Page 16 of Enchant the Dawn

Ava laid a hand on his shoulder, a whispered incantation preventing him from spiriting himself away.

Jasper looked resigned as she slid into the booth across from him.

“You,” he hissed. “What are you doing here? Haven’t you caused me enough trouble?”

“I’m about to cause a whole lot more if you don’t tell me what’s going on.”

“No way in hell!”

“Who’s pulling your chain, Jasper? I can smell your fear.”

“I’m not afraid of you. Not anymore.”

“You’re afraid of someone. Who is it?”

“I can’t tell you.”

“Did you like being a bird? How would you like being a worm instead?”

The warlock cringed at the threat.

“A worm on a hook,” she said with an evil grin. “I haven’t fished in years.”

“The new Elder Knight sent me here.”

“Why?” When he didn’t answer, she unleashed a little more of her power.

“He’s looking for a Hungarian vampire.”

“Anyone in particular?”

“Quill’s son,” he confided with obvious reluctance.

“Why?”

“I don’t know. He didn’t tell me.”

“What are you supposed to do if you find him?”

“Take him to the Elder Knight.”

“Gregory.” Her brow furrowed thoughtfully. Why would the Elder Knight be looking for a vampire? And not just any vampire, but her great-grandson?

Ava smiled a predatory smile. She hadn’t been able to find the Brotherhood’s new stronghold, but Jasper obviously knew where it was. Still, she couldn’t force the location out of him, at least not here.

“I don’t know what the Elder Knight has in mind,” she said. “But as you’re well aware, some of my family members are vampires. I am warning you, here and now, that you will not like what happens to you if you harm so much as a hair on their heads.” She raised her hand when he started to speak. “I know you’re afraid of Gregory, but his magic is no match for mine. If you’re smart,” she said, releasing him from her spell, “you will leave the States today and never come back.”

Jasper stared at her for a long moment, his whole body still quivering uncontrollably from the residual force of her magic. Gathering as much dignity as he could muster, he stood and strode out of the bar, his head held high.

* * *

Jasper had every intention of following the witch’s advice and getting the hell out of town just as fast as he could. He was planning his escape when he felt a rush of power, and the Elder Knight stood beside him. Jasper blinked at him in astonishment. He had never seen Gregory in anything but the robes of the Elder Knight. Now he wore an expensive, dark-brown suit, a pristine white shirt, and an intricately striped tie.

He looked even scarier than usual.

“Heading for the airport, were you?” the Knight asked, his voice filled with quiet menace.

“Y . . . yes. Of course. To bring you news.”

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