Contents
CHAPTER 39: JAMESON
Overview
Jameson calls his uncle, Viscount Branford, pressing for a same-night invitation to the Devil’s Mercy. Branford resists, warns that the house always wins, and becomes alarmed by Jameson’s secrecy tied to Alice. He orders the brothers to stay put, while Jameson and Xander consider fleeing before he arrives.
Summary
Jameson phones his paternal uncle, Simon Johnstone-Jameson, Viscount Branford, demanding an invitation to the Devil’s Mercy that very night. Branford flatly refuses. Jameson hints at risky alternatives—like descending an elevator shaft—to signal he will proceed without help. He references the Vantage bell to remind Branford he embraces high-stakes risks.
When Branford demands context, Jameson alludes to their prior bargain of secrets, signaling this is tied to the earlier revelation that Alice is alive. He insists that the best protection now is access to the Mercy, not explanations. Branford warns that deals with the Mercy are deals with the devil and that the house always wins.
Jameson clarifies he isn’t playing against the Mercy—he needs a way in. In his thoughts, Avery challenges whether he has a plan; Jameson replies internally that he has many, pending circumstances. Jameson then swallows his pride and pleads, intensifying Branford’s concern.
On speaker, Xander chimes in with breezy reassurance and joking references to hacking and explosives, which only heighten Branford’s unease. Pressed about why they are in London, Jameson refuses details but emphasizes urgency. After a long pause, Branford orders them to stay put and hangs up.
Jameson tells Xander that if they stay, Branford will find them and might restrain them. Weighing the risk of being stopped versus gaining Branford’s help, the brothers consider fleeing before their uncle arrives.
Who Appears
- Jameson HawthorneCalls Branford to secure a Devil’s Mercy invitation, invokes past secrets about Alice, and contemplates fleeing to avoid being stopped.
- Xander HawthorneSupports Jameson with humor and talk of hacking; weighs bolting before Branford arrives.
- Simon Johnstone-Jameson, Viscount BranfordRefuses the request, warns the house always wins, grows concerned, and orders the brothers to stay put.
- Avery Kylie GrambsAppears in Jameson’s thoughts, questioning his plan and prompting his resolve.