Page 219 of Shifting Hearts 1
Aknock came at my door.
I didn’t answer.
Holidays. I hated every damn one of them.
They used to mean something a long time ago.
Now they were just noise. Decorations. Dead air filled with memories.
The knock came again.
I stood with a low groan, dragging myself out of the heavy leather armchair near the fireplace. My room was dark, curtains drawn shut, the only light coming from the low flames licking the grate. The walls were deep mahogany, lined with old weapons. The bed, large, unused, sat in the corner like a monument.
I opened the door.
Annie stood on the other side, looking like she’d seen a ghost.
She didn’t say a word, just signed.Don’t speak. She can hear through soundproof walls. You’re needed in the library.
What are you talking about?I signed back, confused and tired.
Now, Jace!she snapped, signing sharper.
I growled under my breath but followed her.
We walked through the halls, dark wood paneling, high ceilings, priceless paintings staring down like they knew all our secrets. The library was at the west wing, vaulted ceiling, a massive chandelier overhead, iron spiral stairs leading to a second floor of books. The fireplace was roaring. Leather furniture arranged in a wide circle.
Inside were Irene, Dom, their twins, Richard and Annie. Bobby and Isaak was still probably on their way. Maybe not. They were probably at Gabby’s.
I paused, taking them all in. Their faces were serious. Too serious.
What is this?I signed, glancing at Annie.
Sit,she signed with a sigh.
What the hell is this about? Who can hear us?
Em brought two vampires,Annie signed.Her friends.
I know. Mel told me. So?
No, Jace,Annie signed again, slower this time.You don’t understand. One of them looks like her. And I don’t mean resembles. I mean exactly. Like. Her.
My stomach tightened.
Who are you talking about?But I already knew. The way Annie was looking at me.
Her.
Morgan.
I looked away, jaw locking.
I think it’s the vampire Gabby saw,Annie added.
Irene looked confused.Wait,she signed.She is here?
I swear,Abigail jumped in, signing too fast, hands shaking.I saw her first. She looks like aunty Morgan. Younger, but it’s her face. The same voice. Demon eyes.
