Desiree
So you’re back??? What happened? Tell me everything. What sons of witches do I need to cut?
Jake
I’m fine. It’s a long story. Want to meet up later?
Desiree
Can’t. Have plans with my dad. Trying to calm him down so he doesn’t ruin your mate’s life.
Another lie.
But it’s not like I can tell her the truth. She would only worry, and she has enough on her plate as it is.
Jake
Oh shit. It’s that bad.
Desiree
Dad is PISSED
Jake
I miss you, girl.
Desiree
Miss you too. I’ll text you when I’m done.
Jake
Okay. I’m searching for Christian and then meeting up with my bio-dads. Wish me luck.
Desiree
Let me know if you need me. I’ll be there with ice cream and romantic comedies.
Jake
LOL I’ll let you know. Have fun with your dad.
Desiree
Oh, I will.
I turn my phone off and leave it on the passenger seat. The fewer things I have with me, the better.
Especially if the not-plan I have goes south.
“Desiree, please—” Mimi begins.
“I’ll be fine.” I flash her and then Emilia a reassuring smile, even as my insides twist into a dozen intricate knots. “I told you. I have a plan.”
Before either of them can protest some more, I slip out of the car and slam the door shut. Then I take a deep breath, willing air into my rapidly shrinking lungs and trying to ignore the fist squeezing my heart.
What I’m doing is risky and borderline insane, but I know it’s the only way to stop this war before it begins.
