Around midnight, we hear Stella sneak out of her bedroom and join us. I have a suspicion that she needs to tell us something but is waiting for the right time. Now, we all are sitting in silence.
The calm before the storm.
“Are you ready for tomorrow.” Stella breaks the quiet first. “I know you’re planning to go to Duluth and get to the field first. Stupid on your part, Zoe.” She punches me in the arm. “And stupid for you to let her do something this reckless.” Her arm strikes Shay’s shoulder. “But I get it. I think it’s a good plan.” That’s all she says. The three of us sit in chairs, look over the lake, and be exactly the way it should always be.
Chapter Forty
Zoe
FRIDAY, JULY 3.
IN THE MORNING, THE entire family eats breakfast together. I break the news to my parents who are sitting around the dinette table drinking coffee.
“Today we’re going to go see the sights in Duluth like Mom suggested,” I say. “Since it’s still raining here, and we can’t go swimming or fishing, we’ll hit the harbor, the lighthouse, and the Glensheen Mansion.” I stuff scrambled eggs into my mouth. My mom always makes the fluffiest eggs, just the way I like them.
“You guys be careful on the drive over and if it’s raining like this, stay away from the shore,” Dad says. “The tide may be ferocious, and we don’t want to lose either of you.”
“Can I go with?” Stella asks.
“No, Honey,” Mom says. “Why don’t you let Zoe and Shay go by themselves.” She turns, addressing me. “Besides, you’ll be back by the end of the day, right?”
“Yeah,” I mumble.
Shay is deep in thought over his bagel.
We pack a little cooler of beverages and snacks. Before I went to bed this morning, I remembered to pack a bag of spare clothes and necessities. We snuck that into Shay’s car.
My sister sees us off.
“Keep them safe, Stella,” I say. “I’m counting on you. If you get any other visions, text me.”
“I will. You just come back alive.” She hugs me, then Shay. “And good luck.”
“Do you think we need luck?” Shay asks.
“You’ll need everything you can get.”
That doesn’t sound good for us. “All right,” I say. “Ready to go, Shay?”
“As ready as I’ll ever be.”
I wave to my parents from Shay’s car window, plastering a smile onto my face. They wave back, and I quickly turn my head, so they can’t see the tears running down my cheeks. It could be the last time I see them. If the battle goes south and we don’t make it ... No. I won’t think like that.
I’m an angel. And my friends are fairies, Nephilim, wolves, and all the Packs in the world are coming here to fight. The Heavens are clearing out and joining us in earth’s realm.
“You’re quiet.” Shay turns his head my way. “I know it’s hard saying goodbye to your folks and sister. But you’ll see them again.”
“I hope you’re right.” I stare out of the rain-streaked glass. “I was just grateful that we got to spend one evening together as if today isn’t the beginning of the end of the world.”
“Yeah, it was a great night. I know you love your family. And they love you.”
“Have you heard from Kieran today?” I fiddle with the radio, but we’re driving in no man’s land up here. Reception isn’t the greatest.
“Yes, he said that most of the Packs are taking private jets into the airfield and will be staying in multiple hotels in the city. They want to spread out just in case they need to do damage control. He and Sidelle are still at home, awaiting word from Oberon and Mab. But Sidelle assures us that they will be there. He’ll meet us once we know where we’re going first.”
I inhale and nod.
The rest of the drive is quiet. We banter a bit but mostly listen to CDs. Before long the two-hour drive is done. I can see the high bridge as we coast down a hill.
Pouring rain is relentless, but we make our way to Canal Park and grab a bite to eat. We stop at a pizza joint. We sit at a round table waiting for our food when Kieran walks through the glass door.
He waves when he spots us in the corner. “Are you ready, Zoe?” he asks.
“For what now?”
“I need to lower the wards around you, so the demons know where you are.”
“Will it hurt?”
“No, you won’t feel a thing. I don’t think.” He frowns. “But maybe you’ll feel a bit of more Light now that you’re an angel.”
“All right. What do you need me to do?”
“Nothing. You can stay seated and give me your hand.”
Warmth spreads through me when Kieran touches my palm. It starts at my head and tingles all the way to my fingertips and down to my toes. It doesn’t hurt but feels more like a wall crumbling, bricks falling and breaking apart.
“It’s done,” Kieran says.
We eat our pizza then walk around. I’m like a zombie, thinking. Of course, I’m scared for tomorrow and what will happen. But as Shay and I stroll hand in hand on the sidewalk, my sense of dread loosens. We end our amble at the shipping pier. I gaze out at the expansive lake, water as far as the eye can see, even through the sheets of rain.
Next, we visit the Great Lakes Aquarium, then Enger Park and Tower, and finally to the Glensheen, all the while taking selfies and posting on Snapchat and Facebook. It’s nice doing normal stuff with my boyfriend and best friend to take my mind off why I’m really here. There are moments though when I think I’m going to break down and cry or actually have a mental break down. But somehow I manage to keep it together with a smile covering my face the whole time.
By late afternoon, the winds pick up, and I need to wear a hoodie. It’s crazy weather; the water is freezing and turns to sleet. The roads back to the cabin will be horrible if we had planned to return tonight. I call my folks, and they insist that Shay and I stay in Duluth because of the bad weather. They have seen the reports on the midday news.
Shay books us a room at the Pier B Resort. While he checks us in, I text Sidelle to let her know where we are.
Me: We’re staying in Duluth for the night. Pier B Resort.
As if she is waiting for an update, Sidelle’s response is immediate.
Sidelle: I’ll be there in a second. Room #?
Me: 326
Shay carries our bags to our room, and we wait for Sidelle. She appears in the room just as we step through the doorway.
“I’ve let Vash know that we’re all here now,” Kieran says. “They are having a pack dinner and then later during the night, they will make for the forest and rest there. Some will stay in the city, though.”
“I know you’re probably not okay, so I won’t even ask,” Sidelle says. “Tomorrow if it happens ... there isn’t anything I can say that will prepare you for what you have to do or will see.”
“Just remember that it’s you or them,” Shay says. “And I’ll be by your side the whole time.”
“We’ll be near you,” Kieran says.
“Let’s go to dinner and be just a group of friends hanging out.” Sidelle takes my hand and ushers me into the bathroom. “Why don’t you freshen up, and then we’ll go get food. You look horrible.”
“Thanks, Sidelle,” I say. “It’s hard looking like a hot mess.”
I gaze at myself in the oval mirror. It’s like a ghost is staring back at me. My eyes are a bit bloodshot, and my skin is pasty white. My long brown hair is coated against my cheeks. I didn’t sleep well last night, and I doubt I’ll be relaxed enough to get any tonight. Splashing cold water on my face and then running a brush through my hair, I lift my lips into a smile that doesn’t quite reach my eyes and leave the room.
“I’m ready,” I say. Everyone else is staring at me like a booger is hanging from my nose. “Are we ready?”
“You’ve been spotted, and Knights are converging on the city,” Kieran says.
“That’s good though; that’s what we wanted to happ
en.”
“Yes, it is. They have higher numbers than we initially thought. It’s like they’ve cleared out all of Hell. They aren’t doing anything as of now. So we’ll let them be until they start messing with the Ordinaries.”
“I would send them all if I were Sammael,” Shay says. “Leave nothing to chance his freedom.”
“Are we skipping dinner and going demon hunting?” I ask.
“No, you’re staying here, while we call some Pack members.” Shay pulls me to the couch. “Kieran and Sidelle will go. You need to eat, rest, and if you can, find sleep tonight. They’ll report back so we can be ready for tomorrow.” Kieran and Sidelle nod, then disappear from the room. “Now, what would you like to order for dinner? Anything on the menu.” He opens the three-ring binder of hotel information.
IT’S MY LAST NIGHT before the end. I have no idea what the morning will bring. Kieran and Sidelle didn’t return to the room, leaving me snuggled next to Shay in the large, king sized bed.
“Are you scared?” Shay asks.
“I’d be lying if I say no.”
“You have every right to be. You’ve never been in a battle to the death. I was born for this. Gabriel raised me to know what to expect, while you’ve only learned about all this a few months ago.” I burrow deeper into the covers and press myself next to Shay’s warm body. “I’ll be at your side tomorrow. You have me and my sword to protect you.”
“I know and I’m grateful. You are my center and my rock, and I will draw courage from that. No matter what happens, you know I love you.”
“Yes, I love you, too. Now try to sleep, Zoe.”
Chapter Forty-One
Aiden
FRIDAY, JULY 3.
I ARRIVE TO PICK MORGAN up exactly at the time she requested. My red Spyder screeches to a halt, leaving tire tracks in front of her driveway. Boy, do I love this car. It’s almost as fast as flying. Sauntering to the door, it opens before I can press the bell.
Morgan is standing in the doorway, a pink duffle bag slung over her shoulder. “Perfect timing as always.” She steps forward and plants a kiss on my mouth.
“Your ride awaits.” I reach for her bag.
“So where are we going?”
“It’s a surprise.” Will it ever be for her. “We’ll cruise with the top down until it gets too chilly.”
“This has been really strange weather, but we can blast the heater.”
We drive for two and a half hours, Morgan bantering incessantly the whole time. I nod and smile every now and then, so she knows I’m paying attention. I’m not.
Have mercy on my soul and end my existence.
I check into a small B&B on Canal Park, overlooking the harbor. It’s a rustic place that Morgan would not have chosen for herself, but she doesn’t say anything. She’s too giddy about spending an entire weekend with me. Plus, she thinks we’re going to be holed up inside the room the entire time.
No way.
“Let’s grab dinner,” I say. “I’m starving.”
“You’re always hungry, but I’d rather have something that’s not on the menu.” Morgan licks her lips.
“Food.” I stand to leave. “Now.”
“You’re so demanding.” She sashays my way, swinging her hips. “I kinda like it.”
Leading her back into the convertible, we leave the top up and drive north. I Googled a place ahead of time and already made reservations at the New Scenic Cafe. It’s along the shoreline and about a twenty-minute drive. The perfect amount of time to see the lay of the land.
When we arrive, dim lights from hanging chandeliers bathes us in a romantic ambiance. White linen tablecloths adorn each table. The staff wears black with long white aprons.
“We’ll start with the seared sea scallops, house salads with ranch dressing on the side, and then the beef tenderloin. Cooked medium-rare,” I tell the waiter and close the menu. I order for her, just as I had when we went to Crave before the prom. I know she secretly likes having me take charge.
More chatter fills my ears from her. I’m enthralled by the smoky meat scent that wafts in the air. Plans are flipping through my mind as I gaze out the massive window that overlooks Lake Superior.
“Are you even listening to me?” Morgan’s high-pitched voice cuts through my thoughts. “You haven’t said two words to me since we arrived here. Where are you?”
“I’m here. Sorry. I have a lot on my mind.”
“You can tell me, you know.”
“I was thinking about something Quinn said about Zoe.”
“Don’t even get me started on that witch.” She slams her open palm on the table, startling diners close to us. “You’re thinking of an ex-girlfriend and my enemy.”
“It’s not like that.”
“Then tell me how it is?”
“Quinn said that Zoe was looking for a very special item.”
“Yeah, so?”
“I’m curious if she found what she was looking for.”
“Is that why you brought me here to Duluth? Is Quinn here? Is Zoe?” I don’t say anything. “Who’s here?” She needs to read my silence. “Both? Both of them are here!” She stands and almost tips the chair in her rush to leave.
“Sit down. We need to talk.” She smooths out her sundress and takes her seat. “I need you to find out something for me.”
“And if I don’t?”
“I’ll make it worth your while.” I shrug, knowing that she’ll take the bait.
“Fine. What do you need me to do?”
WE RETURN TO THE BED and breakfast after taking the scenic and long route back to the city. I spy a few wolves lingering in the woods. The Packs must be out there. But how many?
I slipped a draft into Morgan’s drink when she excused herself to use the restroom just before dessert. Now, she’s in a deep sleep as I carry her to the bed.
Early the next morning, I leave Morgan a handwritten note:
Morgan,
I hope you enjoyed your evening. Another surprise awaits you at Split Rock. I have a few errands to do this morning. I’ll see you at three. I’ve already set you up a vehicle, and the doorman will get it.
See you soon,
Aiden
Then I walk out of the room.
Chapter Forty-Two
Zoe
FRIDAY, JULY 4.
THE MORNING IS BLEAK, and the weather matches my feelings. Neither Shay nor I slept, in spite of my best efforts. We were content to lie next to each other without saying much. It was already said and then some.
A knock on the door tells us that we really must start the day. Shay hugs my shoulders and then rises from bed, opening the hotel door to a cart of breakfast foods.
“Good morning, you two,” Sidelle says. “I took it upon myself to order food since I know you lazy bums aren’t doing anything.” She winks at me. “One of everything is here. I know you both will need your strength, especially, Shay.”
Placing plates and glasses filled with orange juice and milk onto the tables, she lifts the serving plate covers to reveal at least a pound of bacon and scrambled eggs, five pancakes, half a dozen sausage links, bagels, muffins, and fruit cups. Off to the side are steaming cups of chai tea latte.
“I ran to the coffee shop in the foyer because I know it’s your favorite, and I thought it would help ease your mind with something familiar.”
“Thank you, Sidelle. That was very kind of you.”
“I do have my moments.” She smiles.
“All right, Zoe,” Shay says and motions me to join him at the table. “You heard her, eat up.”
Never being one to shy away from food, I set a plate of bacon and eggs in front of me. While the eggs are not fluffy like how my mom makes them, these are doused in a white cream sauce. I take a few bites and moan. My cheeks redden, and I cover my face with the latte.
We make a good dent in the food, but I don’t think I can eat anymore without it threatening to come back up later.
“What’s the plan?”
I suggest. “Maybe we should pack food for today?”
Kieran appears in the room. “I thought that we would meet with Vash and then scout the woods,” he says. “The angels have set Split Rock as the meeting point and will create the Void from there, spreading it out over the water. We need to be there when it’s created because the angels won’t have time to keep adjusting it during the battle.”
Kieran calls Vash to set up a meeting time and place, so we are well coordinated with our attacks. The assembly point is at Goosberry Falls State Park, and Sidelle informs us Oberon will also be at the gathering.
We do pack food, enough food to feed a small army. In fact, it’s for all the Nephilim and Pack members, so it really is for an army of warriors.
Around noon, I can’t sit in the hotel any more. “We need to leave. I have to stretch my legs.”
“The meeting isn’t for another couple of hours,” Kieran says.
“I know, but I can’t be cooped up any more. If today is my last day, I don’t want to spend it indoors. I need to feel the breeze on my face, the smell of pine surrounding me, and hear the water lap the shore.”
“Are you sure you aren’t a Summer fairy?” Sidelle asks.
“Pretty sure,” I tease.
“Let’s get you out of here and be one with nature.” Shay ushers me out of our room and down to the lobby. “I need to gas up the vehicle, and then we can be on our way.”
The state park is just under an hour away from us, about ten minutes from our rallying point. The landscape is breathtaking. To my left are dense thickets of strong oak trees, red maples, and evergreens. On the other side, as we travel north on Highway 61, is blue water as far as I can see. Lake Superior is the largest of the Great Lakes, sharing boarders with the U.S. and Canada.
As we enter the gated parking lot, the aroma of wood, dirt, and grass fills my nose. This is a perfect setting. The wolves and Summer fairies will be right at home.
Wars & Wings (Enlighten Series Book 3) Page 21
