Page 116 of X Marks the Stalker
“Where’s Ambrose?” Xander asks, looking toward the door.
“Out of town,” Thorne replies. “Won’t be back until next week.”
I stare at them, these killers discussing murder with the casual efficiency of a corporate board meeting.
“You’re all...helping?” I ask.
“Of course, darling,” Calloway says. “We’re a society. Very exclusive membership, deadly benefits package.”
“Plus,” Lazlo adds with a warm smile, “adding a journalist to the mix brings a fresh perspective.” He winks, somehow making even this morbid discussion seem charming. “We’ve never had a journalist before. It’s exciting. Like adding a new instrument to the orchestra of death.”
“That metaphor needs work,” Darius mutters.
“I’m thinking about your parents’ case,” Thorne says, ignoring them. “The connection to Blackwell has significant implications.”
I tense. “You know about my parents?”
“I make it my business to know about new recruits,” Thorne replies, something cold and calculating in his eyes. “The police will see you as a potential suspect. You have a clear motive.”
“I haven’t exactly hidden my investigation of him,” I admit.
“It’s a factor we need to account for,” Thorne continues. “Though it shouldn’t be that hard to divert their attention. Blackwell has a long list of victims and enemies. The challenge will be ensuring your name doesn’t rise to the top of that list.”
“We’ll need to create distance,” Darius adds. “Establish alibis, minimize electronic footprints.”
“What he’s saying,” Xander translates, “is that we need to protect you from suspicion while still getting you the justice you deserve.”
“Also because Xander is clearly smitten,” Callowaystage-whispers, “and we’re nothing if not supportive of workplace romance.”
“This isn’t a workplace,” Xander protests.
“Of course it is, Bestie. Murder is our business, and business is killing.”
Thorne studies my murder board. “You’ve done impressive work mapping his medical appointments.”
“The blood thinners create an opportunity,” I explain, slipping into reporter mode. “Minimal security, predictable schedule, enhanced vulnerability.”
“She’s a natural,” Darius observes with appreciation.
“I told you,” Xander says, pride evident in his voice.
Strange warmth spreads through me at his words, at being accepted into this bizarre, deadly fellowship.
“Well,” Calloway says, clapping his hands together, “shall we begin planning how to deliver our cardiac friend to the great art gallery in the sky? I’m thinking something with dramatic blood spatter—really make use of those thinners.”
Chapter 27
Oakley
“So, what’s the protocol here?” I ask, glancing around the circle of killers. “Do we just...raise our hands to vote, or is there a special murder club hand signal I should learn? Secret handshake? Blood oath over a ceremonial dagger?”
Thorne’s lips twitch in what might be the closest thing to a smile his face muscles allow. “We’re not quite that formal, Ms. Novak. Though I appreciate your enthusiasm for proper procedure.”
“Let’s make this official,” Darius says, setting his phone facedown on the table. “All in favor of assisting in Richard Blackwell’s deserved demise, speak now.”
What if they vote no? Without their network, their skills, and their protection, Blackwell stays untouchable. I force a smile onto my face, despite the dread pooling inside me.
“I vote yes, obviously,” Xander says, his knee brushing mine under the table. A silentreassurance.
