Page 41 of Deliver us from Evil

“She babysat for Trinity,” Vicky says, beaming as she gets lost in a past that I’m guessing was much more bearable than the present. “Not often, of course. Just when her parents went out of town.”

My hackles rise up like a motherfucking rebellion.

“Out of town?”

“Oh, Trinity didn’t tell you?” Vicky cocks her head a little.

“She…doesn’t talk about them very much.” And thank fuck I can even think clearly at all with how my mind is scrambling.

“Yes, of course.” Vicky’s brow creases. “Terrible thing, that.”

A lot of terrible things happen around these parts. If I didn’t know any better, I’d tell her to go looking for the Indian burial ground this town was built on.

I mentally plead with Vicky to carry on talking.

For once, the Universe is on my side.

“Her father was a missionary,” Vicky says. “Her mother went on one or two missions with him, but then she stayed at home after that. The missionary life isn’t for everyone.”

Oh no, it most definitely isn’t.

“And Miss Langley sat for them?”

“She did. If I can get another two or three witnesses, then I can have those records ready by next week.” Vicky looks proud of herself, and I almost feel sorry that her hard work will be for naught.

“Well, I do hope you find her.”

“Won’t be that hard,” Vicky says with a laugh. “She’s Trinity’s next-door neighbor.”

* * *

I haveto stop myself from jogging back to the car. Cass and Apollo are already inside, Cass at the wheel.

What the hell were they expecting? That I’d come running out with a file under my arm like they’re the getaway car?

I slam the truck’s door, turn to Apollo. “Find Maude Street.” Then to Cass. “I have the address to her old house.”

Cass puts the car in gear, staring at Apollo in the rear-view mirror.

I don’t know why we’re all so strung out, but I can feel the seconds streaming by as Apollo searches.

“Turn around,” Apollo says. “Then take the first left.”

Cass stomps on the gas and throws the car into a wide arc that leaves tire marks on the road. I squeeze my eyes shut, wishing I’d told him not to rush. But maybe it’s a good thing. If Vicky calls the police and sends them to Maude street, they might get there before we do.

I don’t know what we’ll find there, but something’s telling me we have to hurry.

“Faster,” I tell Cass.

He doesn’t say anything, but he skips the next light regardless of the fact that it’s been red since it came in sight.

I guess it’s a good thing this is a quiet part of town and there weren’t any cars on the road. The only one in sight, in fact, is a white Hyundai.

But I don’t think it would have mattered.

We’re on a mission from God.

Chapter Sixteen

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