Page 4 of Unruly
“And I’ll just pick up where I left off?”
“If you choose to.” I glance down at my tablet. “You’re currently unemployed?”
“No. I’m freelance.”
“Freelance?”
“I do jobs as they come up.”
“So, you have free time available?”
“Sometimes. I get busy too.”
I detect the defensiveness in his tone. “What kind of work?”
“I do a variety of things. Handyman services, yard work, snow removal. Lots of seasonal work at certain times of the year. Summer keeps me busy with the tourist season. I even go to Salem in October and do ghost tours around the city.”
“I see. That will make your transition easier. No coworkers or bosses to deal with.”
“I like my freedom.”
“That is something of a trade-off. As a Soul Chaser, your time belongs to the society. When an assignment comes up, it takes priority. It’s the only reason you are allowed to remain in the Above.”
“How many assignments do you get in a year?”
“Hard to say. It depends on many factors. Availability of other Chasers, how many Horrors are escaping, new recruits to the society. You can be very busy or very slow.”
“So, I’m, like, on call?”
“You could put it that way.”
“How many Chasers are there?”
“Thousands. You’ll meet them at the yearly gathering.”
“How long have you been here?”
“I’ve stopped counting, but suffice it to say it’s been a long time.”
“And you like it?”
“Like?” My brain stutters on that word. When was the last time I considered my feelings about my status? “I’m satisfied.”
“Satisfied. Okay. Do any Chasers say yes and then change their minds?”
“Rarely, but it does happen. They aren’t cut out for it and would rather take a chance on the sorting. Or they can choose the administration department.” I gesture to the workers. “There are options as long as you come to me and don’t take it upon yourself.”
“How would I come to you? You’re… here.”
“Details to be covered at a later date. I can give you a few minutes to decide, but then I’ll have?—”
“I’ll do it,” Borja says firmly. “I’m not ready to die and it sounds kind of cool. I never believed in any of this stuff, but either this is one hell of a delusion or you’re real and this is happening.”
“I’m real and this is happening.” One task accomplished. “I’ll lead you to the orientation room so you can get started on reading the materials. I’ll be in to check on you.”
Borja nods, then follows me down the hallway. I can park him here for a bit while I figure out what I’m supposed to do next. Not only is there a particularly nasty Horror in the Above, but somehow, I’m the one responsible for getting it back and I have a partner who’s a brand-new Chaser.
Back in my office, I close my eyes to summon Elina, my personal guide. I concentrate on her name, relaxing as the scent of lavender swirls around me.
