A/N: posting three short chapters today - still don't own anything
ZEDD
I pace the kitchen, waiting for the other two to arrive. Although I'm still furious with Dar, I've calmed down enough to realize that I'd feel the same way in his shoes, only much more homicidal considering it would be my boy, my bond mate that was harmed. Still, he had better hope that he doesn't arrive before Pina.
Fortunately for him, they arrive together and by the anxious look on Pina's face, I can see that they haven't found him either. Still, I can't help but ask, "No luck?"
The pair shake their heads and my concern spikes. Granted, there are only three of us and the castle is huge. It's possible that he could have eluded us, however what Pina says next chills my blood. "One of the cells in the dungeon was open, Zedd."
I grip the edge of the counter. I can't ask the question that's stuck in my throat but it's clear she knows what it is as she continues softly. "It was his." No. No, no, no. Knowing what kind of memories that would have brought back, if it did indeed bring back memories, I cringe inside. If only he had stopped and listened to me! If only Dar had kept his big mouth shut! If only, if only I had a damn clue where he was. I've tried on several occasions to find him with our bond, but, like this morning, he has me firmly blocked out. I can only hope that if he gets in any real trouble, he'll let me in to find him.
Finally, I find my voice. "What do we do now?"
Pina sighs. "I'm the only one who's qualified to go into the woods in the dark. However, there are several areas near the castle that the two of you can check. With any luck, he won't have gone into the woods after the snake incident, but even if he has, maybe the behavior of the animals nearby will help me find him."
Breathe, Zedd. She continues, "Zedd, you check the grounds and gardens behind the castle. Dar, check the front. When you've finished with that, help Zedd in the back. I'm going to get my pack and head into the woods." She heads for the door, but pauses halfway across the room. "Oh, and Zedd - don't hurt Dar. As frustrated as he is, he never meant for Tommy to hear what he said. It was accidental, so play nice."
Oh, I will. At least, until Thomas is found and back home safe and sound. After that, I promise nothing. Wisely, my brain overrules my mouth and I say none of it, merely nodding. Unfortunately, they both know that I'm only complying for right now out of concern for my boy. They know that later will be a whole other story.
Grabbing a flashlight and coat I head for the gardens off the kitchen, mentally creating a checklist of hiding places to check. Fortunately, Dar has the sense to keep his mouth shut as he heads out the other door.
Please be okay, Thomas, please just be okay.
