Page 357 of Castings & Curses

It almost seemed…alive.

Devi didn’t like it one bit.

“I know this place.” It popped out of her lips before she could take it back and wanted to curse herself for it.

“Oh?”

“I used to live around here.” That was all she was going to say. Cappelli kept to herself and she would take her cues and do the same.

All the witching families in Bixby had forbidden anyone from going beyond the barrier of the swamps.

That didn’t mean everyone listened. It was the top choice for teenagers longing to have a bit of freedom away from prying eyes. Pop up raves had been common. One site in particular snagged her memory.

A stolen kiss.

Bonfires snapping and crackling against the darkness.

A mutual discovery of bodies and groping hands.

It had been a time of awakening. But it was over now.

“What exactly was the complaint?”

“Neighbors at the edge of the swamp complained of a loud party. Then, they heard screams.” Cappelli pulled the car over to the side of the road.

Bullshit.

“Nobody lives near enough to hear that.”

Except maybe the recently dead Skyler Chambers. She’d have to check her phone records.

Cappelli shrugged. “What I don’t understand is why they asked for us when we’ve already had three scenes tonight and the team is already on site.”

“Did he say anything else?”

“No. Just that he needed a report asap.”

“Shit. Where are Murray and Daniels?”

“They’re working the homicide at the Pickled Bear.”

It figured. People had damn near lost their minds being in lockdown for almost a year. It seemed like it was only getting worse.

Goddess, she was tired.

“Great.”

Cappelli’s lips curved into a smile. “Come on. Let’s get this over with.” Opening the driver’s side door, she stepped out into the darkness.

Devi followed suit. She got out of the car and from the moment her feet touched the earth, she felt the vibration in her bones.

“Shit.”

“What?”

“You don’t feel that?”

For a moment, she wished Kate were here, then gave herself a mental slap. This was why she had to leave. The witch, familiar bond was too strong and they’d gotten too close to the fire.

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