Page 88 of I Accidentally Hired a Shadow Walker
“I know.” My lips lifted in an appreciative smile.
That static in my mind increased, and Jackie’s voice faded.
“I think the connection is failing.” I sighed. “Love you, girl.”
“Love you too!”
And she was gone. I opened my eyes and removed my hand from the stone. I looked at the doorway to the kitchen. In clear view was the counter, and next to it, Raymond’s back. Damn it, if I didn’t want to run away.
“Jericha! You’re here!” the cheerful voice startled me from behind.
I turned around to find Cufio standing behind me, and behind him, stepping through a portal, was Noville. I didn’t think it was possible, but the big guy looked relaxed. His shoulders were loose, and his dark lips lifted into a smile as he nodded.
“Yeah, we made it.” I smiled.
“Is the mean one with you?” Cufio’s eyes darted around, looking for someone.
“The mean one?” I frowned then caught on to what he meant. “No. Jackie isn’t here.”
“Hmm. I thought she would force Raymond into taking her along for the ride, but never mind. You’re right on time!” He clapped, and as he did, Raymond and Metice came out of the kitchen. “Brother, it's so good to have you home finally.”
“This isn’t my home,” Raymond bristled, and once again, he hardened.
I glanced at Metice, who was right behind him. Something was definitely up with the two of them. It was like Raymond put on a shield the moment he got around the guy who had his horns proudly displayed atop his head now.
“Well, no. They burned your place down after you left, but you know what I mean.”
“What do you have for us?” Metice asked.
“Good news. We know exactly where Natalie is.” Cufio inhaled sharply. “Bad news is, she’s in the last place we want her to be.”
“Whereis that?” I asked.
“Klougus has her,” Noville answered, saying a name I didn’t know. He looked at me and offered the explanation I needed. “The guy we all once worked for.”
“Oh,” I said, quickly glancing at Raymond, noticing his worried expression.
“Fuck.” Raymond grunted. “Guess we’re headed there sooner than we thought.”
“Yes, but we need to make another stop first,” Cufio added.
“Why do we need to make another stop? We’re here to save Natalie. That’s what matters,” I spoke up.
“She wants to see her,” Cufio said to Raymond, not me. “It was a part of the deal for making those charms.”
“Does this have to happen now?” Raymond looked at me then at Metice.
“You’re seriously asking me that question?” Metice laughed. “I told you how she was with me. That woman doesn’t like to wait; she’ll deactivate those stones just to be petty.”
“You’re right. Let's go.”
“Better if you two go alone.” Cufio winked. “Let me know how the water is.”
“Shut up.” Raymond moved to me and held out his hand. “Come on.”
“Where are we going?”
“It’s better if you see it. Trying to explain it will take too long.”
