Chapter 44: Shadow Council

I gaped at her, unable to breathe or think for a long moment. Sassafras's power prodded me gently back into motion.

There is an opportunity here, he sent.

You're kidding me, I snapped back. Sass, this is a terrible idea. Mom would have a fit.

I take it you do intend to inform Miriam of everything that's occurred here, and will occur in the future? His sarcasm cut through the last of my shock.

You want me to say yes and then spy on them for Mom. How despicable. I shuddered at the thought. Better to shut this down now and walk away.

If you don't accept they will simply act without you, Sass sent. And you know it.

I looked around at the determined faces staring at me. They'd already talked this through before bringing it to me, that much was obvious. I was the last stage in their plan.

"Mom needs to know about this," I said. "I won't keep it from her."

Tallah drew a sharp breath to retort, but Karyn beat her to it.