy stood on the portico of the second story, looking down at us. Between the Corinthian columns and cast-iron balconies, it was an impressive structure. At the moment, however, knowing that there was a demon inside the man was disconcerting.

“When Father Dennis told me he hadn’t talked to you, I was worried I would have to call, so I’m pleased I didn’t have to.”

Lorne got right to the point. “Where is Father Dennis?”

“In here with me.”

Lorne got out of the Jeep, walked around to the front, and leaned on the hood. “Is he safe?”

“For the time being,” the demon answered.

Lorne nodded. “Why don’t you let him go? Xander and I will stay whether he’s here or not. He doesn’t have to be part of our conversation.”

“I think he does,” the demon replied, his voice cold and flat.

“A different question, then, if I may?”

The demon lifted his hand for Lorne to go ahead.

“Why choose this man? Why of everyone in town did you pick Tanner Murphy to possess after you killed the nymph?”

The demon chuckled, and it was not a good sound. “The nymph was hard to kill. Afterward, I was drained and had to rest.”