Chapter 30
Beth saw the devastation of Josef's penthouse through a mist of guilt. It had felt so right to go after Coraline but Mick's rejection -- twice now thanks to Maureen's insistence she cover the explosion -- was making her even more miserable. Did he hate her? Would he cut her out of his world? No, she would not let that happen.
Buzzwire got their exclusive and she found herself lurking in his hallway, not knowing if he would ever forgive her. Thankfully it was just his grief talking because here she was once again in his arms, this time comforting him.
What a relief to find Josef alive! But how did he survive? He didn't act as though it was any big deal, but that was Josef: insouciant, selfish, never having any ties.
The opposite of Mick. She was pleased when he included her once again and really glad that Sam was willing to do some freelance work. This new facial matching software was incredible. She held back a giggle at Sam's jibe at Mick. Where did he get the idea that Sam would be an overweight geek living in his parent's basement? And wearing a Yoda t-shirt!
Mick found the would-be assassin -- and saved Josef's life again whereupon he just disappeared. His trail appeared to lead to New York. Packing hurriedly, she heard the doorbell. But instead of Mick, it was Josh.
She let him in, realizing how totally absorbed she had become in her other, secret life with Mick. An angry Josh wanted her to admit her feelings but she honestly did not know how she felt about him these days. And then Mick was there picking her up, and the moment to say something was over.
In New York, once again she and Mick worked well together, finding the old man. Hearing his story of a father's grief, and then reading Sarah's diary, made an impact. The girl was in love and she was willing to become a vampire for Josef! Mick had said relationships between humans and vampires never ended well but it had never occurred to her before that there might be another choice.
If she asked to be turned -- her heart was beating so fast at the thought -- would Mick do it?
Seeing Josef with Sarah, she had a sinking feeling. As she and Mick walked out of the New York brownstone and into the New York night, Mick suddenly wanted to go out and celebrate. He actually seemed optimistic! But all she could think of was poor Sarah, so in love she was willing to sacrifice her life -- lying there forever like sleeping beauty ...
and knowing that if she didn't pull herself back now, go back to Josh and that normal life he offered, that fate might be hers. She made the choice and left him to walk New York alone.
