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Friday, July 3.
I arrive to pick Morgan up exactly at the time she requested. My red Spyder screeches to a halt, leaving tire tracks in front of her driveway. Boy, do I love this car. It’s almost as fast as flying. Sauntering to the door, it opens before I can press the bell.
Morgan is standing in the doorway, a pink duffle bag slung over her shoulder. “Perfect timing as always.” She steps forward and plants a kiss on my mouth.
“Your ride awaits.” I reach for her bag.
“So where are we going?”
“It’s a surprise.” Will it ever be for her. “We’ll cruise with the top down until it gets too chilly.”
“This has been really strange weather, but we can blast the heater.”
We drive for two and a half hours, Morgan bantering incessantly the whole time. I nod and smile every now and then, so she knows I’m paying attention. I’m not.
Have mercy on my soul and end my existence.
I check into a small B&B on Canal Park, overlooking the harbor. It’s a rustic place that Morgan would not have chosen for herself, but she doesn’t say anything. She’s too giddy about spending an entire weekend with me. Plus, she thinks we’re going to be holed up inside the room the entire time.
No way.
“Let’s grab dinner,” I say. “I’m starving.”
“You’re always hungry, but I’d rather have something that’s not on the menu.” Morgan licks her lips.
“Food.” I stand to leave. “Now.”
“You’re so demanding.” She sashays my way, swinging her hips. “I kinda like it.”
Leading her back into the convertible, we leave the top up and drive north. I Googled a place ahead of time and already made reservations at the New Scenic Cafe. It’s along the shoreline and about a twenty-minute drive. The perfect amount of time to see the lay of the land.
When we arrive, dim lights from hanging chandeliers bathes us in a romantic ambiance. White linen tablecloths adorn each table. The staff wears black with long white aprons.
“We’ll start with the seared sea scallops, house salads with ranch dressing on the side, and then the beef tenderloin. Cooked medium-rare,” I tell the waiter and close the menu. I order for her, just as I had when we went to Crave before the prom. I know she secretly likes having me take charge.
More chatter fills my ears from her. I’m enthralled by the smoky meat scent that wafts in the air. Plans are flipping through my mind as I gaze out the massive window that overlooks Lake Superior.
“Are you even listening to me?” Morgan’s high-pitched voice cuts through my thoughts. “You haven’t said two words to me since we arrived here. Where are you?”
“I’m here. Sorry. I have a lot on my mind.”
“You can tell me, you know.”
“I was thinking about something Quinn said about Zoe.”
“Don’t even get me started on that witch.” She slams her open palm on the table, startling diners close to us. “You’re thinking of an ex-girlfriend and my enemy.”
“It’s not like that.”
“Then tell me how it is?”
“Quinn said that Zoe was looking for a very special item.”
“Yeah, so?”
“I’m curious if she found what she was looking for.”
“Is that why you brought me here to Duluth? Is Quinn here? Is Zoe?” I don’t say anything. “Who’s here?” She needs to read my silence. “Both? Both of them are here!” She stands and almost tips the chair in her rush to leave.
“Sit down. We need to talk.” She smooths out her sundress and takes her seat. “I need you to find out something for me.”
“And if I don’t?”
“I’ll make it worth your while.” I shrug, knowing that she’ll take the bait.
“Fine. What do you need me to do?”
We return to the bed and breakfast after taking the scenic and long route back to the city. I spy a few wolves lingering in the woods. The Packs must be out there. But how many?
I slipped a draft into Morgan’s drink when she excused herself to use the restroom just before dessert. Now, she’s in a deep sleep as I carry her to the bed.
Early the next morning, I leave Morgan a handwritten note:
Morgan,
I hope you enjoyed your evening. Another surprise awaits you at Split Rock. I have a few errands to do this morning. I’ll see you at three. I’ve already set you up a vehicle, and the doorman will get it.
See you soon,
Aiden
Then I walk out of the room.