Kayden glanced at Rihanna. “You certainly didn’t get the welcome wagon treatment to our city, did you? I’m sorry.”
“I-I have no idea what that means,” Rihanna admitted.
“It’s a friendly way of greeting people who are new to a place. Like, if you live in a subdivision, and a new person moves on to the street, neighbors will often bring gifts—could be homemade treats like cookies or something.”
“I think there actually used to be an organization who welcomed newcomers or businesses in an area. But I have no idea if that’s still a thing,” Mika said.
“Then no, because my welcome to this city was not friendly,” Rihanna said.
“Which is why I said that I was sorry,” Kayden said. “You needed help, and you certainly didn’t get it. But that’s not surprising from the paranormal community.”
“Oh? My welcome by Ward has been very warm.”
“Because paranormals like Ward act differently.”
“And are you not also a paranormal?” Rihanna asked.
“No. I’m considered a nonhuman. A teek. I have the power of telekinesis.”
“How fascinating.”
“My friends over there are shifters, so yes, the community considersthemparanormals. And before you ask why I fall into a different category, it’s a lengthy tale best saved for another occasion. Right now, we need to figure out what we’re going to do about the current situation,” Kayden said.
“I need to inform the leaders of San DeLain that someone attacked me again,” Ward added. “I also need to send out some emails regarding Rihanna’s abilities. There are certain disadvantages that different paranormals experience, and she’s also experiencing some of those disadvantages.”
“Wow. I never thought of that,” Lance said. “So you may have all that power, but you also have all the headaches.”
“I think that’s a perfect way to describe it,” Celine said.
“Do you think Marianna will target the rest of my crew?” Kayden asked.
“I don’t know, but I doubt it?” Ward said. “I don’t think the attack targeted you so much as it attempted to bore a hole into my wards as you left my territory,” Ward said.
“So that means what? No one may step foot out of your territory?” Lance asked.
“It’s not like we leave here often anyhow,” Ward said. “But no. We can’t hide behind the wards forever. That’s not workable for my clan or for you. I warned Marianna when she trespassed on my land to leave me alone. She didn’t listen.”
“I hate to sound like a parrot, but what doesthatmean?” Kayden asked.
“It means I don’t hide from my enemies. And she just became an enemy,” Ward said. “I will resolve this, but in the meantime, you are my guests, and as such, you’re welcome to use any of the facilities here.”
“Your game room is pretty awesome,” Lance said.
“It’s definitely a hit,” Ward joked. “My rules are pretty simple—treat my clan how you would want to be treated. There aren’t many areas that are off-limits, but there are a few. Do not trespass there because there will be dire consequences if you do.”
“Have you marked those places?” Kayden asked.
“Yes, of course. Marked and locked. You won’t just accidentally stumble across someplace you’re not supposed to be,” Ward said. “And if you need to leave, please let me know. And please don’t go alone.”
“Speaking of leaving—” Kayden started.
“The four of you need your things. Especially you, Kayden, seeing as you have a business to run.”
“Okay, good. Because, yes, we need clothes and stuff,” Kayden said.
“I have some things I need to attend to, but why don’t we meet back in a couple hours for lunch? Then we will escort each of you to your place to get what you need,” Ward said. “How does that sound?”
Kayden shot Mika and Lance a glance, and they nodded.