Page 23 of Echoes

Finally, when everything falls quiet outside as people go to sleep, I hear footsteps stop in front of my door.

I stand up, watching as the door swings open. I glance at the familiar face, giving him a small nod. Byrone gestures for me to follow him with two fingers without muttering a single word, and I follow him to the library like old times. Except… I'm missing a crucial part of the routine.

As we enter, I'm greeted with the usual setup. The curtains drape over the ends of the aisles, closing off the book shelves. The smell of freshly prepared food hits my senses, and I can already see a bunch of people sitting at the tables which have been pushed together to make one long surface.

Damon is sitting at the head of the table on his throne of invisible thorns, casually talking to Grey as we approach. They both look up, giving me a hardened glance before I wait for instructions.

"Sit next to Jillian," Damon directs bored, waving me off with his hand.

My eyes find Jillian's and she gives me a tight smile, putting me slightly at ease. As I round the table, I have to pass Grey, and it's like a shock of electricity between us.

Sitting down, I do my best to ignore the burning desire to look over. I focus on the table of food in the corner, gazing over the fresh fruit, warm little finger foods, and various beverages.

More people arrive, filling the empty spaces at the table, until finally, we're a full house.

"Good Evening," Damon starts, leaning back into his chair. "I appreciate you all attending on such short notice. As you are aware, we have some pressing matters to discuss."

A handful of people nod casually, the room silent except for Damon's deep voice.

"While this evening is all about business, you will note that we've set up the private rooms for your enjoyment. Before we begin, Grey will fill you in on the information you have been waiting for."

I can't help it. My gaze snaps down the table to him at the mention of his name, heart palpitating when we lock eyes for a brief second. He looks away quickly, smiling sweetly at everyone.

"Samuel Hallman's membership has been permanently revoked due to hisunfortunatedeath. While I'm sure some of you will miss the floppy fucker, rest assured that his death wasn't in vain."

A few quiet laughs echo around the table and I shift awkwardly. It's obvious that he wasn't well loved, but if he was a member of the society, he must have meant something to them.

Or, at least, had somequalitycontributions.

Everyone here is worth something to Damon. While I can't understand what Sam's appeal was, it's obvious he was needed for Damon's grand plans.

"Jillian was able to confirm that Operation Clown has been a success. We've gained control of the camera feeds in the facility and currently, the Lilydale staff have not been able to get it back. At present, we're feeding them what we want. This includes the footage from Hallman's room which featured the night of his demise."

Some people look surprised, which makes me feel a little better. At least I'm not the only one that this is news too.

"So, it's been ruled as suicide?" Byrone asks casually.

Damon nods. "Yes. And as you can see, Andy Jemison has taken Hallman's place in Cirque des Morts."

A few gazes land on a new figure at the end of the table. I look him over carefully, eyes lingering on the long scar down his left cheek. His dark brown eyes are on Damon, his pitch-black hair messy and unkempt. He nods, giving everyone a little wave.

"But this was already in motion before his death, correct?" someone asks. "Due to his indiscretions."

"Correct," Damon confirms. "And his girlfriend has been permanently banned. However, I don't suspect her to be a problem from here on out."

Vivian?

I feel eyes burning on me and I turn my head, finding Grey watching me carefully. Even though we aren't speaking, I know our minds are on the same track. I wonder if they know that Vivian tried to kill herself. They would have to—they know everything.

"We anticipate that the Lilydale board will replace Hallman shortly. Any opportunity to get more money in the door," Grey says, not looking away.

My eyes shift to Damon as he watches me carefully. I look away from both of them, staring at the table.

"Moving on to Operation Ringmaster," Damon continues. "Now that Jemison is on board, we will be pushing ahead. Phase one was successful, so now we are confident we are able to move to phase two."

A few people make notes on paper and I suddenly feel out of place again. I guess it's a 'you'll know if you know' situation, so I don't dare ask for information. I'm still not even quite sure why I'm here exactly, but something tells me it will become apparent soon.

"Jemison," Grey directs. "I will speak to you tomorrow about your tasks. Leighton will also be your contact."

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