Sterling

Chapter 3

Luther Sterling's journal

October 16, 4:30 A.M.

Alexander's partner (I believe they are just dating but am not certain) has read my last entry. I stopped her before she could read more. Regardless, I had to destroy the last few pages so that no accusations based on that entry can be proven. It wasn't anything wholly interesting, and I could summarize it like this: do not let my story go unheard, as it is much more common than one would think.

The reason I have been inclined to write so early in the morning is because I have finally found something to drink. Just an hour ago I was able to coax a sparrow who was sitting in the window to come over to my bed. He was a small, rather cute fellow, and bounced along as he walked. When I was finished I did release him. It is amazing how the body reacts to drink after being parched for so long. I feel the best I have felt in weeks.

There is still a problem. I fear that the girlfriend, Nola, will tell someone about what she has read. Then they will find me for certain. I planned on staying here for a bit until I was fully recovered, but now that may not be possible. I am trying to decide whether or not I should talk to her and see how much she read.

I have already made arrangements with Stroud's hostel to provide shelter for Alexander (should he become involved). I am hoping that the situation does not escalate to that point. I know that Geary is here, in New York. I could never forget the feeling of his presence. I don't have much time left so I will have to leave.

It does not feel right to leave Alexander with no explanation. I am going to have to tell him the truth. Since I already suspect that Nola knows about me, I may not even have to say anything. Hopefully it will be soon.

I will continue to drink in private until I can leave this place. The remnants of my flu have finally started to go away. I can blow my nose without it bleeding, which is a luxury.

I hear Alexander in the other room. Maybe I will have a talk with him now, or maybe not. More later.

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Letter written by Luther Sterling to Keegan Stroud

October 16

Keegan,

I hope this letter finds you sober enough to comprehend it. There is a human by the name of Alexander Rosewood who is going to need your help in the coming weeks, though he is not yet aware of it. I am requesting that you prepare him a room as well as a cab. Geary is here in New York and it is only a matter of days before he catches my scent and comes after me. For that reason, I cannot accompany Alexander to the hostel.

I apologize for such a delayed response to your last call, as I misplaced my cell phone a few days ago and had no way to reach out to you. I contracted some horrific but thankfully common illness and am almost fully recuperated. I wish that I could stop in and see everyone but that would put all of you in danger.

Be kind to Alexander, he saved my life. He may not be aware of it, but he has become a key figure in preserving my kind and for that we are all indebted to him. I feel that he could play a significant role in ending Geary and company.

Enclosed is the fifteen dollars I owe you from that time you beat me in chess last spring.

I sincerely hope we will meet again sometime soon. Do not come looking for me.

Best,

Luther

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Letter written by Keegan Stroud to Luther Sterling