Caged

By K.M. Spires

Welcome to Lycaon.

A small island in the Gulf of Mexico, Lycaon is world renown for its brutal supernatural history. Boardwalk rides, restaurants, carnival games, museums and gift shops dedicated to the Lycaon Beast make Lycaon a must-see tourist destination for the entire family.

There are a few local laws which must be obeyed:

For your own safety, stay out of the water.

Tourists must remain in designated areas. Non-locals found trespassing in Lycaon's interior will be immediately arrested.

All outsiders must be on the last ferry to the mainland, which leaves promptly at sunset.

Under no circumstances should non-locals trespass on Lycaon during a full moon.

Please enjoy your stay.

• Language: English
• Publisher: K.M. Spires
• Release date: Dec 10, 2016
• ISBN: 9781370179367

K.M. Spires

Hi, everyone! Thanks for taking the time to read this bio. I’ll try to keep it short. I’m an independent author from Texas. I rock the whole “wife and mother” thing, too, but you don’t care about that. You’re here for the stories. I began self-publishing in 2011. When it comes to writing, I prefer the paranormal genre, but I’ll read just about anything. There are so many authors whose work I enjoy that I can’t point out any specific influence. I am currently wrapping up the third book in my Watcher in the Darkness series. You can read what I have so far on my personal website.

Book preview

Caged

By

K.M. Spires

Copyright 2011 by K.M. Spires.

All rights reserved.

As it is with everything I do, I dedicate this book to my family. Every blessing I’ve received in life has almost invariably been delivered to me through them. Massive gratitude to my good friend, Stephanie, who took the time out of her busy schedule to proofread this story when it was still just a rough draft. Her insights were invaluable. Thank you to my best friend, Laurie, for her constant generosity and support. Finally, I want to thank Wendy, who helped me to become a better writer then turned me onto the wonderful world of self-publication.

Chapter 1

April 17th

Sweltering wind blasted through the open roof of the Jeep Rubicon as it careened over potholes and fractured blacktop. Fierce and feral ceramic eyes replaced the headlights, their brilliant green a stark contrast to the dark gray paint. Bent and twisted to resemble savage jaws, the silver grill gleamed in the relentless sunlight. LYCAON ISLAND TOURS was emblazoned across the driver side door, the words painted to appear as though they had been clawed into the metal. The growl of the engine became a roar as the jeep entered a twisted channel of dry, barren rock.

Of the four passengers, only the little boy seemed to be enjoying the ride. Nestled between his parents in the backseat, he craned his neck to watch as the narrow road kissed the jagged gully walls. His father’s face was red, soggy, and miserable. The boy’s mother had a tight, possessive arm around his tiny shoulders as she glanced around with obvious distress. In the front seat, his teenage sister snapped gum between her teeth, her arms crossed in boredom.

Another sharp turn made the mother yelp, then the curtain of dead stone dropped away to reveal a panoramic view of the Gulf of Mexico. The water stretched out into infinity, and all that separated the Rubicon from the breathtaking vision was a rusted, derelict guardrail.

Excuse me, the father said when his wife’s fingernails sank into his forearm. Jawna, was it?

The driver tilted her head in acknowledgment. Yes? she shouted over the wind. The majority of her thick blonde curls had escaped her hair clip to tangle into severe knots.

Shouldn’t you slow down?

Jawna laughed. Don’t worry. I know these roads like the back of my hand. I could navigate this island blindfolded.

I’d still rather you slowed down, the mother said. With her free hand, she gripped the door handle.

Hold on, we’re almost there. Jawna’s foot didn’t ease off of the accelerator as they crested the summit of the cliff. Okay, get ready.

The road cleaved through a pillar of tall rock then opened to reveal the bowl-shaped valley, which contained most of the small town. Lycaon’s architecture was a strange hybrid of Adobe and Romanesque designs, boasting flat roofs, columned porches, and pointed archways. The drab homes and businesses clustered around the limestone church, which towered in the center of town like a luminescent pearl in the sand.

The boy leaned forward, his eyes wide. Wow.

Pretty cool, huh? Jawna said, pleased by the child’s reaction.

Uh-huh. The child pointed toward the large, boxlike structure that served as Lycaon’s school. Is that a playground?

Yes.

Can we go there?

Jawna’s smile became apologetic. No. Sorry, little man.

The father squinted at the town in critical appraisal. Your homes are very…unusual. Are we going to get a closer look?

Jawna shook her head. This is as close to the town as the tours are allowed to get.

Can we at least get a closer look at the church? the mother said with a hint of annoyance.

Sorry. Jawna’s buoyant tone wasn’t even slightly contrite.

The man leaned closer to his wife. We paid twenty bucks for this? he said without moving his lips.

His wife rolled her eyes as she made a helpless gesture.

The rest of the trip was silent as the declining road wound back to the beach. Once there, the jeep slowed to a crawl to avoid the tourists that milled between carnival rides and boardwalk games. The moist air was thick with the scent of cotton candy, hot grease, and fetid seawater.

Can we go again? the boy said as Jawna parked the Jeep under a canopy of sheet metal.

No, his parents said in unison.

Jawna watched them gather their shopping bags from the floorboard with a carefree smile. Thank you for taking the tour. The last ferry to the mainland doesn’t leave for another hour. That’s plenty of time to visit the boardwalk again, or to get something to eat at the Jezek Tavern.

The father lifted his son onto his shoulders. Not at these prices.

Jawna’s pleasant expression remained fixed. Okay. If you change your mind, it will be a chance to get out of this heat. Thank you again for visiting Lycaon. She waited until they were several yards away before her wave became an obscene gesture. Douche bag.

The man that operated the neighboring funnel cake stand crossed his arms over his generous stomach as he watched Jawna secure the jeep’s roof. Sister Jay, I figured you would’ve gone home by now.

On my way, Brother Paul. I just need to go check on the bar. Without waiting for a reply, Jawna turned to walk away.

Brother Paul shook his head before turning his attention to his next customer.

There was an unmistakable lightness in Jawna’s step as she approached Jezek Tavern. Her smile widened when she saw that every patio table was occupied. I love spring break, she said to no one in particular as she passed through the restaurant’s double doors. The air that blasted from the vents was almost chilly when compared to the suffocating heat outside. Jawna took a moment to let it wash over her, her eyes closed in blissful relief.

An older, somewhat unkempt gentleman that stank of brine and blood caught Jawna by the wrist as she passed. Hey, Sister Jay.

Jawna grasped his hand. Hey, Brother Dean, welcome back. How was your trip? Did y’all get a decent shrimp haul this time?

You’re still here? The man’s voice was slurred, his gaze unfocused.

I’ll only be a minute.

Cutting it kind of close, aren’t you?

Jawna patted his shoulder then continued on her way. When she stepped behind the bar, she shook her head with an amazed laugh. Hey, Simon, why didn’t you call me? It wasn’t like this when I left, not that I’m complaining.

The neon sign over the liquor bottles gave Simon’s silver hair and goatee a pinkish glow. His scowl deepened as he eyed the unfastened buttons of Jawna’s uniform top. The lacy cup of her red bra was visible when she put her hand on her hip. Is it Jackie’s day off? he said in a gruff tone.

Jawna passed four beers to a sunburned frat boy. It’s Sunday.

Simon made a terse sound. Seems like we could have planned that better.

Jawna nodded as she made change. How’re you holding up? You look worn out.

It’s that time of day again, Jessie. Speaking of which, shouldn’t you be going?

I can help out for a few minutes before I go.

You need to give yourself enough time to get ready.

What’s to get ready? Jawna said with another good-natured laugh. Besides, I can’t leave when it’s this busy.

Simon leaned close to speak into her ear. You know you need to be in that cage before sunset.

Jawna flicked him on the nose. Quit worrying so much. It takes me two minutes to get home and ten to get ready. She shifted her attention to the next customer. Hi, can I help you?

Simon gave her another disapproving look as he gathered the ingredients for a banana daiquiri.

Once settled into the flow of taking and filling drink orders, it became clear that Jawna was in her element. One smooth movement flowed into the next as she maintained a steady stream of friendly banter. The line to the bar, which had been considerable when she arrived, dissipated quickly.

Simon removed the order pad from Jawna’s hands. Okay, you’ve stalled long enough. Time to go.

We’ve still got customers, Jawna said.

This is nothing I can’t handle and you have more important places to be. Besides, the ferry will start loading soon.

Audrey, the waitress, stepped up to the bar with one hand on the small of her back. Elder Simon, can I get some to-go boxes? she said, exhausted, then she blinked in surprise at Jawna. You’re still here?

Jawna folded her thick wad of tips then shoved them into the pocket of her tight jeans. Everyone is so eager to get rid of me today. Fine, I’m leaving. See y’all tomorrow.

Audrey’s brow furrowed as Simon kissed the top of Jawna’s head. Be careful, he said.

Jawna tugged his goatee, but with evident affection. I’ll see you tomorrow.

I know. Simon turned Jawna toward the exit, placed his hand between her shoulder blades, then gave her a determined shove. Jawna stumbled for dramatic effect.

The tavern’s crowd had thickened with tourists awaiting the last ferry. Jawna fished through her purse as she pushed through the multitude, and therefore didn’t notice the man that had stepped in front of her until she walked into him.

Oh… Jawna laughed in surprise as he put a steadying hand on her shoulder. I’m so sorry. I didn’t see you there.

No, I’m sorry. The man sported a rather pronounced Bostonian accent. That was totally my fault. Are you okay?

Jawna smiled in forgiveness as she moved to step around him. No worries. Have a good evening.

The man held out his arm to block her. Uh, hold on. Are you Shawna Jezek?

She shook her head. No.

Oh, I’m sorry, he said as he stepped out of her way. Do you happen to know where I can find her?

She shrugged. Not here. I’m the only Jezek on the island and my name’s not Shawna.

I’m…looking for the tavern’s owner. Is that you?

Yes, but my name is Jawna Jezek. Jawna, with a jay. She held out her hand, which he shook with an uncertain look on his face. Can I help you?

Oh right, sorry. He ducked his head in embarrassment. You know, you have a really unusual name.

So I’m told.

I sat at that bar for quite a while and I don’t think I heard anyone call you by the same name twice. Anyway, I was told that you were the one to talk to?

About? She glanced at the exit behind him.

He took a deep breath then hesitated. Do you know who I am?

No. Bewilderment tugged at her smile. Should I?

He shook his head. No, I don’t know why you would. My name is, um, Mason. Mason Wright?

She lifted her chin as suspicion crept into her green eyes. It’s good to meet you, Mr. Wright.

Oh. Uh, likewise. Look, I was told that you own the Beast Museum, too. Is that true?

Well, Jawna said as she edged around him. It’s actually the Lycaon History Museum, but yes. My family has collected a lot of exhibits over the years. Regardless, the museum’s closed. It wasn’t doing very much business where it was located, so we’re building a place closer to the tavern. It should be finished by this summer, but the exhibits are all in storage. Sorry.

Mason followed Jawna outside. I understand it would be inconvenient, but I was hoping we could work something out. See, I’m writing a book about the island and… He stopped when Jawna turned to face him, her hands on her hips and every trace of her amiability gone. Did I say something wrong?

A book about the island? Don’t you mean a book about the Beast?

Well, yes. The two kind of go hand in hand, right?

Jawna turned away she plucked the motorcycle keys from her purse. Not necessarily.

Mason continued to tag along. I’d really like to look over the museum exhibits as part of my research.

Jawna pursed her lips in a thoughtful manner. All right.

So, you agree? Well, that was easy.

Not ‘all right, I’ll do it.’ I meant, ‘all right, I understand why you want to see the exhibits.’

Oh. Mason’s frown returned. Wait, what?

Jawna smirked as she lifted the motorcycle seat to retrieve her helmet. I understand your position, but all of the exhibits are in my basement inside sealed boxes. Furthermore, I’m running very late for another appointment, Mr. Mason.

Oh, sorry. Mason is my first name, by the way.

I know. Welcome to Texas. Jawna strapped her helmet into place then climbed onto the bike.

Oh. Well, all right. I mean, you don’t need to add the mister. Just Mason is fine.

Jawna’s fingers curled around the handlebars as she favored him with a long, flat stare.

Uh…well, anyway, I didn’t expect you to drop everything and let me look through the exhibits right this second. I’d hoped we could make an appointment. I fully intended to compensate you for your time.

Uh-huh. What kind of compensation are we talking about, here?

Mason took a deep breath through his nose. A hundred dollars?

Jawna was shocked out of any pretense of disinterest. Museum tours are typically five dollars per adult.

So you agree that my offer’s more than fair?

No. I’d agree that your offer is extravagant and a little bit creepy. I’m going to have to pass.

Whoa, whoa, whoa. Mason held up his hands as Jawna started the bike. He had to shout to be heard over the roar of the engine. Wait. Let’s back up. Maybe that came off a little strong.

Jawna lowered the helmet’s dark visor. You think?

Look, can I talk to you for a minute?

Jawna leaned back with an impatient sigh. Mr. Wright, I don’t mean to be rude, but I’m running very late. As she spoke, the tavern doors opened then a stream of tourists began to file out. And now, so are you. The ferry’s loading.

When would be a good time to come back so we can discuss this?

Revving the engine, Jawna cupped her hand around her ear then shook her head in confusion. Mason glared his resentment as she peeled out of the gravel parking lot.

Showing blatant disregard for traffic laws, Jawna reached her house in record time. She parked her motorcycle alongside the red pickup in the driveway, paused to write ‘HUSSY’ on the dusty tailgate with her finger, then hurried up the tall flights of stairs. The reinforced front door flew open the instant Jawna stepped onto the porch.

A woman wearing paint-splattered jeans and a faded flannel shirt stood in the threshold. Despite her expression of severe displeasure, it was obvious that she’d been very beautiful in her youth. What in the hell took you so long?

Jawna’s face lit up. Hiya, Rosemary. What are you doing here?

Rosemary grabbed Jawna by the wrist to drag her inside. Simon called to tell me you needed help. I didn’t know I’d end up waiting for over an hour.

Jawna’s smile became sardonic. Always with the drama. It hasn’t been that long.

Rosemary bared her teeth. Girl, get in here and take your bath. What were you thinking, damn it?

For the love of Pete, will everyone relax? Jawna set her purse on the foyer table. Moonrise isn’t until after nine.

Rosemary towed Jawna down the hall toward the bathroom. You’re supposed to be ready and in that cage long before moonrise. Now come on.

I’m coming, I’m coming.

Stop dragging your feet.

I’m not!

I’ve already gotten your bath ready, now strip.

Jawna unfastened the remaining buttons of her shirt. You’re not even going to buy me a drink first?

Rosemary’s unpleasant look demonstrated her appreciation for Jawna’s humor. Jawna stepped into the claw-footed bathtub as Rosemary rifled through the cabinet beneath the sink.

Where is it? Rosemary grumbled under her breath. God, you’re so disorganized—oh, wait, found it. She tossed a bottle of body soap to Jawna. Unscented, here you go.

You made the bath too hot, Jawna said before ducking under the water.

It has to be hot. Rosemary kneeled next to the tub. You get your body and I’ll wash your hair.

You don’t need to do that, Rose.

Are you kidding? Rosemary said as she plucked hairpins from Jawna’s scalp. You’re going to have your hands full just getting all that perfume and makeup off. Rosemary attempted to run her fingers through Jawna’s curls then huffed in disgust. Fucking hell, how much styling crap do you use?

Jawna snickered as she scrubbed her face. Hater.

Rosemary worked baby shampoo through Jawna’s hair. Hater is a label thrown around by the pathologically narcissistic. Was I ever as vain as you are?

Simon says you were even worse.

Yeah, and look where that got me in life. Have I told you that I hate your hair?

Only a thousand times since I was a kid. Jawna winced as Rosemary worked out a stubborn snarl. Think you could leave some attached to the scalp, though?

I’m doing the best I can with what I have to work with. Make sure you really scrub.

Jawna sighed. I am.

Rosemary continued to work the lather through Jawna’s hair as Jawna washed her arms and legs. Did you eat or drink anything?

Not since supper yesterday.

Tell me you’ve slept. Rosemary waited for Jawna to respond. Jawnie?

You want me to lie to you?

Rosemary mouthed a curse as Jawna ducked under the water.

Come on, Rosemary said as she handed Jawna a towel with growing impatience. Jesus, you’re slow.

Calm down before you make the rest of your hair go gray. Rosemary smacked Jawna on the rump. Ow. God, woman, menopause is kicking your ass.

I’ll show you hormonal. Okay, you’re dry enough. Rosemary held up a shapeless white shift dress. Put this on.

The flimsy cotton stuck to Jawna’s damp skin as she slipped it over her head. The material was so thin that the most intimate aspects of her anatomy were apparent through the fabric.

Rosemary nodded in satisfaction as she laced the back of the dress. This should tear easily. Is it too tight? Can you move in it?

Rose, it’s perfect. Settle down. Jawna tried to run a brush through her hair, but gave up after a few moments. She twisted it into a messy bun then sighed at her reflection in the mirror.

It’s too long. You should cut it.

Jawna put a protective hand over her head. Are you kidding? No way. Come on, you want to get there before sunset, don’t you?

Rosemary was appalled as she followed Jawna out of the bathroom. You say that like I’m the one that made you late.

As Jawna locked the front door behind them, she glanced heavenward. The sun was low on the watery horizon and stars already dotted the eastern sky. Every trace of levity vanished from her demeanor. Shit.

Rosemary appeared to be about to admonish Jawna again, but uneasiness stayed her tongue. The two women hurried down the stairs to Rosemary’s truck then the short drive to the town’s center was made in complete silence.

The park adjacent to the church was a triumph of municipal design. Meticulous cobblestone pathways wound around gazebos and marble benches, the dead vegetation replaced by raked sand and rock gardens. Antique lanterns dangled from wrought-iron lampposts, their soft light invoking sinister shadows. In the midst of this attempt to layer beauty over sterility, the domed cage was an imposing silhouette against the red dusk. Ten feet tall and fifteen feet in diameter, the iron bars were thick and unyielding.

Rosemary pulled close to the cage but didn’t turn off the engine. Jawna looked through the back window at the tire tracks in the sand then laughed without humor. Elder Demetrio is going to call for your blood.

Jonas Demetrio can kiss my ass. Rosemary glared through the windshield as she gripped the steering wheel with both hands, her knuckles white.

Jawna leaned over to give her a quick hug. I love you, Mom.

Rosemary held Jawna for a second or two longer than was necessary, her eyes shut tight. Don’t do anything stupid.

Jawna flashed a reassuring smile as she climbed out of the truck. No worries. I’ll see you in the morning.

Rosemary’s tires kicked up a shower of sand as Jawna slipped through the bars of the cage. The rumble of the truck’s engine carried toward the distant houses, all of which had darkened windows and drawn curtains.

A few moments later, the jarring clang of church bells resounded over the island as the sun vanished beneath the waves. At last, Jawna’s cheerful façade vanished as she moved to the center of the cage then sank to her knees. She bowed her head and closed her eyes, her lips moving in silent prayer as goosebumps erupted on her exposed skin.

Billowy clouds moved across the sky, driven by a chilling wind, and the sudden temperature drop roused the pig. Kept in a small enclosure adjacent to the cage, its glistening snout twitched as its eyes leaked involuntary tears. It attempted to lift its head but seemed to lack the strength. It sagged against the bars of its prison, its breathing labored as it marinated in a pool of its own filth.

Hours passed.

Her eyelids dropping, Jawna looked up with unmistakable anxiety whenever the veil of clouds parted. Seeing nothing but the star-bejeweled sky, Jawna let her head drop back onto her knees. She rocked on the balls of her feet, singing under her breath.

All at once, the pig became agitated. Its grunts grew animated then graduated into frightened squeals. It attempted to stand, but the lobotomy and a month of sedatives had left it wobbly and weak.

The power failure began on the outskirts of town, rolling inward until all of the streetlights were dark. The generators stopped humming as the park lanterns’ flames doubled in size then began to sputter and pulse.

The pig quieted for one heartbeat then the night was rendered by its terrified scream. Jawna put her hands over her ears and squeezed her eyes shut as the animal fell silent with an abrupt, wet gurgle. She cringed in revulsion at the moist tearing sounds that rose from the animal’s enclosure. A dissonant clang echoed through the churchyard when something large and furious slammed against the cage. Jawna fell onto her side then looked up at the brawny, dark-haired monster that loomed over her.

Its yellow fangs rusty and its thick fur matted with blood, the Beast loosed an ear-splitting howl. Jawna got to her feet as the clouds parted and the full moon bathed the two of them in silvery light. Lightning-quick despite its size, the Beast leaped atop of the cage to glare down at Jawna with luminous green eyes. It stretched a long, muscular arm through the bars to claw at her, but the sturdy iron refused to accommodate its broad shoulders. Ribbons of revolting drool cascaded from the monster’s jaws.

The epitome of calm, Jawna drew her shoulders back. I’ll bet you’re getting pretty sick of seeing me by now.

The Beast’s breath steamed on the night air as the monster roared at her again.

That’s all right, the feeling’s mutual.

The Beast snarled and its eyes narrowed into radiant slits.

Jawna lifted her hands. Come on. Try to get me. Maybe you’ll get lucky this month.

Chapter 2

April 18th

Jawna!

Jawna jerked, almost stabbing her iris with the eyeliner pencil. She looked away from the bathroom mirror with a frown. What the—?

Jawnie! Rosemary sounded on the verge of panic. Where are you?

Jawna rolled her eyes. I’m here. Under her breath, she said, Awesome. This is just what I need.

Rosemary rushed into the bathroom, her hand over her heart.

Jawna’s greeting smile was dazzling. Good morning.

Are you all right? What happened? Are you hurt? The remains of the dress Jawna had worn the night before dangled from Rosemary’s hand. It was stiff in places, encrusted with brown stains.

Jawna recoiled as Rosemary pinned her against the bathroom counter. What are you talking about? I’m fine.

Rosemary ran her hand over Jawna’s bare arms. Jawnie, I saw the blood. I know you hate needles but if you need stitches, you need stitches. Show me where it tagged you.

Blood? What blood? Hey! Jawna jerked away when Rosemary lifted Jawna’s shirt to examine her abdomen. Have you lost your mind?

Rosemary huffed as she shook the dress in Jawna’s face. This blood. Wherever this came from, its way more than a scratch.

Jawna gave her a deadpan look. So you’re going through my trash now?

Oh, save it. Simon wanted me to stop by to check on you and I knew that you’d want coffee—

Aw, that’s so sweet.

Rosemary flicked Jawna on the forehead. The dress was sitting on top of the trashcan. Now, did you get hurt?

Jawna turned away to resume putting on her makeup. Relax, that was from the pig.

Rosemary’s nose wrinkled as she held the ruined garment away from herself. Oh, my god. Was the Beast a sloppy eater this month or was the kill exceptionally messy?

Jawna made a derisive noise in the back of her throat. If only. The Beast ate about half then dragged what was left onto the cage so it could drip all over me.

Rosemary groaned as she dropped the tattered dress into the bathroom trashcan. She nudged Jawna aside with her hip to wash her hands in the sink.

Could have been worse, Jawna said, the words distorted by the application of her lipstick. Blood’s not the worst thing he’s ever sprayed on me.

I can imagine, so spare me the details. Rosemary let out a weary breath as she rubbed the back of her neck. I take it everything went well, then?

Jawna flashed Rosemary a smile in the mirror. It stayed with me until sunrise, so I’d chalk that up to a success.

Rosemary folded her arms as she leaned against the counter. Should I worry about the way you seem to take service in stride nowadays?

Jawna put her makeup case in the cabinet beneath the sink. I’d tell you not to, but who are we fooling? You’re going to worry regardless of what I say. Jawna gave her reflection one final appraisal then turned to face her scowling godmother. How’s my hair?

Can I have a serious conversation with you?

Jawna reached around Rosemary to switch off the bathroom light. Sure, but can we have it in the kitchen? I want to get a cup of that coffee before I leave for work.

Rosemary dragged her feet as she walked ahead of Jawna. I can’t believe you’re going in. My brother can handle one day without you.

I know he can.

So why don’t you tell Simon you need a day to rest?

Because it would be a lie.

Rosemary turned to face Jawna. See? This is what I’m talking about. Why aren’t you exhausted?

I’ll answer that question with another question; who in the hell can sleep after that?

Rosemary scrutinized the complacent look on Jawna’s face then turned to walk into the kitchen. She claimed one of the tall stools next to the breakfast bar as Jawna poured each of them a cup of coffee. Rosemary rested her chin on her hand, her eyelids hooded. Jawna set the mug in front of her then ruffled Rosemary’s gray-streaked hair. Rosemary swatted Jawna’s hand away with an incoherent grumble.

Jawna took a deep breath through her nose then smiled in euphoria. Do I smell cinnamon rolls?

Rosemary made a vague gesture toward a plastic container on the counter.

Jawna clapped her hands in glee then took a large, warm pastry from its gooey nest. You should go home and sleep for the both of us, Rose.

I will, but I need to talk to you first.

So talk, Jawna said, preoccupied with her sticky breakfast.

Rosemary took a deep breath. We discussed it last night, and we would all prefer it if you would take a pass on volunteering at tonight’s meeting.

Jawna eyed Rosemary as she chewed. Who’s ‘we’?

Your family, Rosemary said as though the answer should have been obvious.

Ah.

Ah? That’s all you have to say? Ah?

What do you want me to say? I haven’t done anything wrong.

Incredulity twisted Rosemary’s features. No? Have you ever considered how stressful it is for the rest of us? Waiting at home, wondering if you’re dead or alive? Wondering if this is the month when your luck runs out?

Jawna lifted a finger. First of all, it’s not luck; it’s one-hundred-percent pure talent. Second of all, when I’m face-to-face with the Beast, the last thing I’m thinking of is how my being there affects you, Simon and Ellen.

Well, maybe you should. Just once, maybe you could think of someone beside yourself?

Jawna pressed her lips together as she turned to wash her hands.

Rosemary pinched the bridge of her nose and closed her eyes. I didn’t come here to fight with you, Jawnie. I’m just frustrated and worried. We all want you to let someone else serve as sacrifice next full moon. Please?

Jawna retrieved her coffee cup from the counter. I’ll see what I can do. She took a sip of the strong hazelnut brew then said, Why don’t you go home and get some rest, Rose? I’ve got to get to the tavern before the first ferry, and you could pack luggage in the bags under your eyes.

Rosemary began to rebuke Jawna but was interrupted by a deep, honey-smooth voice. Yeah, but she always looks like that.

Jawna’s body became as wood. She turned her head to stare at the tall man with