Page 159 of Wolf Roulette

Trixie’s heart thundered. “We’ve won Clay three timesin one hundred and fifty years. We’veneverturned over Water.”

My life since accidentally discovering werewolves had revealed one clue after another. Since living on pack lands, I’d started piecing them together.

The plan wasn’t perfect, but if there was ever a chance to win one of the two remaining grids, this was it.

“You know,” I said conversationally, “the Victratum contract specifically states that mercenaries can’t be hired to fight for either side. It says nothing about freely offered supernatural aid that doesn’t involve them engaging in fighting at all.” I grinned. “Interesting, don’t you think?”

27

Who needed sleep anyway?

Not me.

I rubbed my temples. “Alright, tribe gathering on Sunday morning and Tuesday night.” It was the best we could do with so little time.

“I can’t believe this is really happening,” Trixie said.

Yep.

This morning, the majority of the head team voted that the possible threat from demons and witches warranted a change in our approach to the end result of Grids. It was a small but significant win.

Wade patted Trixie’s back. “Makes you realise how shocked our ancestors must have been all those years ago when they discovered werewolves for the first time.”

And they’d lived with Luthers for decades before discovering the truth.

I gathered my papers. “We have a plan to roll out information to the stewards. Let’s meet again tonight to discuss a land proposal.”

Wade raised his hand. “I have final Deception Valley Ball stuff to do after our pamper day. Can I be exempt?”

The pamper day and ball were the last things on my mind. “Of course. Is everyone else available?” I counted the nods. “Great. I know we’d arranged to have this day off, so thank you. Let’s meet at 6:00 p.m. after dinner.”

After the meeting, Wade walked down the hall with me. “You’re still good for ten?”

“Sure. I need to put some things in order for the day first. Meet you outside in… forty-five?”

“Done. This is just what you need. Trust me.”

I forced a smile. “I look forward to it.”

Hurrying to my office, I started pouring over our plans anew.

Am I missing anything, girl?

Booker usually slept after our extra early morning run. I received a grunt in reply.

“Have you got a minute?”

Rhona stood in the open doorway.

“… I have a few minutes.”

She entered as if unsure whether the bookshelves would topple down on her head. “You’re going out with Wade and Cam for the day, I heard.”

Was she planning a coup? “I am. How can I help you?”

Rhona lingered by the chair opposite my desk until I gestured for her to sit. There was a whole heap of shit between us, but I hated seeing her so uncertain.

She scratched her cheek and jerked a thumb at my saxophone. “Do you get much of a chance to play? I’ve only heard you the once.”

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