Starlight Web (Moonshadow Bay #1) - Yasmine Galenorn Page 0,81

known as the Covenant of Chaos. They’re a bunch of self-serving greedmongers. They aren’t as strong as they used to be, but one of our members foresees a resurgence coming, so we intend to be ready for them.”

Rowan poured our tea. Her kitchen was one of those huge old country kitchens where the women of the house ruled supreme. Fresh loaves of bread filled the air with their yeasty scent, and bundles of herbs hung drying on an old-fashioned clothes rack. A huge wreath decorated the back door, woven of holly and ivy and trimmed with a huge burgundy ribbon.

Her range was modern in function, but retro, looking like a wood cookstove. The walls were a cheerful yellow with rich pecan trim. As we sat down at the huge old oak table, I felt like I had been transported back in time.

Rowan handed me a plate of freshly baked cookies. “Snickerdoodles,” she said.

I sipped the tea, pleased to find it was peppermint. I wasn’t a tea drinker, but I hadn’t wanted to be rude. “Can I trust Val to keep up his end of the bargain?”

She frowned. “Vampires are unpredictable. But I think he’ll honor the agreement. He owed me such a huge debt that if he doesn’t, he’ll be persona non grata among his own people.”

“You must have something pretty dirty on him,” I said.

Rowan merely smiled. “That’s the beauty of being known as someone who will absolutely keep a secret—it can be very useful to have ammunition.” She glanced at the clock. “It’s nearly eight—I have an appointment at nine. Here’s hoping everything works out for the best. I just hope when that building comes down, it doesn’t unleash a lot of psychic backlash.”

At that, she wrapped up the rest of the batch of cookies and handed me the bag. Then, walking me silently to the door, she waved good-bye.

I called Ari and asked her to meet me for coffee. I had so much to process that I felt like I’d be mulling over things for years.

Ari met me at 9:30 at the Mad Dog Coffee House, several blocks from my house, and even closer to hers.

“So tell me what the hell’s happening? I was so tired last night that I couldn’t stay, but I want to hear everything.”

I summoned up a deep breath and in a rush of words, told her everything that had happened yesterday, including the fact that Killian had almost stayed the night.

“So, you guys are really into each other? I’m so happy. I think he’s cool,” she said, cupping her decaf latte. “And you’re going to the carnival together.”

“And the cotillion.” I sighed, launching into the events that had taken place today. “He’s a vamp, Ari. I’ve never met a vamp before. I was scared speechless.”

Ari shook her head. “Vampires are tricky. I’ve met a couple. I wish they were just a myth, like the Easter Bunny.”

“I know. But at least he’s willing to buy the land. Of course, I don’t believe that he’s doing it out of the goodness of his heart. There has to be another reason.”

“If I had the money, I’d buy the land so you wouldn’t have to deal with him. And by the way, why did you even accept? This isn’t your problem, really. It might be Conjure Ink’s case, but that’s the company, not you, personally. I think you should call him back and say thanks but no thanks.”

“Rowan would have my hide. She cashed in a marker for me—for the town. As to why this is my problem…” I thought about it for a moment, then told her about the Crystal Cauldron. “If they’re trying to help the town, then I feel…like I have no choice.”

“You’ve always had more civic pride than I have,” Ari said. “Well, tomorrow’s the carnival.”

“And I get to meet Mean Meag—” I paused as a pained look crossed Ari’s face and I saw just how hurt the words made her. “I’m sorry. I won’t tease you about her again. I look forward to meeting Meagan again.” Yawning, I finished my bottle of sparkling water. “I guess we should get our asses to bed. It’s nearly eleven and it’s been a long, long week.”

“See you tomorrow,” Ari said, giving me a hug. “Be careful, and make sure your Ladies keep an eye on those vamps.”

“Will do.” Even though I knew Ari had been joking, on the way home I sent out a silent plea to the Ladies, asking them to guide me