Page 75 of Outcast’s Return

He’s correct there. There has been far too much talking and not enough action, and Leopold will surely use that as leverage to become Supreme Elder and exact vengeance on his enemies.

“I want the Masked Killer brought to justice,” I say.

“I know, Fabien. You more than anyone.”

“And the person to halt Leopold’s ambitions is you?” I ask.

Cromwell’s smirk fades.

“I brought you up, Fabien. I brought you into my home when everything turned bleak for you. I gave you a family. I gave you a second chance. I hope you remember that when the time comes.”

He was the man who opened the door for me. Always silently there, never present, but always watching.

By all logic, I owe him.

“I remember what you did for me, Mr. Auclair.”

“I promise you, as leader, I will act fast,” Cromwell says sharply. “I will find the Masked Killer. I will destroy him for what he did to your parents. For my friends.”

“I believe you would, sir.”

He pauses, his eyes watching me.

And then...

“Excellent. I knew you were smart.”

A server arrives with coffee.

“Speaking of connections,” I say, taking a cup. “I have a request, if I may be bold.”

Cromwell’s eyebrows lift.

“A request? What is it, Fabien?”

“Something’s... gone wrong with Jolie. With her work.”

“Oh?”

“But I’ve formulated a plan that might work.”

“And I’m guessing you need my connections?” Cromwell asks.

“I just need a door opened,” I reply. “The rest is up to me.”

28

JOLIE

I’m spent. Shattered. Drained.

And empty.

All morning, I mope around the penthouse, too hollow even to lift a finger. I don’t clean Fabien’s mess while he’s gone. I don’t shower. I don’t even turn on the TV. My head simply revolves around two thoughts.

I’m a failure. I let my family down.

Fabien had to comfort me like a baby.