A wolf I didn’t know got into the driver’s seat. “Matteo is going to bring us into town,” Lucas said, turning from the front seat. “The parking is difficult, and I figured time is of the essence.”
I nodded. “Sounds good.”
There were nine of us, including the driver, but this was a custom SUV. There were three large rows in back, each big enough to hold four adults.
The driver and Lucas chatted in Italian about our destination as we took off. Once the car began to move, Lucas turned again. “I was able to procure us tickets. I have a friend who works at the museum, and luckily, she was there today. She will meet us out front and guide us in. We will be able to skip the line,” he said with a wink. “Many flock to Florence to see our beautiful museums, but waiting can be tedious.”
“That sounds perfect,” I told him. Supernaturals weren’t used to waiting for much of anything, but we would be forced to if there were too many humans around. It would be futile for Marcy to try to spell an entire street full of people, or for Nick to use his persuasion on that many. “Is your friend, by chance, a supernatural?”
He chuckled. “Alas, no. She is the daughter of one of the bakers I buy from frequently. We’ve gotten to know each other over the years. She’s a very sweet girl.”
I didn’t want to say too much in front of the driver, so I held my tongue, even though I was dying to ask Lucas a dozen questions about supernaturals in the city and where they congregated.
The roads were ridiculously narrow and full of curves. It took us roughly forty minutes to get into town. I was certain Ray would know exactly when we entered the city. The streets were bustling. After a few twists and turns in a densely populated area, the driver slowed, pulling over to the side. “This is as far as I can take you. The streets ahead are restricted.”
“This is fine,” Lucas announced. “We’re only a few blocks from the Accademia.” As we piled out, Lucas told the driver, “I’ll call you when we’re ready to be picked up.” The guy didn’t even bother responding. Lucas didn’t seem to mind, which was a testament to his character.
I liked Lucas immensely, even though we’d known him only a short time.
Once we were on the street, smells swirled everywhere. My nose was bogged down with all kinds of tantalizing aromas, but in particular garlic, onions, and tomatoes—all the delectable scents you would conjure when you thought of Italy.
I couldn’t imagine how Tyler was faring with his sensitive nose. Lucas was likely used to it, but Tyler looked as overwhelmed as I felt.
How’s it going, bro? I asked. I haven’t smelled this much food in one place in a long time. If we lived in New York City, being here would be easier. Are you going to be able to the channel it away so you can pick out the supernaturals?
Of course, he answered. It’s just gonna take me a minute…or two…or three. He grimaced. There are just so many open air restaurants.
We followed Lucas down a side street. He gave us a brief history of Florence. My wolf was parceling away the smells as quickly as she could, and I was grateful. After a moment or two, things began to calm down and I could focus again.
“The statue of David was originally located in the Piazza della Signoria for all to see, but it was moved inside in 1873, and a replica was made—there have been a few since then—that stands in the piazza today.”
This piqued my interest. “Who is in charge of building replicas?” I asked.
“I’m not sure,” he answered. “They should have that information at the Accademia. I’m sure there have been a number of people in charge of different things over the years.”
Or one person, if that person is supernatural, Rourke said. I think you’re on to something. If statues need replicas made, they need a master craftsman to do so. They wouldn’t entrust that task to anyone.
That’s what I’m thinking, I told him. It’s lucky we have Lucas with us. Do you think we can trust him? It’s going to be hard to keep him in the dark with all the questions we need to ask. If he runs back to Julian, however, it will be a problem.
I don’t smell any malice on him, Rourke said, grabbing my hand. I loved feeling his warmth encircling my fingers. I let myself enjoy it for a moment. Seeing how Julian treated him, I think it would be easy to break his alliance, if he even has one. But before we decide to let them in on our plans, let’s let Nick speak with him alone. I trust him to get a good bead on Lucas.
Agreed.
After a few more turns, we came upon a street that was more crowded than the others. People were queued in front of an unassuming tan stucco building. The only thing giving the location away was a single banner that announced we had arrived at the Galleria dell’Accademia. A red plastic sign jutted out from beside the door that read Entrance Reserved.
A young girl waved at Lucas. She looked pleased to see her friend. He embraced her, giving her a kiss on each cheek. “Maria, so good to see you.” He stepped back. “I’d like you to meet some friends of mine. This is Jessica, Rourke, Marcy, James, Tyler, Kayla, and Nick.”
“And I’m Ray,” Ray said.
Lucas’s eyes widened at the sudden appearance of the vampire, whom he had not met at the Compound, but he recovered nicely, which made me smile. Lucas definitely had some hidden talents. “And this is Ray,” he finished smoothly. “We are so grateful you could get us in today. It’s a large group, so I’m thrilled you can accommodate us.”
“Of course,” she answered gracefully, her English a little broken, but easy to understand. “This is the reserved-tickets line, but it will be easier to take you in via the service entrance. I’ve gotten prior approval already. Follow me.” Without hesitation, she led us around the building. “I apologize, but we have to go all the way around to access the employee entrance.”
“We don’t mind at all,” I told her. “We are happy to get this opportunity. We won’t be in Florence long, and we didn’t think of purchasing tickets ahead.” To my brother, I said, Keep your nose on high alert. I’m hoping the service entrance means we will get better access to the scents of those who work here.
Any idea what we’re looking for exactly? he asked. Shifter, vamp, witch? It would be helpful to know at least what type of supe I’m searching for.
I have no idea. All we know is he’s old and powerful. I’m thinking it won’t be anything typical, so keep your nose open to anything strange.