Page 108 of Shadows Within
“Archer Alder.” The life from her eyes drains at the mention of his name.
“Not that. I’m not ready for that, Scarlett.”
I wrap my arms around her, bringing us both the comfort we’ve needed all along.
“I’m so sorry Mom. You don’t have to face any of this alone anymore. I’m here now.”
And just like that, after years of trauma and trials, we talk like two teenagers who are getting to know each other.
For so long, I’ve tried to fill the void with so many other things like boxing and school, but at the end of the day, I needed my mom. And finally, I have her.
Keep Your Enemies Closer
Callum
Angel:Thank you.
I tuck my phone back into my pocket and picture her with her mom. I think of all the moments that were taken from them, and all the time they have to make up for.
It was always my plan to set Vanessa free. Things just fell into place now instead of later. I’m glad that Scarlett has her back in her life. While I don’t understand the depths of their relationship, I’ll try—for her.
I have to meet with Leo at The Society today. Their downfall must come from within, but we aren’t in a hurry to do so. The Society has killed my family and attempted to bring me down in the process. I need my well thought out revenge, and I’m in it for the long haul, not a quick defeat.
I haven’t fought in a couple weeks, and I’m craving one now more than ever. I need it to tame the darkness. I pull a cigarette out from my pocket and walk into the place I vow to take down. It’s the first time I’ve been back here since that night.
Everything is measured by that day now—the five of us talk about things before that day or after. Nothing else matters. I light the cigarette and walk into the mansion. Usually, smoking inside is limited to the parlour, but they’re about to see an unhinged side of me they’ve never thought they’d experience.
I don’t forgive, and I don’t forget. Leo knows my terms.
The once beautifully aged wood floor now looks decrepit and worn. The curtains that hang around the windows seemcolourless and dull. They were once a luxurious accessory, but now they are forgotten.
I climb the stairs, ready to face whatever consequences await me. I can’t rule out the possibility of the other Highers wanting me dead. I’m not just a threat. I’m a ticking time bomb. The voices down the hall tell me that Leo isn't alone. I don’t hear Deluca’s voice, but he could be in there as well. I roll my neck as I get closer to the door frame.
As I walk into the parlour, everyone stops talking. I see Leo, Deluca, Archer, Victor, Chase, and five pledges who recently completed their initiations.
Victor steps forward. “Ah, just the man we were talking about.” His voice sounds sarcastic.
My eyes shift to Leo, he doesn’t nod in reassurance like the others do. Instead, he stares right at me.Something is wrong.My shoulders tense as my guard goes up instantly, but I don’t reach for the gun in the back of my pants concealed by my belt. I want to see how this plays out first.
Victor demands my attention by clearing his throat. He adjusts his cuff links and gives me an ominous look.
“Things change now. There’s a specific hierarchy within The Society, and it will be followed.”
Well, I didn’t expect this. Victor Roberts, District Attorney for the city of Boston, is the new silent leader of The Society.
“We’ve let too many emotions interfere with legacy. This ends now.” His stern voice comes naturally.
“Scarlett is off limits, not because of the shit show you created, but because she’s an extension of my… family. If I hear of any more women being targeted, I will not hesitate to take matters into my own hands. Andyou.”
He takes a step toward me.
“One wrong move and you’re done. No more killing aimlessly. You do what we say, when we say it. You’re onprobation, Mercer. The only reason you’re still here is because you can’t be trusted.”
Keep your friends close.
He left out the part where no one else could do what I do. No one else has such high stakes, and I’ll be damned if he thinks I trust him in a world where Scarlett exists.Extended family… not if I can help it.
Leo briefly closes his eyes. He knows that Victor is saying all the right things to push me close to the edge.
