Chapter 16



Nick and Diana sat next to each other in the large den of Aidan's house. She watched as Nick shared an ashtray with a boy, she thought his name was Dale. Turning to Katherine, they shared a disapproving look. Okay, so one thing hadn't changed . . .

Aidan stepped up in front of the group to start the meeting. "I'm proud to announce that we have found another coven!"

Diana watched as those not informed shared looks of amazement with each other. Gasps scattered through the crowd, and some clasped their hands in excitement.

Aidan continued. "This meeting is to decide on our method of visual contact. Either we meet them, or they come here. Any suggestions?"

No one in the crowd seemed to have an opinion. Diana cleared her throat and stood carefully. "I know I don't have much insight on this, considering the fact that you guys invited us here and all, but I say you go to them."

He cocked an eyebrow. "Is there a reason you feel this way?"

Suddenly self-conscious, she looked around the group. "I don't know, I just have this weird feeling that it would be safer for you to go to them."

"Well, that's understandable." He looked out over the crowd as Diana sat back down. "If there's no objections, then, we'll send out a party to see them. Five people should due. Do we have any nominations?"

One of the Torchia twins stood. Diana thought it was Aria. "I nominate James. He's very outgoing, and would bring a nice comfort to the new group."

After a few moments of agreement and debate, Aidan cleared his throat. "So far we have James, Danielle, and Katherine. Katherine, do you have a nomination since you were the last selected?"

She stood and smiled. "I have two nominations. I believe we should bring Diana and Nicholas with us."

Diana and Nick spoke at the same time. "That's really not necessary," Diana protested.

"I don't think that's a good idea," Nick said shyly, shaking his head.

Aidan laughed, "I think it's a wonderful idea! With you two along for the trip, we can show them how we interact with a newfound coven. All in favor?"

Hands went up around the room. Diana could feel her face growing hot.

"Majority rules. Diana and Nicholas will go with. The group shall depart at sunset tomorrow. Meeting adjourned."

Diana sat frustrated as people crowded out of the room. Aidan came to sit beside her. "I really don't think I should go to represent you guys."

He lifted a hand and touched her cheek lightly, lifting some of the worry from her mind. "I told you, you are one of us. You always have been."

She sighed, defeated. She looked over at Nick as he lit another cigarette. He looked up and met her eyes, the same worry churning behind their mahogany vividness.

Turning back to Aidan, it was hard not to smile. He had a look of complete trust in his eyes and a smile that she couldn't help falling into. "Come on," he whispered. "I'll walk you to your room. You have a long day ahead of you tomorrow."

She nodded lightly, taking the hand that he offered her. She shared one last look with Nick before leaving the room that said, "We can handle whatever we confront."