The Marradith Ryder Series: The Art of Shadows, Part 67
Uncle Jake’s house was feeling crowded.
After Harley went to sleep, Marradith went downstairs and sat on the front porch.
The California sky was full of stars. The night was quiet around her, except for the chorus of crickets that chirped in the yard.
She slid her phone out of her pocket, and texted Justin. He replied back immediatly.
You are up late. What are you doing?
Nothing much, she replied. Stayed up until 2 playing video games with Harley.
A pause and then Justin’s words flew across the screen. Sounds like fun.
What’s going on there? Any new information on Xia?
Marradith could just about feel him trying to figure out exactly what to say.
Yes and no. We have a theory about Miranda Vega having summoned her. We’re working on things to bring her under control. Daria’s back in one piece. My daughter’s here.
Marradith sighed. Well I wish I was there, too.
I know. I don’t sleep all that well when you’re gone. But it’s ok.
How about I just take a plane back tommorow? My birthday is not that important, she typed.
Yes it is, came Justin’s reply.
Marradith bit her lip. This is a secure phone, right?
Yes.
I saw Scott today. You knew he was out here, didn’t you?
An extended pause.
Yes, Marradith, I knew. I have been tracking him for a while. I did not tell your Father that I found him.
Why?
Because, officially, I am not supposed to know anything about his whereabouts. One thing we both agree on is you, so I asked for him to keep an eye out. Until Xia is not a threat.
You could have told me.
I could have, Justin wrote back, but that would have been another complication. I didn’t want you to have to lie to Paul. It’s bad enough I have to lie to him.
Does Mama know? Marradith asked.
No.
We have too many secets, Granthem. I don’t like this shit.
I know. I trust you. But Scott is in a bad position. If he gets brought in, I don’t know how much I can do for him. And it’s better that we don’t have to find out.
Alright then.
Marradith, don’t be angry…..
Not angry, so much, as dssapointed. I keep finding out things way after the fact that you should have told me up front.
Well, I can’t change it now. What would you like me to do?
Other than stop treating me like a CHILD? she replied. I don’t know. Why don’t you tell me?
Marradith.
WHAT?
First off, calm down. I’m going to call you.
Marradith turned her phone off as Justin’s number flashed across the screen.
She closed the door and went back to her room. Climbing into bed, she was envious of Harley’s peaceful slumber.
From his place in the darkness of the hallway, David Brennan smiled.
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©2011 Lori Titus
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