Total pages in book: 87
Estimated words: 81279 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 406(@200wpm)___ 325(@250wpm)___ 271(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 81279 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 406(@200wpm)___ 325(@250wpm)___ 271(@300wpm)
“You seen him yet?” I whisper in his ear, and he nods, taking a sip from a paper cup as we walk alongside the different tables, wondering who would be the best person to approach. I don’t want to chat with too many people, as I’d rather not be remembered when I’m planning a murder, but intel from a naive congregation member could prove essential.
“He briefly talked to the kids.”
I scowl. “How did it feel?”
Rowan hums. “Like not seeing him, but some fake person. It’s strange.”
“Did he look different then?” I ask, pulling him into a corner, so we can speak more freely while my gaze scans the crowd for the pastor I’ve seen on the murder board, which now graces the wall of our rented cabin.
The churchgoers occasionally peek our way, likely not that used to seeing new faces, which makes me glad that I brought glasses for both of us. It’s a disguise that doesn’t work nearly as well as it does in the Superman franchise, but a small change in appearance can be the difference between a bystander being able to correctly describe my features or not.
“Yes, he had longer hair, in a bit of a mess, and crazy bulging eyes, one of them pink from a burst blood vessel. I wish I didn’t remember it that clearly, but I do.”
“Sorry to bother you,” someone speaks behind us in a soft voice, and when I don’t initially spot the stranger over my shoulder, I turn to see that a young, blond wheelchair-user is holding on to Rowan’s forearm.
“Y-yes?” Rowan asks, a bit too nervous. We’ll have to work on that. Whenever we go out into the field, he is to appear confident, as if he’s exactly where he’s meant to be. Though if we’re playing the role of two men looking for a new church, maybe his uncertainty might work in our favor this time.
I don’t need to assess the man consciously. I’ve been doing this for long enough that my attention focuses on threats and points of interest. And this guy? He has a rainbow badge featuring a cross. It’s pinned to his baby blue top, which he’d clearly chosen to show off his chest and biceps.
“I’ve noticed you’re new here. I don’t want to seem pushy, but I looked at your cane, and I wanted to let you know we have a group for folks with limited mobility.” He points to a stand at the end of the horseshoe.
Rowan clears his throat, glancing at me for a second, but then turns back to the stranger. “Oh, and… it’s a gay-friendly church?” he asks, pointing out the pin.
The man’s eyes light up, but all I can see is that his hand is still on my Rowan. What does he think he’s playing at when I’m standing right here?
“Yes, the pastor’s making it a very inviting place for us.”
I sense Rowan stiffen next to me as the stranger introduces himself as Pete, and I take it as the perfect opportunity to disperse any doubts about mine and Rowan’s relationship. Because we are not brothers, cousins, or best friends who share one house.
“Sebastian. And this is my husband, Rob.”
Rowan’s face flushes, but I’m glad to see the fucker’s hand slide off him. I can see the light of disappointment in Pete’s eyes and I’m glad to be the cause. Rowan might not yet understand what a catch he is, but I remember how easily he fell into my lap. I’ll be keeping an eye out for guys who think they’re smooth enough to steal him from under my nose.
“H-hey,” Rowan utters with a smile. I wish I knew what’s going on in his head.
“So nice to meet the two of you. I’m sure the pastor will love to meet you as well. He’s been a blessing to our church.”
“Really? Tell us more. He sounds like an angel,” I say.
Pete sighs, leaning back in a way that shows off his pecs. He’s hot, I have to give him that, but he is not going to flirt with Rowan.
“He runs a soup kitchen on Fridays, and he’s been outspoken about his past drug issues, which has made many people comfortable enough to seek support. Addiction can be a lonely experience, shrouded in a lot of shame. Father Patrick is there for those who struggle.”
Rowan looks a little pale, so I step in. “We can’t wait to meet him. But I’m not sure if we should bother him today, when there’s so many people around. Are there any days and times when he might be more available? You seem to be well-informed.”
Translation: when and where will it be most convenient to kill him?
Pete smiles for the first time since I cut him off from my man. “Oh, I work with him quite closely, since I’m the president of our LGBT circle. He’s usually around between ten and three in the afternoon on weekdays.”