Page 40 of The Devil You Know
Parker shivered. “Don’t say things like that.”
“It’s true.”
“So why did they take Seth?”
“Seth’s still a descendant. Any of the witches could power up by killing him—or me. And while it wouldn’t do them as much good, you are also in danger.”
“But you and Seth got rid of the witch who tried to kill you.”
“The witch disciples each chose a family to follow, which kept it organized so they weren’t all fighting over the same descendant,” Evan replied. “But any of us would work as a sacrifice.”
“And the warlock here took Seth? Then how do you know—”
“I don’t,” Evan said, raising his head defiantly, unwilling to have Parker speak his greatest fear aloud. “But the ritual would be strongest at the full moon, so I think he’ll wait until then if it’s his intention to do the magic. There may be other spells he can work with descendants without killing them. Several others have gone missing recently.”
“Do you know how crazy this sounds? Witches, warlocks, spells, rituals—it’s like our old pastor who said everyone who plays role-playing games is worshiping Satan.” Parker rose and started to pace, sounding a little freaked out.
“No games, and Satan’s not involved,” Evan replied. “Just evil men who use their magic and wealth to hurt others.”
“And those men who chased us?”
“Pretty sure they work for Osborn—the disciple. I didn’t want to wait around to ask them. But now that they’ve linked you with me, they’ll figure out who you are, and you’ll be a target. If you weren’t already,” Evan said. “You might be safe if you hightail it back to Oklahoma, but not if you stay in Ohio. I’m sorry you got dragged into this.”
“Dad would have a fit if he heard you.”
“Dad knew.”
Parker’s eyes went wide. “What do you mean? How do you know?”
“Why did Dad move the family to Oklahoma when we were in Richmond for generations? He and Mom hate Oklahoma. He’s never liked his job. So why did we go there? Why did we stay? He left Richmond to outrun the witch disciple,” Evan said. “He was so worried about his son being ‘gay,’ he forgot to mention that bit of family history. So, guess where I drifted back to? Richmond.”
Parker’s hands shook, and his coffee sloshed when he set down his cup. “Damn. I wish I could argue, but what you’re saying makes a lot of sense.”
“Maybe you don’t remember before we left Richmond, but Mom and Dad weren’t religious then. I don’t remember going to church when we were young, let alone going multiple times a week. Then Uncle Vince died, and we moved and got religion.”
“You think it was because he was trying to protect you, even if he didn’t know from what?”
Evan shrugged. “Guess he forgot all about that when he found out I was gay.”
Parker looked chagrined. “What a clusterfuck. I’m sorry, Evan. For not standing up for you back then.”
“You were just a kid.” Evan paused. “Dad’s really that sick?”
Parker nodded. “So Mom says. She wasn’t happy when I moved away, so it could be an exaggeration, but I do think there’s something actually wrong.”
“Are you going back?” Evan asked.
“There’s nothing I can do to help if I go,” Parker said. “Jim’s there, and no, he hasn’t changed a bit. He sounds just like Dad. And Mom’s got her friends and the church. Hell, people probably have a casserole sign-up and prayer chain going. If I stay here, I can help you find Seth.”
“Why would you do that?” Evan stared at Parker, baffled.
“Because you’re my brother. And I missed you.”
Parker’s answer caught Evan off guard. “Thank you,” he said after a moment. “Just realize that Seth and I have both trained for this fight. We’ve gained skills—like the magic you saw. I appreciate your willingness, but I won’t put you in danger.”
“About that,” Parker said. “I’m not useless—and I’m not a kid anymore. I’m good at research—and I have my computer. I can watch a video feed or relay information. Run the comm links.” He brightened. “I’ve always wanted to do that.”
“It could come in handy,” Evan admitted. “If you want to stay, I could use the help.”
