Page 88 of Quintus

“I can’t put you guys in any more danger,” she insisted.

“We’re in this together,” Quintus said.

“The three of us,” Hunter added.

“You sure?” Quintus locked his eyes on the Alpha, who nodded.

“Damn straight. Gabby, you may have grown up alone. But now you’ve got a pack. We’re it.”

“It’s not fair to you,” she protested.

“I’m not saying this isn’t going to be dangerous, but I think we’ve got to approach this another way.” Quintus reached for her hand.

“Another witch? Who else can we trust?” she asked.

“We can’t really trust anyone as far as I’m concerned. My vampires, they’re all as close to trustworthy as you’ll get but I agree we can’t wait on Samantha,” Quintus told her.

“Then what?”

“Who,” Hunter replied.

“Kellan. He’s fae,” Quintus began, still trying to convince himself this was a good idea. While it was dangerous, they didn’t have many options.

“A fae? I don’t know much about fairies, but my momma always said they were evil.”

“Your mama be right,” Hunter agreed.

“They can be difficult. They’re not exactly demons but they know the underworld. With Kellan, there will be a price without a doubt. I did him a favor a while back. He’s not likely to fuck with me.”

“How can you be sure about that?” she interrupted.

“I’d call it eighty-twenty in our favor. He owes me and he’s always looking for ways to get one up. I haven’t talked to him in centuries, but I know how to reach to him.”

“Why wouldn’t Samantha just tell us to go to him?” she asked.

“Witches don’t get involved with the fae. It’s too dangerous. They aren’t demons, but they definitely have some demonic-laced magick going on. Kellan’s the only fae in New Orleans I’d trust. And even then I don’t trust him.”

“But you just said…”

“We’re running out of options. We have to get Lilitu before she gets to you. This place here is only safe for so long before she finds you again. Hunter’s got a place for us to move to after we blow.”

“Wait…where’s this Kellan dude?” she asked. “Does he live above ground?”

“He’s got demon-like powers…qualities, but if you’re asking if he lives in Hell, the answer is no. He’s too much of a partier to let those assholes rain on his parade. He lives for Mardi Gras and fresh virgins.”

“Fae have a special pass for Hell,” Hunter said.

“What do you mean?” she asked.

“They can make a choice to go back into the netherworld, pass between the realms,” Quintus explained. “But don’t bring it up in front of him. Be very careful what you say. Any information he gives you, whether for small talk or otherwise, is considered a favor owed. We are in and out.”

“I’d say wait for Samantha, but I don’t want to put her in anymore danger,” Gabriella said.

“We’re going to do this together as a team. Don’t go getting any ideas in that head of yours. I can see your wheels turning and you need to just accept my help. I’m not going anywhere,” Quintus told her.

Gabriella nodded, yet Quintus wasn’t fooled into accepting her silence as acquiescence. With her independent streak strong, he knew her wild nature couldn’t be harnessed. While he admired that about her, he grew concerned her impulsivity would put her in more danger. With their blood mingled, she’d adapt, possibly taking on some of his own powers.

With no more words to be spoken, they ate in silence. One thing was clear. The end was coming. First he had to outwit Kellan.