Hunter's Disguise

By Eve-Liz Addams

Holly Pierce is a magician whose job is to remove curses from jewellery. In order to get to her targets, she works undercover for the rich and famous; never staying long, and never revealing that she's a magician. On the trail of a certain cursed ruby, she ends up walking into the lair of something far more sinister.
Already living there is a man brazenly calling himself the Prince of the country. Regardless of his true identity, it doesn't change Holly's mission for being there. Until assassins for the Prince come calling, and Holly must decide whether to help the imposter, or use the chaos as a distraction to expose his identity.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Eve-Liz Addams
• Release date: Dec 21, 2021
• ISBN: 9781005190392

Eve-Liz Addams

Hi, my name is Eve-Liz Addams, and I'm an aspiring English author. I live on the South coast of England with my adorable boxer dog, and spend entirely too much time daydreaming. For a long time, I've been more immersed in fiction than reality, so I don't think anyone was surprised when I started writing out the stories that were in my head. It started out just as a fun hobby in 2013, but now I want to share my creations with the world.If you've read any of my stories, please share your comments and opinions in the reviews section. I'd love to know what you all think. :-)

Book preview

Hunter's Disguise

Eve-Liz Addams

Distributed by Smashwords

Copyright © 2021 Eve-Liz Addams

Cover Design by YourDreamSeller at 99designs

All characters appearing in this work are fictitious. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons, living or dead, is coincidental.

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Thank you for downloading this ebook. This ebook remains the copyright property of the author and may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you're reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to Smashwords.com and purchase your own copy. Thank you for your support.

Contents

Prologue

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Epilogue

***Prologue***

Dressed in a black lace cocktail dress, with sleeves down to the elbows and a knee-length light skirt; I was camouflaged perfectly for attending the charity event held tonight. So, my dress might have been a little blander than the rest, but that just meant no-one would remember me.

Getting an invitation hadn't been easy, but for what I was after tonight, this was unfortunately the best opportunity. The party was being held on a cruise ship, meaning security wasn't as tight as other high-profile events. And therefore making it the best chance for me.

‘…got married only last year…’

‘…you should've seen her face…’

‘…another attack on the Prince…’

‘…I always knew she was bad for him…’

The noise of many people chatting washed over me and covered the heavy clatter of my high heels on the deck, as I searched for my target. There really weren't that many people here, but somehow the Earl that I was looking for had disappeared. Actually, I was after his wife – because she would be the one wearing the emerald necklace.

‘Excuse me.’ A voice called out.

Turning; I saw a young man with curly blond hair standing a couple of paces from me. Dressed in a black suit like the rest of the people here, there was nothing particularly special about him, except I guess, his age. Most of the people here were around retirement age, whereas he looked only a couple of years older than me.

‘I thought I saw a beauty walk past.’ He smirked, reaching me. ‘But that word doesn't really do you justice.’

‘Oh?’ I raised an eyebrow at him. ‘Do you have a better word?’

He smiled and looked me up and down slowly.

‘Hmm. You, my dear, are a goddess.’

‘A goddess?’ I repeated with a smile of my own. ‘Of what?’

‘Venus.’ His eyes fixed on mine. ‘The goddess of beauty, love, and sex.’

‘And you think you can keep up with a goddess?’

‘I will certainly do my best.’ He grabbed my hand and placed a kiss to my knuckles. ‘Charles, at your service. May I know the name of my goddess?’

‘Your goddess?’ I teased. ‘That's a little presumptuous, isn't it? You may call me Venus.’

I took my hand back and turned away from him. Unsurprisingly, he wasn't planning on letting me go.

‘Venus.’ He murmured, walking next to me. ‘Don't you find it's a little crowded out here? How about you and I go somewhere quieter?’

‘And where would that be?’ I kept my eyes on the other guests, looking for my prey. ‘We've already left port, in case you haven't noticed.’

‘The cabin.’ He indicated a pair of doors on the other side of the deck. ‘It's quieter and warmer. Are you cold?’

Of course. The perfect place for my target to be hiding. And one place I hadn't searched yet.

‘Now that you mention it, I am actually.’ I lied. ‘Are you sure it's okay for guests to go in there?’

‘Of course.’ Charles wrapped one arm around my waist. ‘But even if they don't, they'd make a special exception for me.’

Above the din of many overlapping conversations, I thought I could hear raised voices. It couldn't be an argument, could it? The people here were far too refined to exchange their barbed comments for shouting.

Without being too obvious, I glanced around, looking for the source of the noise.

‘Oh?’ I murmured. ‘Are you a VIP or something?’

Charles glanced at me. ‘I guess you don't recognise me. My father is Brian Kilner, owner of The Chronicle newspaper. They're hardly going to turn his son away.’

‘Oh.’ I stopped, just before we got to the door. ‘I'm sorry, I didn't realise. I guess I've been rude to you.’

‘Not at all.’ He smiled. ‘I like a girl with spirit.’

Off to my right, I could just make out the two figures who were arguing. Unsurprisingly, they were also attracting the attention of several other party-goers nearby, which made it hard to see their faces.

‘There are plenty of other girls here tonight.’ I told Charles, acting shy. ‘And I'm sure they all have better backgrounds than me. Are you sure you're allowed to talk to me?’

‘Sweet Venus.’ He raised a hand to stroke my face, immediately bringing my attention back to him. ‘You are right. There are plenty of beauties here tonight. But there's only one goddess. And she's standing right in front of me. Don't worry about anything else. I'll protect you.’

I smiled at him, and as he turned to open the door, I glanced once more at the arguing couple. For just a brief second, the people in front of me moved, allowing a tiny glimpse of the pair.

The woman had long dark hair elegantly curled over one shoulder, and a long slit running up the skirt of her dress all the way to her hip. Her partner was a man who appeared to be in his thirties, with equally dark hair, only his was much shorter. They were no longer making so much noise, but from their postures it was clear there was still some tension there.

The pair of them were much younger than the majority here, and I could immediately tell the man wasn't the Earl I was after, so dismissed them.

Then Charles urged me forwards, pulling me inside the cabin, so that I no longer had a clear sight of them. There were a couple of tables positioned by windows inside, but the only people were staff members, who paid us no attention.

‘Are you sure we're allowed in here?’ I whispered to Charles.

‘Didn't I tell you not to worry?’ He grinned in an easy, relaxed manner. ‘Don't worry. I'll take you to a place where you can rest.’

He led me through the hall into a corridor where a glass window on the far door showed the front of the ship. But we weren't heading that way. Several doors lined the corridor, and Charles took me into the first room on the left.

With a low ceiling and barely any walking space, this room had gone past cosy and into cramped. Apart from a small table, the only other thing in the room was a large double bed with silken sheets on it.

‘Charles?’ I looked at him in surprise.

‘It's alright.’ He assured me, gently pushing me towards the bed. ‘Guests come here if they get seasick. It's a place to relax.’

I sat on the edge of the bed, and he sat next to me. Strictly closer than he needed to.

‘Venus.’ He breathed, running his hand through a strand of my hair. ‘You are so beautiful.’

Well, seeing as Charles was content to stay here, I thought I'd let him. Not that I had any intention of staying with him, though.

‘You remember when I asked if you could keep up with a goddess?’ I murmured.

‘Yes.’

‘Do you want to try?’

‘If you promise to go easy on me.’ He moved closer to me.

I grinned. ‘Where's the fun in that?’

As he moved his head towards mine, I smirked at him, causing his eyes to flash in wariness. Much too late for him to do anything about it though. Quickly standing up, I wrapped one arm around his neck, twisting him so that I was pressing against his windpipe.

Charles made a strangled sound of protest and raised his hands to grab at my arm, but without training, he was powerless to stop me. After a couple of seconds, he fell limp and stopped resisting as his eyes fluttered closed.

Leaving the unconscious Charles on the bed, I smoothed down my dress and escaped from the room. I had work to do.

My target could be in any one of these rooms, but if their purpose was the same as Charles intended, then I wasn't going looking for the Earl until he came out. So instead, I headed to the front of the ship, where a lone woman was staring out at the river glimmering in the darkness.

As the door closed behind me, she half turned to see who it was, and then fully turned when she saw me. Her dress was a simple black gown with a low V-neck, and the ample cleavage clearly showed off a large emerald resting in a chunky silver necklace.

It wasn't what I'd call pretty, but it definitely showed power. And it also seemed to shine with an internal light, making it easily visible in the dark night.

‘What do you want?’ The necklace's owner asked unkindly.

‘I'm just here for some fresh air.’ I smiled. ‘It was getting suffocating on the other side, and the cabin is too warm.’

I moved over to stand next to her, watching the river gently glide by as we passed.

‘I don't recognise your face.’ She peered at me. ‘Who are you?’

‘Venus.’ I smiled politely.

She narrowed her eyes at me, possibly sensing it was an alias.

‘Daphne.’ She replied finally. ‘Wife of the Earl of Langsburdy.’

Good. I had been suspecting as much. Although, it wouldn't be out of my boundaries to do two jobs on the same trip.

‘Oh, you're married?’ I made a show of looking around. ‘Where's your husband? I hope I'm not interrupting.’

She snorted and looked out at the water again. ‘My husband is keeping some piece of trash company in one of the cabin rooms. His wealth is the only thing tramps like her notice. Who did you come with?’

‘Oh, I'm alone.’ I waved a hand at her dismissively. ‘A friend got me an invite, and I thought the experience would be good.’

Daphne peered at me suspiciously again.

‘What is it you do?’

‘I work freelance.’ I shrugged. ‘A bit of this, a bit of that. But I am interested in certain types of jewellery. That necklace really is something.’

‘It's a chain that my husband put around me.’ She glared at it derisively. ‘A symbol that I belong to him.’

‘Then why don't you take it off?’ I suggested.

‘You don't know my husband.’ She muttered, looking darkly out at the water. ‘He doesn't like being disobeyed.’

‘But he's not here right now.’

She glanced at me and then slowly unclasped the heavy metal from around her neck.

‘Do you feel better?’ I asked.

‘Strangely yes.’ She looked at the necklace in her hands as if it was a puzzle.

The emerald was still shining brightly, but now that it wasn't clasped around her neck, she wouldn't feel the effects so badly.

‘May I have a look at it?’ I asked hopefully.

She hesitated and then handed it over to me. I was careful to take only the silver chain from her at first, then gently touched the back of my finger to the glowing gem. The magic snapped at my finger, like an electric shock, and I got a very brief idea of the hatred and entrapment that the wearer of this gem would feel.

The stronger the initial feelings had been, the stronger the curse was, but unfortunately, the more times it was worn under similar conditions, the curse grew ever more powerful.

My job was to remove curses from items of jewellery such as these. Unfortunately, in the process, there was a high chance of my magic destroying the jewel that was holding the curse.

Suddenly the door leading to the cabin swung open with a bang, and a rotund man with more wrinkles than hair stood in the doorway.

‘Daphne!’ He yelled. ‘What do you think you're doing?’

I saw panic flash over her face as she turned to me. ‘Thief! Give it back!’

Understanding her predicament, I jumped back quickly out of reach as her husband called for the guards.

Dashing around to the side of the ship, I climbed up onto the railing and glanced down at the dark water below. It wasn't that far to the bank, but the water was cold. I really didn't want to have to leave this way.

‘Stop!’ One of the security men shouted.

I glanced at him to see he was focused on the necklace. Of course, that would be his major concern.

Hiding the necklace behind my back, I sent my magic into the emerald, cleansing out the dark curse from within it. The emerald struggled to contain both types of magic, and then disintegrated into dust, allowing all the magic into the air.

My magic had by now dealt with the majority of the curse, but it was too late. The chain was still intact, but I couldn't return it to its owners like this.

‘Sorry, boys.’ I smirked at the guards. ‘But I'm not planning on getting caught.’

Jumping backwards, I arched my back, so that I dived head-first into the water with a small splash.

It was really cold.

I swam down a little way, then tucked myself into a ball to take off my high heels. Bad for walking, worse for swimming.

Leaving my heels and the silver necklace chain to fall to the bottom of the river, I continued swimming underwater towards the bank. My magic could sustain me for a little while, but in the murky water, I really needed to resurface.

Taking a gamble, I broke through the surface and refilled my lungs with oxygen as I looked back at the lights on the ship. Since it was night-time and I was wearing a black dress, I doubted they could see me. And from the number of people still on the deck, I thought they hadn't wanted to announce my presence to any of the others.

Now all I needed to worry about was getting out of here before I died of hypothermia.

Reaching the bank, I used a touch of magic to dry myself off and made my way back to the hotel where I was staying. There was no-one at the front desk at this time of night, so I slipped in quietly and crashed on my bed.

***Chapter 1***

The next morning, I got an unwanted call while I was eating breakfast.

‘Holly!’ Michael's irritated voice demanded through my phone. ‘What happened to keeping a low profile yesterday?’

I sighed.

Michael was the friend who had managed to get me on the ship yesterday. Although, friend wasn't exactly the best word. He accepted jobs for money – I gave him money, therefore he worked for me occasionally.

‘The Earl surprised me.’ I told him, buttering some toast. ‘I happened to be holding the necklace and…things sort of got out of hand.’

‘Yes, out of hand.’ Michael seethed. ‘You're all over the newspapers and TV now. As a very wanted thief, named Venus. Where did you chose that name from, anyway?’

‘Someone gave it to me, and I sort of liked it. Besides, it's not that big a deal – the Earl seems to have other things on his mind, anyway.’

‘He might.’ Michael conceded. ‘But the press are different. Apparently, several things went missing that night, and you've been labelled as taking all of them.’

‘Hmm.’ I took a bite of toast.

‘You could be a little more worried, you know.’ Michael sighed in frustration. ‘Even though your face isn't clear in the photos taken, people will remember you. Especially that Earl. He's put a price on your head.’

‘Really?’ That had never happened before.

‘Yes. That's why I'm telling you to lay low.’ Michael insisted. ‘That bounty's going to attract all sorts of unsavouries to you.’

‘Stop worrying so much.’ I dismissed him. ‘I can take care of myself just fine. Besides, I'm leaving here today. Maybe I'll go see Natasha. I haven't seen her in a while.’

Michael was silent.

‘Seriously?’ I laughed. ‘You two broke up years ago, and you still don't want to talk about her?’

‘How is she?’ Michael asked stiffly.

‘Why don't you call her and find out?’

‘I have work to be getting on with.’ He declared abruptly. ‘If you get caught, please don't give them my name. I'll deny all knowledge of knowing you.’

‘Mhmm. And erase all trace of a connection between us as well, I presume.’

‘Of course.’ There was a brief pause. ‘I have to go. Goodbye, Holly.’

‘Bye.’

Next up, I dialled my sister's number.

‘Holly?’ She gushed as soon as she picked up. ‘Is that you? Oh, thank goodness you're all right. You're all over the news at the moment. They've called you Venus, because apparently you said something like that. Anyway, what were you doing on a cruise ship? I thought you usually visited their homes. And were there any handsome guys there?’

‘Hello to you too, Natasha.’ I chuckled. ‘My target had a little too much security for my liking, and even if I could get into the house, I had no idea where he'd keep the emerald. This was a much easier way. And as for handsome guys, there might have been a few, but none your type.’

‘How can you say that?’ She pouted. ‘They must've been rich. Next time you get an invite to go somewhere like that, you should take me with you.’

‘I only got there courtesy of Michael.’ I considered. ‘You could always ask him for an invitation.’

‘Michael.’ She murmured. ‘I don't know why you're still working with him.’

‘He's useful to have around, and loyal.’ I mentioned. ‘But you're right, I wouldn't want him as a boyfriend. Anyway Natasha, I have a favour to ask you. Do you still have a room free?’

‘You mean your room.’ She corrected. ‘Yes, of course it's free. Why do you keep speaking as if you're a visitor? It's your house as well as mine, you know.’

‘But you live in it.’ I pointed out. ‘I just pop in occasionally. Which is what I plan on doing now. Michael suggested I should let things cool down a bit before I try again, so I thought I'd come and see you.’

‘Sure.’ She agreed eagerly. ‘I told my friend I'd go to their party tonight, so I won't be able to help you unpack. You still have a key, don't you? Just let yourself in when you arrive.’

‘Yes, I have a key.’ I chuckled. ‘And I can unpack fine by myself. I don't carry a lot with me anyway.’

‘Are you still living out of that tiny suitcase?’ Natasha huffed in exasperation. ‘When you get here, we're going to go on a serious shopping spree. You, me, and a couple of mates from my work. I'll make sure you get a whole wardrobe full, that you can leave at our house if you need. Maybe you'll think about settling down then.’

This was why I didn't visit my sister often. She meant well, and I loved her, but because she was older, she constantly thought that she had to mother me.

‘What about you?’ I countered. ‘When are you going to settle down?’

‘Oh, I don't have time for that.’ She dismissed. ‘I'm still helping Russ out at the hospital when I can. I can't just suddenly disappear with a boyfriend.’

Russ – otherwise known as Doctor Russell Terrance – was a doctor at the local hospital where Natasha volunteered. He was a strict, no-nonsense type of guy who was known to be blunt in delivering his verdict. But he was a brilliant doctor, and I knew my sister had a crush on him.

I didn't know whether she'd told him she had magic, but he allowed her to volunteer in the recovery ward, to speed up patients' recovery.

‘I'm sure he'll understand.’ I encouraged. ‘And you won't stay young and pretty forever. Make the most of your youth.’

‘At least I'm doing more than you.’ She retorted. ‘When was the last time you went to a party?’

‘Yesterday.’ I snorted. ‘Didn't you see the news?’

‘I meant not work related.’ She tutted. ‘And no-one even pays you for that. Why do you do it?’

‘Why do you volunteer at a hospital?’

‘Because those people need help.’ She stressed. ‘You're helping the aristocracy who have more than enough money to play around with. If they get cursed, that's just unfortunate.’

‘Nat.’ I chided her lightly. ‘You're the one who said we should help people regardless of their wealth. You wouldn't leave an old man to die just because he was filthy rich, would you?’

‘Of course not, but –’

‘I have to go.’ I cut her off. ‘I'll arrive late tonight, so I'll see you tomorrow morning, alright? Please try not to disturb me when you get back.’

‘Alright.’ She murmured. ‘Stay safe.’

‘You too.’

I hung up and got ready to leave. My sister and I were only a single year apart, and like two halves of a whole. Natasha was sensible and reserved, being attracted to guys who would provide a stable home; whereas I was more of a rebel and often got into trouble.

After witnessing my sister's multiple failed attempts at keeping a boyfriend, I'd decided against that altogether. Natasha was the only family I needed.

Leaving the hotel, I pulled my suitcase along to the train station. It would've taken over an hour to walk following the roads, but thankfully there was a shortcut leading past some of the more extravagant hotels where ordinary cars weren't allowed.

Although I had said I would keep my head down for a while, that didn't mean I had to ignore everything around me. Rich people wore jewellery, and over time, jewels picked up the negative emotions of people and became cursed. Therefore, wherever there were rich people, there would be curses.

Walking past the hotels, I wasn't alone in staring up at the grand buildings that had wonderful views over the city. Tourists and locals alike came to gawk at celebrities staying here, or try and get noticed for a job, or a spouse. However, security was good, and nobody was allowed near the entrance.

As I was walking, a limo drove onto the paved road, so of course everyone stopped to stare at whoever was coming from the hotel. I paused as well, but when a man came out from the hotel that obviously wasn't security, I kept walking. Men usually didn't wear the type of jewellery that I was interested in.

The people on the street started calling out in excitement, but I knew they wouldn't get anywhere. However, when the noise still hadn't died down after a couple of minutes, I looked back. People here usually got into their vehicles and left immediately. Hanging around was just asking for trouble.

The man had disappeared, presumably into the limo, but the car made no indication of moving. And the reason for it came a couple of seconds later, when the hotel doors slid open again to reveal a tall woman with long dark brown hair and huge sunglasses to cover her face.

She was wearing a black leather jacket and dark blue jeans, but there was something that seemed familiar about her. I wasn't one for watching much TV, but I wondered if I'd seen her in a movie or something recently.

Because everyone else was doing the same thing, I took out my phone and snapped a picture of her. It wasn't very good, but I didn't have much time before she got in the limo. With its passengers, the limo finally took off and drove the other way down the street.

I left that street and was busy sending a quick text to Michael, asking him to identify the lady in the picture, when I heard shouting.

‘I'll call the police if I have to.’ One man threatened.

‘That's not fair, man.’ Another voice complained. ‘You only took me, like, five streets. That doesn't cost you anything.’

I looked across the road to see a taxi driver and his passenger causing a commotion just outside some shops.

‘Unless you pay me within the next minute, I'll call the police and you can explain this to them.’ The driver warned.

‘I'm telling you, I don't have any money.’ The man pleaded. ‘Call the police if you want, it won't change anything.’

Needing to cross the road anyway, I headed a little way away from them towards the traffic lights just as they turned red. Maybe today was my lucky day.

I started crossing when a familiar limo pulled up, making more people stop and stare at the tinted windows. I couldn't see the occupants from here, but one of the back windows rolled down slightly, allowing a neatly manicured hand to appear, holding a cigarette. And on that hand was a bracelet.

Gold and studded with rubies, it was delicate and could have easily been hidden beneath the sleeve of the woman's leather jacket. The sky was overcast today, and yet the rubies still shone brightly as if reflecting light. But they weren't reflecting – they were producing light. Those rubies were cursed.

The taxi driver and his passenger were still arguing, when I suddenly got an idea. Hurrying over to them, I kept one eye on the traffic lights to make sure they were still red.

‘Excuse me!’ I called over to the arguing pair.

‘What?’ The taxi driver glared at me.

He was a little overweight, with thick, bushy dark brown hair, eyebrows and moustache.

‘I'm in need of a taxi.’ I told him.

‘Then find another one.’ He replied unkindly. ‘I'm a bit busy at the moment.’

‘It's urgent.’ I pulled my purse from the top of my suitcase. ‘I'll pay for him as well if you let me in right now.’

‘Oh thank you!’ The man exclaimed. ‘I'll leave it to you.’

Before the driver could stop him, the man ran into one of the nearby shops. Behind me, the lights turned green, and the limo started leaving.

‘Here.’ I pulled out a handful of notes and gave them to the taxi driver. ‘I need you to follow that limo. Quickly.’

‘Er…’ The man blinked at the money I had given him. ‘Do you need help with your bag?’

‘No, that's alright.’ I assured him, pulling it in with me in the back. ‘But can you hurry up, please?’

‘You've given me too much.’ He frowned, starting to count the money.

‘It doesn't matter.’ I snapped. ‘Keep it all. Just please, follow that limo.’

He got in and thankfully started the engine just as the limo disappeared down a side street.

‘Why?’ The driver questioned. ‘Who are you?’

‘I'll answer as you're driving.’ I promised. ‘Just please don't lose it.’

The driver glanced at me in the mirror, clearly unhappy, but then pulled out into the road.

‘I'll do my best.’

I nodded and then picked up my phone as it rang.

‘Hello?’

‘Holly.’ Michael's voice greeted me. ‘Please tell me you're not after her now.’

It took me a moment to remember I had sent Michael a photo of the woman I was now chasing. Maybe today really was my lucky day.

‘It's my job.’ I insisted. ‘You know I can't just leave things as they are.’

‘I told you to keep your head down.’ He fumed. ‘Why can't you just do as you're told? People will recognise you.’

‘You're being too cautious.’ I dismissed his concern. ‘I don't pay you to keep me safe, remember?’

‘No.’ He acknowledged. ‘But if I do keep you safe, then I get more jobs in the future. It's in my best interest to keep you alive and out of jail.’

The taxi turned where the limo had, but by now the limo had disappeared. The driver didn't seem bothered by this though, and took the last turning on the right.

‘Just tell me what you know.’ I ordered Michael.

There was a brief silence, and then he sighed.

‘Jessica Peters.’ He reported. ‘Movie star actress and model. She recently directed a short series of TV shows that her boyfriend produced. They were well-received, and she was even invited to a gala the Prince was hosting.’

I thought she had looked familiar. Made sense that she was an actress.

‘Okay. And…?’ I pressed.

‘The only scandal relating to jewellery in her family that I could find, was when her mother's father was a viscount. He had a mistress, and subsequently a daughter, but at the time there was no DNA evidence, so the woman was paid off. One of the items was a gold ring inlaid with a ruby, which I think has now been passed down to Jessica's cousin.’

‘What about a ruby bracelet?’

‘You do realise you only gave me her photo a couple of minutes ago?’ Michael retorted in mild irritation. ‘I can't find everything immediately, because believe it or not, there are certain protective measures to keep people like me out.’

I smiled. I didn't actually know what Michael did for a job, but if I ever needed information about someone, he was the person to go to.

‘Well, would the bracelet have been part of the pay off?’

‘It wasn't mentioned anywhere, but it's possible.’ He conceded.

Although from his voice I could tell he didn't believe it.

‘Okay, so maybe it's not hers.’ I considered. ‘What about her boyfriend?’

‘Dustin Hunter.’ Michael supplied. ‘Movie producer who modelled in his younger days, and he has a degree in psychology. He was also at the gala the Prince hosted.’

I just waited.

‘His family history is a little complicated.’ Michael noted slowly. ‘It will take me a while to search through all his relatives, but so far, none of them are linked to jewels. Ah, there was an amethyst necklace and matching pair of earrings…that seem to have gone missing recently.’

‘Just focus on the ruby bracelet.’ I told him. ‘Both of them probably have a lot of curses, but getting close to them is going to be tricky.’

‘I'm glad you agree.’ Michael muttered snidely. ‘Now stop chasing her. She's bound to have a lot of security around, and you're still on the wanted list.’

‘Then can you tell me where she's going?’ I pressed. ‘I might be able to catch her at her destination.’

‘I thought you said you were going to lay low.’ He retorted irritably. ‘How is chasing a high-profile celebrity staying low?’

‘Michael.’ I warned.

‘Fine.’ He snapped. ‘I won't come to your funeral. That's if they even give you a funeral. They may just chop you into little pieces and throw you into the sea.’

‘I take it that's all you've got for me?’

‘Well, she's heading in the wrong direction to her house, and her boyfriend's place, so I'm not sure where she's going. Plus, your driver, Barry, is stealing a lot of the money from the taxi company. He's going to become as wanted as you are soon.’

I rolled my eyes. Why was I not surprised Michael had found out where I was?

‘Oh.’

‘What?’ I frowned.

‘Barry's daughter was involved in a hit-and-run and now needs a liver transplant. There's none available through legal means, so he's saving up to buy one through the black market. You really know how to pick your drivers, don't you?’

‘Thanks for that.’ I muttered. ‘You do realise sometimes you do a little too much digging?’

‘I think it's only right to know what you're up against.’ He huffed. ‘Now when the police catch you, you won't know if they're after you or him.’

‘That's not going to happen.’ I assured him. ‘Thank you for your help.’

‘Just remember not to mention my name.’

I hung up and looked at our surroundings. We were on a dual carriageway, and only a little way ahead was a limo. I just hoped it was the one I was after.

My driver – Barry – looked at me in the mirror.

‘Is everything alright?’ He worried.

‘It will be.’ I smiled. ‘Is that the same limo?’

‘Yeah.’ He nodded. ‘This is the one you pointed to. Can I ask what you do for a job?’

‘My job?’ I thought about it. ‘It doesn't really have a name. I guess you could say I'm in the security business.’

‘It's just, I heard part of your conversation.’ He hesitated. ‘I don't know who you're following, but it sounds serious.’

‘It is.’

‘You're not going to get me into any trouble, are you?’ He asked worriedly.

‘Not as long as you keep following that limo.’

He nodded and went back to driving until the limo pulled off of the dual carriageway again.

‘Um, you know, you look similar to that thief they keep mentioning on the radio.’ Barry commented. ‘Venus something, I think.’

I snorted. ‘What? Because I have long dark hair and brown eyes? Sure, I guess half the population look like her.’

‘I saw a recording on TV.’ He glanced at me again. ‘She does look similar to you.’

‘Even though you couldn't see her face?’ I raised an eyebrow. ‘I've seen those pictures too, but they're not clear enough to make out much.’

‘But I'm used to remembering people's faces, in case they don't pay.’ Barry was insistent. ‘Even a glimpse of the side of someone's face and I'd recognise them again. You are her, aren't you? You are Venus.’

I sighed. Maybe Michael had been right. I should've hidden for a while.

‘And what if I am?’ I leaned back. ‘Are you going to tell the authorities about me?’

‘Well, it's sort of my duty.’

‘And there's a reward.’ I leaned forwards again. ‘I tell you what; if you tell on me, I'll tell on how you've been stealing from the taxi firm for your daughter. How about that?’

His face suddenly went pale and his eyes widened in fear.

‘How do you know about that?’

‘Not even going to deny it?’ I raised an eyebrow. ‘Well, it doesn't matter. Look, I'm in a hurry, and I'd really appreciate it if you kept this between the two of us. Honestly, I have no intention of selling you out.’

He glanced at me worriedly as he took another turn after the limo. There were definitely less cars around now. If we continued to follow it, it was going to look obvious.

My phone rang again, and I wasn't surprised to see it was Michael again.

‘Yes?’ I sighed.

‘Stop the car.’ He commanded. ‘Right now.’

Michael wasn't one for pranks, so I didn't hesitate.

‘Stop this car.’ I ordered Barry.

‘Wha?’ Barry looked confused, but put his foot on the brakes. ‘I can't really stop here.’

‘I know where Jessica's going, Holly.’ Michael spoke at the same time. ‘And even you won't stand a chance in there.’

‘You should know better than anyone not to underestimate me, Michael.’ I murmured.

‘Yes, and that's exactly why I told you to stop the car.’ Michael insisted firmly. ‘You're about to enter the grounds to Brinxsly Castle, where the Prince is hidden.’

I vaguely remembered hearing that the Crown Prince had been targeted several times and was recently moved to a secure location for his protection. But I was pretty sure the exact location would have been kept secret.

‘How do you know that?’

‘You should know better than anyone not to underestimate me, Holly.’ He replied in a monotone.

I sighed. It wasn't really a surprise that he could find out, but I wondered about Jessica. She may be a high-profile celebrity, but why would she know the location of the Prince? She certainly wasn't his lover if she was taking her boyfriend along with her.

‘Um, miss?’ Barry asked. ‘I can't stay here, I'm blocking the road. Can I carry on, now?’

‘No.’ I reached into my purse for more money. ‘Hang on, Michael.’

Putting the phone down, I handed Barry the rest of the notes I had in my purse.

‘Here. Good luck with your daughter.’

‘Er.’ He stared at the money. ‘You've already paid me. This is too much.’

‘For a liver transplant?’ I raised my eyebrows. ‘I doubt it.’

He stared at me in clear surprise for a while and then closed his eyes, shaking his head.

‘I appreciate the thought, but I don't like the idea of taking a thief's money. I don't know where you got this from.’

‘Does it matter?’ I snorted, opening the door. ‘It's hardly worse than what you're doing.’

He was still worried, but I got out and pulled my suitcase with me.

‘Goodbye.’ I waved, shutting the door. ‘And good luck.’

Then I returned the phone to my ear.

‘Sorry, Michael.’ I apologised. ‘What were you saying about the castle?’

‘You're not planning on going in, are you?’

‘No.’ I was just going to look around the grounds for a bit.

Barry turned the taxi around, and with a final wave at me, he drove back towards the city again.

‘You know how there have been several attacks on the royal family lately?’ Michael started.

‘Really?’ I started walking along the road to the castle.

‘Do you ever watch the news?’ He growled in irritation.

‘Only when I'm on TV.’

There was a brief pause.

‘Oh, you're going to have to wait. I've got to work.’

‘Fine. Call me back when you can.’

I hung up and looked around. Thickly trunked trees bordered the road, almost blocking out the sunlight from above, and hiding all sorts of traps that could be waiting for an unwary traveller.

Walking carefully, I kept my eyes and ears open for any signs that someone was watching me. If these guys were professionals, there was no way I was going to spot them. But I had magic, and I was fairly certain I could handle one or two. Or at least stun them long enough for me to run away.

Five minutes later, the trees thinned out to reveal a wide grassy hill rising behind them on the left. From my position at the bottom of the hill, I could faintly make out the road tracing around the outside of the grass and then cutting through the centre before bending back on itself and into another shrove of trees.

Deciding that the majority of the cameras would be on the road, I took a path through the trees and headed up the grassy hill, still dragging my suitcase with me. As I walked, I noticed the trees fell away sharply on my right towards a small river that ran parallel to me.

I hadn't gotten very far before my phone alerted me to the fact that Michael was trying to make contact again.

‘Yes?’ I asked.

‘Holly, I take it you're still at Brinxsly Castle?’

‘Is that really a question?’

‘Fine. But there are some things you should know. The Prince isn't in the castle, he's in a small annex building East of the castle that was originally for the gardener.’

‘This place has a gardener?’ I snorted, looking around. ‘That must be a job and a half.’

‘The garden is around the back of the castle.’ Michael corrected me. ‘The rest of the grounds are only looked at every so often. And although I stopped you at the entrance to the grounds, there are no guards around at all.’

‘I don't believe that.’ I scoffed.

‘No, neither do I.’ He agreed darkly. ‘But no matter where I look, there's no indication of anyone but Prince Kristian there. They've even put in some false details to make it look as if there are guards. It doesn't make any sense.’

‘Are you sure the Prince is here?’ I countered. ‘He wouldn't be here without guards.’

‘To be honest, no.’ Michael admitted, sounding irritated. ‘I'm not really sure what I'm looking at. There's so many layers of defence around this place, it could be hiding something in plain sight, and I'm just not looking at the right place.’

That was worrying. Michael could hack into just about any system.

But then, this was the royal family we were talking about. It was no surprise that their security was giving even Michael a headache.

‘There are several cameras around the grounds.’ Michael continued. ‘But they're not linked up to anything. I even turned a couple of them on in case it was false, but there's really no-one watching. If the Prince is here, he's not very well protected.’

‘Then surely he's not.’ I reasoned. ‘Someone must've lent Jessica this place to use. You did say she met the Prince at the gala.’

There was silence for a while.

‘I can't find any mention of that, but it's possible.’ He conceded. ‘All I know for sure is that you shouldn't be there, Holly. I can't help you if I don't know what's going on.’

‘It's okay.’ I assured him. ‘I'll find out soon enough. Did you find out anything else about the ruby bracelet?’

‘Not in relation to Jessica.’ He sighed. ‘I tried searching ruby bracelets in general, but…hang on.’

‘I'm hanging.’ I muttered.

‘Prince Kristian's maternal great-auntie had a ruby bracelet.’ Michael revealed. ‘She was originally engaged to someone else, but when she heard he'd died, she married a wealthy businessman instead. Then she got news that her lover was still alive, so she went to meet him, and the two ran away together.’

I doubted her husband was happy about that.

‘Shortly afterwards, her lover was arrested on account of supplying dangerous drugs and weapons. From what I can see; the evidence was conclusive, but he refused to admit it. Six months later, he was stabbed by an inmate and passed away. It seems she killed herself in grief. After that, her husband returned all her jewellery – the ruby bracelet included – back to the royal family.’

If she had been wearing the bracelet all through her lover's trial and imprisonment, I can understand how it would have ended up cursed. The circumstances did seem a bit suspicious, but it was beyond my abilities to fix.

‘So you think Jessica now has that bracelet?’ I guessed.

‘If she's living in Brinxsly Castle, then it stands to reason she has access to the jewellery left there.’ Michael agreed. ‘I wouldn't be surprised if it's the same bracelet that you're after.’

‘And if what you're saying about there being no guards is true, then there shouldn't be any problem, right? I'll wait until dark and go in once they're asleep.’

Michael hesitated. ‘There's still something not right. Everything I'm looking at indicates the Prince is there. I can't believe Jessica wouldn't know about that.’

‘Maybe he's hiding from everyone, including his own family?’ I suggested. ‘Then Jessica would have no reason to guess he was living so close.’

‘No. There are definite links between him and his parents, and a couple of others.’ He paused. ‘I'm going to have to look into this further. Holly, I'll warn you again. I don't think you should be there.’

‘Yes, I've heard you. But I'm here, and I'm going to complete what I set out to do.’

‘Be careful.’

‘Always.’ I smiled.

We hung up as I reached the road again, so I stopped to catch my breath. The slope wasn't particularly steep, but dragging my suitcase along behind me wasn't the easiest thing to do.

I had just stepped off the tarmac and into the trees lining road, when I heard the distinctive sound of a car coming down the road.

Quickly hiding from sight, I peered out as a familiar limo trundled past. The back window was open once again, and the same manicured hand was leisurely holding a cigarette outside. Jessica was leaving.

Once the limo had passed out of sight, I blew out my breath and sat on my suitcase. Now what?

My whole reason for coming here had just driven off, and I was halfway up a hill, on land that was probably protected. In a way, Michael was right. I shouldn't be here.

Well, since this was a castle, there were probably other jewels lying around, and one of them might be cursed. Maybe I should go have a look. Prevent this from being a wasted trip.

Starting up the next part of the hill, I reached into my pocket when my phone buzzed again.

‘Michael? What is it this time?’

‘Jessica's left, hasn't she?’ He demanded tersely. ‘What are you still doing there?’

‘I'm going to investigate the castle.’ I told him lightly. ‘I've come this far anyway.’

‘For what reason?’ He snapped. ‘Jessica obviously doesn't live there, meaning she likely was just visiting the person who does. I don't think they're going to be too happy to see you. You haven't forgotten your stint as Venus yesterday, have you?’

‘Of course not.’ I huffed. ‘But we don't know that she's not living here. She may have just forgotten something and came