Page 39 of Eight of Swords, Part Two

The thought of Penhalyx finally making good on his threat, of him hurting Mimi… it’s making him insane. Blaire pulls him aside when he’s on his third day with no sleep and signals to Zaitsev, who’s standing guard nearby, to make the wraparound.

‘Priscilla never spoke to Penhalyx.’

Lachlan blinks unevenly. ‘What?’

‘The call was intercepted. His voice was faked.’

‘I don’t understand.’

‘Penhalyx knows nothing about the tattoo. She never spoke to him.’

Lachlan tries to think clearly, but it’s like wading through mud.

‘Did you do that?’

‘Your friend Jolene did it,’ Blaire tells him.

‘How do you—?’

‘Lachlan, he’s coming here. I need you to sharpen up.’

‘Right, yes, yeah. Got it.’ Lachlan doesn’t get it at all. He’s not right in the head, but at least the call about the tattoo wasn’t real. ‘Sharp.’

‘It wasn’t your fault. What Priscilla said on the phone about Danya and Zaitsev was severe.’

‘Zaitsev too?’

‘She outed him for having connections to Project Spectrum.’

‘Did Mimi know?’

‘How would she know?’

‘No, you’re right, I’m sorry. You’re always right. I’ll handle it.’ Lachlan wonders if he’s dreaming. Nothing feels real. ‘I’m all over it, don’t worry.’

‘Good. We can get everything straight before he arrives and hide the—’

‘Do you love him?’

Nonplussed, she stares. ‘What?’

‘Danya.’

‘Lachlan, wake the fuck up.’

‘Sorry. Yeah. I’m. I’m awake.’

‘Are you?’

‘Yes.’

‘Then don’t ask stupid questions.’

‘I’m sorry.’

‘I know you’re in shock about Mimi.’

‘No, I’m good. All good. Awake and good, I promise.’ He kisses her cheek. ‘Thank you for fixing the phone call. You’re the best.’