Witch Cursed in Westerham

by Dionne Lister

  He’d fitted me with a red wig then formed the long locks into a bun, given me a slightly larger nose, brown contact lenses, and academic-looking black glasses. He’d even thickened my brows and extended them so they almost touched atop the bridge of my nose. It wasn’t a look I’d repeat after this. Bushy brows and red hair didn’t do me any favours. “This is practically a monobrow, Sam.”

  He laughed. “What better way to fly under the radar than have people look at you and comment on that? Your brows will steal the show. No one will think twice about whether you look familiar or not, and trust me—you don’t look anything like you did before.”

  “Thank God I don’t normally look like this.” I laughed. At least it would be easier to get into character.

  Imani handed me a small digital camera. “Use this. Half the agents have seen you running around with your Nikon. We don’t want anyone to suspect anything.”

  I took it and placed it in a small, black handbag. “Thanks.” I’d dressed in a white shirt and black, knee-length pencil skirt with sensible black court shoes and no tie—I didn’t want to look exactly like an agent, but it had to scream boring and businesslike. We figured a no-nonsense look would best serve us.

  Angelica stood and observed. She gave a nod. “Well done, Sam. Thank you for helping on such short notice.”

  “My pleasure. If there’s anything else you need, let me know.” He finished packing up his things, then turned to me. “Good luck, Lily.”

  I smiled and ignored the nerves bouncing around in my stomach. “Thanks.”

  A knock sounded on the reception-room door. “I’ll answer it.” It must be James. I couldn’t wait to see his first reaction to my get-up. I unlocked the door and opened it.

  His brow furrowed, confusion in his eyes; then he smiled. “Nice job! I didn’t recognise you, but since there wasn’t supposed to be any strangers here, I deduced it must be you.” He shook his head. “Unbelievable.” I grinned. “Now, that looks a bit like you. Maybe don’t smile.”

  “Okay. Just let me get it out of my system now.” The surest way to get someone to smile uncontrollably is to tell them not to. Or maybe I was just a rebel at heart.

  “I’m just going to say hi to everyone.” He strode into the living room. After some pleasantries, he said, “I can’t tell you what I’ve agreed or said because I want Lily’s reaction to be a surprise—it will be more believable.” He turned to me. “You’re a security consultant working freelance. You can’t tell him who else you’ve worked with because it’s classified. Oh, and can you sign this with your new name, Emily Black.” A bound A4 document in a black folder appeared in his hand. I took it to the table, magicked a pen to myself, and signed my new name.

  “Do I need ID?”

  “Here.” A small, black card with gold writing proclaimed my new name, occupation, mobile number, and PO-box address. “The only other people who know about this are Gus and his boss. I did a quick mind read to make sure they weren’t in on anything.” Angelica frowned. “I’m sorry, but I feel we have no choice at this point.”

  She sighed. “I suppose you’re right, but we don’t want to stop being professional.”

  “I’m doing my best.” James’s tone was firm but not disrespectful.

  A tingle of James’s magic feathered my scalp, then came a sensation as if someone was tapping a gentle finger against my forehead. I rolled my eyes. “Of course I have my mind shield up. I’m not about to make a stupid mistake like that. Trust me.”

  His expression remained serious, unapologetic. “I’m never going to leave anything to chance, Lily. We can’t afford any mistakes.”

  Rather than roll my eyes—he was just trying to be safe—I shut my eyes and counted to three. Where did this mature Lily come from, and did I need to be worried the old me had disappeared? No. This was Emily Black, my staid, security-conscious alter ego. I smiled. “I’m ready. Let’s get this over with.”

  Will gave me a quick kiss on the lips. “Be careful, Emily. If anything happened to you…” One corner of his mouth quirked up, creating a delicious dimple.

  My stomach did a little flip. Even after a few months, he still had that effect on me. I hoped it would always be this way. “I will. You’d better be careful too.” He gave me a quizzical look. “If Lily finds out about us, you’re dead.” I couldn’t keep a straight face and laughed.

  He laughed and shook his head. “I wouldn’t doubt it. But she has nothing to worry about.” He winked.

  James grabbed my hand. “Come on. If I have to watch you two moon over each other anymore, I might just gag.”

  “You’re such a baby. It’s not like I haven’t had to watch you be all smoochy with Mill.”

  He ignored my comment and made a doorway. “Ready?” I nodded and stepped through into the PIB reception room. I pretended as if I’d never been there before, looking around and nodding—I was supposed to be taking note of security things after all.

  James buzzed, and Gus opened the door. I caught myself just before I greeted him with a “Hello, Gus!” I kept a straight face until James introduced us.

  “Gus, this is Emily Black, a security consultant. I’ll be getting you to show her around, if that’s okay.”

  “Of course, Agent Bianchi. It would be my pleasure.” Gus held his hand out to me. “Lovely to meet you, Ms Black.”

  I gave him a close-mouthed smile. “Lovely to meet you too. Thank you. I appreciate it.”

  James ushered me into the hall while I gazed around like a newbie. I took my small camera out. I might as well start now. I thought, Show me who put the messages in blue writing in Ma’am’s office.

  Walking along the hallway, his back to us, was someone in a white coat. So, our culprit was a lab technician. It also appeared that my magic could show me who it was without showing me the exact moment they were doing it, although that would be more useful since I had to show it to Angelica later. I made my voice a bit lower—if I changed it too much, I would sound like someone being stupid. “Agent Bianchi, I’ve just spotted something down there. Mind if I check it out?”

  “Of course. Please go ahead.” Gus followed me. He didn’t know about my talent, so he was probably wondering what I was up to. When I’d walked past the point of the person, I turned and pointed my camera back the way I’d come. Gus’s face registered surprise, and he jumped out of the way. I stifled a chuckle. I repeated my request in my mind and looked through the camera.

  Oh, crap.

  My heart kicked into a gallop. This couldn’t be right. Before I said anything to anyone, I wanted to confirm it. I took a couple of shots and composed my expression, so by the time I’d lowered the camera, nothing would seem amiss. To ensure I could confirm things, I needed to think about the most likely place he would have been when he cast the spell. Hmm… He would’ve had to know when Angelica would be in her office. Maybe he’d hung around and waited for her to go in, or maybe he had access to security cameras. Whatever it was, I’d just have to start in the most likely place. Once I asked, James would know who I was after. But what if the culprit was in his domain when we visited? I’d just have to deal with that when it happened.

  “Ms Black, is something wrong?” James tilted his head to the side.

  “Ah, no. Sorry. I’d like to start at the infirmary, if that’s okay. I take it you have prisoners there sometimes?”

  “Yes.”

  “Well, other than the reception room and the actual cells, that would be a room that requires extra security. Which way is it?”

  “I think I’ll come. Stay with us, Gus.” My brother turned and headed for the lift. “Please come with me, Ms Black.” With James in front and Gus behind, I felt safe, but it could all be over if we ran into New York guy.

  In the lift, I had to stop my foot from tapping. On the next floor, we got out and headed for the infirmary. Another two agents were walking towards us… I only recognised one of them, and by the tension that appeared in my brother’s shoulders, the other one could
be our worst nightmare. James managed to appear relaxed by the time our paths crossed. The person I didn’t recognise lifted his hand in a stop gesture.

  We halted. Damn.

  His New York accent filled the corridor. “Agent Bianchi, what’s going on here? Care to introduce me to your guest?” His bright-blue eyes regarded me. There was no poker face or malice going on. He looked genuinely curious. Kind of like when a child sees something interesting like a feather or shell. They just want to know what and why.

  “Of course, sir. This is Emily Black. Security consultant. Ms Black, this is our head of operations, Agent Williamson the Third.”

  I held out my hand and pushed my nerves away before they made my palm sweaty. “It’s an honour to meet you. The head of the PIB, no less.” I gave him the best “I’m so impressed I just might faint” smile with wide eyes. James’s brows drew down. Maybe I’d overdone it and looked crazy rather than adoring.

  Chad hesitated, then a satisfied smile graced his face, and he shook my hand. “Pleased to meet you, Ms Black.” He turned to James. “Why are you showing a security consultant around? Headquarters is safe under my watch, you know.” His relaxed demeanour changed as a frown made its way to his face.

  James nodded. “Of course, sir, but something you said made me think this would be a good idea. So, really, we have your brilliant foresight to thank. In fact, it’s one of the better ideas that an HEO has come up with in years. I’m so glad you’ve been transferred here.”

  “Oh, thank you. I do try and be innovative. It’s all part of the job.” He smiled and nodded. “Carry on, then. Let me know how you go.”

  “Will do.” James gave him a respectful nod, and I smiled. Gus stood silently next to the wall, looking like he wanted to blend in. I made sure to keep a relaxed expression until Chad and the other agent had disappeared around a corner. Knowing cameras were always watching, we maintained the façade.

  “Can I see the infirmary now?” I asked.

  “Of course, Ms Black. This way.”

  Not far down the hallway was the door we sought. It had its own intercom, which I’d not had to use before. There were a couple of large rooms behind the door, and if the doctor was treating someone in the far room, they might not hear feeble tapping. James pressed the buzzer. Dr Finnegan’s voice answered as the lock buzzed. “Come in.”

  I followed James in, and Gus followed me. My mouth dried. Dr Finnegan would be the first person to see me who knew me fairly well. The agent with Chad was someone I’d only seen in passing. Because the doctor knew my voice, I’d also have to say as little as possible. Maybe I could pretend to be shy?

  Dr Finnegan met us in the first room, which had white vinyl covered floors, a reception desk, and several chairs, just like a hospital waiting room. “Ah, Agent Bianchi.” He shook James’s hand. “What brings you here today? I hope no one’s sick.” He ran his gaze over me, then Gus. Thankfully, he didn’t seem to recognise me.

  “Nothing like that.” James smiled, then nodded towards me. “This is Ms Black, a security consultant. Agent Williamson the Third has approved a security review in light of recent events. Ms Black is familiarising herself with headquarters. We’re just going to have a quick look around. I hope we’re not interrupting anything.”

  “Not at all. After all the drama we’ve had, there are no patients today. Things have settled down somewhat. Please, look around.” He stepped to the side—not that his thin frame took up much room.

  I took out my small camera and gave him a shy smile before quietly engaging my talent and pointing the camera around the room. When I was done, we went to the triage and treatment rooms. The first large room was where I’d been treated last time. The memories that returned were far from pleasant. But Dr Finnegan had done his best to heal me, and for that, I was grateful. It made what I was doing now that much harder. I pointed my camera and asked the question in my head, Show me who sent Ma’am the messages in blue light.

  That was three times now. There was no way I could deny who it was.

  Sitting on the side of one of the beds in my photo was Dr Finnegan, coat off. He had his eyes closed and may have been performing a spell. Unless I had video, it was impossible to tell. But it was definitely him. He’d been so loyal and had served the PIB well. What had made him help the enemy? Was it by choice or had he been threatened? Whatever it was, I wasn’t about to ask him. I was keeping my information to myself until later.

  After taking a few more non-important photos of the room, I turned the camera off, made my way to James, and said quietly, “I’m done.”

  We returned to the entry room. James gave Dr Finnegan a chin tip. “Thanks. We’re done.”

  Rather than say goodbye, I waved as I slipped out the door in front of James and Gus. The sooner I got out of there, the better. While James showed me through the rest of the floor, I crossed my fingers that no one would ask to see my photos. Once we figured we’d covered enough of an area that it looked like we’d done a good job, I turned to James. “I have enough information now. I’ll get started on devising an updated security plan tomorrow. I should have a comprehensive report to you within three to four weeks.”

  “That’s excellent. Thank you, Ms Black.” He shook my hand. Gus gave a smile.

  “Lovely to meet you both. I’ll be in touch.” I made my doorway and returned to Angelica’s reception room. Once I was safely at home, I sighed out a relieved breath. Guilt slowed my steps to the hallway. I was about to dob in a valued member of their team, someone who had likely helped all of us at one time or another. But it was for the best.

  I wouldn’t want to be Dr Finnegan when Angelica found out. I whispered my apologies into the empty air, not that this was my fault, but being the bearer of bad news was burdensome. How was that for a tongue twister? Leaving my regret in the reception room, I unlocked the door and stepped into the hall. “Hello! Anybody home?”

  “In here,” Will called from the living room.

  I made my way through. Will was already standing, and he hurried over to give me a hug. “Are you okay? How did it go?”

  “I’m fine. I’ve found the culprit. I double-checked to make sure.” I handed him the camera. “Where’s Angelica?”

  “I’m here, dear. She entered the room, dressed casually in blue jeans, a sky-blue shirt, and white sneakers. I did a double take. It was super rare to see her out of uniform. “How did your fact-finding mission go?”

  Will looked up from the camera. “Very well… or not, depending how you look at it.”

  She held out her hand, and he gave her the camera. Her poker face slid into place before she scrolled through the photos. She finished and magicked the camera away—it was in her hand, then it wasn’t. Will grabbed my hand and led me to the Chesterfields. “Why don’t we have a seat and discuss this… latest development.” We sat next to each other, and Angelica sat opposite.

  “Well,” Angelica started, “that was unexpected.” That about summed it up. There wasn’t much else to say, really.

  Will gave her a sympathetic look. “The question is, why? And how is he connected to that other fellow.”

  “I take it you haven’t figured out who he is.”

  “Not yet, dear. But we’re working on it. I called the news station and spoke to that reporter, but she didn’t have any information on him. He only gave her a first name, and we can assume it’s fake. His magic signature isn’t in the system. We’ll have to use our ingenuity to figure this out.”

  Hmm. “Could you interrogate Dr Finnegan? He must know who he is.”

  Will cocked his head to the side. “Not necessarily. Maybe the ringleader is making his demands or requests anonymously. Or maybe he’s doing things through a third party.”

  “And no matter what, dear, we can’t interrogate Dr Finnegan yet. Secrecy is a better weapon for now. We don’t want our quarry knowing we’re coming for them. Whoever’s behind it has one huge fault: arrogance. It will be the reason we catch him. We have to plan this care
fully. I’m going to sleep on it, and I suggest you both do the same. We’ll reconvene tomorrow, discuss it, then set things in motion. His behaviour’s escalating—James sent me a message late last night. The message for Chad was that a disaster the likes of which the PIB has never seen before is going to happen in the next few days. He’s dared them to stop him. I intend to do just that.” She raised her chin and looked every inch our leader. Pride and relief warmed my chest. If anyone could make this happen, it was Angelica.

  “Do you have any idea what he plans to do?” I asked.

  “He supposedly left a clue in what he said to Chad. Chad didn’t have the wherewithal to take a photo of it, so let’s hope what he repeated to James was accurate. James sent me this message.” She magicked her phone to her hand and brought up the message, then leaned across the low table between the Chesterfields and handed me the phone. I angled it so Will could read at the same time.

  What a shame—the Fair Lady must watch helplessly from afar as it all comes tumbling down. So, I have a new agent to play with. Welcome to my game, Chad. Things have never been more serious. What am I going to do next? Better look out—we’re unbeaten, powerful. We’re coming for what’s ours. Soon.

  My heart beat double time as I read. “Are you the Fair Lady?”

  Angelica leaned back. “On the face of it, I would say yes—I certainly feel helpless enough, and, right now, I am watching the PIB tumbling down. Depending on what happens next, it could be the end of us.”

  My eyes opened wide. I never would have thought she’d reached that level of despair and admission—you would never know to look at her. My gaze was fierce as I tried to put all my support and belief in her into it. “You’re not and never will be. I know you’ll overcome this, and we’re all behind you, or next to you… whatever you need. If you can’t solve this, no one can.”

  She gave me a small smile. “Thank you, dear. That means a lot.”

  I looked at the screen again and read the message a few more times. “Any other ideas? Do you think there are any clues in it?”