Page 73 of Wicked Shadows
Shadow and Nick turned into the lot and were waved on by the guard. Checking the side mirror, Shadow noted the guard immediately left his station and pointed it out to Nick. He circled slowly around the buildings until he found the perfect spot to avoid detection. If they’d been followed, he didn’t want to take any chances that would blow their cover.
Lori walked across the drive toward the area where her driver should have been waiting and stopped, looking around for her ride. Shadow and Nick jumped out of the van and walked up stealthily behind her. Nick tapped on her shoulder, raised his hand up to her face, and squeezed the spray twice in quick sequence. She slumped in Shadow’s arms, and he placed her in the back of the van.
“I hated to knock her out, but we can’t take the chance of anyone else realizing she’s not asleep. We can’t make the slightest move out of character now.”
“It’s not a big deal, man. I would’ve done the same in your place.”
Nick’s cell began ringing, and he exchanged a leery glance with Shadow. “Renegade.”
“Change of plans. When you get the girl, take her to the old clubhouse instead of the country club.”
“We just got her, in fact. They must have wrapped up early today. Her driver hadn’t even arrived to pick her up yet.”
“Good work, Renegade. I’m glad to hear that. We’re moving up the schedule, so it only makes sense to take her to the old clubhouse rather than risk moving her again.”
Nick relayed the message to Shadow then directed him to the old building. Bonebreaker waited in the garage with the large metal door rolled up so they could pull straight into the covered area. While Bone closed the door, Shadow and Nick circled to the back of the van to pick up Lori. Shadow snaked his arms underneath her and pulled her to his chest. He hauled her body weight over his shoulder with ease and carried her inside.
“Where does this one go?” he asked, looking around the dingy room.
“Throw her in there,” Bone replied, pointing to the closed door.
Shadow swung the door open with one hand, flipped the light on, and turned his head when Bone issued a warning. “Be careful of the other one in there. She’s mouthy and gets on my fucking nerves.”
Shadow turned back to the bedroom, stepped inside, and deposited Lori on the grungy bed. His skin tingled, and the air sparked with electricity.
She’s here.
When he turned, Elle stood rooted to her spot behind the door. Shock and anguish crushed her spirit. Devastation rocked her foundation, driving her down to her knees.
“No,” she breathed, defeat overtaking her. “No.”
