Page 86 of The Holy Academy of Witches

I looked for Cillian who was still in conversation with a senior looking policeman. I looked at my phone which was still in my hand to see several messages.

Teddy: Come here instead!

Teddy: I’m not above begging…

Teddy: There’s been an attack on an office building in the city. It’s all over the news! Let me know you’re okay!

Teddy: Addie?! Please message me back so I know you’re OK

Teddy: If I don’t hear from you soon I’m heading to the city to find you!

Huh, an office building… I looked up the street. Fire engines were driving straight past to the end of the road. I typed out a reply to ease Teddy’s mind.

Adeline: I’m okay. I was in a bar with some friends, it was nearby but no one seems seriously hurt where I am xx

Teddy: Why didn’t you reply?! Fuck Addie I was going out of my mind!

Adeline: I was too busy trying to get out of the building and find my friends? It’s no big deal, I’m fine.

Teddy: No big deal?? You could have been hurt or killed… did you think I just wouldn’t care?? I fucking care Addie.

I stared at his message. Over and over I read it. It was an odd feeling being told that you’re cared about when all you’ve ever had is the opposite.

Adeline: Okay. I am fine though, honestly x

Teddy: You’re sure?

Adeline: I promise. Were you really going to come look for me? X

Teddy: Yes. I’ll always come for you xx

Adeline: I’ll always come for you too xx

Teddy: You swear you’re not hurt? Gods I wish I could see you and touch you and make sure you’re okay xx

I smoothed my hair away from my face, subtly healed a small cut to my cheek and took a selfie. It wasn’t the best photo and there was smoke lingering in the air. I sent it along with the message:I swear xx

Sage wandered back over, jacket in hand, and I pocketed my phone. “Okay?” I asked.

“Yup. Boy, it was trashed in there… do they know who did it?”

“The mortal police? Probably not, my guess is either the light or dark terrorists. If I could get a look at what caused the explosion I could probably make a more educated guess.”

“Umm I think I’d rather just leave?” She said. I looked her over. She was definitely more alert but there was a nervous edge and paleness to her that usually wasn’t there.

“Okay, so the police sergeant said there was a bomb planted in the lobby of a nearby office building. Interestingly the building is run by Samuel Brown…” Cillian divulged as he re-joined us.

“The politician?” I asked.

“Wait a second, the officer just told you all that?!” Sage asked in confusion.

“Well, I used a slight bit of compulsion. No lasting damage.” He added to placate Sage. “And yes Adeline, the very same… Turns out though, that Samuel went away on an urgent trip, at the last minute.”

“How convenient.”

“Quite,” Cillian agreed.

“I’m sorry, what’s happening?” Sage asked, looking between us both.

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