The Cambion's Hoard

The parking lot wasn’t as full as I had expected. I knew that most of the apartments were occupied. When I got out of the car, I noticed an older woman walking through the gardens. She reminded me of my aunt, hippy and wild.

She waved at me. “Good morning! You must be Rose. I’m Patricia. I live in the upper half of the old church.”

I smiled. The psychic. “Good morning. It’s nice to meet you.”

“Come here and let me get a good look at you.” She motioned me towards her.

I pulled my coat tighter and headed to her. She took my face in her hands, which were rough against my skin. She nodded her head and hummed. It was like she was reading a new book.

“I can see why you’re causing such an uproar.”

My lip went instantly in my mouth. “I don’t mean to cause problems.”

She laughed, and it was hearty. “Dear, I didn’t say it was a problem. I saw Wallace outside today. I haven’t seen him since those three moved in. It was nice.”

I shrugged. “I like house gremlins. They’re intelligent and good to have around.”

“I’m happy that you’re here, Rose. Any time you need to talk, come over and see me.” Patricia patted my cheek.

“Have a good day. I’m headed to bed.”

“Sleep well, dear.” With that, she turned back to her pruning.

I headed to the house, and instead of going through the front door, I went up the back stairs. The place was quiet, and I was glad the men were still asleep. Then, hurrying to my room, I went in to get a change of clothes and my toiletries.

Peeling my boots and clothes off was blissful. After sweating in them all night, it was nice to get them off. I pulled my robe on and snuck out of my room as quietly as possible. The bathroom was cleaner than the rest of the house, which I was thankful for.

The room filled with steam, and I got in the shower. The water ran down my body and washed away the night’s work. Reaching for my bag on the back of the toilet, I noticed the door was slightly ajar. I knew I had closed it.

Peering out, I jumped when I noticed Henson standing at the sink. I pulled the curtain closed again.

“Henson, is there a reason you’re here while I’m showering?”

“Huh, oh, I had to pee. I figured it would be fine if the curtain stayed closed.”

My jaw clenched in irritation. “You could have at least knocked.”

He laughed. “Are you afraid I could see something?”

I pulled the shower curtain open. “Look all you want. It’s the principle of it. I’m not going to walk in when you’re showering without knocking.”

Henson stared wide eye. He turned to the sink, turned back, and then left. I rolled my eyes and went back to my shower. They needed to learn some manners.