Bennett’s eyebrows came together, and she limped over to where Polly was still hovering over Angelique. Kneeling at the woman’s side, Bennett saw Angelique cradling her arm. “What’s going on?”

“Oh, don’t worry about me,” Angelique said, summoning up a poor excuse for a smile. “It’s just a scratch.”

Bennett eased Angelique’s hand aside and instantly grimaced. The gash in the woman’s arm was so deep, Bennett could almost see through to the other side. “Christ, your arm is practically cut off.”

“Yeah, but I lost a leg in 1812 during the war in France. This is no big deal. It’ll grow back. They always do.”

Bennett couldn’t help but snicker. “Yes, they do, but they don’t do it without help.” Bennett got to her feet. “Are any of you up for getting the van?”

“I can,” Polly said. “What about the gate? Should I crash it?”

“No. Wait on the other side,” Bennett said, limping over to a window as Polly headed to the door. “I’ll bring her over.”

“All right. I’ll text when I’m back.”

Bennett yanked down the draperies and tossed one panel toward Ruby. “Cut that into strips and tie up your brother. I don’t want him causing any trouble, and while you’re at it, gag the bastard. If I never have to hear his sniveling whine again, it’ll be too soon.”

“Not a problem,” Ruby said, picking up the brocade.

Angelique watched while Bennett began slicing through another drape with her dagger. “What are you planning to do with that one?” Angelique said, the faintest of whimpers slipping from her lips when she shifted position.

“I’m going to truss you up like a Christmas goose so we can keep you in one piece and get you back to Max’s.”

“But there aren’t any guardians left to feed on there tonight, Bennett. We used them all. Remember?”

“You’re not going to feed on a guardian,” Bennett said, ripping more fabric apart. “You forget who Max has stored in his cellar. Since Simeon is the one who turned you, once you feed on him, you’ll be as right as rain by morning.”

“Damn, I forgot he was even there.” Angelique slouched against the wall and scanned the carnage around the room. “You know, you probably want to pull down a few more of those curtains, Bennett.”

Bennett raised her eyes. “I’m not sure wrapping you up like an Egyptian mummy is truly necessary. Do you?”

“No, I don’t,” Angelique said, shifting her arm slightly. “I was thinking about the cleaners. Thought they’d appreciate it.”

It took but a moment for Bennett to catch Angelique’s drift. “Lisa,” Bennett said, turning slightly. “Are you up to touring the house one last time?”

“Um…sure, I can, but we’ve searched twice. There’s no one left alive.”