Page 114

“I remember every word you say, boss.”

And that was exactly what worried me.

Penny turned and merged with the cluster of Neighbors. As much as I hated to admit, she was good at her job. Better than I was at her level.

Harriet gave me a sidelong look. “She seems to have her act together.”

“She’s growing on me.” Like an unwanted chin hair.

“I’m going to find Vale and the others,” Harriet said.

“Can I get you anything first?” I offered. “Ibuprofen or a potion?”

“I’ll survive until I get home.”

“Thank you, Harriet.”

Her brown eyes twinkled in the moonlight. “Anything for a friend.” She turned and left the beach.

A friend.

The description warmed me from the inside out. I didn’t have much experience with friends. My relationships had all been in a professional capacity. Even my friendship with Meemaw had developed as a result of my role on the island.

As though summoned, Meemaw appeared on the horizon with Margie beside her.

“Your weapons dealer is crying for his mother,” Meemaw said. “I know a spell that can sew his lips together, if you want.”

“That won’t be necessary. Penny is taking him to a holding cell now.”

Margie gazed at the water. “I heard Keith got eaten by a sea monster. Is it true?”

“It is.”

“You don’t think the creature will spit him out when she realizes he doesn’t taste very good?”

“She didn’t eat him for an afternoon snack. It was an act of vengeance.” If anyone recognized an act of vengeance, it was a fury.

“I’d feel better if we saw the body. No body leaves the door open for his return in the final act,” Margie said.

“Then consider this the final act,” I told her. “We’ve seen the last of Keith. I promise.”

The crone clapped me on the shoulder. “You did good, Maya.”

“I can’t take credit.”

“Nonsense. The sea monster may have had the last bite, but you’re the one who had him cooked.”

I laughed. “You’ve been keeping up with the latest vernacular, I see.”

“Just because I’m no longer living on the mainland doesn’t mean I’m out of touch.”

“Says the witch who refuses to send text messages.”

She wiggled her fingers. “Talk to me when you suffer from joint pain.”

“You can always dictate your messages.”

She scowled. “Keep it up and I’ll take back all my compliments.”