Lukewarm

Upon entering Jude's home, Andrew and Wilson are in the kitchen waiting on me. Wilson is sipping his beverage and intensely watching me. Andrew glances up, asking, "Where did you go?"

Eyeing Wilson, I answer, "To the beach. I needed some air."

"That was mighty brave of you, considering we have an ancient witch lurking who wants you dead."

"I refuse to live in fear because Jude abandoned us," I sigh.

Now, Andrew's staring at Wilson. Squinting, he asks, "What's on your mind, Wilson?"

Wilson stutters, "M-Me? N-Nothing! I'm just anxious as to why Jude left us like this."

"Well, I questioned Deena and Micah, and it seems he's left the island."

Glaring at Andrew, I reply, "Without notifying anyone?"

"It's Jude, Ajay. Who can stop him?"

"I guess," I huff, then focus on Wilson.

Momentarily, we sit dazed and in our own heads. Palms on the table, and Andrew says, "Well, I'm going to check on Chiara, then go to bed."

Wilson goes to tell him she's gone. Discreetly, I shake my head to get him to