Deadly Design Read online

  Victoria pulled in a breath and released it. “That sounds like him. Why you? Why not Erik?”

  Consuela shook her head. “He says he trusts me. At Fallon’s house, we ran into an old friend of his. I was able to help him see her and their conversation set her free.”

  “Sarah? The one who turned him?”

  “Yes.”

  “How?”

  She shrugged. “I only had to touch him to allow him to see and hear. I no longer channel spirits. I used to act as a conduit, but I stopped that some years ago.”

  Victoria smiled slightly. “I’m glad Declan stood up for you. You do need to learn some manners, but perhaps he can teach you.”

  “You aren’t upset?” Consuela asked.

  “No. Unless I find out you misuse your gifts while he’s under your sway.”

  “You have my word I will respect his wishes. The only dead I torment are those who tormented others in life.”

  Victoria’s head tipped. “How do you mean?”

  She shook her head. “That’s of no importance to you. I assure you, whatever I’ve done, they’ve deserved.”

  “I know how that goes. Now, I should go back to Lincoln.”

  “First, thank you, Victoria.”

  “For?” Her brow arched.

  “Suggesting Declan come with me. I find him intriguing. And don’t worry. He’s still caught up on his wife.”

  Light danced through Victoria’s eyes. “Oh, but he’s definitely interested in you. I’ve never seen him so captivated by anyone but his family. I wish you luck. But remember, he is my friend, and I protect those who are close to me.”

  “You have my word.”

  Victoria disappeared.

  Shaking her head, she went into her room and started a bath to relax.

  Chapter 32

  Monique woke up before Erik. She moved around the kitchen, making breakfast. She picked up her phone as she put the omelets in the pan.

  After a couple rings, Dad answered, “Monique, how is my angel?”

  “There’s no simple answer to that.” She drew a slow breath and let it out. “I need to ask you something.”

  “Anything,” he replied without hesitation.

  “Is it possible Mom wove a spell to prevent Erik and me from forming any kind of bond?”

  “Uh…” He was silent a long moment. “Possible, yes. Why do you ask?”

  She drew a slow breath and let it out. “Erik and I are back together. Things are more intense than they ever were. Something changed. One of his ghosts told him we should have formed a bond the first time around. I need to know why it never happened before. It felt like it should have. We were always on the verge.”

  “The same bond Tyra and Karl share.” He half laughed. “Honest, angel, I thought you shared it with him back then.”

  “Not quite. It was there, but never solidified. Maybe it never took full hold.”

  “I wouldn’t put it past her. She was terrified you would give your life to him. I thought I’d convinced her that he was the only one who would ever make you happy. Then you left, and I thought maybe I’d been wrong.”

  “There was a lot going on. Not all Erik. I needed to figure it out, but then I saw him with a woman and misunderstood. I was so stupid, Daddy. I walked away and tried everything to let him go, and nothing worked.”

  “We all make mistakes.”

  “What if I’m too late? He’s so full of doubt now. I hope last night got through to him, but I thought that the night before.”

  “He’ll come around. Be honest with him. He deserves that.”

  “I am, and I’m fighting.” She sighed and changed the subject. “Why did Mom hate him?”

  After a moment of silence, he explained. “He was too close to a mage. She knew what happened to me when I was first taken in. It wasn’t the enforcers who took me. Tarek had been an enforcer but had already been fired, and repositioned as an investigator. He and his partner took me to even worse mages.”

  “Why is he involved in everything?”

  “He was attached or at least used by the Dark Templar. The Silver Council publicly claims they don’t exist, but they do. And most mages don’t believe in the group. Doesn’t matter, I understand Tarek is dead and gone.”

  “Very.” Her breath caught. “Erik could call him, see what he knows.”

  “Monique, I have to warn you. That won’t always bring you the answers you need. Especially with such a malicious man.”

  “Why haven’t you exposed the Dark Templar?” Monique dealt with breakfast.

  “Not so simple. I wanted to go back to life, not drag us all down. It was simpler to forget the ordeal. Now, what’s going on with Erik? I heard the Council was looking for him about something heinous.”

  “That’s a long story. He’s cleared. But next time you come to visit, I’ll explain. By then, it should be over.”

  “I don’t like it when you keep secrets, angel.”

  Monique sighed. “Well, with Erik’s position with the Silver Council and the DSF, I can’t share everything.”

  “How are you involved?”

  She sighed. “Never mind that. Just know he’ll keep me safe, like always. And thank you.”

  “Be safe,” Dad murmured. “And I’m happy you two are back together.”

  “Me too. I just hope I can keep him.”

  * * * *

  Erik woke with a start. She wasn’t in bed. He realized he was going to need to talk to Robert, cancel the transfer request. Bond or not, he hadn’t needed one before, so why did it matter?

  He rolled to his feet, grabbed his phone out of his pants, and sent a text to Robert.

  Please tear up the transfer. Everything’s changed.

  Hopefully it wasn’t too late.

  He found an outfit in the stack of clothes Monique set out. They were a perfect fit. He had to smile as he sat on the bed and dialed his mother.

  He needed to know if Alistair was full of shit, jealous, or there was something to this bond. And of course, whether or not Vivian had been so hateful toward him after all. Though honestly, it made sense when she finally stopped giving him shit about joining the Council.

  His father answered, “Erik. You haven’t called even with the mess?”

  “Shit,” Erik muttered. “Look, it’s complicated and you didn’t call either. I know Robert had to tell you what was up.”

  “Your mother says Monique finally came to her senses. Is that true?”

  He nodded, then rubbed his head. “Yeah, that’s true. And I almost left because I had finally given up. Look, I need to talk to Mom. She’d have a better idea of what I need to know. At least I’m hoping so.”

  “Fine, fine, but don’t forget about your old man. I may be across the world at the moment, but I’m always your father.”

  Erik laughed. His parents were traveling. He was taking cases all over the globe, and they were enjoying new places.

  “I’ll never forget. Love you, Dad.”

  Mom came on. “Erik. I’m glad to finally hear from you. You made your father a nervous wreck, wondering if you were okay.”

  He laughed softly. “You knew I would be?”

  “Always known. And I hope you believe Monique.”

  “I do. Look, I need to understand something a ghost told me.”

  She giggled. “Yes, the one with the crush on you. And he’s partially right.”

  “You don’t usually flaunt your clairvoyance,” Erik stated.

  “I’ve been getting more practice. Besides, you need to hear what I have to say. You two were always meant for each other. Her mother did place a spell that kept a bond from forming. I never imagined she had that kind of power. She must have had help, but I don’t know who.”

  “I think I know who. Question is why. And I don’t expect you to know that. But why didn’t you ever tell me about this bond?”

  She sighed. “Because it was too late to
prevent Vivian from working the magic. And you were already in love with Monique and she with you. Telling you would only make you question everything.”

  “And why didn’t you tell me afterward? I almost walked away even after we were together. Alistair said I couldn’t form a bond if it hadn’t already formed, and I assumed that meant this new feeling was just—I don’t know—not a bond.”

  “It is. But the thing is, Erik, love is the basis of the bond. People fall in love all the time. They don’t always have a metaphysical bond, but they will still fight for each other. And I get it, you’d waited decades for her to forgive you. Silly girl took too damned long, but she’s finally realized she can’t live without you.”

  “Why did she take so long?”

  “She may not be able to see ghosts like you, but her mother hanging around for a week didn’t help her. She took every fear of hers and ratcheted it up until she believed the worst about everything.”

  “Yeah, about that. She saw me with Gwen one night and assumed I was actually with her.”

  “I knew you two would have a hard path, but now that it’s reconnected, things will go a thousand times more smoothly.”

  “One more thing. Did the spell linger while her mother was still haunting Monique?”

  “I believe so. That kind of spell only leaves when the spirit does.”

  “I wish things were different.”

  “Why? You have her now.”

  “I do.” He pulled in a breath and smelled breakfast. “I should go. She’s making food and it’s going to be a long day.”

  “Be careful.”

  “I will. Bye, Mom.”

  “We’ll be seeing you soon. We’re heading back to Edenton for a break.”

  “Why?”

  “To see you and Monique.”

  A laugh bubbled up. “Love you, Mom.”

  * * * *

  Robert hurried down the stairs and found Mrs. Murdock at the kitchen island with Liz. They were discussing everything baby related when he walked in. “Good timing,” he stated.

  She smiled up at him. “Yes, well, I learned you were having issues with Kjell Emmalyn. She’s been a thorn in the side of the Silver Council for ages. She’s the one who leads the Dark Templar.”

  “She is?”

  “And only the inner circle knows all the details. If you can expose her, you can take it down. And fair warning, she has close relations with my brother, who is the man behind HARP.”

  “Wait, what? You’re telling me you’ve known all along who runs what’s left?”

  “We’re missing too many pieces to take them down. We’re in no hurry to start that war. He doesn’t have what he needs for his plan either.”

  “And you want me to ensure he doesn’t gain another?”

  She nodded. “I do. It won’t be easy.”

  “What about other attacks?”

  She shook her head. “There won’t be. She’s focusing her biggest player where he’ll do the most damage. Nigel Shade has been groomed for years to do this. And right now, she has no clue about you or any of the plan to stop it.”

  “Are you going to be there?”

  A smile formed on her lips. “I will. I want to see the bitch roast with my own eyes.”

  Robert blinked, and Liz laughed.

  “Need me there?” Liz asked. “Or Tremaine?”

  “You, no. I have a feeling things are going to get messy. If it’s really only one place, we need as many people there as possible to stop humans from witnessing whatever they have up their sleeve.”

  “And you’re sure it’s the one she stated?”

  “Yes, and I was there, ensuring no one could sense your presence, or anyone we needed. She has no clue anyone knows. She only left when she felt the presence of other mages.”

  “Interesting.” He sighed. “Do I contact you, or are you going to be here?”

  “Oh, I’ll be around here all day. After your brunch, I’ll be here. I’ll help you set a plan in motion.”

  Chapter 33

  Consuela waited in the dining area at the bed and breakfast. Still early, she couldn’t help wondering if they were really going to include her that evening. She wanted to prove her worth in the worst possible way.

  Erik and Monique walked in, both smiling.

  She had to grin. “Good morning, lovebirds.”

  Erik offered a warm smile. “Good morning. Had a good night?”

  “It was certainly interesting.” She looked from Monique to Erik and back. “You designed his clothes, didn’t you?”

  Monique nodded. “He usually wears my clothes. Even after my stupidity.”

  “Looks like you’ve wizened up.”

  “I have.” Monique looked up at Erik, and he met her gaze. Sparks practically flew between them.

  Consuela changed the subject. “Are the others coming?”

  “Should be here shortly.

  As if on cue, Preston and Robert appeared before them.

  Robert tipped his head. “Sorry, an old friend came to discuss an interesting aspect of our problem.”

  “What’s that?”

  “Kjell Emmalyn is not only part of HARP, but she’s the one in charge of the Dark Templar.”

  “You have confirmation they exist?” Erik asked.

  He drew a slow breath. “By an outside party. Though if we can take her down and prove Tarek was part of it, we can shut them down completely.”

  Consuela smiled coolly. “I’m looking forward to ending them. I’ve had to kill a few of their members. Though had I known you needed to prove their existence, I could have helped with that. Perhaps tonight.” She frowned. “Though what I’ve done to their corpses, the Council wouldn’t appreciate.”

  “Dare I ask?” Preston snorted.

  She shook her head. “Considering two of them came at me at night with every intention of violating me before killing me, I took it upon myself to ensure their punishment lasted long after they were dismantled.”

  “You dismantled them?” Robert asked with an arched brow.

  “Dead allies did,” she answered simply. “Trust me, Robert, they bound me and broke bones before I called the dead to defend me.”

  He shook his head. “I’m not judging, merely curious how you stopped them.”

  Her head cocked and she nodded. “Any questions you have, I’ll answer. Though we should plan for tonight. Anyone hungry?”

  Preston nodded. “I am.”

  * * * *

  Once food was served, Erik spoke up, “I think it might be best if Monique stays behind.”

  Her head whipped toward him, her eyes ablaze. Huffing, she glared at Robert. “I disagree. There are things I can do to protect Erik and anyone else who comes along. I may not have as many offensive abilities as the rest of you, but I have plenty of defensive abilities, and I may surprise you.”

  Preston rubbed his neck. “Sorry, Erik. We may need her help. We’ve only confirmed one site, and we know there will be more than just Nigel there. In fact, we believe Kjell will be there as well. She’s not a simple mage, or dark mage. She’s a dark mystic. Works the same as a dark mage, but more tricks.”

  “Monique has never been trained,” Erik protested.

  Robert shook his head. “Doesn’t matter. You’re going up against skills you haven’t encountered either, and she brings a whole new sense of protection none of us can provide.”

  Erik bit his tongue and closed his eyes. He wanted to suggest Fallon’s wards were enough. However, Monique’s enchantments covered things Fallon didn’t, and vice versa.

  He let out a breath and nodded. Both the magister and his lieutenant took Monique’s side. He wasn’t budging anyone on anything at that point.

  “Trust her, Erik,” Consuela added. “Her enchantments can be altered on the fly. I’ve seen her do it. All she needs is for everyone involved to have something made of the same swath of cloth. Something small.”

&n
bsp; “I’m not arguing,” Erik answered.

  Monique slipped her fingers between his. “Thank you,” she whispered.

  He managed a smile and squeezed her hand.

  “How are we doing this?” Consuela asked.

  Robert explained, “We’ll be in the cemetery or nearby, hidden by a shield. We don’t know how he’s doing this, so we have to run interference with any nearby humans, and keep everything under wraps.” He turned to Monique. “If you can manage thirty enchanted pieces, it would help.”

  “That will be easy. As long as no one minds carrying a handkerchief, or tying it around their wrist. Something as long as it’s on their person.”

  “That won’t be an issue,” Robert assured.

  “Let’s discuss what we know and what we’re planning,” Preston said.

  Chapter 34

  Shortly after brunch, Erik called Cassandra and Alistair to him. They appeared within moments.

  “We need to talk,” Erik said. He couldn’t help worrying about what would take place later.

  “I heard the conversation at brunch,” Cassandra admitted.

  Alistair ducked his gaze. “I didn’t. Was busy with Everaud.”

  “You didn’t run into Consuela?” Erik asked.

  Monique stepped into the room and pegged him with a stare.

  He rolled his eyes.

  Alistair shook his head. “No. Though I think he may have a tagalong.”

  “Demon?”

  “Yeah. I can’t see it, though.”

  “Probably possessed before he died. Fused with his soul. Has he done anything bad to you?”

  “No…but he has a tendency to lose his temper too often. Not at me, but he rants, spits, and hisses—a lot like a demon.”

  Cassandra nodded. “He does.”

  “I’ll talk to Consuela when I get a free moment.”

  “Thank you,” Monique said.

  He nodded. “I hope she listens.”

  “Give her a chance.”

  “Still need us?” Alistair asked.