They stopped by the mail room so Storm could introduce their very own postmaster. “I know Henry is going to be one of your favorites because he’s the one who makes sure all those packages find their way to you.”
The tour would have been delightful as well as educational were it not for a brief stop near the Black Swan mascot, a one hundred twenty pound, black Alsatian male, who had been relegated to a lonely life in a basement kennel. When Storm and Elora came within a few yards of the cage, the dog began snarling and charging the chain link. Storm said he was ruined, not trainable. They didn’t want to euthanize him because he was young and healthy, but he was too dangerous to let out. So they did nothing except feed him and hose out his kennel. Elora kept her opinion to herself, but was revolted by the untenable solution.
Courtpark entrances and exits were of particular interest because she had spent months longing to be outside. After stopping at the grocery to gather up supplies for her pantry and refrigerator, they returned to Elora’s temporary quarters.
Storm said he was expected to spend the afternoon in a meeting, but that he would like to see her that night. She seemed a little fidgety, embarrassed almost.
Finally, she said, “I wonder if I could ask you about something of a delicate subject matter.”
Storm ducked his head a little to catch and hold her gaze. “There is nothing you can’t tell me or ask me. And whatever it is will remain between us. I’m good at keeping things to myself.”
“Well, do you know if anyone has given thought as to how I may earn money?”
He frowned. “I don’t think that’s been addressed, but the credit card I gave you will buy a lot of stuff. And you’re welcome to use it. No strings attached.”
“Thank you. That is most generous and I’m very grateful. The thing is that it is one thing to accept such a gift when helpless, but to continue would be – I think the term is – freeloading.”
His features smoothed out and he nodded slightly. “I get it. How about this? We’ll make it a loan. I’ll keep a record like a running tab. When you start making your own money, you can pay it back.”
Her relief was evident. “That would be wonderful. So long as I don’t get too far in debt before that happens.”
“So what is it you need?”
“Well, for one thing, in my world I played a musical instrument a lot like your guitar. And I miss it.”
He stood there wondering how much more there was to know. He’d probably just scratched the surface.
“Please, Elora. Get what you need. Criminently! Forget need. Get what you want. I think I could make a case that it should go on The Order’s bill. They owe you big. How much is it worth to find out that some of the creatures we chase may be slipping dimensions? We’d never know that was a viable possibility if it weren’t for you. You may be the key to a thousand unsolved files gone cold. If you want a Rolls Royce to use as a living room sofa, you should have it. You’re important to this organization.” He started to turn and then came back, again ducking his head in that charming way of his that brought them eye to eye. “And to me, too,” he smiled.
“I don’t want a whatever-that-Rolls-thing-is, but I would like a few more clothes, a guitar, and a good amp.”
Storm’s chin pulled back as he raised an eyebrow. “Electric?”
“Yes. What did you think?”
He laughed shaking his head. “I don’t know. Delicate princess. Old-fashioned lyre.”
“Delicate?”
He looked her up and down unapologetically. “Well, feminine anyway.” He opened the door and then stuck his head back in. “No weapons.”
“No promises.” Assuming she was joking he chuckled, closed the door, and strode away.
***
CHAPTER 8
BLACK SWAN FIELD TRAINING MANUAL Section 1: Chapter 1,#2
Soon after infection, the vampire virus begins to inhibit normal function of certain parts of the brain. Cognitive reasoning is impaired and conscience is suppressed in vampire for long periods, sometimes centuries.
Elora thought a hot chocolate would make a perfect pairing with internet shopping. Feeling confident about navigating her way to the coffee bar and back, she decided to venture downstairs for a to-go cup.
As she stepped into the hall, she found Ram coming out of the apartment next door. He seemed surprised, but pleased.
“Good day,” he offered with a radiant smile. He was wearing faded, button down jeans again, with a grayish blue, Metallica tee shirt that made his blue eyes pop and sparkle. “Ms. Laiken.”
She returned his smile while her entire essence quivered with a silent exclamation. There’s an elf living next door!