Page 67

Bash frowns. He looks like he wants to say something, but doesn’t.

“I’m checking upstairs.” Going downstairs would only remind me of killing Shane. I hate the fact that I took a life, but he didn’t leave me any other choice. Since it was him or Bash, I know I’d do it again.

Upstairs, there are more bedrooms and two offices—all with plenty of books. I start with the office decorated in feminine colors. Coral seems like the one who would have the magical books.

But if she does, she didn't store them in her office. I look all over the rooms in this level and find nothing. I trudge down to Bash. “You sure she has spell books?”

“She did. Maybe she spelled them to disappear if anything happened to her.”

I throw my hands in the air. “I give up.”

“There might be good news.”

“What?” I sit on the couch next to him and close my eyes. “Earwyn fessed up and told the truth?”

Bash snickers. “I wouldn’t hold your breath on that. But your uncle called. He wouldn’t tell me the news, but wants you to call him back.”

My eyes pop back open. “You didn’t think to get me when he was on the phone?”

“I tried. You were so focused on what you were doing, you didn't even notice me.”

“Really?”

He nods. “Figured it was best not to disturb you.”

“Did you get his number? Because I don’t have it.” I try to remember if he gave it to me in his office, but if he did, it would be in my bag back at the academy.

“We can just use the callback feature. You ready?”

“Sure.”

He pulls out his shell phone and taps the screen.

“Tiberias called your phone?”

“He did.” Bash hands it to me.

I bring it to my ear and listen to it ring enough times I’m sure it’s going to go to voicemail.

“Hello, Sebastian.”

“It’s me. Marra.”

“Good to hear your voice,” my uncle says. “Did your boyfriend tell you I have good news?”

“Yes. I’m really curious, because the news on TV sure wasn’t.”

“He told me about the televised interview from your friends.”

“They aren’t my friends.” I cross my arms.

“Right. I’ve taken my own action against that and explained however anyone treats you, that’s how they’re treating me. If someone is rude to you, they’re rude to me. If somebody hurts you, they hurt me. I will take this seriously. I’ve spoken to the head dean at the academy, and he will make sure it’s followed there. You’re free to return.”

“I … I don’t know what to say.”

“You needn’t say anything. You’re my family, and it’s a shame you’ve been raised by your father. He hasn’t done you many favors.”

I frown, hating to admit he’s right. “Speaking of him, what’s going to happen? Valora can’t have two kings.”