Page 43 of Barely Breathing

“The amulet works because it is real magic,” Astrid corrects. It’s not quite a criticism, but it’s close.

“Which is why I helped George find it.” Lorelai’s response carries a quiet strength. “We all did what we could to protect her.”

How many conversations like this happened when I was a baby? How many times did these women negotiate my safety? Were those conversations this strained and civil?

The amulet pulses warmly against my skin as if acknowledging its complicated origins. Before I can speak, a wave of dizziness hits me. The room tilts slightly.

“Tamara?” Both women lean forward in concern.

“I’m fine.” I press my hand to my forehead. “It’s just been a long night. I’m tired.”

“Constantine,” Astrid says with knowing disapproval.

“The master vampire?” Lorelai demands sharply. “Has he threatened you? Does he blame you for what happened? George told me about him. Is that why the altar tried to warn me?”

Astrid stiffens at the mention of George. Iwonder if she knew he kept in touch with my birth mother over the years.

“No. Nothing like that,” I lie, not wanting to explain about being mesmerized or reliving the forced memory.

“They’re dating,” Astrid says.

“What happened to Paul?” Lorelai looks confused. “You two seemed so good together.”

Astrid sips her coffee.

“It’s complicated,” I say for lack of a better answer. I take a big gulp of hot liquid. It burns, but I don’t care.

Lorelai gives me a pointed stare. “Uncomplicate it.”

“He forgot who I was, and I tried to leave it that way. My being in his life only brought him and his daughter into danger. We’re better apart.” I start to take another drink.

Astrid furrows her brow and gives a slight shake of her head to stop me. She lifts her cup slowly as if to set a more ladylike example.

“But he remembers now,” Lorelai insists. “I liked him for you.”

“And as soon as his memories returned, knowing me put Paul’s life in trouble again,” I say.

“Constantine is a powerful leader,” Astrid puts forth, strangely defending my choice.

“What is happening with Paul?” Lorelai asks.

I don’t like the tension. I want this weird meeting to be over. “The werewolves took him.”

Lorelai turns to Astrid. “There are werewolves involved now?”

“There are always werewolves involved,” Astrid sighs. “Though I agree it’s better when we don’t have to deal with them. Feral creatures.”

The elevator doors chime before I can respond. Anthony’s voice carries from the foyer, “Tam? You here?”

Perfect timing.

My brother steps into the foyer with Peter in tow. Great. Now, all we need is for Costin to materialize from the shadows, and this uncomfortable day will be complete.

I glance at the window. It’s too light for him to be out.

“Well, this is cozy,” Anthony says, taking in the scene. His usual easy smile falters when he spots Lorelai. “Oh. I didn’t realize we had a guest.”

Peter hangs back, shifting his weight from foot to foot like he’s unsure whether to stay or go. I wonder if he heard Astrid’s jibe about werewolves. His messy brown hair falls in his eyes as he studies Lorelai with obvious curiosity. I notice Peter’s nostrils flare slightly. I can practically see him cataloging her scent and wonder if he notices similarities to mine.

---