Venessa’s POV
“Why not just tell Denzel outright and let him figure out how to catch them himself?” Nyla suggested.
I didn’t answer her immediately. I wasn’t sure that would be wise. Jalisa’s removal would benefit me more than anyone, and blurting everything out could ruin that advantage. More importantly, Denzel wouldn’t believe me not without proof.
I was still wrestling with my thoughts when a familiar scent reached me.
Denzel.
I froze by the lake, my breath hitching. I hadn’t expected him. When I turned, he was already there, smiling softly as if he’d found me exactly where he’d hoped to.
“I suppose this is your new sanctuary,” he said.
I nodded. He squatted beside me near the water, and I could tell immediately that something was troubling him. I braced myself.
“Why do I get t
