Free Redemption of Fate (Fate Series Book 2) by S. Simone Chavous Page B

nagging feeling in her gut remained.

    “So, you want to tell me what this little surprise is all about?” Jared asked, trying to lighten the mood before they reached Chloe.

    “Nope, not really,” Cami replied; shifting her head just enough to give him a satisfied smirk; her tone already sounding more cheerful.

    “Fine; keep your secrets then,” he replied; sounding put out, though he knew full well where they were going, having seen the images flutter through Cami’s mind when he’d asked the question. When she turned, he smiled wide and followed her through the door, pleased with the progress he was making.
    ✧
    “She’s all set to go,” Elijah said; looking up from the microscope he was hovering over as he examined a sample of Chloe’s blood. “Here,” he said tossing a small backpack across the room. Cami easily caught it, giving her father a questioning look. “Your mother packed some snacks for Chloe. We didn’t know how long you were planning on being away, but I want her eating every hour, both food and blood.”

    “Okay; are you ready for your surprise then, little piggy?” Cami teased.

    Chloe giggled and nodded her head enthusiastically. She flashed around the rows of workstations where Elite scientists conducted research, to join Cami and Jared at the door.  

    The room was typically restricted to anyone but authorized Elite personnel, but Commander Claesson had given Elijah special privileges in light of his expertise and because it allowed them to track Chloe’s progress without going against the High Commander’s wishes. Both he and Elijah agreed that blood tests, conducted solely by Elijah, and simple observation would provide great insight into her development without being overly intrusive.  

    Chloe stood between Cami and Jared, taking each of their hands and tugging them into the hall.

    “Bye, Grandpa,” she tossed over her shoulder as she rushed away.  

    “Hey; slow down, little one,” Cami said laughing. “You don’t even know where we’re going.”

    Chloe slowed down and peered up at Cami. “Sorry, Aunt Cami; I didn’t mean to peek, but when I was waiting for you I forgot to focus and it slipped in. I saw the horses. You’re not mad, are you?”

    “Of course not; I guess I should have known it would be hard to surprise you. I’ll have to remember to be more careful around you and your Grandpa William,” Cami replied, giving Chloe’s hand a reassuring squeeze. Chloe looked up at her uncle, who shook his head almost imperceptibly in answer to the question in Chloe’s mind.

    No, Squirt; she doesn’t know I’m like you, too. Don’t worry. I’ll tell her, but just not yet. Until then, it’s our secret, okay? Jared sent telepathically.

    Okay, Uncle Jared, Chloe sent in response; feeling rather special and grown-up being trusted with a secret. But I think Aunt Cami’s going to be mad at you when she finds out. She’s mad at you a lot.

    Jared stifled the laugh which threatened to break from his lips as they walked. He had to be careful, or Cami was going to discover his secret before he had the chance to tell her.  

    Sometimes girls only act mad at boys because they like them. You’ll understand when you’re older, he sent, with a wink.

    Satisfied, Chloe nodded to herself and pressed forward, practically dragging them in her hurry to get to the horses. She’d never seen one in real life and was beyond excited to go riding, after seeing in her thoughts how happy the activity made Cami.

    A few minutes later, the trio stood outside in the warm summer air. Chloe looked around, her eyes full of wonder as she took in the expansive property for the first time.

    The mansion, which stood above the hidden compound, was titled to a Boston Brahmin; a member of the affluent and well-known Adams family, whose ancestors were some of the first humans to settle in the area. The clan’s members had been some of the most influential men in history, including two