Chapter Eleven: The Prophecy
"You wanted out of there in a hurry," Emily commented as they made their way through the hotel. Jack hated the tone of her voice. Wounded. As if he had just torn her away from her heart's desire.
"It felt wrong being there," Jack said irritably. "I can't believe you didn't think so."
"It felt weird, maybe," Emily said with a shrug. "But we haven't seen her in ten years, I think that's perfectly normal."
"Did you ever stop to think why we haven't seen her in ten years?" Jack demanded.
Emily rolled her eyes. "So she and Mom don't get along, big deal," she said. "That doesn't make her a bad person."
Jack wanted to scream. She sounded like she was being rational, but the truth was, she just didn't get it. "Promise me you won't see her again."
"Why?" Emily asked with a laugh.
Jack grabbed her arm, stopping her in her tracks. "I'm serious, Emily."
"Fine," Emily rolled her eyes. "You're serious. Would you let go of my arm, please?"
Reluctantly, Jack did as she asked.
"So do you think Colby's mom really did rent some rooms here?" Emily asked, trailing her hand along the wall.
"Yeah," Jack said with a shrug. "She usually does. Why?"
"We should go say hello," Emily suggested. "So we can give Mom and Dad some convincing details. And so it won't be like we lied."
Jack raised his eyebrows. "Good idea, Emily."
Emily smirked. "You're not the only one who's seen a bunch of crappy spy movies."
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Irina sat down on the edge of the bed, taking a sip from the scotch she had poured herself after the children had left. Well. That hadn't gone exactly as she'd planned, but she couldn't say she had been displeased with the little meeting. So Jack didn't trust her as he had as a child. There was always Emily.
Emily. Oh, how Irina had underestimated her all those years ago. The girl had been so small, had had so many problems. Irina had been so sure she'd grow up to be weak. Worthless. She should have known better. After all, none of what had happened to any of them had been coincidence, chance. It had all been written years ago.
The woman here depicted will possess unseen marks, signs that she will be the one to bring forth my works. Bind them with fury. A burning anger, unless prevented. At vulgar cost, this woman will render the greatest power unto utter desolation.
The prophecy didn't call the woman by name, but it was clear to Irina who it described.
Emily.