Book Five: Chapter 44

“I see.” Mike’s voice carried a mixture of surprise and caution. He hadn’t expected her to speak so candidly about Velvet and Eulalie, not with such directness, not with the bluntness of someone who truly understood the danger. He tilted his head slightly, his eyes narrowing as he studied Abella. “What would you have me do?” His hands remained relaxed at his sides, though his posture was deliberate, a subtle signal that he was open to listening, yet prepared for anything.

“Leave them here. Send Eulalie back.” Her tone was calm but carried a weight that suggested there was more, a plan she had in mind but wouldn’t voice. The kind of plan that only worked if left unspoken.

Mike stepped back from the Jeep and paced a few feet toward the gargoyle, his mind running through scenarios. “They are dangerous, aren’t they?” His voice was steady, though his hands twitched slightly. “Could easily snap my