Not for the first time I wondered just what the human eyes saw.

And then I felt Sam. That sire bond pulsed with such vibrancy that only meant she was near. I focused on that sensation then gave myself over to the shadows again. This time, I did not step into the light. I lingered in waiting until I spotted her inside a building, standing just outside the sun streaming through the window. Her red and golden eyes were wide, I knew she was seeing all the demons as I had.

I moved to stand just beside her but behind a column in the dark. “Sam.”

She gasped and clutched her chest then closed her eyes and cursed. “Everest. Dammit.”

“How did you get here in the light, Sam?”

Sam was smart, she knew not to look in my direction. She pulled out her cell phone and pressed it to her ear. The girl had incredible survival skills. “Asmodeus. He told me to wait here. Inside. Away from the sun,” she whispered back.

I glanced around for the angel in question but did not see him. “Why? What’s the plan?”

“The Coven was lured out to fight those demons so they wouldn’t be ready to move when the other attacks happen,” she whispered fast, her cheeks flushed. “Warn them. They’re planning multiple attacks tonight, one by one. They’re mobilizing now. Once the sun sets, it’s game on.”

My stomach turned. “Where?”

“Chicago. San Diego. Boston. In that order.” Then she glanced to me for a split second before looking away. “Azazel is on the move again. I don’t know what he’s doing⁠—”

“He’s building an army.” I sighed and ran my hand through my hair. “But his army is a tomorrow problem, figuratively speaking. We will be facing the Unseelies and vampires before his army.”

“Great.” She wrapped her arms around her waist. “I don’t know why he brought me here⁠—”

“Just lay low and try to pretend you don’t exist. If Asmodeus asks you to do something, then you do it. The show must continue.” I glanced around again, trying to ignore every urge to run out there and kill those demons crawling over the rails from the river. “The Prince seems to like you, do not waste that detail.”

She nodded but she was gnawing on her lip. “The Coven . . . this is gonna be a long night⁠—”

“They’ve been through this before, back when you thought you were human.” I stepped closer to her. “Keep your head on a swivel, Sam. I have to return to them⁠—”

“Be careful.” She met my eyes and gave me a small smile. “I fear I may not survive if you don’t.”

I nodded. “I will get you out of there, Sam. One way or another. Just hang on for now.”

“I’m hanging— he’s coming. Asmodeus. Go⁠—”