Page 72 of Bewitching Her Monsters
Maxum himself doesn’t fit in with his fellow demons, or supernaturals, for that matter. Most supernaturals rarely trust him just because of his species—never mind that he’s been a more positive influence in the supernatural community than most. His own demonkind can’t understand his desire to make the realms a better place.
If she really is ignorant of her witchhood, then when Jade discovers her true nature, she will probably feel like an outcast too. The witch won’t be part of the human community anymore. She won’t really be part of the witch world, either. She probably already feels like an outsider, sensing she isn’t quite like her human friends.
I don’t get the sense she means to be a threat to us, but danger surrounds her. We could be hit with the fallout from the situation going on with her ex.
Arran has entangled his emotions, and I worry for him. But I’m not in danger of doing that, so I must be the one to keep a clear head about her.
Calder claims he doesn’t want to be near the witch. However, I believe he finds her form attractive, and that’s why he resists her so vehemently. Although, I understand his hesitation to go near her given his traumatic past with a witch.
I’ve been sitting here the entire day, just watching her place. A few times, I sensed a magical being, but that was in a passing car, but nothing that appeared suspicious.
Fortunately, she lives on a corner lot, so I can also watch her backyard from my vantage point.
No one has attempted to enter her yard or approach the front porch.
One of the guys is due to relieve me of duty for an hour or two so I can go home to eat and rest. I need little sleep or food, but maintaining this level of camouflage has been draining my magic.
Not only am I hiding from the witch so she doesn’t get upset by my constant presence, but I’m also making it appear the way is clear to her house.
The setting sun is casting a warm glow over the world. Contentment settles in the hard bones of my primal nature. My ancestors were primarily nocturnal creatures, and most of my kind are still more active at night. I’ve learned to be flexible with my patterns since I’ve chosen a pack outside of my kind.
Twilight is my favorite time of day—the in-between time when all things are possible. Magic works differently at twilight and dawn. It’s perfect for illusionists like me.
Speaking of illusions… a man is walking up to the witch’s front door, using an invisibility spell of his own. A magical cloak around him compels a casual observer to turn away and forget his presence.
I, however, am not a casual observer. I’m a gargoyle. We see beyond that sort of magic. It’s Rob, her ex.
Itching to move closer, I want to hear how the witch will respond to his arrival. Yet, if I do, someone might see me lurking. Quickly, I cast my senses out to see if this male visitor has a companion waiting in the wings.
After a brief wait, the witch opens her door. I hear her ask, “Why are you here?”
“We need to talk,” Rob says, his voice commanding.
“Then let’s talk,” she says and opens the door, stepping aside to allow him entry.
Stars and Stone. Why would she do that?
I thought she was supposed to be afraid of Rob. But I sensed no fear from her… none at all.
Something isn’t right.
I’m on edge since I can’t hear what’s being said. I don’t think even Arran or Maxum could listen in at this distance.
Is the witch betraying us?
I can’t say for sure, but this doesn’t look good. And I’m not pleased that she somehow tricked me. I didn’t suspect this at all. If she is working for the witches or the ASO, it will crush Arran. She will die, possibly by Arran’s hand. Calder would definitely eliminate her.
Just as I’m ready to bolt across the street, Arran’s wolf form comes trotting up as if summoned. He’s carrying a small bag in his mouth.
“Don’t shift yet,” I tell him. “I have some bad news.”
He tilts his head, indicating for me to explain.
“Some middle-aged average-looking male just was invited inside. He looked like Rob’s picture. He wanted totalkwith her.” I frown. “It almost seemed like she was supposed to report what she discovered.”
Arran snarls. Ignoring my advice to stay in his shifter form, he steps around the cover of the house behind a large shrub and shifts. “You sure it was Rob?”
“He was using a cloaking spell to deflect attention, but I believe I saw his true face.”
