Page 124 of Chandelier Enthralled
“We can advise you where the danger lies. We can do everything within our power to prevent any harm from coming to you. But preventing you from living your life to the fullest? That’s not who we are.”
“Cameron,” I said, tears filling my eyes.
“We must let you go.” He hung his head, his tone filled with sadness. “Step out of your way, as much as it terrifies us. We love you and will always be here for you.”
My shoulders slumped with relief, my sense of power returning, my sense of purpose stronger than ever. “She really is a beautiful horse.”
“She really is.” Cameron smiled and it made him look so damn vulnerable. “I ask one thing of you, Willa.”
“Protect the family at all costs.” I gave a nod. “Don’t worry, I won’t sell you out for a story.”
“Yes, that, and please be careful.”
“Always.”
“We believe Jewel Hadley targeted you. I know it’s not what you want to hear. But it’s obvious to us. She has her sights set on you.”
“But I’ll hardly see her.”
“Did you hear what I just told you? She is a clear and present danger to you.”
“How?” I swallowed hard. “You really believe she targeted me?”
“Absolutely.”
“Then I’ll use that,” I said stubbornly.
He drew in a sharp breath. “We wait for Jewel to show her belly.”
“You need my help,” I reasoned. “I’m already in there.”
“She’s terrifyingly smart and has no conscience.”
“I promise I’ll be careful.”
“Jewel will hurt you. Then, she’ll take your pain and spin it into hate and turn it back on you.” He looked away. “And she could use you to hurt us.”
“She has nothing on you, Cameron, right?”
His gaze met mine. “Best hear this secret from me first.”
“Should I be worried?”
He let out a sigh. “Jake, Atticus and Greyson have a fourth partner in the purchasing of Pendulum.”
My throat tightened as I realized what he meant.
I had the sudden urge to run away, feeling confused over my brother having anything to do with Pendulum.
“So, you see,” he said, “my philosophy of protecting you is contradictory.”
“You’re into that…?”
“Rose told you about Enthrall and Chrysalis?”
“Yes, but she was vague.”
“They are sanctuaries.”
