Shunk.
Lo didn’t get much of a chance to take in Misterioso’s face, because a blue spike jutted through his chest, impaling him.An alebrije.A cross between a porcupine and peacock with colorful spiked feathers now stained with blood stood proud.The life instantly left Misterioso’s brown eyes, and his mouth jutted open.
Miguel released him, grumbling about another ruined suit as he dabbed at the spatters of blood on his lapel.Misterioso crumpled to the floor, and the creature dragged him away.Even though the original Gamemaker was long gone, the house hadn’t forgotten her pain and rage.
Retribution.Maybe now this place could be at peace.
“How did Misterioso make his announcements to the entire house?”Lo asked Miguel, who in turn led her to a wooden phone box on the wall.In the center was a small clock and rotary dial.With a slick smile, he handed the receiver to her.
“Attention, everyone.”Her voice rang throughout the house.She twirled the long cord with her finger.“As of now, you are free to terminate your employment.”No use in having unwilling workers here.She hung up the receiver and sighed.Without any souls bound to the house, she could already feel the weakening magic.It would have to be rebuilt from scratch.Not to mention that she would need new employees.She caught Miguel staring.
“I think you’ll be surprised to see quite a few stay,” he said, leaning against the wall.“I’m sure many have nothing left to return to.”
“And you?”
“I think I’ll stay as well.”He stuffed his hands in his pockets and pushed off the wall.“You see … you were right about Ana Lùcia.”
Lo’s eyes widened.
“I came here in hopes of rescuing her, but I was too late.She had already become a Gamemaker.She wasn’t the woman I loved anymore.”
Just like what happened with her mother …
“Like most Gamemakers, she lost herself and was killed.”His gaze drifted off.“I had nothing left, I vowed to destroy the house.That’s why I stayed here, waiting for the perfect opportunity.Loretta wanted me to keep tabs on you, but I soon realized you—”
“—wanted the same thing,” Lo whispered.From the moment she had wanted to destroy the house, her dynamic with Miguel had shifted.He knew.“Well, now we finally have the chance to work together.”She folded her arms.“Or do you still want to destroy the place?”
He shook his head.“I think the house will be much better off now, and what can I say?I’ve grown fond of you.”
“Ohh?Have I finally seduced you?”Lo teased, even though she knew his feelings for her were platonic.It was mutual.
“I wouldn’t go that far, cariño.”He flashed a devilish smirk.
“I suppose I’ll keep you around so long as you behave.”Lo turned away only to see Mayté staring at her in shock.
“So, you … you’re really staying?”Tears filled her best friend’s eyes.“You don’t have to—”
“I want to,” Lo whispered, lest her voice betray her.She closed the gap between them and took Mayté’s hands.Her fingers were cold.“And let’s face it.I don’t belong in Milagro, but here … I think I can make it work.I’m sorry I hid my true selffrom you, but this is who I am,” Lo said.“And the fact that you work endlessly to see the good in people.The good inme,” her voice cracked.“That’s what I love about you, and no matter what, you’ll always be my sister.”
“S-same here, Lo.”Mayté’s mouth quivered.Seeing her like that made Lo’s throat tighten.“I’ll always love you.”
“I hate myself for everything I’ve put you through,” Lo said.
Mayté let out the tiniest of sobs, and Lo couldn’t hold it back any longer.
“B-but wonderful things are awaiting you outside of here.I made sure of it.I know your life is going to be amazing.”Tears soaked Lo’s eyelashes.“As for me, I want to make this place a sanctuary for people like us with impossible wishes.A place that punishes the wicked and redeems the good.”She turned to Carlos and fought to maintain her composure.
“I’m sure if you ask nicely, Mayté will share some of her fortune with you.That will make you an appealing bachelor.Find yourself a pretty girl from a good family to marry.Live happily ever after.”
Carlos shook his head.“Lo …” He trailed off.He didn’t have to say it.
“I know.”It was bittersweet.Like biting into chocolates laced with potion.“But I belong here, and you belong in Milagro.”
Carlos’s eyebrows furrowed.He always made that face when trying to think of a solution.But there was no solution.Not this time.
“Come, now.”Miguel motioned for them to follow him to the elevator.“It’s time to say your farewells.”
THIRTY-ONEMayté
