Page 29 of Seas the Reckoning

“The councilman fancies himself a matchmaker among the supernatural elite here in England,” Arloc says.

“True, I do. But it always benefits all parties,” the councilman says.

Him, primarily, I’m sure.

How is it possible that my own brother runs a dating app, and yet I’ve never felt pressured by Cannon regarding my romantic life—while one evening with this warlock and I feel like a cow being sold at market.

Poor Starla.

I’d heard her stories, of course, but this sort of meddling didn’t begin until a couple of years before she officially joined Grammy Pearl’s coven, and it wasn’t nearly this pushy. At least not the way she describes it. But the councilman has his final opportunity over these three days, and he must know it.

Arloc and Councilman Taylor decide on my behalf that the vampire will act as my escort for a double date with Starla and whichever suitor she’s assigned tomorrow for an afternoon tea.

“You can utilize the observatory. It’s easily closed and kept dark during the daylight hours,” Councilman Taylor assures the vampire.

Right. Sunlight.

My brain conjures visions of a life where I’m locked away in a vampire coven during the day and only allowed out at night.

If Arloc even tried such a thing, my friends would come for me. Jackal would tear through walls to get to me—and that confidence anchors me.

I grin, holding back a giggle.

He’d probably bring Never along. The Were runs a vampire mansion, and while I don’t know the full story, I know she must have overthrown a vampire to manage it. And perhaps she’d be willing to do so again.

Councilman Taylor mistakes my expression for enthusiasm.

“See? Carolina is just as excited for the date. Now then, Arloc, I have another warlock I’d like to introduce you to. I think his shipping business would be of interest to you.”

Almost as soon as the two are lost to the crowd, a pleasant tingling sensation dances down my arms. I turn to see Jackal tapping my shoulder.

This time, my smile is natural, but I turn my head to hide it from any onlookers.

“Yes?” I ask, hating how disinterested I sound.

“I have someone I think you should meet.”

By the time I look up, he’s already headed for another crowd of people.

The hyena has found his prey, and if he’s got a clue, I want in on the hunt.

14

FATAL INTRODUCTIONS

Starla floats over to the refreshment table just as I’m stepping away to follow Jackal. She breezes across the floor like she spends every single day walking in a cumbersome dress and tall heels.

She laughs, throwing a shimmering smile over her shoulder at a suitor who calls something after her.

“You are too much, Louis. Honestly.”

As she faces the refreshments area, her mouth puckers like she’s sucked a lemon. She gives one more quick glance around, but we’re the only ones in the vicinity.

“I’ve danced more than a figure in a music box,” she bites out, snatching a glass of champagne off the table and downing it in a few gulps.

She puts a simpering smile back on.

“Oh, Frederick! Secured a seven-figure deal for your father’s furniture import business? Please, tell me more!” She sticks her tongue out for just a moment, making it clear what she thinks of all the small talk.