Page 67 of Haunted Hearts

“Gregor,” I say in a low voice.

“Oh fuck, yeah, you guys are screwed. He’s one of the founding members of the celestial council. Most likely here to find Kai.”

I lunge at him, shoving him down, pressing his back hard into the corner of the steps.

“You wanna tell me why exactly you took over Jack? What’s your part in this?”

He smiles at me, his white glowing eyes glinting.

“Curiosity,” he answers softly. “But I see I’ve overstayed my welcome.”

Before I know it the glowing white fades, and Jack’s skin appears to shift and move before something phases out of him.

He looks… dead. I shake him.

“Jack… Jack!”

No response.

I look up to see Genevieve standing in the doorway, her face twisted in horror.

“Help me move him,” I order, my voice stern.

Gen snaps out of it and runs over, hovering her hands over Jack’s body.

“He’s gonna be okay, just stay calm. I’ll get his head.”

I lift his body, take him inside, and lay him on the couch. Gen grabs a rag and wets it before pulling the whiskey out from under the counter. I say nothing as I watch her place the rag on Jack’s forehead, then pour a capful of whiskey, lifting his head to pour it down his throat. She places her hands on his temples. Her eyes close as if she’s searching for something.

“What are you doing?”

“Shh,” she spits.

I watch as her hands begin to glow a soft white.

Five minutes go by, then ten, before she finally stands.

“He’s still in there, he just needs to rest.” Concern is written on her face. “I would be here when he wakes up. I’m not sure how long he was possessed for.”

“Yeah… me neither.”

She begins to walk away and I grab her wrist. “Where are you going?”

“Nowhere.” She tries to yank her hand away but I tighten my grip.

“Don’t lie to me.” My voice lowers. “You heard.”

“I did.” Her eyes darken as she rips her hand away. “I’m sorry I told you not to worry about Calli.” She begins backing away. “I have to get her away from him.” She turns and sprints to the door, grabbing Jack’s keys off the ring and running out.

I quickly sprint after her. “Are you fucking stupid? Stop!”

She halts and turns, putting her hand up. I feel my body freeze.

“What the fuck are you doing?” I force the words out.

“You need to let me go.” Tears begin welling up in Gen’s eyes.

“She is safe with him!” I say without thinking.