Sunday’s Serving – Lilith

 

            Alex returned to the funeral home at the agreed time.  By then she felt drained.  Her legs were barely capable of holding her up.  She’d spent most of the afternoon parked by the waterfront, crying until she was exhausted. 

            When she arrived at the funeral home, the brothers were waiting for her in the parking lot.  Other than the Planters’ silver Mercedes, it was now empty.  She parked her truck next to it and got out.

            Jacob’s grim face grew more worried as he looked at her.  “Are you okay?”

            “What do you mean?”  Her eyes darted to Colwyn.  Had he told his brother what had transpired between them?  Had Marta told them anything?

            “You’re pale as a ghost.”  Jacob glanced at Colwyn.

            “Of course she is,” he replied, his tone even as he watched her.  “We’re about to come face to face with Lilith.  I’m sure Alex is scared out of her wits.  I know I am.”

            “Nobody here but us chickens,” she said, her voice wavering despite her effort to keep it light.

            “Have you got your magic nail?” Colwyn asked, smiling with encouragement.

            “Among other things.”  The words came out steady this time, and Alex straightened.  “I’m ready when you are.”

            To her relief, Colwyn made no mention of her abrupt departure earlier.  Instead, he opened the front passenger door for her as Jacob got in the back.  As she started to get in, Colwyn said in a low voice, “You’ve been crying.  Are you all right?”

            Alex looked up.  His face wore a gentle, concerned expression.  Concern for their mission or for her?  She dropped her gaze.  “I’ll be fine.  I have to be.”  She got in the car. 

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