Page 107 of Prey It By Ear

“That is factually incorrect,” Felix mutters. “We’re tigers, and the better metaphor would be that you are the bunny at the predator brunch. But that’s beside the point.”

“Angel,” Chess says, “try to use a subject line that is so neutral that it is impossible to meme. Something like ‘Friday Group Work Coordination’ or whatever.” He eyes me and then Fitz. “You have three seconds to come up with one that’s better, or we’re going with simple.”

I think, then say, “Scheduling for Academic Project?”

“No impact. It needs to be slightly intimidating, but not hostile. Maybe: ‘Mandatory Coordination for Shifter History Assignment’ would work better,” Rennie interjects. “You said they might ignore you, lapin, and that says you’re not joking around, oui?”

Felix looks thoughtful as he considers it. “That will do, but reference the professor in the body of the message so they cannot ignore it. Fitz will have the audit trail saved in multiple places so if they try to suggest you were slacking, we can produce the proof.”

I make the change, continue typing as I narrate every word to allow for editorial comments. “Per Dr. Khan’s instructions, the initial group discussion for the Bloodstone Reforms project is required by Friday, nine am⁠—”

“That motherfucker is not a doctor,” Aubrey roars as he sets his papers aside. “He’s making you call him that without earning it?!”

Rennie gets up, walking over to his mate to calm him before he sets the living on fire in fury. “Flames, you really cannot control people who insist on claiming expertise in things they know nothing about, no matter how much it irks you. Some connards ⁠*are not worth trying to educate.”

Felix gives him a look, tsking. “That is very strong language, Laveaux, but you are correct. Princess, keep going.”

I type more, but realize I’m floundering on the location. “Do I just suggest the cafeteria? I dislike it there, especially with them, but it is a better idea than the library. I don’t like them that close to our home, you know?”

Chess glances at Aubrey. “Thoughts?”

The dragon doesn’t even look up from his snit, just waves his hand. “If they’re in the library, we have more control over space and surveillance. You should use it, and we will keep it from going sideways.”

“We should meet in the library at either eleven a.m. Monday or Wednesday. If that does not work, we could also do eight p.m. on Tuesday or Thursday. I am available for both slots, so please confirm which works.” I pause. “Is that too… aggressive?”

“Cut the ‘please’.” Fitz says immediately. “They don’t deserve polite shit.”

Felix leans forward, nodding in agreement. “Just sign your name.”

I do as I’m told, and as I re-read it, I note the resulting email is so cold it could be used as a murder weapon.

Subject: Mandatory Coordination for Shifter History Assignment

Dr. Khan requires our group to meet prior to Friday for the Bloodstone Reforms presentation. Location: Library. Time: Eleven a.m. on Monday/Wednesday or eight p.m. on Tuesday/Thursday. I will be there at whatever time you confirm in your reply.

—Drew

I stare at it, feeling like I’ve just submitted a request for summary execution, rather than a meeting invite. “This is… so formal it hurts.”

“Good,” Felix says, arms folded with the satisfaction of a father who’s just outlasted a tantrum. “Now read it out loud, one more time.”

I do. This time, Fitz’s only note is, “You could make it meaner, but then they’d know you’re trying too hard. It’s perfect.”

There is a moment of silence, and then I press ‘Send’. My stomach flips over. “Well, if they kill me, I want you to avenge me by telling everyone their secrets that Fitz dug up.”

I close the app, drop the tablet face down on the cushion, and flop back onto the sofa. For a moment, the entire room feels lighter. On the TV, the vicar’s killer is being led away in cuffs.

Only on TV do the villains actually get what they deserve; it feels like.

* Fuckers

Sociopath

Chess

We’re early for my angel’s appointment this morning. Not by much, but enough that it feels like I’m dragging a wrongly convicted woman to her execution. The hallways in the admin building are often crowded even at this time, but this stretch is blessedly empty. Not even a stray student to stare at the scuffed toe of my shoe and ask for directions to some clearly marked place—Rockland’s corner of the world must have a ‘stay the fuck away’ vibe that conquers even the dumbest of newbies to campus.

It’s a minor miracle, considering our luck lately.