Page 12 of Thicker than Blood

“I haven’t heard a thing yet. Have you?”

“Yeah. I was saying, Meredith, you know her?—”

“I do.”

Geordi blows out a breath. “Right. So she found out the attacks are isolated to our city.”

“Interesting.”

“So it’s a good idea that you and I work together and see what we can learn about who’s behind this.”

“Is that what you want?”

“It was Meredith’s suggestion more than mine, but I think?—”

“What does that even look like? Do we need to gather a group? How do we know who we can trust? How do I know I can trust you?”

“With all due respect, if you’d stop interrupting, maybe I could answer some of your questions.”

A smile spreads across my lips. “Touché. I’m afraid I got ahead of myself. Please.”

He clears his throat. “I think we can keep it between us. I have some research I can show you, and maybe it’ll help you narrow down who might be involved.”

“I agree. Would you like to come to my home? The sun is up, which means I stay in.”

“I thought that was a myth.”

“What?”

“That the sun burns you.”

“Oh, it has nothing to do with that. It’s purely due to my desire to avoid people and bright things.”

He snickers. “Oh. Okay then. I can come to you.”

“Do you need my address?”

“No, everyone knows where your house is. What’s a good time?”

“Whenever you wish.”

“How’s an hour then?”

“Perfectly fine. See you then.”

“Bye.”

I hang up the phone then glance around my home. It’s orderly and clean, of course—I wouldn’t have it any other way—but it’s been a long time since I’ve entertained a mortal. PerhapsI should have a drink or two available that isn’t laced with blood. Benicio will help.

I buzz the intercom, sensing he’s in the lower parts of the three-story Victorian home. I always know when he’s near given the strange history that entwines our lives. Sure enough, he appears in the doorway mere seconds later.

From his disheveled appearance, it’s obvious he’s allowed himself to partake in the fun. I don’t mind it. He’s a loyal friend and a discreet one at that.

“Sir.”

“Am I interrupting?”

If he could blush he would. Instead I’m greeted by a shy smirk. “Not at all. I was simply watching this time.”

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