Chosen

He continues. “That’s why I believe it wise for you to leave, A

I press fingertips against my weary eyes. “Then I will go. There is one other piece of business, though. Will you please give Judith Williams a message? I would like all files pertaining to Avery’s estate sent to me. I never wanted anything to do with it, but I’ll be damned if I let her take over. I want to sever all ties between the Williams’ family and myself.”

Turnbull nods his understanding. “It will be done.”

He walks me to the front door. One last glance into the living room before I leave imprints an image I’m sure will prove to be a portent of things to come.

Judith Williams and Chael. Huddled together alone near the fireplace, their heads bent in conversation, their backs to the room.

Why do I have the feeling my troubles have just begun?

AFTERWORD

I couldn’t go to the bar when I left the house. I called Frey, gave him the all-clear signal, some sketchy details about what had transpired. I know he has a million questions, but something in my voice must have betrayed my weariness because he didn’t press. I asked him to call Culebra, tell him I survived, and he said he would.

The next day, I met with Tracey. I told her David would be in but asked that she not repeat our conversation. I admitted there was no “game,” that I wasn’t in a position to explain and that the situation was complicated. A nice catchphrase.

Instead of challenging me, she looked me straight in the eye. “Okay. For now. But I know you aren’t what you seem. I can be patient. You need to trust me. You will.”

Somehow, I believe it.

David came in, still sore, still wondering what happened during his “blackout.” He told Tracey about his “accident,” and she listened to him with wide-eyed attention and said she was glad he wasn’t hurt more seriously. She didn’t even wink at me.

She lies almost as well as I do.

We had a skip to trace, so we got to it.

I felt back in my element for the first time in a while.

This is where I want to be. This is where I belong. I know I haven’t begun to realize the ramifications of being the Chosen One. But for now, I’ve survived. My first year as a vampire. My first challenge from the council. My family is safe. My friends close.

Not a bad way to start a new year.