Chapter Sixteen

Wilma shook her head.  Either she was a fool who was just sweet talked by a suave shadow walker, or Martin was genuinely smitten with Allison and wanted to help. She hoped, for all their sakes, it was the first because, if Martin was going to compete with Nick for Alison, it could ruin their plans.

After asking to speak with Martin alone, he and Wilma spent a considerable amount of time behind closed doors. During that time, Martin spoke openly and honestly about his jealousies and competitiveness where Nick was concerned.  He confirmed Elsie and Beth’s fears of him coveting Alison for his own personal gain.  He even admitted that, in the beginning, it was exactly why he approached her. Then, to his amazement, he discovered he genuinely had feelings for the girl.  He told Wilma about his conversation with Nick and Nick’s fears of the possibility that Alison just might like him better.  After all, the elders had connected their families, no