I head to the bathroom and close the door.“The gene requires that I answer when you call.That’s it.How I respond is my own business, and right now, your timing is piss-poor and I’m pissedoff.”
“Obviously.”
“What if I was about ready to get the evidence?What if yourcoitus interruptusfucked up my investigation?”
“Unless he keeps evidence hidden up his ass, you’re not anywhere close to finding it.”
“For God’s sake, Dad.What is it?What’s the new information that can’t wait?”I resist the urge to hurl my phone against the wall.
“This is important, Hannah.”
“Forgive me for not taking your word without knowing what it is.”
“I’m just as invested in this as you are.More so.The safety of our people is my responsibility, and if Rogan poses a threat—”
He’s not wrong, but I can’t bring myself to apologize.Instead, “I get it.What’s the information?”
My father clears his throat—his classic thing when he’s about to spill something big.I inhale.Exhale.Ready myself for an informational bomb.
“Rogan has demons on his payroll.”
Bomb.Dropped.
Along with my phone.It clatters to the tile floor.I grab it quickly and put it back to my ear.“You’re serious?”
“I’m serious.”
“Who are they?”
“I’m not sure, yet, but I have it on good authority that you’ve already come into contact with one.”
I look over my shoulder and eye the closed door.I didn’t lock it.Rogan wouldn’t dare interrupt me in the bathroom.Would he?
I take a few steps backward and click the lock.
“Dad,” I say, “I was attacked by three thugs last night.”
“Are you all right?”
“I’m talking to you right now, aren’t I?”
“Believe it or not, Hannah, I’m concerned about your wellbeing.You’re my daughter, for God’s sake.”
“You weren’t around when I was growing up, when Larissa and I needed you, so forgive me if I don’t think you give a shit now.”
“I won’t deny I’ve made mistakes.”
I scoff.“Cool the ‘Cat’s in the Cradle’ bullshit, Dad.I’ll never buy it.As for the attack, I’m fine.I only mentioned it because you said I’ve already come in contact with one of Rogan’s demons.One of my attackers was in Rogan’s office this morning and is apparently on his payroll.”
A short pause.“Is he a demon?”
“How the hell should I know?”My thoughts race.“Probably not.I sensed fear from him.Demons don’t feel fear, do they?”
“Not usually.Unless they’re only half demon.”
“I have no idea.I sensed his fear, but I didn’t smell anything out of the ordinary on him.He’s not lycan.Could be a half-breed or a human.”
“What about the others?”