"Hey, gorgeous." Brianna's eyes shined up at Jared. She wrapped her arms around his waist and admired her handsome date. His eyes flashed with anger, like lightning striking a storm cloud.
"What's the matter?” Brianna asked.
"There's something I have to tell you. Licinia was here. She's been stalking me."
"What?" Brianna spun around, scanning the room.
"She's gone now, but I don't think for long. I'm so sorry to put you in this situation. She's unstable, and I'm worried about your safety. I'm not letting you out of my sight until I'm confident that she's not going to bother you."
Brianna tried to make light of the situation. "There's no need to be sorry. Spending more time with you doesn't sound too terrible to me."
His smile was weak. "Could you come back to my apartment after the concert? I'll feel better knowing you'll be there when I wake up. Also, the security in Brent's building is tight. I'll let them know that Licinia is a threat, and to notify me immediately if she's seen around the building."
Brianna nodded. "Okay, I'll call my mom and tell her I'm going to sleep over at Emily's tonight."
"I'm going to text Renee and Gavin. We have to tell them what's going on with Valerie and Licinia. I don't want to bother Brent while he's on vacation. Renee will have some ideas. Maybe a spell of protection for you."
"And for my sister, too." She explained Emily's psychic dreams.
"I'll make sure you and Mandy are safe," Jared said.
"Maybe we should all go to Supertopia," Brianna said. "Licinia can't get in there."
"Mandy can't get in either. She's not a supernatural."
"But she was…"
He shook his head. "There are no exceptions."
Her shoulders began to knot with tension. "Should we wait until tomorrow? Maybe we should meet Renee and Gavin tonight."
"That's up to you. I thought you would want to go to the after party with the band."
"After party?"
"Adam called me last night to invite us."
Brianna jumped up and down, not caring that she was in public. "For real?"
"Yes.” He laughed. "It should be a good time. I don't think Licinia is going to try anything tonight. Call your sister and tell her to stay in the house and lock the doors. Vampires can't come inside uninvited."
Jared walked his date to the lobby of the concert hall, keeping his hand on the small of her back. Brianna dialed her twin's number. "Hi, Mandy. There's a dangerous vampire witch out there. Her name is Licinia, and she hates me. I'm scared that she might try to hurt you. Your best protection is to stay inside at night. Don't let anyone in. Please. Tomorrow I'll be there with some friends and we'll sort this whole thing out."
"A vampire witch?" Mandy's voice revealed her incredulity. "Are you for real?"
"I'm completely serious. I know this all sounds crazy, but it's true. Just please please do as I say. Okay?"
"Have you lost your mind?"
"No! You have to believe me. Your safety is at stake!" Brianna's voice broke. "Please, promise me."
"I promise. I will not leave the house unless the sun is bright and shining."
"Thank you. I'm so sorry, Mandy. I'll make all this up to you. Please tell Mom that I'm sleeping over Emily's tonight."