Epilogue

T he evening at the coffee shop draws to a close with the usual flurry of cleaning and tidying up. As I finish locking the front door, I wave goodbye to Jenna, my coworker, who’s heading off in the other direction. The street is dimly lit, casting long shadows that stretch across the pavement. I turn to leave, but a sudden chill runs down my spine as I find myself face to face with Mr. Pierce and a few of his intimidating bodyguards.

“Good evening, Amelia,” Mr. Pierce greets me with a sardonic smile, his eyes glinting ominously under the streetlights.

I take a deep breath, steadying my nerves. “Mr. Pierce, to what do I owe this... unexpected visit?”

He steps closer, his bodyguards flanking him like sentinels. “I think you know why I’m here. You’ve claimed my demons, my subjects. I’m here to insist you forfeit your claim on them.”

My heart races, but I refuse to let fear dictate my response. “I’m not in the habit of giving up on my friends, Mr. Pierce.”

His smile widens, but there’s no warmth in it. “Your friends, you say? Do you realize the danger you’re in, girl? You’re playing with fire, meddling in affairs that are beyond your understanding.”

“I understand more than you think,” I retort, my voice steady despite the fear gnawing at me. “And I won’t let you or anyone else harm them.”

Mr. Pierce’s eyes narrow. “Bold words for someone in your position. Do you really think you can protect them? They’re demons, Amelia. One day, they’ll turn on you when you least expect it.”

“I trust them more than I’ll ever trust you,” I say, meeting his gaze unflinchingly. “And I won’t back down.”

He chuckles darkly. “We’ll see how long your bravado lasts. Remember, Amelia, you’re treading on dangerous ground. Be careful, or you might just find yourself in over your head, or without it.”

The story continues in Angels.