Page 34 of Silenced

Tapping the corner of my phone to my chin, I extrapolate the various options available to me and eventually come to a decision.

That’s when I see Misha has already replied.

Misha: She’s safe from her ex, then?

Me: You can inform Savannah O’Donnelly of that, yes. But when I rescued Cassiopeia, Rundel wasn’t there. He’d tied her to the bed but he wasn’t present.

Then, for the first time in my life, I lie to Misha.

Me: I took her to an airport and gave her money.

Misha: Do you know where she went?

Me: No. She has no belongings so I doubt she’ll be in contact with Savannah O’Donnelly soon.

That isn’t a lie.

The motel had nothing in it aside from Rundel’s paraphernalia and the shredded jeans, tee, and sneakers she’d been wearing when he kidnapped her.

Misha: Damn. Savannah is worried.

Me: There’s always a pay phone if she chooses to get in touch, but you can reassure Savannah that her friend is safe.

Misha: Doubtful… What with her ex on the loose.

Me: Do you doubt me, brother?

Misha: You’re going to kill him?

Me: Of course.

Misha: There’s no, ‘of course,’ about it. Why would you do that for free when I haven’t asked you to?

Me: You didn’t see the state of her.

Misha: Since when do you care?

Me: Since she reminded me of my mother.

It isn’t a lie. Even if Cassiopeia does not look in any way, shape, or form like mymamushka.

Misha: Ah, fuck. Sorry, Niko.

Me: Hmm. Happy Thanksgiving, Misha.

Misha: Lol. You’re the gift that keeps on giving, brat moy.

I narrow my eyes at the endearment—brother mine.

Me: You owe me.

Misha: I know :)

Me: Just so you remember. Before you go, how’s Maxim?

Misha: Pain in the ass as always.

Me: Good to know. Secure, though?

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