DESIRED PYROTECHNICS Chapter Eight--Fraud and the Fixed Stars
Artwork by Jean Delville My black motorcycle boots scuffed against the pavement as I rushed up the street. After tossing and turning most of the night, I hadn't woken up early as planned. Instead, I'd hauled ass to shower and apply war paint to make the noon appointment Lars had set. At least he'd chosen a nearby café, which was a small blessing. Catching my reflection in a storefront window, I smiled. In my heavy, black coat, and the black, hand-me-down dress from Stephanie that fit me to a tee, paired with black tights which hid my scraped knees, I looked kind of old school tough. But, I didn't feel tough. No amount of fashion or war paint would dislodge the knot of anxiety firmly embedded within my stomach. Lars was all smiles and full of Dutch charm when he arrived with Haiden in tow. He kissed me on both cheeks, while Haiden glowered. Without giving Haiden a second glance, I...