Chapter 47

“I’m not sure the Philly police would agree.”

“Safeguarding knowledge of magic outweighs all human rules.”

“Help us make sure it stays that way,” Riadh said. “I’ll promise you a favor.”

Summer tilted her head and gazed at Riadh. “When you were djinn, you could not have made that offer.”

“I know, that’s why I offer it now. It has worth. Even though I am no longer elemental, I retain the knowledge of more than a thousand years and many masters.”

Summer gave him a curt nod. “Done.” She stood up from the table. “Stay inside the house. I’ll be back in a bit.”

After she left the room Dale asked, “Was that wise?”

“A calculated risk, and a necessary one. I need you not to be in jail. Do you regret sacrificing Archimedes for me?”

Dale cupped his hands around Riadh’s face. “Fuck no. I love you. I would do anything to keep you alive and keep you safe.”

“Then don’t begrudge me promising a favor. You agreed to one, too.”

“I did.”