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Crumbling Control: Helena Hawthorn Series, #3
Crumbling Control: Helena Hawthorn Series, #3
Crumbling Control: Helena Hawthorn Series, #3
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Crumbling Control: Helena Hawthorn Series, #3

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"Crumbling Control is a brilliant read, full of danger and betrayal with romance and heartbreak." - Readers' Favourite Review

After attending a funeral in Aberdeen, Helena meets with a member of the European Vampire Council. Vincent shares his concerns about the imminent dangers local vampires are facing. After all, the hunters are gathering in London, local packs of werewolves fight for territory, and Eliza is up to something that will 'save them all'.

Lucious is staying away from Helena. The hunters shot him full of tracking bullets and every time he stops, they catch up to him. To prevent those he cares about from being in danger, he ends up calling in a favour from the man he never wished to see again.

Helena's feelings for Lucious begin to waver as she cannot get in contact with him. Andrew remains by her side and makes her laugh when everything else is going to hell.

How will Helena and Lucious overcome their new trials once the hunters come knocking on their door, demons escape through the Demon Gate, and the Council begins to crumble?

LanguageEnglish
PublisherMay Freighter
Release dateMar 12, 2017
ISBN9781386045663
Crumbling Control: Helena Hawthorn Series, #3
Author

May Freighter

May Freighter is an internationally bestselling author from Dublin, Ireland. She writes Urban Fantasy, Paranormal Romance, and Sci-Fi mysteries that will keep you entertained, mystified, and hopefully craving more. Her only pets are cacti. They're the only things that survived. It may be too dangerous to entrust her with an animal while she's engrossed in writing. ​ On sunny, rainy, and overcast days, she spends her time with her fictional friends, putting them through dangerous adventures while wishing them the best of luck. Her hobbies are photography, drawing, and plotting different ways of characters' demise.  ***** HELENA HAWTHORN SERIES:  - Alexander: Memoirs (Prequel) - Russian Roulette - Demon Gates - Crumbling Control - Desired (Spin-off Novella) - Alexander: Monochrome Interview - Fated Origins  - Cherished (Spin-off Novella) - Dark Affiliations (Release date: 2018) ***** ANNALISE STORM CHRONICLES: - Case: 0  - Case: 1 - Case: 2 - (Release date: 2018)

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    Crumbling Control - May Freighter

    May Freighter

    Crumbling Control

    Helena Hawthorn Series #3

    Copyright © 2016 by May Freighter

    All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, scanning, or otherwise without written permission from the publisher. It is illegal to copy this book, post it to a website, or distribute it by any other means without permission.

    This novel is entirely a work of fiction. The names, characters and incidents portrayed in it are the work of the author's imagination. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, events or localities is entirely coincidental.

    May Freighter asserts the moral right to be identified as the author of this work.

    May Freighter has no responsibility for the persistence or accuracy of URLs for external or third-party Internet Websites referred to in this publication and does not guarantee that any content on such Websites is, or will remain, accurate or appropriate.

    Designations used by companies to distinguish their products are often claimed as trademarks. All brand names and product names used in this book and on its cover are trade names, service marks, trademarks and registered trademarks of their respective owners. The publishers and the book are not associated with any product or vendor mentioned in this book. None of the companies referenced within the book have endorsed the book.

    First edition

    Editing by Jean Wallace

    Cover art by Nancy Zee of Cristal Designs

    This book was professionally typeset on Reedsy

    Find out more at reedsy.com

    Publisher Logo

    To my mother, Elena.

    You are the light, the smiles, the only person who calls me and asks if I’m still alive.

    Love you, Mum!

    Contents

    Foreword

    Acknowledgement

    Helena Hawthorn Series

    Madeline’s Funeral

    Saved by a Werewolf

    Ghosts of the Past

    A Field of Poppies

    The Council’s Archives

    The Ripper

    Celebrating Life

    The Black Alley

    Breaking Point

    Broken Promises

    A Few Seconds Ahead

    Cursed

    In the Dark

    BFFs

    Hidden Agendas

    Summoning the Dead

    Dead Weight

    Sacrifices We Make

    The Gate

    Broken Bonds

    The Date

    When Death Comes Knocking

    Letting Go

    About the Author

    Also by May Freighter

    Foreword

    NOTE:This book is written in U.K. English.

    Some spelling may be different to U.S.

    www.authormayfreighter.com

    Acknowledgement

    I would like to thank everyone who helped put this book together, especially A. Santos, M. Soriero, L. Andrews, and Dominica. You guys are awesome and thank you so much for all the effort you put in to make this book shape into something readable!

    Helena Hawthorn Series

    Chronological order of books in the series:

    Alexander: Memoirs (Prequel/A Vampire In Love Series #1)

    Russian Roulette

    Demon Gates

    Crumbling Control

    Desired (Spin-Off Novella)

    Monochrome Interview (A Vampire In Love Series #2)

    Fated Origins

    Cherished (Spin-Off Novella)

    Dark Affiliations

    Blood Witch

    Twisted Truths

    TBA

    * * *

    READER INFORMATION

    Throughout the story, you will encounter certain terminology that is relevant only to the Helena Hawthorn series. Here’s a small glossary.

    Childe: A human that had been turned into a vampire.

    Sire: A title given to a vampire after he turned a human by sharing his energy with the person and then took their life.

    Council: There are seven Councils that control the vampires. They prevent exposure to the world while trying to protect their people from the hunter attacks. A Council consists of 4-5 members, all of which are either respected or feared by the community.

    Council’s hounds are vampires who voluntarily serve the Council or are hired for their abilities. The number per Council averages between 20-50 vampires, excluding ghouls who maintain the building and do dealings outside during daylight hours.

    Fleeting is a term used for inhuman vampire speed. Usually, a vampire can cover a few miles before becoming tired. When they reach their limit, there is a danger of tearing their leg muscles, which can be both excruciating and slow to heal without ingestion of blood.

    Donors: humans who donate to vampires after being affiliated in their circles and have accepted a vampire’s protection. They tend to earn a good living and some even gain influential power in the human society through the vampire’s connections.

    Humans are kept out of the loop by the supernatural. The few who do possess the knowledge of their existence are too scared to reveal the details for fear of death or because no one would believe them.

    Ghouls are humans who have ingested vampire blood right before death. The energy exchange never occurred with their sire as it would when creating a childe. Young vampires tend to mistake this as a process and bury the body in the ground without waiting, leaving the creature to awaken with an urge to eat the flesh of the dead.

    Madeline’s Funeral

    HELENA

    St Machar’s Cathedral was filled with dozens of people dressed in black. In dreaded silence, they occupied the carved pews. An aura of great loss shrouded the place as rain battered the stained glass outside.

    Even the gods mourn Madeline’s death.

    Helena swallowed and smoothed the piece of paper in her lap. The words she wanted to say fled her mind, leaving it a complete blank every time she looked at the photo of Madeline’s smiling face in front of her.

    Andrew’s hand landed on hers, and he gave it a light squeeze. It’ll be okay.

    …I would like to ask Miss Hawthorn to stand and speak a few words about Madeline Eleanor Mathews. The smiling Father O’Donovan waved for her to come forward.

    As she slowly rose to her full height, Helena feared she would fall. Her legs turned to jelly. Perseverance won over, and she walked to the microphone.

    Father O’Donovan took a step back, allowing her to place her short speech on the stand. She cleared her throat and grasped the sides of the pulpit to steady her. As she scanned the faces of those gathered, her eyes landed on the six-year-old girl. Her red curls were pinned on top of her head with ringlets brushing her ashen face. Helena’s heart hurt to see such a small child’s green eyes empty of any emotion.

    Cullodena looked up, and Helena’s stomach knotted again.

    Do you need a moment? Father O’Donovan whispered beside her.

    With the shake of her head, Helena looked at her speech, seeing the letters becoming blurry as she read it out for everyone to hear. I am unworthy of being here. Someone closer to Madeline is more qualified. But, because I was asked to do so by her sister, Una, I will continue.

    Helena closed her eyes. This had to be the hardest thing in her life. Since Andrew returned from being dead, she never truly mourned him. Speaking of Madeline in past tense summoned unwanted tears. She didn’t dare stop them and made tiny puddles on her memorised handwritten speech.

    Madeline was like the sun in the sky on a beautiful summer’s day. She was always warm, caring, and brought joy to those around her… She helped me when everyone else would have refused my request and, for that, I will be eternally grateful. Helena covered her mouth to stifle a sob.

    Andrew edged to her side, and she took his hand for support.

    As I have said, I didn’t know her for very long, so my thoughts are my own. She paused and squeezed Andrew’s hand as she looked at Cullodena’s round face. Madeline was an amazing woman, and I can only aspire to be like her. Without her, I wouldn’t be here today. She… Helena’s voice was strangled by an overwhelming sadness.

    Andrew gathered her trembling frame to his chest and led her to take their seats next to Madeline’s sister and Vincent.

    Helena swiped at the pesky tears that blurred her vision. Her tired eyes were almost hollow with dark circles underneath. She didn’t care for her looks. Madeline’s funeral blatantly showed her that life was fragile. No one was safe from Death’s claws.

    After the service, Helena approached Una who stood next to Cullodena with her hand protectively resting on the little girl’s shoulder. I’m so sorry for your—

    Una shook her head. No need for that. Madeline did what she believed in. A gun to her head couldn’t stop her if she decided to help someone. I want to know one thing. Did she pass away peacefully?

    Helena struggled to form a sentence. She couldn’t tell them Madeline was killed by an archdemon.

    Your sister died saving me, Andrew interjected. And, although we didn’t see how she died, I’m sure it was a quick death.

    Una lowered her voice. I hope that you will attend the wake. I am certain people in the Circle wish to know more about how she passed.

    Instead of responding, Helena knelt in front of the little girl. From her handbag, she took out her grandmother’s grimoire and lovingly ran her hand over the cover. With a smile, she offered it to the child.

    This is the only thing I have left of my grandmother. It’s a grimoire, and I would like you to have it, Helena said softly.

    Cullodena accepted it and pressed it to her chest. There is something I have to give you, but it’s at home. Will you please attend Mum’s wake?

    Releasing an almost silent sigh, Helena forced a smile. If you want me there, I will come.

    The child handed the grimoire to Una and wrapped her arms around Helena’s neck. Through the black dress she wore, Helena felt the child’s warmth—the same warmth Madeline emitted when she was alive. She didn’t deserve the kindness these people showed her.

    Helena separated from the girl and shook hands with Una.

    I will see you this evening then, Una said with a tilt of her head.

    All Helena could manage was a half-smile. Andrew wrapped his arm around her waist and led her away. On the way to the doors, she sensed eyes on her. She pretended not to notice the stares and kept her walk steady.

    Andrew whispered into her ear, Do you want to head back to the hotel?

    The hotel made her think of the bed. She violently shook her head. Ever since she returned from the Demon Realm, she had the same nightmare. The memory of her dropping the lit match onto the carpet and the apartment catching fire tormented her. Even when she was a child, death followed her. Perhaps it would have been best if she had given in to Lazarus and let him take her soul. Maybe everyone would be happier.

    Helena, do you have a minute? Vincent’s deep baritone brought her attention back to reality.

    She faced the Council’s elder and waited for him to speak over the hiss of rain that dampened the earth and the small paved path two feet beyond.

    I would like to invite you to stay at my home. There are some matters I wish to discuss with you, and I believe Perri would be delighted to see you again.

    Helena studied his pensive expression. Whatever he wanted to discuss, she wanted no part in it. I will be returning to Ireland tomorrow. I have to prepare to leave for America.

    Vincent looked from Andrew to her. I could use my influence as a Councilman to bring you to me or you can come as a guest. Please consider my offer carefully. He inclined his head. Till later, Helena, young man. With a graceful movement of his hands, Vincent opened his umbrella and wandered down the path surrounded by weathered gravestones on either side.

    Andrew nudged her side. Why does Master Vincent want to talk to you?

    I don’t know… she mumbled.

    Think it could be something important?

    I don’t know! she snapped, immediately regretting it. Helena muttered a soft curse and marched along the same path towards the gates, letting the cool drops of rain seep into her dress. Being too tired and emotionally drained, she couldn’t care less if the world was on fire or if the Council came after her again.

    Andrew caught up with her and raised an umbrella over her head. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to upset you.

    Please, Andrew, let’s go somewhere, anywhere.

    He offered her his arm, and she accepted it. With every step she took, the distance between her and the cathedral grew, as did the suffocating pain within her heart.

    * * *

    Helena sat on a double bed in her hotel room, ready to attend the wake. Her clothes were simple—a black V-neck blouse and a pair of matching trousers she had packed just in case. Her damp dress from the service hung on a hanger on the door handle to the en-suite, giving her room a faint smell of rainwater.

    Like he had done for the past two weeks, Michael materialised next to her. With a deep-set scowl, he said, Can we not move past this matter?

    Helena abruptly stood and made her way to the window overlooking the green fields and tall trees outlining the beginning of the forest. Scotland’s countryside was a beautiful sight in the summer even when the weather turned vibrant colours into dull ones.

    Helena, how long do you plan to ignore me for?

    Grinding her teeth, she whirled on the spot and glared at her guardian angel. This is your fault, Michael. You won’t tell me anything!

    You know I cannot share such information with you.

    Oh, stop it with that crap. What is the point of you parading around in my head and outside it if I can’t ask you anything?

    Michael’s azure eyes lowered a fraction. I know this is difficult for you, but you will know everything in good time.

    She scoffed and crossed her arms. When? When someone else dies because of me? Or when I’m the one dying?

    His expression hardened as he took a step towards her. If he was physically present in her realm, the action would have been menacing. Lucky for her, he was nothing more than a ghost.

    There are events at play that are out of your mortal control, he said. Matters that even I am not informed of.

    So your bosses have a grand plan for me? Am I to become a saint like Nadine and suffer for the rest of my life? Or are they plotting to turn me into one of you, an angel that can’t talk without permission?

    Michael’s attention focused on the outside and his expression turned distant. Ever since she had first met him, he hadn’t aged. His golden hair fell around his shoulders and his sharp features used to mesmerise her. Now, his face only managed to irk her.

    At least tell me if there’s any way to turn Maya back to normal. She can’t remain a demon forever.

    Without looking at her, he replied, Your friend cannot return to being a mortal. Her soul is tainted by darkness. Once the merge completed, her physical body was forfeited. She cannot materialise in this realm no more than I can.

    Then how was Lazarus able to change my string?

    He must have used a relic of some kind. No demon can do that without help from one of the gods, he replied matter-of-factly.

    Helena’s brow furrowed. So, there might be a god coming after me next?

    He finally met her stare. I do not believe so. Gods from my or Demon Realm rarely intervene with this one.

    That’s really reassuring.

    That is the best I can give you.

    When a knock sounded on the door, Michael vanished from her sight. Grumbling, she opened the door to find Andrew and his primly dressed PA standing on the other side.

    An unnaturally bright smile decorated Orlaith’s red lips. The young woman wore a new expensive-looking suit that made Helena’s attire look like she bought it from a charity shop. For some reason, Helena couldn’t find anything likeable about the girl. Orlaith was close to a younger version of Tanya, plus a sickly sweet attitude.

    You look better, did you get some sleep? Orlaith asked.

    Helena glared at Andrew. You told her about that?

    He looked apologetic. She was worried about your dark circles. I explained it’s because you can’t sleep at night.

    I have purchased some sleeping pills for you if you wish to use them, Orlaith interjected.

    Keep them. I sleep fine now, thanks, Helena lied and closed the door.

    She grabbed her bag and her phone. Pressing the button on the side told her that she had no new calls, and her heart sank. Every time her screen remained blank, it reinforced her worry about Lucious’ absence. She couldn’t stay angry at him for saving her anymore, not when she couldn’t punch him to alleviate her pent-up tension. The only thing keeping her sane about his disappearance was that she was alive and well, which meant he had to be, too.

    Helena left the hotel room, following Orlaith and Andrew as they talked about business meetings and deals. At first, she tried to pay attention, but once they kicked off the conversation about mergers and property acquisition, she lost every shred of interest.

    In the car, while Andrew took the wheel, Orlaith repeatedly tried to offer vitamins to Helena.

    Do you take pleasure in torturing me? Helena asked.

    Orlaith pursed her lips. This is to help you feel better. Vitamins are a great—

    Spare me the biology lecture, Helena leant back in her seat and focused on the scenery of old houses lining the cramped road.

    Oh, lighten up, Orlaith mumbled.

    Helena had to blink twice as Orlaith’s words registered in her brain. She grasped the back of the PA’s seat. Before she could half-politely explain that she had attended a funeral of a woman who died because of her and that her friend became a demon, Andrew turned on the radio loud enough to make everyone cover their ears.

    Damn it, Andrew. I get it! Helena retreated into her seat.

    Orlaith, please refrain from speaking for the rest of the evening unless it is related to business matters. It would save me a lot of trouble.

    His secretary beamed at him with white enough teeth to blind a man. Of course, Mr Keane.

    Helena groaned and waited for the journey from hell to end. Bored out of her mind, she contemplated finding a mirror and bleeding on it to summon Maya. The only problem was that she could no longer use magic. When her string reverted to its normal white colour, her abilities vanished with the darkness. She was back to being one hundred percent human.

    * * *

    People at the wake were dressed in colourful clothes, and Helena’s standard dreary attire didn’t fit in with the obvious theme.

    Una saw them entering. She glided to Helena and shook her hand. Thank you for coming.

    Thank you for inviting us, Helena replied and meant it.

    Much like during the service, she felt everyone’s eyes on her. The conversations around them became almost non-existent, and the hairs on the back of Helena’s neck rose as the living room buzzed with energy.

    Another woman with bleached hair separated from the group. Her face contorted with disgust. Why did you invite these strangers to the Circle’s gathering, Una?

    They were important enough for Madeline to want to help them, Daria. She would want them to attend, Una explained in a modulated tone.

    Daria sneered. They got her killed! They shouldn’t set foot here.

    Enough! screamed Cullodena as she pushed past the blonde to stand in the centre of the room. I invited these people here, and you will accept this.

    Most of the adults in the room bowed their heads low. Some of them knelt on the ground. Helena watched in pure shock as Daria lowered her knees to the carpet.

    My apologies, priestess, Daria said.

    Cullodena cupped the woman’s cheeks. She planted a soft kiss on her forehead, and Daria’s expression melted into joy. Madeline’s daughter released Daria and took Helena’s hand.

    I promised to give you something, didn’t I? Cullodena said with a light giggle.

    When Andrew followed them, Helena stopped him. I’ll go alone.

    We will wait here until you’re ready to leave, he replied.

    Helena ascended the stairs, following the child into one of the bedrooms. Cullodena ran to the small dresser. She pulled open the middle drawer and lifted a plain jewellery box out.

    Sit on the bed with me, Cullodena said.

    Helena didn’t argue. She joined her on the bed and waited for the girl to explain what she was doing with the jewellery box.

    Every family has a sacred item. Generations of witches put their energy into the chosen relic every day prior to their passing. Cullodena opened the box. She removed the velvet material wrapped around the object and picked it up with her small fingers. "This is our family’s relic. We call it Oculus Amoralis. It can show you a vision of the one you love most in your heart or the one you seek with great need. She placed the round see-through crystal the size of a pool ball in Helena’s hand. You should keep it."

    I can’t take something like this. It’s been in your family for generations…

    You have given me the grimoire of your family line. We of Wiccan blood believe in equal trade. If one receives something, one must sacrifice something of equal value.

    I didn’t know that, Helena said.

    Cullodena gave her a sad smile. Her gem-like eyes reflected wisdom beyond her age. I have no use for this object anymore. The only person I cared about was my mum. My father died when I was four, so there is no one I look for. But you… She smiled knowingly. You have someone you hold dear, don’t you?

    How did you know? Helena whispered.

    The little girl let out a giggle. I may look like a kid, but Mum taught me magic since I was old enough to talk.

    I can’t tell if you’re joking or not.

    I have much to learn in my lifetime to lead this Circle. They are forced to entrust every decision to me. I feel sorry for them sometimes.

    Helena took Cullodena’s hand, patting it gently. Don’t you want to be a normal kid and have fun?

    Kids my age won’t understand me, much like humans can no longer relate to you. Once you are part of the dark world, you cannot return to normal. We can only accept it and move on.

    For the first time in weeks, Helena felt the pain and the horrors from the Demon Realm slipping away. This little girl was wiser than some of the adults she had met.

    You know, when I was your age, I complained about not being able to commandeer the swings or watch TV past midnight, Helena said.

    Cullodena slid off the bed and took the relic out of Helena’s hand. She wrapped it in velvet then carefully placed it in the jewellery box. "Oculus Amoralis is yours, Miss Hawthorn. I believe that sometime in the future we will meet again." Giving one final wave to Helena, the child left the room to attend to the guests.

    Helena stashed the box into her handbag. This dark world sure is hard to wrap my head around.

    * * *

    They left the house soon after. Helena could feel the animosity in the air, even though no one else dared to voice their negative opinions. Madeline’s daughter was right. She had no choice but to accept the world she was in. It was either that or wading blindly through her daily life till she wound up dead somewhere. Her thoughts returned to Vincent and his request. He was not the kind to ask anything of her, and, since he did, maybe he needed her help with something.

    From the backseat of the car, Helena said, Let’s head to Vincent’s.

    Their eyes met in the rear-view mirror, and Andrew frowned. Earlier you didn’t want anything to do with his request.

    I changed my mind.

    Orlaith piped in, I will contact the hotel and check out for you, Mr Keane. Where would you like your luggage to be delivered to?

    Helena veiled her eyes with the palm of her hand and let them discuss the details.

    * * *

    Wake up. We’re here, someone said shaking her awake.

    Helena covered her mouth and let a prolonged yawn escape. She found Andrew’s face being so close, she could see the tiny silver flecks in his forest-green eyes that were almost black in the car’s shadows.

    I can’t get out if you don’t, she said.

    He smirked and inched closer. What? Am I making you nervous?

    I swear I will kick you if you don’t get a move on.

    Ever since you became friendly with the hunters, you’ve become so violent, Thorn. He tutted as he drew away.

    Rolling her eyes, Helena scrambled into a sitting position. They had arrived at Vincent’s castle. A shudder ran through her when she remembered the last time she was here. Memories she wished her brain would forever discard and hide under a boulder or two.

    The heavy front door opened, and Perri’s arms were wound around Helena faster than she could say ‘hello’. The impact of their bodies colliding almost sent them tumbling back into the car. Luckily, Helena managed to grab the door to keep her on her feet.

    I have missed you so much, Perri cried into her shoulder. When I heard what happened to Lady Madeline, I couldn’t stop crying. She was such a nice person.

    Helena wrapped her arms around Perri’s quivering form. She buried her face in Perri’s neck and enjoyed the warmth of a friend for a minute.

    Perri ushered them into Vincent’s home. Master Vincent will see you both for breakfast in the dining hall. She led the way to the grand staircase. At the top of it, she paused and looked at Andrew. Are you Andrew?

    I am, he replied.

    Perri raised a brow and assessed Orlaith. Are you two going to stay in the same room?

    Andrew’s eyes bulged as he raised his hands in defence, and Orlaith turned bright red under her perfect layer of makeup.

    Different rooms then, Perri said nonchalantly.

    Helena made a mental note to thank Perri for her colourful humour. She had missed spending time with Vincent’s maid. Perri was someone Helena could talk to without any barriers.

    The maid guided Orlaith and Andrew to separate rooms first. When it came to Helena’s, she had a bad feeling she would spend her nights in the same room as last time. And, when Perri came to a stop in front of that cursed room, Helena’s face fell.

    You don’t want to stay here? Perri inquired.

    After what happened here last time, I’d rather not.

    Perri took her hand and marched Helena into the room next to it. As far as Helena remembered, this was Perri’s bedroom. She scanned the simple décor of an embossed teal and silver wallpaper and white furniture. Her double bed sat in the middle of the room with baby pink sheets.

    You look disappointed, Perri said.

    Helena grinned. I expected pictures of Hans everywhere for some reason.

    Perri laughed. I keep him in my memory and heart. That’s all that matters. She paused to take Helena’s attire in and ambled to the dresser, returning with a set of pink pyjamas. Here, try them on.

    Helena grimaced. I’m not a fan of pink.

    And I’m not a fan of funeral clothing. So, please try them on.

    After accepting the clothes, Helena changed in the bathroom. She joined Perri, who wore a matching set of blue pyjamas, on the bed and bounced on the spot with excitement.

    How is it going with Lucious?

    Helena shifted uncomfortably and sighed. I don’t know. We’ve not talked in over two weeks.

    Can you not contact him through that link of yours?

    Helena traced the flower patterns on the bedsheets. He’s blocking me out. No matter how hard I try, he never responds.

    I’m certain he has his reasons.

    If he doesn’t, I’m going to track him down and shoot him full of silver bullets myself. Helena grasped the bed sheets, crumpling them between her fingers.

    Perri tapped her on the shoulder. Are you alright? That’s not something you would usually do.

    Helena blinked away the bloody images. Perri was right. This wasn’t like her. Then again, what was like her? Her head started to pound, so she massaged her temples.

    I’m going to get some sleep, Helena said.

    That’s a good idea. Get some rest. I have three hours before I have to go to work. I will try not to disturb you.

    Helena climbed under the soft quilt and relaxed. Once she rolled away from her friend, she closed her eyes. Hey, Perri…

    Yes?

    Are you afraid of what the future might bring?

    Perri was silent for a long time as she climbed in after Helena. The lights blinked off, and the room became shrouded with darkness.

    I’m not afraid of the future. I’m afraid of people who control it.

    Saved by a Werewolf

    LUCIOUS

    One week ago,

    Life was not fair. Lucious knew that with every fibre of his being. It was why he fled to the outskirts of London first, arriving in Harlow. He could not stay long. With every step, his teeth ground together as the silver bullets singed the muscles they grazed against. It took a week for the wounds to stop bleeding from numerous bullet wounds. He never did find the time to remove the cursed things.

    With the hunters

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