Taking it, I allow him to guide me out of my room into the living room. I smirk at the scene in front of me. Sprawled across couches, chairs, and the floor they
look like any old group of friends having wine. I know their particular red is more blood than alcohol, and that the brownies are sweet because they were made with O positive. The things that are becoming normal are frightening if I look at them too closely. We’re all in need of some comfort after last night. I’m not judging them.
Luz offers me a smile. “Don’t worry. We made you a regular batch.”
“And by we, she means me,” Ruby says.
“What? You want me in the kitchen?” Luz asks snarkily.
“No,” Ruby and Ada all but yell.
I laugh. They’re growing on me, like mold. But tasty things come from mold, like cheese.
“Yum. Sounds like a balanced breakfast.”
“Shut up, girls like chocolate,” Gil says.
I roll my eyes. “Not all.”
“No, but you do, Lou Lou,” Gil says cheerfully.
“Don’t call me that,” I mumble.”
“Someone get her coffee, so she can become human again,” Marcellus says. It’s the kindest he’s been to me … ever.
And all I had to do was save his life.
“Not possible, witch,” I tease.
“Oh she’s cheeky today,” says Rene.
Rene flashes over with my Jack Skellington mug, and I smile. I don’t mind their speed when it’s used to accomplish my bidding.
“Thank you.”
“Him she smiles at,” Miles mumbles.
“Everyone smiles at Rene, Miles. Don’t take it personally.” I wink and bring the elixir of the gods to my lips. The coffee and chocolate mixture goes down hot and just the right amount of sweet and strong. The caffeine hits me, chasing away the fatigue, and jump-starting my brain.
“Better?” Cristobal asks.
“Tolerable.” I inhale the rich aroma. “I went to Witching yesterday, and I saw Sabine. She’s dealt with the witch we’re after.” Marcellus and Percival sit up straighter in their seats. I retell my strange visit, and they listen quietly until I’m finished.
“Do you have thoughts about what you think is meant?” Percival asks.
“I’m not sure. I wanted to bring it to you first for a fresh perspective.”
They exchange glances, and I sense a conversation occurring around me.
“At the heart of darkness. It could be the delta of a rive,” Miles suggests.
“Or the heart of a forest. It can be quite dark there,” Ada says softly.
“It could also be a cave for all we know. Plenty of places are dark and connected to a circular entrance. Let’s look at the rest. She said to offer a boon.”
“That can be summoning,” I say quietly.
“A demon?” Ruby asks.