Page 108 of Destined to Fight

She needed a distraction and someone to create it. Her friends were limited. She’d been so set on independence and doing things her own way that she’d pushed most people away. There was no way in hell she’d put her father in the middle of all this.

The only person that came to mind was Dom. He’d hate her after this. Hell, he probably already hated her for disappearing from the gym just as the fire alarm was pulled. She hadn’t paid her dues in weeks, and he’d ask about that too. Desperate times, though.

She pulled out her phone and typed his number in for a text. She’d memorized it back when she had a flip phone with a broken phone book. Damn thing would only text; it wouldn’t even work to call. But it had worked to keep in touch with the people who mattered.

Hey Dom, long time no talk. It’s Kelly. Listen, I need a favor, but I can’t call. Are you free tonight?

She tapped the arrow to send it before her conscience told her otherwise. She was going to owe him big time after this, like remodel-his-gym big time—not that she had the money for it. And Kade would absolutely hate Dom’s guts.

Fuck, what am I doing? She thought to herself.

Saving Ginna, that’s what. No doubt these people wanted Kelly, just like everyone else. There was no way in hell she would allow her mentor to be harmed simply because someone wanted Kelly’s powers.

She was strong and capable, and she’d figure shit out. Okay, so these people would take her, and Kade and Fabian would never forgive her, but Ginna would be safe. She’d never bend to someone else’s will, and when she completed her bonding, her power would enable her to escape and come back to everyone.

Deep down, she knew she was lying to herself. No one would suffer for her, though, no matter their title or duty.

Her phone vibrated, and she tapped the text icon. Hey Kelly, I’ve been worried about you. Are you okay? I’m always free for you. What do you need?

Damn it all to hell. Dom was such a nice guy, and she was taking advantage. Closing her eyes, she reminded herself why this had to be done.

Yeah, I’m good, just been really busy with a new gig. I need a bit of a distraction so I can sneak past some people for a story. You down to wreak a little havoc?

Always. How big of a distraction do you need? Name the time and place.

Guilt weighed on her shoulders as she sent the next text. Pretty big. Do you still have that launcher for the M-80 firecrackers? These guys are pretty good, they’ll know you’re coming from a mile away, but noise and threats should draw them your way. Tonight would be good. Around 8:00? It’s the huge house on the northeast corner of Beverly Drive and Eton Avenue in Highland Park. You can’t miss it.

Dang, girl, you’re getting into some serious shit messing around in that neighborhood. I want that beer when all of this is over.

Sure, like she would ever be free within his lifetime for that beer. More guilt.

Sure thing. Thank you, Dom. I owe you.

Someday, Karma was going to kick her ass so hard it’d leave her with a massive scar.

Now she had to figure out how to get out of the house and far enough away before anyone realized what was going on.

The wards on the house shouldn’t hinder her at all, They were meant to keep the bad guys out, not to keep her in, and she’d never noticed any resistance when she’d walked through them before.

The quickest path out would be through the door to Kade’s balcony. It was only on the second level, so it wouldn’t be hard to swing down to the ground. From there, maybe she could get into one of the neighbor’s cars. No one around here locked anything; they felt like their money would protect them. With any luck, she’d be able to find a car with the keys in it. If not, she’d have to hold someone up with her karambits. The thought nearly made her sick, and there was a huge chance one of the vampires would hear her. All she could do at this point was try.

Kelly turned on the TV in Kade’s room so anyone passing by or listening would think she was watching it.She flipped to an action movie, then started gathering a few things. Opening the drawer of her bedside table, she grabbed her karambits and belt and put them on. She put on a tight, long-sleeved shirt under her hoodie and tied her hair back in a bun.

She debated taking her phone and decided against it. If she needed to, she could open the link between her and Kade for help. A cell phone was just one more thing that would end up destroyed.

Kade pushed lightly at her mind, and she took a deep breath before letting him in. She couldn’t think about anything that would happen tonight if this was going to work.

What’s up?

We’ll look for Ginna if she isnae back by noon tomorrow. I’m sure she’s fine. Maybe she decided to spend more time with her friends.

Kelly knew otherwise, but she couldn’t share that with him.

Kade read her nervousness wrong. She’ll be all right, lass. She’s more capable than ye give her credit for.

Yeah, I guess. I’m going to go to bed early and get some extra rest.

Kade felt the lie, but he didn’t press it. He likely thought she was still upset.

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