Bad Blood (The Naturals, #4)

by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

“Is this a bad time to point out that I’m on the verge of turning eighteen?” Michael asked. It was the first time he’d spoken since Agent Sterling had concluded her briefing. For Michael, that might have been a record. “Redding’s eighteen. God knows when Lia’s birthday actually is, but I think we can all agree that she doesn’t need kid gloves.” “I cannot help noticing that you did not mention Cassie or me,” Sloane told Michael, frowning. “I do not care for gloves of the kid or adult variety. Mittens conserve up to twenty-three percent more heat.” “None of you are coming with us.” Agent Briggs was used to issuing orders. “The five of you are going to the safe house. We will deal you in on a need-to-know basis once the crime scene has been secured.” “So what I’m hearing,” Michael replied as the plane touched down, “is that this is a good time to remind you that I am the only person here who knows Celine, the Delacroix family, or the local police department?” “One guess as to how Townsend knows the local police department,” Dean murmured beside me. The debate continued as we de-planed, until Briggs snapped, “Michael, what are the chances that I’m going to change my mind?” “Slim to none?” Michael guessed flippantly. “Infinitesimal to none,” Sloane corrected. Michael shrugged as he descended the stairs to stand on the runway. “What are the chances that I’ll do something stupid if you don’t let me come, Agent Tightpants?” Briggs didn’t reply, which told me that Michael’s threat ...