Broken (Otherworld 6)

"Good," I said, and headed for the door.

We relocated to the building across the road, where we could spot Rose or the others when they showed. Forty-five minutes passed. No sign of Jeremy or Rose.

"We can't wait much longer," I said. "Can we move someplace else? We'll need to take a cab, to cover my trail, but if we can get to another location, could you try the summoning again?"

Jaime peered out the filthy window. "I could...but if I summon her twice, from different locations, she might get confused. Let's wait a bit longer. She can't be far."

I resumed pacing from one window to the next, watching for any sign of movement outside.

"I wish I could get in touch with Eve," Jaime murmured as she undid her sandal strap and rubbed her foot.

"Eve?"

"Savannah's mother--"

"I know who you mean. You've had contact with her, haven't you? From the other side. Could she help with Rose?"

Jaime shrugged. "I don't know. At this point, I'd be willing to try anything. Eve's been helping me out some. An exchange of services."

"Like a spirit guide?"

She forced a tired smile. "More like a spirit guard dog. She scares off the spooks that don't take no for an answer. I do some

work for her in return."

"Why can't you reach her?"

"No idea. For a few months, she'll be there whenever I need her, then she's gone, popping by now and then to check on me, maybe get my help, but I can't summon her--"

Jaime's gaze shot to the corner window, overlooking the east side. "What's that?"

I hurried over, but saw nothing.

"Someone was there," Jaime said, standing on tiptoe, trying to see over my shoulder.

I stepped aside. "Where?"

"Someone came around the corner of that building. I saw a shape. Moving fast."

The street was empty.

"One shape?" I said.

She nodded.

One person, darting around in the shadows, now hiding.

"Rose," I said.

Dupe

"OH, GOD," JAIME WHISPERED BEHIND ME, VOICE MUFFLED as her hand flew to cover her nose and mouth. "What is that smell?"

"Decomposing zombie."

No wonder Rose had taken so long to get here. Smelling that bad, she'd have to take side streets and alleys all the way.

I peeked out the door. A dark shape emerged from behind a garbage bin, hesitated, then scuttled back behind it. A moment later, she popped out her head again, trying to find Jaime.