Page 77 of Thicker than Blood

“I have no idea what he wants to say.”

Ronald taps his chest. “Mmm-unc-beer.”

He makes just enough sound that I think I’ve got it. “Your uncle, Bernard?”

He grunts.

“He can’t save you. You want us to get you to him?”

He looks distraught again. I have no idea what he wants, but I get a thought.

“Hand me your phone, Jag.”

My friend looks surprised, but does as I ask. I stare at it for a second before figuring out how to call my own home. Benicio promptly answers.

“Sir?”

“Put Geordi on the phone please.”

Ronald grunts hearing the name, almost in relief.

“Hello?”

“Geordi. I’ve found Ronald but he’s suffering. He’s been hurt. I know there’s a way to heal a vampire injury without me turning him but I can’t recall it. Do you know?”

“Uh, yeah, but you’d have to have access to the vampire who did it to him.”

“I think that can be arranged. Then what?”

“Spread the vampire’s blood over the wound. We’ve seen it work.”

“On a fatal wound?”

“Ooh, never tried it on something fatal. What happened to him?”

“Long story. I’ll bring him back there.”

“Did he tell you what’s going on?”

“I’m afraid he can’t yet. I’ll be there soon. Can I speak to Benicio again?”

“Sure.”

He hands the phone off.

“Hello, Sir.”

“Don’t let anyone in until I arrive. Especially Tristan.”

“Of course.”

“I’ll be back shortly.” In the background, the sound of splintering wood comes through the phone. “Benicio?”

Geordi’s bloodcurdling scream reaches me next, and within seconds, I tear off back towards my home.

“Benicio!”

“Come quickly, sir. It’s Tristan and he’s got your mortal.”