Alyssa nods, rubbing her temples as if to soothe a headache creeping in. “Yeah, it’s been a long day,” she agrees. “We didn’t get any sleep last night, and all this smoke is making my head spin.”
“Let’s get out of here for a bit,” I suggest, but Alyssa hesitates, her gaze flickering back to where the blonde and the others are still gathered.
“I’m not sure I can just leave them here,” she murmurs, her concern evident in her voice. “Not after everything that happened.”
I can’t help but feel a twinge of disappointment at her reluctance to leave, but I understand her reasons.
“We don’t have to be gone long,” I offer reassuringly. “Just a quick walk to get some fresh air. They can come with us.”
Alyssa seems to mull over the idea for a moment, but before she can respond, Nina speaks up. “We’ll be fine,” she insists, her tone firm. “We’re going to help Adeana and Bee clean the place up, and then get some rest. I have a big day tomorrow, after all.”
“I should help too—”
“Alyssa Mann…go,” Nina says, cutting her off. “I could use some quiet time.” She blows a piece of blond hair out of her eyes. “Besides, I think today would be a great time to make my list of non-negotiables.”
Alyssa grins at her friend, and I have to wonder what that’s all about.
“Fine. You work on that, and I’ll be back as soon as possible,” she says, looking up at me and smiling.
“Don’t rush back,” Lanie says, waggling her eyebrows. “Have a glass of wine and relax.” A mischievous grin spreads across her face, and I’m almost afraid to hear what’s about to come out of her mouth. “Don’t wake me up.” She winks, turning on her toes and heading off toward the blonde, who’s currently pouring water over the sage.
Alyssa’s eyes close on a sharp inhale, her cheeks turning a bright shade of pink.
If I were a better man, I’d dismiss Lanie’s suggestion in order to make Alyssa more comfortable. But I’m not. If I have my way, the whole place will be awake when I finally get her alone.
24
Knight of Cups
Tonight has turnedout to be just what I needed. Nick talked me into leaving the bed-and-breakfast, and it turned into an impromptu date. We indulged in a hearty meal, the savory flavors still dancing on my taste buds.
We’re strolling hand in hand through the French Quarter, swaying to the sound of the jazz music playing all around us. Despite the heaviness that lingers from our earlier brush with the supernatural, the simple joy of being with Nick has my cup overflowing.
We come across a row of tables where various psychics are offering their services, and I don’t miss how Nick’s steps pick up, a sure sign he’s trying to avoid any more mystical encounters.
“You scared about what they’d have to say?” I tease, earning a playful glare from Nick.
“No, I just want to spend time talking to you and not some wannabe playing god.”
I quirk a brow, looking up at him with a challenge. “You don’t believe in them, but you believe in me?”
“That’s right,” he says without hesitation. “You’ve more thanproved your ability. These people are preying on those who want nothing more than to experience a touch of magic.”
“A touch of magic, huh?” I grin, and Nick’s mouth slams shut.
“Is it the detective or inherent skepticism talking?” I ask, biting my bottom lip, watching Nick squirm with every word I speak.
“Both?” He shrugs. “I was raised to ask questions. To look beyond the surface.”
“But you’re not,” I dare say. “You’ve taken one look at these people and determined they’re fakes.”
Nick’s head jerks back and a hurt expression crosses his face. “I have not. Have I?”
I purse my lips, shrugging one shoulder.
“Okay…fine. Pick one out,” he says, and I smile.
“I’m only playing with you, Nick. You have nothing to prove.”
