Page 4 of Mysterious Mate

“She gave it to Mercy before she ever got to safety. Mercy said Willow was insistent that if things went sideways, Mercy was to get the information into the proper hands.”

“Not too bright,” snorted Cage.

“Or maybe more interested in taking La Faucheuse and his allies down than anything else.”

“Could be,” said Cage speculatively, a flicker of resolve crossing his features. He had faced countless challenges in his life, but this one felt different. Willow's life hung in the balance, and if the information was what it was purported to be, she might have dealt a fatal blow to both the Shadow League and La Faucheuse. Putting that scumbag down made her worth protecting.

Cage nodded once more. "I'll do it." His tone left no room for doubt. "I'll keep her safe."

As the plans were finalized and the logistics of the operation were discussed, Cage realized he was playing a pivotal role in an operation that could well turn the tide of the war against the Shadow League. Brie excused herself to take a call and to reach out to Mercy and catch her up with their plans.

Cage’s commitment to the cause and his determination to protect Willow burned brighter than ever, driving him forward into the unknown.

“My plane will get you to Mercy and Willow. Mercy will deliver her to you at the landing strip, and you will leave immediately for the island.”

“How will Mercy get out?” asked Cage.

Brie smiled. “She’ll fly out on her own.”

“Is she a pilot?”

Colby grinned. “Might as well be. Falcon.”

Cage started to leave, but with his hand on the doorknob, he turned back to Colby. His eyes narrowed as he focused his gaze on Colby, his voice low and tense. "What's going to happen if we can't keep her from running her mouth?"

Colby's expression darkened, a grim look settling around his mouth. He took a deep breath, glancing around to ensure no one else was listening. "Whatever is necessary," he replied, his tone cold and resolute.

The weight of his words hung heavy in the air, leaving no room for doubt about the lengths they might have to go.

CHAPTER 3

WILLOW

They made it to a small, nondescript cottage that had no view of the ocean. What it did have was a clear, open field and, Mercy assured her, a roving patrol.

“I can’t see anyone,” said Willow, casting her eyes over the surrounding countryside.

“That’s kind of the point. Trust me when I tell you they wouldn’t be nearly as effective if they were easily spotted. But if any of those goons try to make a play for us, they’ll be shut down before they know what’s what.”

“How long will I be here? What happens next? I hate to be a pain, but I have no idea what’s going on or what to expect.”

“Let me boil it down to you in one easy explanation. You are now in the care of the Shadow Sisters. We existed long before and will be here long after both the Shadow League and the Resistance. I work for and answer only to Brie Reynolds, who is the head of the Shadow Sisters. And while we work with the Resistance, we don’t take orders from them. You have information that is vital to both law enforcement and the Resistance, but the Shadow Sisters will keep you safe regardless. If at any point in time we don’t believe you are safe, we will move you.”

“So, are we staying here?” asked Willow anxiously.

“Not for long. We are safe enough for a day or two, but if we can get you to one of Colby Reynold’s strongholds, you’ll be safer.”

“Is Colby related to Brie?”

“Yes, they are ma… married. Colby is part of the Resistance, but he has always been an entity unto himself and has supported the Shadow Sisters for a very long time.”

“You’ll pass on the information I got out?”

Mercy nodded. “As soon as I get you settled, I’ll see that it gets to where it’ll do the most good, but again the Shadow Sisters keeping you safe has nothing to do with that.”

“Then why help me?”

“Because you needed help. Our organization has existed for millennia based on the idea that women are often forced into untenable positions through no fault of their own. Our gender has been pawns of others for as long as anyone can remember.” Mercy laid her hand on Willow’s. “You’re safe. I promise.”

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