Page 43 of Seer

“You know,” Edgar said slowly. “I wonder if the book room at TWIST would have any relevant information on this creature.”

My body went hot, then cold. TWIST was bad enough, but the book room? I struggled to control my breathing.

“What’s TWIST?” Cal asked.

Edgar paused. “Greg hasn’t told you? It’s the rescue organization Delphia runs out near Boerne. Officially TWIST standsfor Texas Wildlife Intervention and Support Team, but its real function and name is the Texas Wonder Intervention and Support Team. The people who work there go in and rescue Wonders who are either being held captive or are in dangerous situations. Then if they wish, the Wonders can stay at TWIST until they get back on their feet. There are similar organizations across the country and all over the world.”

“Interesting.”

“You really should visit,” Edgar said. “And not just for the book room. You can meet dozens of different Wonders.” He chuckled. “And see where Greg grew up, of course.”

My breathing finally under control, I stared out the window and pretended this conversation wasn’t happening.

“Oh, uh, sure,” Cal said uncertainly. “Um, I’d love to meet more Wonders, but let’s see what I can dig up on the internet before we take any road trips. I’m not sure we have the time to spend on something like that right now.”

“Good point,” I croaked out. I cleared my throat.

We drove for several miles, each of us lost in our own thoughts. However, Edgar must’ve decided he couldn’t stand waiting anymore.

“So,” he said. “How long have you two been connected? I can’t believe I didn’t notice it when you walked into the apartment. It’s so strong it’s almost blinding.”

After a moment of shocked silence, Cal said, “It’swhat?”

TEXT CONVERSATION

OVER THE COURSE OF MONDAY AFTERNOON, MARCH 27

Craig

Hey, sorry to bother you when you’re off saving the world or whatever, but the candidate you hired for the front desk, Graciela? She came in for her first shift. Um, didn’t you say she was super enthusiastic and had a lot of energy?

Greg

Yes?

Craig

On a different topic, your Uncle Edgar showed up here looking for you. I told him you were off for the day, and he said he’d wait for you at your apartment.

Greg

Thanks. For once I actually need to talk to him

Craig

And back to Graciela, I’m not seeing any energy or enthusiasm

Greg

Well, crap

Craig

She barely smiles, and Marie keeps giving me these wide-eyed stares when I stop by to see how her training is going

Greg

That’s so strange – she interviewed like our dream job candidate