***IN THE MOUNTAINS***

     “I know I am telling you, Jackson,” Catherine wiped the tear from the side of her eye. “I saw a witch with black eyes, and—and Xander was there when your body was… not alive and you were rotten,” she placed her palms over her reddened face and subdued to the thick brown furry rug by the fireplace.

      “I am trying to understand,” he consoled. “The burnt scars on my face are still there… I don’t know if the magic or witchcraft brought me back but Xander can’t—he can’t sacrifice an innocent life.”

Catherine pulled the blanket off the couch and sheathed herself.

      “This is all new to...