I didn’t find the efreet that night, but I had a good thought as to where I might find him. If he didn’t find me, which was always a risk.

Who found me, after class, was Clara. She fell in next to me as I headed out.

“Well, you were right about them. One of their so-called priests keeps coming on to me and I don’t think he’ll take no for an answer forever.”

“If you can’t take it, pull out, I’ll make sure they regret trying to get you back.” I’d break a few bones if I had to. Whatever it took. She was under my protection…although I didn’t feel the same about her as I did about Kanesha. Not just that I wasn’t attracted to her. Something else. Something I’d worry about later.

“Thanks. I might be able to get enough evidence to go to the cops. Might have to let him try something.”

“Groin shots do work,” I quipped.

She grinned. “Or the high priestess. I think she’s the one we really want to nail.”
“As many of them as we can.” I knew my tone was grim. “They disgust me.”

“And you’re upset about something.”

I made light of it. “Somebody was hitting on me. I’m kinda tired of guys trying to get in my pants.”

Clara sidelong-glanced at me. “I can see why guys…and girls…would.” Then she blushed.

“I trust you to remember I’m taken.” She did definitely feel some attraction towards me, I could tell, but she seemed to be respecting my boundaries. “But it’s…I tend to attract rather interesting suitors.”

“Demons?”

“I sent that one back where he belonged.”

She blanched. “Uh, I was…”

“Joking. I know. Anyway. Be careful.” That was all I could say that I hadn’t already said. I needed her to be careful. I needed her to be ready to pull out.

“I always am. But after this I’m finding a real teacher. A good one.”

“Bruce can find you one. I’m not the one to ask.” I didn’t really hang out with witches, although maybe I should fix that. There was Seb, too, if she wanted to go that route. His people could also train her.

“I know. You’re something quite different.” She turned to face me for a moment. “I’m starting to feel that, to feel something from you. It scares me.”

It, not you. “I won’t hurt you.”

“I think I know that. I’m more worried I will hurt me.” Then, she fled down the street.