Page 81 of Enchanted Hero
“No.” He could choose from hundreds of people who would vouch for him, but he wouldn’t involve anyone else. The more people they suspected, the more likely they would realize the truth. “Gentlemen, this is getting ridiculous. I know you want to solve your mystery, but I’m not the answer.”
A few people next to them quieted. Agent Andrews glanced around, his features hardening. “We’d like to talk to you further.”
“Yes, at the Scientific Institute of Research and Investigation.”
Alexander tightened. A member of the Incantare had almost been discovered at the Scientific Institute of Research and Investigation – no way was he going within a mile of that place. “I’m afraid that’s impossible.”
“But–”
“Should I call my lawyer?” Alexander used a deceptively soft voice, bestowing a long look at each man. “Unless you plan to force me, I’m not going anywhere.”
For a moment, the agent was silent. Was he actually considering arresting him? But then he pursed his lips. “Not at this time.”
Not at this time?How close was he to being seized?
“Welcome back, ladies and gentlemen,” an official rumbled from the podium, and the crowed quieted. “You’ll be happy to know the man from the ledge is safely in police custody. I know everyone is eager to discover the truth, but stunts like this are not the answer. We have to be patient. Wewillfind him.”
The applause heightened to deafening levels. Would the official’s prediction come true? Would the whole world discover who and what he truly was?
The press conference continued, as official after official implored the hero to come forward so they could “talk.” The audience clapped and screamed, cheering like teens watching their favorite boy band. He was accustomed to attention as a successful businessman, but it paled with how they regarded their new hero. Finally, it ended, and Andrews and Garrison let him go with yet another promise they’d be seeing him soon.
Alexander escorted Everleigh through the crowds to the car. Unfortunately, they would soon be parted, but it couldn’t be helped. He had to consult with his people, who were already assembling on the island.
They talked little as they embarked on the ride home. As before, he used his powers to subtlety guide them through an enchanted “shortcut,” but this time Everleigh was too pre-occupied to notice. He was the first to speak as they entered the highway. “I’ll drop you off at your apartment.”
“You’re taking me home?” Everleigh couldn’t quite hide the surprise from her voice, or the displeasure. It brought stark satisfaction.
“Disappointed?”
“Of course not,” she denied in the high-pitched voice she used when lying. “I’m just surprised. I thought I never got off the clock with you.”
“I should’ve put that in the contract.”
She grimaced wryly, and he smiled despite the somber situation. “I have an important meeting. Believe me, I’d much rather spend the day with a beautiful woman.”
He didn’t need to look to know she’d turned pink. Yet his smile faded as she studied him. “That was some scene back there,” she said quietly. “No one expected actual heroics.”
He searched for a good excuse, found only the same stale one he’d used for the fire. “It must have been a fireman.”
“I never met a fireman who could fly.” Her gaze burned into him, demanding answers he couldn’t yet share. Half of him wanted a confrontation so he’d have an excuse to keep her right away.
“He didn’t actually fly. He must’ve had a rope or something.” He shook his head. “I still can’t believe everyone is making such a big deal about him. They’re treating him like a hero.”
“Heisa hero.”
“I’m not so sure about that.”
“Why not?” Everleigh nudged his arm. “He risked his life to save people, something he’s probably been doing for years. Isn’t that the definition of a hero?”
He’d saved more people than she could imagine, but that didn’t make him a hero. He did it because he had the ability and opportunity. “They claim he is invincible. How is he risking his life?”
“First, although he’s powerful, I doubt he’s invincible.” She turned to look out the window, where willowy palm trees surrounded sparkling blue lakes. “There’s probably something that can affect him.”
That was true. Certain types of radiation blocked his powers. If scientists discovered it, they could temporarily render him as vulnerable as the average human. If they trapped him in a cage with it…
“Secondly, even if he’s not risking his life, he’s risking exposure.” She stepped into his nightmare. “He doesn’t wear that mask as a fashion statement. I think he’s someone from the everyday world, hiding his identity. Every time he performs heroics, he takes a chance someone will recognize him. That alone makes him a hero.” She studied him. “He’s a bit like you.”
Not good.“How is he like me?”
