Page 11 of Silent Knight

Silently, he sat, filled his plate, and began eating. I waited until he was halfway through to begin today’s drilling.

“I’m having a hard time understanding that you love me…over kittens.”

He nodded. “Love isn’t really something one can explain. There’s always that moment when it takes you by surprise even though it’s been gradual. For me, I never looked at you any way other than that of a child in need of protection. When I saw you caring for those kittens, it was then I realized you’d become a man and the heart I always knew you had, became attractive.”

“So what’s the game plan? We can’t stay here forever.”

Senon’s gaze traveled the space. “Actually we could. I have everything you’d ever need here.”

“No, Senon, I can’t. I have commitments. Speaking of, I need a phone so I can call both of my jobs and let them know I’ll need a few days off. I’ll claim it’s the flu.”

“I placed your cellphone on the charger in the living room after you went to sleep.”

“Perfect, thank you.” I stood and carried my dish to the kitchen. “Let me make some calls and then I’ll wash up the dishes.”

“No need, go do what is needed.”

“Senon, let me, please. You were nice enough to cook, the least I could do?—”

I was properly silenced when Senon waved his hand and the mess disappeared.

“Now go make your calls, Ezra.” He winked and strolled out of the room.

The comic shop was cool with it and wished me well, the hospital was a different story. My boss informed me the police were looking for me since I was good friends with Gia and was seen leaving with her the night of her murder. I had to get down to the station as soon as possible. Senon was going to love that.

“Senon?” I called out when I couldn’t find him. When I got no response, I opened the sliding door where the view of the forest was. Bizarre that where there should be a mountain there was foliage.

“Senon?”

“Up here.”

I looked above and there he was chilling in a tree.

“Uh, watch doin’?”

“I wanted to give you privacy and I love sitting high and watching the world.”

I nodded because yeah, I could understand that. “Listen, I have to go down to the police station.”

He cocked his head, and in a flash landed in front of me. “Why?”

“I was seen leaving with Gia the night she died. I have to talk with the cops or else it might appear I was running.”

“You don’t have to be a part of that world ever again, Ezra.”

“Senon, I am a part of that world. Sure, it has its faults but it’s mostly good. I don’t want my name tainted.”

“I see. What will you tell the police?”

I hadn’t thought about it. “I’m open to suggestions.”

“Perhaps the truth. The man who came into the hospital followed you both, came into her home, killed Gia, and you ran out of fear.”

“And when they ask what the man looked like?”

“Tell them…but leave out the demon qualities.”

I snorted. “Okay.” When I turned to get ready Senon grabbed my arm.