Page 52 of Haunted Hearts

I peer over at his screens. “They’re in Boston?”

“Apparently that’s where Rosa’s parents live.”

“It wouldn’t make sense for them to be there.”

“Wouldn’t it, though?” He smiles at me. “I did some digging and found out that her family often donates large sums to Harvard, no doubt how their daughter was able to attend.”

“It’s not the most ideal location for an ambush.”

“It’s most likely only temporary until they regroup, but it gives us time to make a plan. I also found a safehouse not too far from where they are currently located from old records in their files Ben sent. I’m guessing that’s where they will be when we move.”

Jack turns to look at me as if he’s waiting for me to say something.

I think for a second and realize there would be no harm at this point in telling him the bare minimum. I still need his help.

“Once we have a solid location we’re going to need a map of the grounds. In and out quietly, like we always do, before they’re able to fully regroup.”

He looks at me as though that’s a terrible idea, the confusion written all over his face. His blue eyes hold mine, as if challenging my decision.

“Aren’t you worried you’ll get caught again? I mean, they’ve got to have other witches on their side, right? You should take someone who can help in the field.”

“That’s why we’re going to be using Genevieve.” I gesture around my body. “She can put a shield up, hopefully that can block any attacks that aren’t physical.”

Despite there still being concern on his face, he nods.

“Why don’t you use Kai?”

“I would prefer he stayed with Calli. He can keep her safe when I’m not here.”

His demeanor shifts and I see his jaw clench at my words.

“What?” I ask, showing I sensed his reaction.

“Kai would be an asset to the mission.”

“I’m not risking Calli’s safety,” I say, in a tone that should put the matter to bed.

Jack stands from his chair quickly, which rolls behind him and hits the back wall. “You know damn well I can keep her safe.”

“If you care about her like you claim to, then having extra protection shouldn’t be a problem.” I notice his eye twitch.

“You’re the last person I would expect to trust too easily.”

“Is there anything I shouldn’t trust?” I ask, taking a step closer.

He scowls and doesn’t respond.

My skin feels covered in pins and needles as a sick feeling rolls through my gut. As in you are trying to tell me something. The need to get out of the room immediately overwhelms me.

“I’ll let you know if there’s anything else I need help with. Until then, keep an eye on surveillance.”

Jack says nothing as I turn and leave. Not much he could say at that point. He’s giving me far too many reasons not to trust him right now, not after the lies. He should be the last thing on my mind that I need to be worried about. But my gut is literally telling me not to trust him. Why does he spend time with Kai if they aren’t working together somehow?

What the fuck is this? My hand grips the wall as I fight a sudden wave of nausea.

Is this you?

The sensation begins to subside. The uneasiness does not.