77

“Why now?”

“The battle between heaven and hell is eternal, like a game of chess where each strategic move can have catastrophic consequences. Their fight for souls acts like a pendulum constantly swinging back and forth. The balance between them is always shifting, and recently it tipped again. Things are changing. It’s going to get worse before it gets better.”

“But... which side are we on? We’re not exactly heaven’s favorites.”

Caleb let out a dark chuckle. “If you don’t know what side you’re on, you shouldn’t be here.”

She practically melted into her chair at the tone of his voice. I felt a little sorry for her, but her question had merit.

“What are we supposed to do then? Kill them?” I called out, not bothering to raise my hand. “Douse them with holy water?”

“Miss Fallon, you’ll hold your tongue unless I give you permission to speak.”

His chastisement was harsh and cut across me like a whip’s lash. I’d missed him.