‘How long are you going to keep this charade up, Mother? You’ve been giving in to Jacob our whole lives.’

‘I don’t give in to him.’

‘No, you’ve done worse. You’ve empowered him by believing in this whole Mayan Hero bullshit. Look at you. When are you going to get on with your own life?’

‘I have a life!’

‘Yeah, sure you do. I have a life. You work for Jacob.’ He shakes his head. ‘Just tell me how long.’

‘A few days. He says he needs to discuss things that only you would understand.’

‘God dammit, Mother, for the last time, I am NOT Hunahpu!’ He closes his eyes, fighting back tears of frustration. ‘The two of you are not part of my life anymore. You don’t know a thing about me. I’ve worked my ass off … I trained for years. I take a beating every time I step out onto that field. I am not like … him.’

‘You’re right. As cold and emotionless as Jake can be, he’s selfless. You’re driven by ego.’

‘Good-bye.’ He slides toward the door.

‘Wait!’ Dominique grabs his arm. ‘I’m sorry. I didn’t mean that.’

‘Yes you did.’

‘Manny, I am really proud of you. Proud of what you’ve accomplished in school. Proud of the life you’ve been able to lead. And I like everything I’ve heard about Lauren. I think she’s good for you. Will you at least introduce us before you get married.’

‘Not a chance.’

She smiles. ‘You’re so much like me. Stubborn as a mule.’

He cracks a half smile at the mention of his nickname. Checks the digital timer sewn into his shirtsleeve. ‘I have to go. I’m having dinner at my father’s house.’

‘Surrogate father.’

‘Whatever.’

‘I’ll pick you up here tomorrow morning at nine. Pack an overnight bag.’

‘I’m supposed to spend the holidays with Lauren’s family.’

‘Get out of it. She’ll understand.’

‘No she won’t. I don’t even understand. What am I supposed to tell her?’

‘You’ll think of something.’

‘Can’t we do this another time?’

‘No, it has to be now.’

‘Why?’

‘Tomorrow morning, Immanuel. After that, I’ll be out of your hair forever.’

He exits the car without saying another word.

Jacob Gabriel had always ‘sensed’ there were enemies about, ever since the day he had learned to read the Bible Code, ever since his first remote-viewing session. But it was not until his last communication with his father that he realized how close he had allowed his true enemy to come.

He had always known Lilith was Hunahpu, his genetic cousin and equal. He had never suspected her to be the Abomination.

Jacob knew there were only two ways to stop the Hunahpu’s pursuit; either kill his one true love or convince her that he and Manny were dead.