“Let’s listen to what he has to say before we vilify him.”
Tyler leans forward in his seat and faces me mouthing, “What the fuck?”
Zoe’s eyebrows leap, and she shrugs.
Elijah angles his head down and adjusts the microphone. “Good evening, residents of Bearsden. I’m sure you are all aware of the recent kidnappings of our precious children. The police have been diligent in their ongoing investigation, but insufficient evidence exists to connect the cases as of yet. Alys Morgan, along with John Erickson, encouraged us to consider this curfew for minors as an added safety measure. We recognize most parents already accompany their young ones, and so far, the kidnappings have occurred with parents nearby. The passage of this ordinance will allow the city to place more officers on the streets to deter those responsible.”
“Elijah is supporting it?” I whisper. “Did he share this with anyone in the Fellowship?”
Archie rubs his chin. “Not that I was told. If he told Trinity, she didn’t mention it.”
I search for our coven leader’s burgundy hair in the mass of people and find her sitting next to Shane, who’s shaking his head. Trinity’s arms are crossed, an epic scowl pulling down the corners of her mouth. I think they’re both as surprised as all of us.
Mayor Devine continues her explanation. “During our executive session prior to this meeting, we discussed the dark situation our town is in. If the Baby Nabbers ring is responsible, we must do what we can to keep our residents safe. Is there a motion to pass the ordinance?”
“I make a motion. We vote on Ordinance #535,” Elijah says, his deep voice filling the chamber.
John Erickson raises a hand. “I second the motion.”
“We have a motion to vote on Ordinance #535,” the mayor announces. “All in favor, raise your hand.”
Every council member, including Mayor Devine, raises an arm. “Ordinance #535 passes unanimously. Thank you all for attending this council meeting. I’m elated at the community involvement. For those of you who are disappointed by the passing of this ordinance, we will consider a future vote to overturn our decision once the criminals responsible for the kidnappings are arrested. Let’s leave on a positive note. The authorities will capture them. Eventually.”
“I’d like to say a few words,” Alys Morgan says. “I introduced this ordinance because I love children. Every precious child in this town deserves to have a safe harbor, and Bearsden should provide one. I appreciate the feedback I received from everyone on the council. Thank you for your support.”
The council members and the mayor reply, a chorus of “you’re welcome” and “thank you” echoing in response to Alys.
Elijah speaks into the microphone. “I motion to dismiss the meeting.”
“I second the motion,” Alys says, grinning.
Jessica Devine strikes her gavel. “Meeting is adjourned.”
Many residents moan, but at least half praise the vote with applause. Alys Morgan smiles smugly at John Erickson. He searches the townies in attendance. Looking for his wife, I assume. She’s still sitting, sighing in apparent relief. I look between them in confusion. Two plus two is not adding up…to anything. If my suspicions surrounding Courtney are true, why would she be relieved at the increase in police on the streets? All four of our phones vibrate, and Elijah pulls out his cell. We get up to leave and shove against the throng of residents to make our way to the exit.
“Trinity sent a group text,” Archie says. “She’s calling an emergency meeting at the Pumpkin House.”
Zoe clenches her teeth. “Oh, no. Elijah’s in big trouble.”
“I’m sure he had a good reason for going along with all of them.” Tyler holds the door open for us. “Perhaps he was the sole no vote and didn’t want to have to explain his choice.”
I zip up my fleece jacket. “Well, I certainly would like to know why he voted yes, but our council allies voted yes as well. Elijah must have told them our concerns—the possibility of a witch aiding the Baby Nabbers.”
“What are you talking about, Mom?” Tyler asks. “A witch could be helping the kidnappers?”
“Whoa. Do you know who it is?” Zoe’s eyes pop out. “Is it Shane’s wicked ex-girlfriend, Cordelia Davenport?”
Archie glances at me. “Gwyn has a few suspicions.”
“My witch’s intuition has pointed toward someone, but right now, it’s weak and not giving me any useful information. Trinity will probably mention it at the meeting. Before you accuse me of keeping secrets, I wasn’t. I haven’t discovered anything yet.”
Gradually, the residents following us trickle down to zero, and our witch colleagues come into view ahead. When we arrive at the Pumpkin House, we enter the foyer to find everyone standing, Trinity at the front of the small circle.
“Someone else take a head count,” she says. “I’m too fucking tired and mad.”
That’s not a good sign. Elijah isn’t here yet. Leslie and Agnes aren’t either.
Skye scans the circle. “Nine. One of those missing is Ronnie. She stayed home.”
Trinity shifts her weight onto her right foot. “Yeah, she told me. We can’t expect much from her for the next couple of months. She’s damned uncomfortable. I remember my last trimester. Could not sit on my bottom for weeks. Had to pee every five minutes. Couldn’t find a position to sleep in without my arms pinching.”
“I’m really glad I don’t have to go through that,” Spence says, grimacing. “Can’t imagine not sleeping. I need my beauty rest.”
“Is that what you call all that twisting and turning you do all night?” Tanner asks, snorting. “I’m lucky to get four hours at a stretch.”
Skye chuckles. “Why doesn’t that surprise me?”
“Now that’s the positive about sleeping alone,” Shane says. “When my head hits the pillow, I’m out until sunrise. But I much prefer a companion to wake to.”
“Aye. My exact sentiments, Shane.” Archie smiles at me.
The front door opens, and Leslie ambles in. Agnes and Elijah are right behind her. They join the circle, and Trinity crosses her arms, glaring at our gentle giant witch with a laser-green stare.
“What the fuck, Elijah? I’m so angry, I could spit.”
“I am sure he will explain,” Leslie says. “Although I must express my disappointment.”
Agnes cracks up. “Stop pretending you didn’t flip out all the way here, sweetheart.”
