Page 85 of Fated to Monsters

“I…I don’t know how to thank you.” My eyes glisten.

“Try not to get yourself killed, that would be a start. Willow will be pissed if I let someone die.”

I study the ticking clock at the far side of the room. “In theory, I still have enough time to get there and back before she needs my assistance later.” Letting her down is not a part of this plan.

Neither is losing.

Bo's heavy presence makes itself known as he comes into the room and leans in the doorway. He takes in the most current version of Dash. "You're alive."

Dash chuckles. “Don’t sound so disappointed.”

Bo keeps his attention on Dash. “How was it?”

“Death? Kind of boring, really. A lot of darkness until I catch on fire.”

“Prania. How was Prania?”

“Devastating.” I interrupt Dash before he can begin. “We’re going back immediately.”

“What?” Bo stops leaning and stands up straight. “I’m coming this time.”

I shake my head. “Can’t.”

“Why the hell not?” Bo looks to Wes.

“I need the beacon to engage,” I tell him. “The plan doesn’t work without it.”

“And how did that work out for you last time? You got hurt and Dash died.”

“I am very much fine, and so is Dash.” I pause and consider my next words carefully, deciding that there is no gentle way in telling him the truth. “Plus, Wes is coming.”

“You’re kidding me.” Bo rakes his hand over his face. “Everyone gets to go except me?”

Sydney clears his throat. “I’m, uh, going to get Tremont.” He slips out of the room, and I wish I could follow him out and avoid Bo’s seething glare.

“Not everyone,” Wes says. “Jade and Everest are staying here. As are Sydney and Tremont. You’ll barely even know we’re gone.”

“They don’t count and you know it.” Bo tightens his hand into a fist. “This is bullshit.”

I step toward him, my head tilted up at the tall, broody man in front of me. “You know what’s bullshit? You trying to leave because you don’t want to be with me.”

“It’s the only way,” Bo mutters through a clenched jaw.

“It’s not actually, and when I get back, we need to talk.”

“Talk?”

But before I can continue, Sydney and Tremont come into the room.

“I’ve extended the barrier for Tremont to the entire house, this will allow him to assist in the spell.” Sydney walks to the center of the open space, near the spot Dash and his phoenix powers were activated.

I follow him over and stand at his side. “Thank you,” I whisper.

He nods. “I must warn you, astral travel this frequent comes with risks. If you notice any uncomfortable side effects, you need to return immediately.”

I had a feeling this type of thing didn’t come without a cost but that isn’t going to stop me from completing what I said I would do.

Parla must die.

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