The Devil's Kiss

The Devil’s Kiss

The Magical Sword ~ Book Three Stacey Kennedy Published 2010 ISBN 978-1-59578-745-3 Published by Liquid Silver Books, imprint of Atlantic Bridge Publishing, 10509 Sedgegrass Dr, Indianapolis, Indiana 46235. Copyright © 2010, Stacey Kennedy. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the author. Manufactured in the United States of America Liquid Silver Books http://LSbooks.com Email: [email protected] Editor Tracey West Cover Artist Anne Cain This is a work of fiction. The characters, incidents and dialogues in this book are of the author’s imagination and are not to be construed as real. Any resemblance to actual events or persons, living or dead, is completely coincidental. Blurb

Nexi Jones can never catch a break. With only just returning from a much needed vacation—a deadly Werewolf attack takes place in Plymouth, Minnesota. In pursuit for answers, Nexi finds herself face-to-face with someone she desperately wanted to avoid, Magnus, the Lord of the Underworld. He hasn’t forgotten her and will stop at nothing to use her magical abilities for his personal gain. Soon, Nexi will be in a battle far worse than conjuring Magic against those of the Underworld. The fiercest battle rages within her as her soul combats against her heart to decide Nexi’s fate. Will all that matters—will everyone she loves—be lost forever? Please visit http://www.Demonoid.me for more books from our generous members. Baileyd Dedication

To my sister, Kim, who loved this story so much she wanted it dedicated to her.

Chapter One

The warm water wrapped around me in a total sense of relaxation as I leaned back into my antique claw-foot bathtub. I sighed in complete and utter surrender as every muscle in my body gave way to the heated comfort. It felt good to be home. Not that two weeks in the Phi Phi Islands wasn’t something I could get used to with its limestone cliffs and crystal blue water. However, home was the Otherworld and it was nice to be back. When the bathroom door clicked open, I didn’t even have it in me to open my eyes. Kyden’s sweet musky scent swirled around me. When he ran his fingers lightly down the middle of my chest, desire stole the tranquility. “Looks relaxing,” Kyden purred. “It is.” I smiled, and cracked an eye open to see my sexy beast of a Guardian. Months we’ve been together and I still drooled over him. How could I not? With his damn perfect body, those yummy sculpted muscles, square chin, mesmerizing green eyes and strength that oozed from him. Ooohh yes, he was all mine. My breath came soft through my lips before I finally asked, “Wanna join me?”

He hesitantly shook his head. But he did lean in and lay his perfectly plump lips against mine with enough passion to make the bath water boil. It took a lot of restraint on my part not to drag him into the tub with me. “You better get out,” he said a little huskily when he backed away. “We are needed.” He didn’t sound all too confident in those words. He stood, took one last heated look and left, closing the bathroom door behind him. I ran my hands through the water a moment trying to keep my mind off the lingering effects of his kiss. My lips tingled from his kiss. My body warmed in a way that had nothing to do with the temperature of the bath water. Minutes later, it was pointless and I was sick of staring at the stone walls of the bathroom. He’d started the motor running and it was revving high. I jumped out of the tub and dried off quickly, desperate to finish what he started. My hand wrapped around the door handle and I flung it open, then headed out to the living room. “Get back here. I’m not done with…” My words ended as my breath was sucked back into my body. Embarrassment rocketed into every part of me. I screamed, crossed my legs and did my best to cover my breasts. “Now that’s funny.” Willow beamed as Kyden petted her. Their relationship had grown immensely after she saved my life and displayed that she wasn’t just an ordinary black fluff ball with an orange tipped tail. She was a Familiar—a magical creature that held the ability to take on the form of a black sleek panther whenever I needed some ass saving. Now, she and Kyden were practically inseparable. Couldn’t say I wasn’t a little extra nice to the testy kitty either. Of course, Kyden hadn’t heard her just now, only I was lucky enough to hear her telepathically and enjoy her snippety little comments. Nevertheless, Kyden looked up on his own regard. The moment he caught sight of me, his eyes went wide and he lunged himself over the couch to wrap me in a blanket. I could only laugh as I grabbed the ends of the blanket to cover myself. “Hello, Valor.” It was nice to see the Patriarch, but would’ve been nice for him to see less of me. Valor is the Alpha of all Alphas. The head honcho and he fit the part perfectly. He’s clean-cut, clean-shaven, and ready to be the next model for Calvin Klein. To me he was just Valor, my very close friend.

Valor chuckled, his face alight with amusement. “Good evening, Nexi.” “You could have mentioned that he was here,” I said to Kyden, disgruntled. Kyden shrugged. “I would have if I thought you were going to come out bare-assed.” “What did you expect me to do after giving me a kiss like that?” “I didn’t see…” Valor interjected, drawing my gaze back to his. “…much.” “Sure you didn’t.” I snorted. “Just give me sec to get dressed.” I ran to the bedroom, slammed the door behind me and nearly died. Embarrassing events seemed to follow me wherever I went. After my mortification settled, I dropped the blanket onto the king-size, white-iron bed. Moving to the walk-in closet, I grabbed my tight silver shorts, armor kilt with matching bra and made myself a little more presentable. My Guardian gear had become almost second skin to me now. Normal clothes were fun and all, but day to day, I wouldn’t want to wear anything else. Before, I opened the door to join them, I snatched up my sword and scabbard that lay at the foot of the bed. When I opened the bedroom door, Willow stood there. “Serves you right!” she said.“Always walking around naked like you do.” “Hush you,” I snapped back, not wanting to hear the obvious. Kyden had a big ass smile on that beautiful face as I stepped away from Willow. “That is a better way to greet our guests.” His tone was nothing short of royally amused. “I’d say.” I strode toward Valor and gave him a hug. He tightened at first, then relaxed in my arms. Supes weren’t overly affectionate toward each other, but this guy saved my ass twice. He deserved hugs and lots of them. “Are you well, Valor?” I asked, and took a seat beside Kyden on the beige couch, which sat near the stone wooden fireplace. “Very well thank you, and you?” “Great. The vacation was just what I needed. Have you ever been to the Phi Phi Islands?” He shook his head. “No, can’t say I have. I do hear it is something of intense beauty.” “Sure is. I saw it in a movie once and always wanted to go. It definitely lived up to my expectations.”

“I am glad to hear you took some time away. It was well deserved.” The memory sent a little shudder through me as I remembered how close I came to death against Astoria, a Black Magic Witch, just a few short weeks ago. Her and a bunch of badass vampires were after my head after I killed their leader, Lazarus. Did I feel bad about it—hell no. They both got what they deserved. But remembering that also brought Magnus’—the Lord of the Underworld and the one who sent Astoria after me—last words back into my mind, “I will not force you to come with me, but let me make this clear, you will be mine.” Magnus wanted me to join his guard for my unique magical abilities as a Spirit Witch to shield magic. He thought I was powerful, maybe I was, but I declined the offer. Thankfully, I couldn’t be forced, but I had the sneaking suspicion that he hadn’t really taken no for an answer. Deep down, I knew I hadn’t seen the last of Magnus. As my mind drifted through memories, it was hard not to feel a little winded. Just a year and a half ago, I was a simple gal living in Carson City, Nevada, working in a doctor’s office. Now, I’d been through two—or was it three—near-death experiences. Who was really keeping count? I shook away the thoughts, refocused on the present. “Are you visiting the council?” I asked Valor, more than curious as to why he was sitting on my couch. “No.” He replied with a grin. “I have actually come to see you.” My curiosity grew. “Really?” I glanced at Kyden, who gave an unknowing shrug of his shoulders. I snapped my gaze back to Valor. “What’s up?” Valor’s grin grew and a knowing look came across his face. “I am here to take you up on your offer.” I thought a moment, but after a short pause, I piped up. “Sorry, what offer was that?” “Your offer to help me if I needed it,” he answered, his grin now replaced with a frown. “And right now I desperately do.” “Oh, okay, anything—name it.” I’d give this tough wolf just about anything he wanted. I owed him my life, a couple times over. “Last night, I was contacted by the Alpha in Minnesota,” he explained. “After a brutal attack on a young woman, it has since been learned, she has accepted the bite and transformed.” “Accepted the bite?” I repeated with blatant confusion.

Valor’s face lifted in amusement. “Werewolves are either made by being born from other wolves or they can also be bitten and turned.” “Really?” I suspected my brows were in my hairline by now. There was still a lot to this world that was unknown to me. “I didn’t know that.” “You have probably never heard of it because it does not happen often. It is very rare that a human actually survives the bite. Even then, going through the change is extremely difficult.” “Is she well now?” Kyden asked. “She is,” Valor answered with a nod. “After the Alpha discovered her, I was contacted immediately. Being that this is such a rarity he was unsure how to handle the situation.” “I’m happy to hear she’s okay,” I said, curling my legs up to cuddle beside Kyden on the couch. He wrapped an arm around me, pulling me tight against his body. Never once would I admit aloud that I needed his strength at times, and never, would he point out such a fact. The result would end in a fight. Right now, however, I suspected this conversation was about to hit upon a place where having a little Kyden protection around me was a good thing. Valor’s expression darkened grimly. “I said she was well, not okay.” “Uh oh, what’s happened?” I asked, even though part of me didn’t want to know. Trouble seemed to be my constant shadow. We’d only been back a short time. I wasn’t at all ready to back into anything that resembled dangerous. “After the transformation was completed, Dante and I brought her home. We have been unable to help her shift back since she is too distraught.” Dante was Valor’s sexy beast of a son. Also very easy on the eyes. It came as a bit of a surprise that neither he nor Valor could help the woman transform. No woman, no matter who she is, wouldn’t feel comforted around these men. Their smooth-talking gorgeousness could not be missed. It meant she was in really bad shape. “Poor thing,” I exhaled. Valor nodded, concern tightened his features. “It is very troublesome. I feel for the little wolf. She is very frightened and if we cannot get through to her.” He sighed deeply and met my gaze. “I am afraid I must destroy her. This is not something I want to do.” “You have to kill her?” I snapped. “Why?”

“She is a liability,” Kyden interjected. “If she cannot control herself, she will end up facing our swords and taking a human life in the process.” As if that answered my question. Kyden should have known better. This world, especially the wolf world was still very foreign to me. Having it spelled out what always a necessity. “It makes her a liability that she can’t shift?” Valor’s nod was grim. “As wolves, we always need to be in control of our animal side. If we were to ever lose that control…the danger is too great. You have not witnessed a wolf such as this?” he asked. I shook my head in silent response. The only wolves I witnessed were ones who were in complete control of themselves. Never had I seen a crazed wolf and knew with certainty that it wasn’t something I wanted to see either. “It is not something to take lightly,” Valor continued. “When the animal inside us takes over, our need to kill, to taste blood and eat flesh consumes us.” “And this will happen to her?” I asked. “It will,” Valor confirmed. “If she cannot shift back to human form and learn to control the wolf within her, it will begin to take over. At such time, she would be lost forever.” “Okay, I see the problem,” I replied, somberly. “Just seems so unfair. She didn’t ask for this, and now she could be killed for it.” Valor inclined his head, acknowledged the depravity of this situation. “Exactly. You see my problem here. We need to get through to her, calm her enough to get her to shift, and then explain to her what has happened.” “Can’t she hear you in her wolf form?” My interactions with wolves had taught me that much. “Why don’t you just explain it to her now?” “We have explained it but nothing seems to be getting through to her.” Valor’s words came hastily and exasperated. “Time is running out.” “So, what can I do to help?” I asked, a little lost as to what exactly he wanted me to do about it. “I was hoping you would come with me, talk with her. Being that you grew up in the Earthworld, I thought you might be the best one to explain this new life to her. Help her accept what has happened.” “Of course, I will try, Valor. But I don’t know anything about wolves.”

He waved away my apprehension. “That is not of any concern. Briggs is with her now. He has not left her side since returning to my home. If you can get her to shift, then he will explain everything to her in greater detail.” Apparently, vacation time was over. My gaze connected with Kyden’s. “You’ll come too, right?” He nodded as if I even needed to ask. “We will have to discuss this with the Council first.” Valor stood. “Let’s go to them now. We cannot waste any more time.” Within a blink of an eye, we were out the door and heading down the castle’s hall. My five-foot-five legs were nothing matched to the lengthy strides of the two men ahead of me. Every few steps I had to run a little to keep up with them. After rounding the corner, we were in the Council’s foyer. A King’s Chamber was always a better description I thought, but who was I to put up a stink about a name. Within five steps from the men—and twenty of mine—we entered the Council’s Hall. All four Council members sat in their throne chairs, which were in the center of a spectacular Gothic Cathedral. Large stained-glass windows, marvelous stone sculptures and heavily detailed pillars were only the beginning of the beauty held here. The Council is the governing body of the Otherworld—the Leaders, Masters from each of the Supernatural races. Guardian, Witch, Vampire and Werewolf. Everything had to go through the Council first or heads would roll—literally. However, rules around here were few and far between. The only one that remained the most important…never take a human life. Those guilty of that offence, died―no questions asked. Once we reached the chairs, Valor gave them the rendition of the story he’d told Kyden and I. He was more stressed about this situation than he was letting on. Tension rolled off him. I couldn’t help but wonder why. This wolf obviously held importance to him. He wouldn’t do this for just anyone. To go to such lengths to ensure her safety seemed a bit over the top. There had to be more to this than we were being told. When Valor finished, silence sat around us. Expressions of confusion ran across each of the Council members’ faces. “What caused the wolf to attack her?” Zade, Master of Vampires, asked Valor. His dark eyes clearly questioning as his dark hair dangled on his face. “It took time to find him. The Alpha spent a day searching and when he killed him, he said he was wildly out of control. We are unsure at this time what exactly took place, but we are looking into it. I have some of my pack out investigating and meeting with the Minnesota pack to find out the details.”

“It has been some time since we have heard of an incident with a wolf,” the Master of Weres, Brax said. His soft, sweet features of long dark hair and kind eyes were nothing but a front. He was scary as hell when he wanted to be. He was right too. The last time we had a problem with the wolves it revolved around a cruel vampire, Lazarus. Just another memory I’ve chosen to block out, which since joining this world, were increasing dramatically. It didn’t thrill me to hear about wolf attacks. But knowing that the wolf attacked a human, some of my worry settled immediately. This wasn’t someone else out for revenge or anyone with a Nexi target in mind. Living in my happy bubble of protection was exactly where I wanted to stay. Valor continued, “The Alpha has confirmed that this is the first of any problems within his territories in some time. He knew nothing of the wolf in question and gathered his wolves to discuss the matter. We are not anticipating any further trouble in this regard.” “Well, that’s good,” I noted. “I’ll help one wolf, but if this turns into a ‘Nexi therapy session’, I’m not volunteering.” Laughter rippled through the Council’s Hall. This Gothic Cathedral always did have such an echo to the room. The emptiness of it—four throne chairs sitting in the middle of this huge architectural masterpiece—didn’t exactly make it homey. “How long do you expect this to take?” Talon, the Master of Guardians, asked Valor. He didn’t look pleased to be losing Kyden and I. He may be the top Guardian in the Otherworld, but he’s also Kyden’s father. Sure, he’s a sexy devil with a glorious muscular body and jaw-dropping face, brown hair and the same eyes Kyden had but when I looked at him, I saw a dad—plain and simple. “I am unsure how long this will take,” Valor replied. “I can only hope that it works at all. The young wolf is terrified—lost.” Brax stood, approached Valor, and rested a hand on his shoulder. “You have done much for us, Valor. We will help you in any way we can.” “What’s going on?” Haven’s voice said from behind me. I spun around as Haven and Finn entered the hall. She’s cute with big blue eyes, bouncy brown curls, and Finn belonged on the beach with a surfboard in hand. They looked good together. I loved them both beyond words.

“Why are you feeling so heartbroken?” Haven asked, examining me with suspicious eyes. I laughed. “That is somewhat annoying you know.” Our soul-sister bond had become a royal pain in my backside. Not that I didn’t love sharing such a deep bond with her that made emotions between us impossible to hide. It’s just, I couldn’t feel anything without having Haven knocking on my door to investigate. “It is not,” she rebuked, looking royally pissed. “It’s special.” I took her hand, squeezing it and focused on warm and happy feelings to share with her. “Sorry. You’re right. It is very special.” I recovered that moment quickly, and moved on, eager for her to forget it. “Anyways, Valor has a young wolf that needs some help, so he came to see if I’d mind helping out.” She perked up. Her big blue eyes opened and even sparkled slightly. “Another vacation?” Talon cut in. “You will not be going.” His voice rang out deep and authoritative “We cannot lose all of you.” Haven pouted and stomped her feet, putting her hands on her hips. Even her bottom lip came out a little. That was Haven—a ten year old in a twenty-four year old body—cute in every way, but also temperamental as hell. The Master of Witches, Zia interrupted. “Do you wish to do this, Nexi?” I glanced toward her. She gave me a smile that only intensified her beautiful features. Her strawberry hair seemed to do that thing you see in models when a fan is on them. Blow with beauty. Yeah, that was her—simply breathtaking. This wasn’t even a question. I owed Valor. Even doing this wouldn’t repay my debt to him for all the hairy situations he had gotten me out of. “I do. It is a small thing he asks. Plus, I feel bad for this wolf. It’s scary as hell waking to this world, and I didn’t shift into a wolf either. Who knew what I would have done if that happened?” Zia inclined her head, showing pleasure in the decision made. “You of all people should be able to help her.” She looked to Talon. “We can do without them for a while, can’t we?” Talon grumbled something incoherent, which made Zade, Brax and even Valor laugh. Apparently, their super hearing understood words. After clenching his jaw, he sighed in resignation. “Go then. Contact us tomorrow night to advise us how things are going.”

Not that he wasn’t up for us helping Valor. It was obvious that wasn’t his issue here. Suddenly, I saw a little inkling of his true feelings and it just sent a shot of happiness right through my soul. He had missed us. Would he ever declare it? Never. However, his qualms weren’t about the situation, he didn’t want us to go. Instead of embarrassing him by pointing out such things, since he would be considering the way Supes were, I just smiled and followed the others out. As I turned, I saw that clench in his jaw again and a little bit of longing reached his eyes. Needing to acknowledge him, I focused on the gifts I’d been given as Spirit Witch. I let the wall of protection down as Zia’s Spirit flooded my mind. This was the one gift as Spirit Witches we shared―the ability to communicate telepathically. When I felt her presence completely, I said, “Tell him we missed him too.” When I glanced over my shoulder, she was whispering in his ear. As Talon raised his head and met my gaze, he smiled.

Chapter Two

We arrived at a large log house surrounded by green grass, dozens of shrubs and trees. Enormous wide windows sat along the front side of the home where low lighting poured out into the night. Four chimneys had dark smoke drifting from them and there were no flowers in sight. Snow would make it a perfect Christmas escape. “Your home is incredible,” I said to Valor. “It’s home.” Valor sighed, obviously tickled to be home. Couldn’t say I blamed him there. The house was nestled into mountains with miles upon miles of wilderness. “Come this way.” Valor waved toward the house. “Briggs is waiting for us.” Kyden and I followed him up the stairs to the front entrance. Valor didn’t hesitate and swung the door wide. The moment I stepped through the thick wooden door, my breath was stolen as I looked up. The ceiling had to be forty-feet high, with wood everywhere. The walls were decorated with large paintings of wolves frolicking.

Valor led us to a living room that was just off the entrance. A fire burned brightly with two oversized couches hugging around it. Briggs was sitting on one of them—concern tightened his normally lighthearted spirit. Not only was he Kyden’s closest friend, but he was also as mischievous as they come. Usually, a smartass grin would fill his slender face, along with yellow eyes and high spiked brown hair, but that is not what I found tonight. As Valor’s Beta—his second in command—he was always strength personified. Now, his appearance led one to believe he was only a pack member with no ranking at all. As we stepped into the room, his head snapped up toward us and he stood immediately. “You have arrived.” His voice was hurried as he rushed over to me and pulled me into a fierce hug. His entire body trembled. “Hi Briggs,” I managed through his tight squeeze. He reached out touching Kyden’s shoulder and released me from his hold. “You doin’…” Kyden interrupted him. “I am well, Briggs.” He examined his friend curiously. “You alright?” Briggs never answered, just glanced over his shoulder. I followed his gaze to see a small wolf cowering in the corner. Her eyes were frantic as she whimpered. “Ahh…poor baby,” I soothed. Briggs’ gaze swung back to me. “She is not well.” “Yeah, I see that.” I started to approach her and she yelped loudly. Her entire body trembled. I froze, meeting her terrified gaze, then I saw her injuries. Blood was seeping from too many wounds to count. “She’s hurt,” I stated harshly. “We cannot heal her,” Valor said softly. “She won’t let us get close enough to offer aid.” I glanced back at Kyden. “This may be harder than I thought.” “She is very frightened.” His gaze locked on the wolf, in classic concern for Nexi protective mode. “What can you do?” Valor asked urgently. Before I had a chance to respond, Briggs shouted, “You must do something! Please, you have to help her.” My brows furrowed a little at his unexpected outburst. “Are you okay, Briggs?”

He looked about ready to explode. He shook his head, his eyes tight with emotion I had never witnessed in him before. “You need to help her.” “Do you know her?” Kyden asked the obvious question as he examined his friend inquisitively. “Not until tonight. I had never met her before but…” As the silence grew thick, my gaze lingered on the trembling wolf. Suddenly, a light bulb clicked on. Briggs was attracted to her. Which came as a shock, since he’d never seen her human form, nor had an actual conversation with the little wolf for that matter. I could only assume it was some wolf thing I didn’t understand. “How’s fluffy doing?” A loud voice came from behind me. When I looked back, a woman around my age entered the room. Her shoulder-length hair flipped out at the ends, brown eyes surrounded by thick beautiful lashes and a pouty mouth that people paid good money for. She was one of those—the naturally beautiful type—I wasn’t even sure she was wearing makeup. Instantly, I was envious of her. It was obvious from the pajamas she wore, she had just got out of bed. When I wake up, I look like something that came out of a tornado—nothing like this loveliness in front of me now. Valor’s growl came loud and rumbled along the floor. “Isla, I told you not to come in here.” She huffed at him, dismissing his remark with a wave of her hand. “Whatever, old man.” Holding back my laughter was impossible, realizing just who she was. Valor had once said that I reminded him of Isla, his daughter. Immediately, understanding dawned. Valor gave his daughter a reprimanded look, before he did turned toward me. “Nexi, this is Isla.” Isla’s eyes widened. “Nexi.” She stuck her hand out hurriedly. “It’s great to finally meet you.” I shook her hand and nearly had my arm ripped off by her fierce handshake. When she let go, I flexed it a moment just to get the feeling back in it. “Nice to meet you too.” Isla’s chin lifted as if she’d just received the compliment of the year. “Kyden,” she said, keeping her eyes focused on my face. “Pleasure to see you again, Isla,” Kyden responded, even though she didn’t appear at all interested in him. “Now go back to your room,” Valor ordered.

She snorted, snapping her gaze to her father. “Get serious! I’m not going anywhere.” Valor’s looked at me with perfect understanding. “I did tell you once, didn’t I?” I nodded, laughing. “You did.” Isla turned on him, squared her shoulders, her hands firm on her hips and even threw in a stomp of her foot. “What did you say about me?” “Nothing of importance,” Valor laughed. Through the laughter, came a low harsh growl. Then unexpectedly, Briggs shouted, “Isla, go back now. We do not have time for your games. Get out.” Isla looked completely shocked, which was soon replaced by a pissed off beauty queen. “You don’t talk to me that way.” Briggs stepped closer, glared down to her. “I will talk to you however I damn well please. We need to help this wolf and you are wasting time.” He pointed to the foyer. “Now go.” Kyden reached out to Briggs, placed a hand on his shoulder. “Relax, Briggs.” Briggs shook off his hand, full of something that was far past enraged. “We need to get on with this.” “Okay.” I stepped in, trying to ease him. His body was wrapped so tight in fury, I was a little concerned he was going to lose it. “Listen, Isla, it was super nice to meet you. Briggs is right, though, we have to get back to this. Can I come see you later?” She smiled innocently. “Of course.” Then, she glared at Briggs. “See dufus, you didn’t have to be such an ass about it.” With a flick of her hair, she growled at him and left. Valor gave me an appreciative nod. “What are you going to do?” That was the million dollar question now wasn’t it. I glanced back at the wolf that was now shaking worse than the last time I looked. Resolved, I met Valor’s eyes and started in the only place that made any sense. “I need some supplies.” Kyden’s brow arched. “Supplies?” “Yep, I need a pillow and a blanket.”

Before I had finished speaking, Briggs ran from the room, and was back a second later carrying the requested items. “Will this do?” he asked frantically. First, I took the items from him then I hugged him. “I will do what I can to help her, Briggs.” He leaned away, not looking settled in the least. “Alright, all of you, out.” They all looked at me as if I was nuts. “You heard me.” I pointed to the door. “Out.” Briggs nodded, as did Valor. Kyden leaned in, kissed my lips. “I will not be far. If she attempts to hurt you, yell for me and I will come.” “I doubt she is capable of that right now.” Kyden glanced to the wolf, his jaw tight, sending the muscles to flex deeply. Apparently, the idea of leaving me alone with her was not his first choice. “Young wolves can be unpredictable. Just stay cautious.” He followed the same direction Briggs and Valor had used, and I noticed a sliding door that would close off the room. Just as he reached the door, I called out, “Close the door, will you?” Kyden glanced back, his gaze met mine, then he shut the door. His expression was curious that was for sure. It appeared that he had no idea what I was about to do. To be honest, neither did I. When the door closed, I glanced back to the little wolf. She was whimpering so softly my heart broke. God, this must be so terrifying. Turning into a furry creature with four legs had to scare the willies out of a person. Instead of approaching her, I went over to the couches and pushed them to the other side of the room to give us some space. Just as I was about to sit down in the open space, I noticed the rug. It was a dead bear sprawled out with its mouth wide open. “Eww…this rug is sick!” Nevertheless, it was better than sitting on a hard wooden floor. I put the pillow on the bear’s head so I wouldn’t have to look at it, sat down, and pulled the blanket over me. It was one of those soft velvety ones—snuggly soft. Once I was comfy, I met her gaze again. Now that I was closer, she cowered further away. Her entire body shook and her bright silver-flecked eyes were wide open. She was such a pretty wolf with soft brown fur and four white paws. Very slender—petite.

“Hi,” I said in a quiet, I’m a friend, voice. “I’m Nexi. I really wish we could have met under different circumstances, but what do you do?” Her whimpering got louder. “Listen, I know you’re scared. Trust me I’ve been where you are.” And that was the beginning of a conversation that went on for hours. I laid it down. Told her everything that had happened over the past months—how I came to arrive in the Otherworld and just all the crazy shit I’d been through since. I didn’t leave out a single detail and gave strong emphasis on just how I felt through it all, in hopes she would come to see that I understood what she was going through. Well, as much as I could, as a non-werewolf. As each hour passed, she seemed to shake less and even inched forward a little. By the time I was done, she had actually lain down and rested her head on her paws. She looked utterly exhausted. “Okay, you must be tired. I know I am.” The sun had come up some time ago and my eyes were beginning to sting. Sticking to vampire time, means daylight is a night gone on too long. “Now, I know you’re scared and you must be cold.” I reached out to her. Her head shot up and she yelped. “I’m not going to hurt you,” I soothed. “Sometimes you need to trust, even when it’s hard to.” Had I ever learned that lesson? “This is one of those times.” She sat for a few minutes, then slowly crawled toward me. With small movements, I moved in very slow and smooth motions, not wanting to startle her. When she was just a foot away, I leaned forward and rubbed the side of her belly, stunned to realize how soft wolf’s fur is. It was like peach fuzz on her belly. Within minutes, she relaxed. “You’re badly hurt. Will you let me help you?” She bobbed her head eagerly. Obviously, her pain was bad. Never had I expected her to be so compliant, but I was glad she was. Watching her in pain was excruciating. I was desperate to help her and my gifts as a Spirit Witch meant I could. “This is going to be weird, but I am going to use my magic on you. Just close your eyes. It will only take a second, then you will feel all better. Okay?” When her eyes shut, I drew on Spirit. Months ago, this would have been a strain on me. Now it was like nothing more than breathing. Warmth and adrenaline poured through me as it always did when the Spirit element rose. Only seconds passed before the adrenaline peaked, then with my hand on her belly, I released the magic. She instantly yelped, cowering backwards.

“It’s over now,” I said quickly. “I know it hurt, but you feel better now right?” It always hurt, especially deep wounds. With that, I could sympathize. She looked down at her paws to see the blood was gone and moved around, obviously to test that her extremities were no longer restricted in pain. Then, she met my eyes in bewilderment and gave a little bark of apparent thanks. “Yeah, I know, freaky. Took me a while to get used to it too,” I waved her forward. “Now come on, let’s get some sleep. I’m bushed.” She inched her way back up toward me and lay down at my feet. “Come closer.” I waved her to come closer again. “We’ll share the blanket.” Whenever I’m scared, having someone to cuddle up with always made things better. I hoped it would comfort her in the same way. Truthfully, there was also an ulterior motive behind my actions. I hoped the tender touch would calm her enough to allow the shift. She slowly crawled forward, inching up to my side. When she settled down in front of me, I snuggled into her and pulled the blanket over us. This would be, in any normal situation, considered weird, but I felt compelled to help her. Could be due to Briggs’ reaction to her—if he wanted her better, I wanted it too. Nestled against me, she growled a low sleepy sound and her breathing evened out. Within minutes, she was fast asleep. Suddenly, the door to the room slowly opened. I quickly glanced at the wolf in my arms, glad that the sound of the door hadn’t awakened her. I glanced up to find Kyden standing in the doorway. I raised a finger to my lips, a silent command for him to keep quiet. If he woke her and frightened her all over again, he’d be dead. When he saw the wolf snuggled into me, warmth washed over his features. He gave me a soft smile, then closed the door again. I glanced back to the young wolf. She was sound asleep in my arms—peaceful. Everything would be alright. It had to be. **** A poke to my face woke me. When I opened my eyes, I wasn’t pleased to see the sun still in the middle of the sky. Only a couple hours sleep never stood well me. Another poke came. When I looked away from the window, to say I was shocked was an understatement, as I found myself wrapped around a woman. She looked to be about my age and the

softest thing I’d ever held. She had long baby-soft brown hair, deep silver eyes and porcelain skin with perfect rosy cheeks. “Well, this is a first I have to say.” I laughed quietly. She smiled softly and her eyes grew more beautiful by the second. “Me too.” Slowly, I eased my arms from around her and cuddled up with the blanket. “I see you shifted. That’s very good.” “I don’t remember doing anything,” she said. “I remember going to sleep and when I woke up, I was back to normal.” “I’m guessing it’s because you relaxed. Valor said something like that, but really, don’t ask me. I’m no expert in the wolf department.” “Valor is the big one?” she asked, curiously. “Yeah, he’s the Patriarch.” When she looked so confused by the word, I laughed. “Don’t worry. They’ll explain the ins and outs of the wolf world to you later.” She gave her head a little shake, apparently dismissing her further questions. “Thank you for talking with me last night. I…well…I was…” “Scared shitless,” I finished for her. She laughed. It was so sweet and soft. “Exactly.” “Don’t worry. I’ve been there too.” “So, it’s true what you told me?” “Every last bit of it. You are now in a world that will amaze you every day. Trust me on that. But it’s good. Really good.” “Are we alone here?” she asked, glancing around. “No. They are here…” Just as the words left my mouth, the door flew open. Briggs stood, wide-eyed and speechless. I sat up as Kyden entered.

Kyden laughed and gave Briggs a slap on the back. “You could have knocked, you wanker.” “Hi. This is…” I glanced back to her. “Gosh, I never asked your name.” She was staring at Briggs, a little wide-eyed herself. “I’m Rynn Murphy.” “Rynn—pretty name.” I looked back out at Briggs and Kyden. “Everyone, this is Rynn.” “Are you well, Rynn?” Valor asked, from the doorway. “Yes.” Her voice was quiet and reserved. “Nexi fixed the wounds last night.” Valor smiled, genuinely. “Wonderful,” he exhaled. The meaning of that sigh was clear. He finally relaxed, knowing he wouldn’t have to destroy her. His whole body seemed to decrease in size as the tension left him. Even I let out a relieved sigh. Briggs reached out his hand to Rynn. She hesitated for a moment, but then took it. When she stood, he wasn’t the only one a little taken aback. This woman was beauty personified. Her figure was flawless. She was a petite little thing that came up to Briggs’ chest and her curves were rounded and soft. Briggs stood dumbfounded. Kyden stood to the side, laughing quietly. As was Valor. Obviously, this wasn’t the norm for Briggs. I cleared my throat. “I think this is our cue to leave.” Rynn grabbed my arm frantically, nearly begging. “Do not leave me.” “Okay.” I took her hand and she grasped it tightly. “I’ll stay.” Then, I glanced to Valor. “What’s on the agenda for today?” Valor gave Briggs a hard shove in an apparent attempt to get him to snap out of it. “Come on, Briggs, let’s show them around.” Through the house, we passed a proper dining room, sitting room and a sizeable kitchen. French doors sat at the end of hall and led out to the back. Once outside, I looked around at Valor’s spread a moment. Behind the house was a small barn with horses grazing the fields. It was endless beauty here—mountains, green valleys, rolling hills. “So, where are we exactly?” “Cache Valley in Utah,” Valor answered.

Now here, I could understand Utah’s whole Adventure Awaits get-up. This city was paved for just about every outdoor activity ever made. As we made our way around the grounds, Rynn stayed glued to my side, her hand tight in mine. The way I figured it, she was probably going to stay close for the next couple days or so. I didn’t mind. She was sweet. My instinct to protect her was fierce, and if that meant, lending her a little of my strength as she tried to make sense of her new life, I was perfectly fine with that. “It’s amazing here,” Rynn commented. “This will be your home now,” Valor smiled. “So, it is good you think so.” Rynn froze, tension rippled through her. “I’m not going home?” she questioned, her words slow and forced. Briggs moved closer to her, his stance protective. “Your home is with us now.” Tears formed in her eyes. “But…” Valor shook his head, searching for words. “We know of your life, Rynn. We know your only family is your grandfather who is ill.” She wiped the tears away from her face, but more welled up in her eyes. “I need to pay for his care. I have to get back to him.” Valor shook his head, his tone soft and reassuring. “Do not worry yourself with this. I have already moved your grandfather into a wonderful facility closer to us where he will get the care he needs. As for the cost, it has already been taken care of.” “You paid for his care?” She looked shocked. Her eyes wide as the rest of the tears spilled out. “He is somewhere nicer?” “You are one of us now,” Valor answered her. “We take care of what is ours. You will learn that about us soon enough. Fear not, young one, your grandfather is well. I will personally take you to him as soon as you can manage it. At this point, the chance of you shifting in front of him is great. You do not have control yet. It is best not to see him until you are in full control of yourself.” “But…” Rynn squeaked. “You might endanger him,” Valor said firmly. Then, he reached out to touch her arm, and she screamed a little, flinching. He immediately drew back, eyeing her curiously, and he wasn’t the only one. Her reaction was quite peculiar. She was afraid of his touch, and not in a he’s a wolf kind a way. It was more a he’s a male type reaction.

Instantly, I was befuddled and not the only one. Valor and Kyden watched Rynn with complete confusion. Briggs only looked worried. Nothing made sense. Rynn had let Briggs touch her earlier and hadn’t reacted that way to him. The need to find the underlying cause of this mystery, I tightened my hand around hers and used my magic to read into her. Just another perk to being a Spirit Witch. The moment I did, however, I wished I hadn’t. My breath hitched and tears filled my eyes as I witnessed firsthand what happened to this young woman. Without thought, I hugged her. She began trembling in my arms. Probably, reliving the night of her attack, and it was more horrible that I could have imagined. That night, the wolf raped her before he shifted and attempted to kill her. Judging by the pain she was in, it was more than horrific. Without a chance to say a single word, Rynn fell from my arms and shifted into her wolf. Valor’s words to her suddenly made a whole lot of sense. If her emotions ran high, she would be unable to control the shift. “I am sorry for what happened to you, Rynn,” I said, kneeling next to her, stroking her head. Even in her wolf form, the humiliation in her eyes was evident. She tore her gaze from mine, whimpered and ran off. No one went after her as she met up with the horses. Obviously, she needed time and no one here was going to deny her that. “What was that about?” Kyden asked, nudging my arm. I wiped the tears from my cheeks and glanced up at him, heartbroken. “He raped her.” Briggs went from concerned to boiling with rage in two point two seconds. “He did what?” he said through gritted teeth. “When I was holding her, I read into her a little. The reason she was afraid of Valor’s touch is because the wolf raped her.” I glanced over toward where Rynn had run and then back to them. “She was still a virgin.” Briggs growled, low and deep. “If he was alive I would skin him.” “Sweet thing,” Valor said in a soft whisper. “How horrible. So much innocence there and now…” Kyden wrapped an arm around me and I sank against him, needing the extra warmth. “How badly is she traumatized?”

“I can’t even imagine what she is going through. A lot of what I saw is her fear and confusion.” “Did you read anything else?” Valor asked. “You were right. She only has her grandfather. He raised her. Her parents were junkies and they have long been out of her life. She has spent the last year taking care of him. When he got too sick, she had to place him in a home. He’s got a severe case of Alzheimer's and doesn’t remember her.” “They mentioned that when I went to transfer him,” Valor said, his tone regretful. Kyden tightened his arm around me, his expression was full with pain for Rynn. “She has had a rough go of things.” “You’ve got that right. She works three jobs to pay for his care and keeps to herself. No friends or real happiness. Just the need to take care of her grandfather. I can tell you this though, she is a lot stronger than she gives herself credit for.” “We need to get her bonded to the pack immediately,” Valor said with a deep sigh. “We will help her through her trauma.” “Huh?” I wasn’t sure the benefit of exposing her to too much at once. He laughed a little, as he and everyone often did at my lack of knowledge. “Packs have magic that surrounds them. It’s what bonds us together and once you are welcomed into it.” He glanced back to Rynn. “It’s very hard to feel alone. We will help her through this. I will call a gathering immediately. It should aid her greatly.” Suddenly, Rynn ran back to us and sat at my feet. Her eyes had returned to their normal softness. I rubbed her head and she leaned into my hand. This time, I chose not to read into her any further. It was my rule—stay out unless needed. Personal privacy and all. Valor knelt down in front of her. “I will help you change back, Rynn. Consider this your first lesson.” She gave a little bark in agreement. “Close your eyes, sweetling.” She complied. “You have the ability to change at will. It is a power that lies within you. You need to settle yourself, calm your mind. When you feel peaceful then release the wolf within you. Find your human form and remember it. Remember what you look like. Feel the magic running through you.” It took a very long time, but eventually the air shimmered and she returned, kneeling in front of Valor. He reached out, not touching her, just held out his hand to her, patiently. Rynn just stared at it as if she was looking down the barrel of a shotgun.

This was getting us nowhere. Slowly, I knelt beside her, put my hand in Valor’s. He raised a brow at me but when I smiled in return, he focused back on Rynn. We sat like that for a very long time before she hesitatingly reached out and lay her hand on mine. With gentle care, I removed my hand and leaned back. Rynn stared at her hand resting in Valor’s for all of one second before she burst into tears. Valor immediately lunged forward, wrapped his arms around her while she cried and screamed for all the wrong done to her. It surprised me that she hadn’t shifted, but then it quickly made sense. Valor said pack magic could help her. His contact must have forced her to stay human. Watching her sob with such fierceness, I couldn’t help but cry right along with her. It was just so sad. How the world could be so cruel to someone as sweet as this one is such a travesty. The only relief I had was that from this day on, her life was going to get better. Valor would see to it. Her sobs eventually quieted and her shaking lessened. Valor hadn’t let go of her for a second. Her arms were tight around him as she used all his strength to release her terror. Only when she backed away, did he loosen his hold. “I have made a mess of your shirt.” She wiped the tears from her face. “That is not of any concern. Are you feeling up to seeing more of my home?” Valor asked her. It was clear what he was doing. He didn’t want to make a big deal out of her breakdown. Didn’t want her to feel ashamed for having done it. It was the right thing to do. Rynn nodded. Briggs came over and reached down to help her up. Again, there was no hesitation in her touching him. Valor had her scared silly. Briggs, she welcomed. Something was funny here, and it was something I was going to get to the bottom of. Rynn came over to me and tucked herself close to me. I took her hand again as we approached the fenced pasture. The horses were the most beautiful creatures I’d ever seen. They looked similar to a draft horse with broad chests, heavy hips, and strong shoulders, but they held elegance. Their manes were long with hair that started at the knee and reached over their hooves. “Gosh, Valor, what type of horses are these? I’ve never seen anything like them.” I asked. He whistled, and they all came charging toward us. “They’re Gypsy Vanners. Quite beautiful are they not?”

Kyden reached up and ran his hand along a strong face. “Very.” He was smitten over the white stallion. Tough guy has a soft spot. Rynn released my hand and walked over to one of the smaller horses. She was a lovely chocolate bay color. The horse neighed a little and snuggled into Rynn’s face, sending her into giggles. “You have made a friend there,” Briggs remarked as he made his way toward her. Valor followed close behind. Rynn had better get used to having everyone close to her because I was sure these two wolves would stay glued to her for the next little while. Once they were a safe distance away, I snatched up the opportunity needed. I quickly glanced at Kyden. “What the heck is with Briggs? He seems bitten by the love bug.” Kyden laughed. “She’s his mate.” The stunned shock on my face only made Kyden laughed harder. “Wolves are different than us. Their mates are not chosen as such. Their souls search out their desired mate and when they find it, it’s immediately known to them.” I glanced back at Briggs and Rynn who stood together petting the filly. “Well, that makes things less complicated. No need to get into the dating scene then.” “They still date,” Kyden smiled, “and such, but they usually will not bond with someone who is not their destined mate. That is the way of the wolves.” Then, he pulled me into a tight embrace. “You did wonderful in helping her, Álainn.” Álainn, Kyden’s pet name for me, means beautiful in Gaelic. It was just a whole pile of sweet, wrapped in a little blanket of love. “I like her a lot. I only wish I could do more for her. Sad, isn’t it?” “Indeed it is very sad. Briggs will make it right.” When I looked back at Briggs, I saw the truth in that. The way he positioned himself around Rynn was obviously protective. He would guard her with his life and do his best to heal her. “Does she know that he is her mate?” I asked, meeting Kyden’s gaze. He shrugged. “I am sure she feels it, but she wouldn’t understand what it is exactly. Briggs will likely explain all this to her when she is ready.” The message was loud and clear. This wasn’t something I was supposed to tell her. Mum’s the word.

A little while later, they came back to join us and Rynn surprised me by saying. “Do you all mind if I have a minute alone with Nexi?” Briggs smiled softly. “No problem, darlin’. We’ll go start lunch. Come in when you’re ready.” Kyden lowered his arms and began to back away. I quickly grabbed onto his forearms and squeezed ever so slightly. His grin was devilish, reading my intention. Slowly, he lowered his head and I leaned up to kiss him. To observant eyes, it would be appropriate, but the touch against my lips was anything but. It was filled with heat and the pressure wasn’t a soft kiss good-bye, but a statement of pure lust. Lord, how I missed those lips. Since finding one another, we’d never been apart from each other. Right now, I was suffering Kyden withdrawal. As he walked away, he glanced at me over his shoulder. With the heated look he shot my way, his thoughts were definitely in sync with mine. “How did you know about what happened to me?” Rynn asked, bringing my attention back to her. “It is an ability I have,” I stated, before sighing away the longing and focusing on non-Kyden related things. “I can read into people. I am sorry I did that without asking.” She shook her head quickly. “I’m actually glad you did. It feels better to have someone know.” As much as I didn’t want to go where I was about to, it was the best choice. “Do you want to talk about it?” “No. I. Don’t.” She said firmly. “But I think I have to.” That I could understand. She sat down next to the fence, so I took a seat in front of her as the horses went galloping off, bucking and chasing each other. “Whatever you tell me stays between us, Rynn,” I told her. Rynn smiled, but there was no happiness in it. “I figured it would.” She reached down, plucked a piece of grass and then looked back to me. “I was working that night.” The color of her eyes faded a bit as she relived that terrible night. “A man came in and there was something about him—something dark. I had no choice but to serve him. It was really creepy. His eyes followed me the entire time he was there. It was just scary, you know?” I nodded, my voice as soft as my nod. “I bet it was.”

“When my shift ended I began to walk home. I can’t afford a car and my place really isn’t that far so I wasn’t really worried about it. Now looking back, I realize I should have been.” She drew in a deep wavering breath. “I was halfway home, walking past a school when I heard loud footsteps behind me.” This wasn’t something she had to tell me, I’d seen it in her mind, but I couldn’t stop her. She needed to get this off her chest. “It all happened so fast,” she continued. “One moment I was walking and the next he attacked me, pulled me into a wooded area near the back of the school. I should have screamed, called out for help, but I was too afraid. Too scared he would kill me.” She gulped deeply. “He told me how pretty I was. How he couldn’t help himself.” She began to cry, her breath gasping through a slightly open mouth, her face growing redder as the seconds passed. I grabbed her hands tightly and squeezed, wanting nothing more than to erase this pain she suffered, but kept quiet to let her shed the horror. “I’d never been with a guy before and…” She sobbed harder. “It just wasn’t supposed to be like that. I was waiting for, you know, the right guy.” She held onto my hands as if they were her lifeline. I gripped them tighter in return, wishing I could have been there to help her. My skills as both Guardian and Witch could have stopped this. Unfortunately, what was done was done. Helplessness surrounded me. “It hurt—really hurt. He was disgusting. I can’t get the image of him inside me, on top of me breathing heavy. I shut my eyes. I couldn’t look at him while he did that to me. When he was finished, he growled or something like it, and then all I felt was fur. That is when he bit me, then he was gone.” She shuddered deeply. “I just feel so…dirty.” “You’re sweet and lovely, Rynn. Don’t let him take that from you.” “I think I’m already gone.” She looked up at me only for a moment before she glanced back to the ground. I had to gulp deeply, her distraught emotions mixing with my own as I shared the torment of her ordeal with her. She felt empty, soulless. “You’re not! You’re still there. You’re just a little lost right now, but you’ll get it back. You deserve it.” “How do I get it back, Nexi?” she pleaded, meeting my gaze. “Don’t allow him to win and continue on with your life. Know you deserve to find that one man who adores you and treats your body as it should be treated.” As much as I wanted to tell her the man who would love her like no other was just a few steps away, I couldn’t.

Rynn smiled softly, the emptiest smile I’d ever seen. “What kind of life can I have now?” Tears fell down my face as I searched for words that would comfort her, but there weren’t any. There wasn’t anything I could say that would make this better or make it right. What happened to her would be everlasting. All I could do was hug her and pray that Briggs had enough in him to heal her tormented soul.

Chapter Three

“Here, take this,” Briggs said to Rynn, handing her a pill and a glass of water. Apprehension flashed across her face. He smiled encouraging. “It will help you sleep, darlin’. It has been a rough day.” She took the pill without hesitation, popped it in her mouth and downed it with the water in a split second. Couldn’t say I blamed her. This had been one hell of a day for her. Briggs took a seat in a chair next to the fireplace in her room. Rynn was tucked into a glorious looking bed, which looked inviting. Thankfully, she opted for a room tonight instead of the gross bear rug. “You’re going to stay with me?” she asked me, her voice shook and she looked slightly frantic. I nodded. “When you wake up, I’ll be right beside you.” I avoided telling her the whole truth. I desperately wanted to spend some time with Kyden, and mentally kissed Briggs for giving her the sleeping pill that would allow me to leave her side for a little while. I sat down next to her and held her hand. “Just rest, Rynn.” She smiled softly, then shut her eyes. Within minutes, she drifted away. I slowly removed my hand from hers and held my breath, hoping the movement didn’t wake her. When I laid her hand back down, I stayed a moment just to make sure she was fast asleep. Moments later, I knew it was safe—she was dead to the world. I stood and headed over to Briggs, his gaze locked on Rynn. “So, she’s your mate?” I whispered. He raised his gaze to mine and smiled. “I’d never thought I’d find her, and look, there she is.” I hugged him and his arms came tight around me. “I’m so happy for you, Briggs. She is such a doll.” I leaned back to meet his eyes, which instantly went straight back to her. “She is lovely,” he stated. Then, he looked back at me. “I cannot thank you enough for what you have done to help her.”

I laughed softly. “She is not hard to love, Briggs. To be honest, I think you’ll do the most to help her.” His face darkened, the sound of his teeth grinding together was loud. “It grieves me to know how she has been mistreated.” Then, his expression changed to one of pure possession. “I will make this right—if it is my only job in life.” I kissed his cheek, a little scruff burned my lips. “I know you will. She is lucky to have you.” He smiled softly at that. “Listen, I’ll be back.” “Go on,” he said, nodded toward the door. “She’ll be out for a good eight hours.” With one last look at Rynn sleeping soundly, I headed for the door, opened it, then shut it quietly behind me. My body pressed up against it as I leaned my head back on it. What a day. I gave myself a second just to take it all in, tried to sort through the millions of emotions filtering through me. A scuffle down the hall dragged me from my thoughts. I lowered my head to find Kyden striding toward me looking about as damn delicious as I’d ever seen him. He wore his devilish grin that always sent desire flickering through my stomach as I sighed in complete bliss that he was all mine. “Is she alright?” “She is.” I nodded. “Briggs is with her now.” I stepped away from the door and began to walk toward him. Halfway down the hall, we collided and he whisked me off my feet, taking me into a kiss of a lifetime. His lips crushed mine in a way that was not appropriate for watchful eyes. My mouth parted as his tongue licked along my bottom lip to ask permission. When I granted his request, our mouths synchronized together in nothing less than a mind-blowing embrace. His body came tight against mine as he held me close to him, pressing his hand into my lower back. A hard, warm body and male musky scent…simply heaven. When he pulled back, his hunger ruminated off him with such force that I melted into him. My desire matched his. I needed him, craved to touch him and to be stroked in return. To feel adored in the midst of all this misery. “I have a surprise for you,” he said sheepishly. My desire plummeted, annoyance heated my blood. “When will you quit with the surprises? You know I hate them.” His brow arched, his grin playful. “Most enjoy the sense of romance.”

“Romance shomance.” I waved dismissingly. “I just want to hear good old facts before I get dragged off to something.” He let out a loud sharp bark of laughter and took my hand. “Come on, Álainn.” He dragged me behind him as we headed down the hall. Just as we passed the sitting room, Isla gave me a little wave. I was very glad she didn’t come after me. Earlier, she’d drilled me relentlessly while we played a thousand questions. When I offered to see her, I had no idea what I was getting myself into. Rynn seemed to enjoy it the most—the spotlight was off her. For that reason alone, I played along. At the front door, Kyden grabbed the handle, pulled it open and dragged me through. The moment we were outside, I froze. “You have got to be out of your mind!” “Scared are you?” Kyden’s voice was amused. “Yes. I am scared—very, very scared,” I replied, staring at the white stallion Kyden had been so enthralled with earlier. “He is gentle.” He dropped my hand, walked toward the horse. “You have nothing to fear from him.” He gave the horse’s face a rub and the horse let out a deep snort at the contact. “I am not getting up there, Kyden.” He chuckled under his breath, and in a smooth move, launched himself onto the horse’s back. He leaned back a bit, patting in front of him. “Come on, this spot is yours.” “What part of, I am not getting up there, don’t you understand?” I said with a stomp of my foot. I’d never ridden a horse in my life. It wasn’t the riding part that scared me—it was the falling off part that had my knees shaking. Kyden reached down, stroked the horse’s neck. “He will not hurt you. Nor will I. Now come on.” Arguing was useless. Kyden was as determined as I was. He wanted this, therefore if I didn’t give in, we’d stand here until I did. Instead of drawing out the fact that I was eventually going to let him win, I focused on the fact that I did trust him. He would never let anything hurt me. I took a few hesitant steps forward and he reached down to me. After his hand closed around mine, he pulled me up to sit in front of him. He moved up closer, cradling his body tight against mine and grabbed the reins.

A second later, the horse was galloping at full speed and I was screaming bloody murder. I gripped the horse’s mane in dire hope that I wouldn’t do a face-plant in the dirt. “Jeessuusss…” I screamed. Kyden laughed loudly. “Enjoy this. Relax, I’ve got you.” As if that was going to happen. We ran and ran. The wind whipped past us quickly. It wasn’t long before I realized just how incredible this was. The strength that came from the horse was marvelous. It was an honor that this magnificent beast would allow us to ride on him—when he could easily squish me into nothing. Resolved, I sank back into Kyden and released the horse’s mane. The air whipped through my hair as we rushed forward. The further we ran, the more comfortable I began to feel. It was inevitable that I would enjoy this. I laughed like a kid on Halloween examining all their candy. After some time, he slowed. The gallop was a much easier ride. When he began to trot, I was bouncing around like popcorn being popped. “Oh…God.” I laughed, grabbing the horse’s mane again. “Whoa.” Kyden’s voice came out deep and smooth. The horse instantly complied and came to a dead halt. He scooted back, swiftly hopped off, then reached up to pull me off. “Thank God, the ground.” Though I enjoyed the ride, I knelt down and touched the ground, happy I survived. The horse neighed something very close to laughter and Kyden chuckled right along with him. After a couple more thank you Gods, I finally glanced up. “Where are we?” Before Kyden answered, the horse shimmied. In a blink of an eye, one hunk of a man, completely clothed in jeans and a cotton t-shirt stood in front of me. He was a large and made Kyden look small—a nearly impossible thing. He had long platinum hair that looked very similar to his mane in horse form. Most definitely, he would be defined as a man’s-man. “Fuck,” I gasped, shocked beyond belief. “You’re a Were?” He nodded, thoroughly amused. “I am Atticus.” Once I got over the shock of seeing him shift, I was completely confused. “Why do you choose to stay a horse?” He lived at Valor’s in horse form. For the life of me, I couldn’t figure out why he would want that. He shrugged, his long hair danced along his body. “Valor treats me well and I prefer my horse form.”

“Isn’t that odd for Weres?” I asked. Most Weres preferred human form, only shifted to their animal shape if they needed to. Never had I met any who desired this type of lifestyle. “It is, but we are all different. The life of a horse is simpler and less complicated. It is our desired state.” Guess that made sense, even if it was a little odd. “Okay…er…that’s good then I guess. Well, thanks for the ride.” I suddenly, felt a bit perverse that I’d been riding on his back. He nodded in acknowledgment and glanced around us. “As to your question, this is Logan Canyon.” I followed his gaze and gasped. We were standing in the heart of a canyon—large steep cliffs surrounded trees, lush plants, and thriving wildlife. Breathtaking couldn’t even describe this. “I’m going to head off now,” Atticus said. “When you wish to return home, whistle for me, and I’ll come.” His expression turned sultry. “I can scent some young mares that are looking for a stallion such as I.” He grinned, then he shifted and galloped off. “Okay, that is just freaky.” Kyden chuckled. “Thought you might enjoy that.” He took my hand and started toward one of the cliff. Stepping in behind me, he gave me a little help as we began to climb up. When we found a large ledge, we sat down. I sighed, surrounded by eons of mountain beauty. “It’s so gorgeous here.” “It is that,” Kyden responded sounding just as awed. Time passed as we just sat in silence, enjoying the sound of birds chirping and brushes of wind against the trees. I finally glanced over at Kyden. He stared at me intently, so much so it made me laugh. “Penny for your thoughts?” He smiled softly, his green eyes alight with joy. “You capture my thoughts.” How did the man always seem to know just what to say to make me melt? I leaned in and kissed his lips. It was soft and delicate, which was so unlike him. Normally once my lips met his, he ravished me. A bit confused, I backed away. “What is it?” Lightly, he traced my jaw line with his fingers. “Eternity is not long enough to love you, Álainn.” “Kyden…” I responded softly.

He smiled sweetly, placing his finger on my lips to hush me. “Before we met…” He hesitated, looking out to the scenery, then met my gaze again. “Before we met, my existence was an endless waste—a life amounting to nothing.” He continued to trace the contours of my face. “The day you arrived, all that changed. It was as if my soul had settled, found its rightful home.” My eyes glistened with tears. Kyden speaking of emotions—what was this? His fingers never stopped their dance across my face. “Still to this very day I feel undeserving of you.” “Kyden…” He stopped me, touched my lips again. “I will eternally feel overjoyed that I have been granted the right to share in your life.” “As will I.” He smiled at that, ran his thumb across my lips. “You are truly a blessing. In every part of you I find joy. Even the stubborn pain in the ass side of you brings me much amusement.” I laughed through my tears. To be loved, so completely, without any restraints―never had I thought I’d be this lucky. “I will forever work to be one who deserves you.” He took my hands and held them tight on my lap, his face warm with emotion. “Do you remember when Drake first learned of us?” I nodded, the memory was hard to forget. My late birth father hadn’t been thrilled about the idea of us becoming a couple. Kyden’s womanizing past left Drake more than unhappy seeing his daughter with the likes of him. After a little scuffle and a talk, Drake’s feelings were appeased. “Do you remember what he and I talked about?” I thought back. I didn’t know all the details of what they had talked about that changed Drake’s mind, but responded with the only thing I did know. “Your intentions?” “That’s right.” He nodded, appearing pleased I remembered the conversation. “That night I told him I would always protect you. Do anything in my power to see you happy and that it was my intention, when the time was right, to bond with you.” He smiled softly, his eyes shining in pure happiness. “I believe the time has come.”

Dear God, he was proposing. I wasn’t expecting this in the least. My heart blossomed. Happiness soared through my body and sent butterflies aflutter. Without hesitation, I grabbed the Guardian who stole every part of my heart and kissed his mouth in answer. He responded immediately with more emotion than I had ever felt from him. This wasn’t about heat or intensity—it was about the love that had evolved between us. He released my mouth to run light, sweet kisses along my neck. “I’m taking that as a yes.” Amusement filled his voice as his lips created heaven along my skin. I grasped the sides of his face, drawing his gaze to mine. “Kyden. You say those things, but the truth is those are my words you’re saying.” His eyes glistened. All that we had been through, all that had gotten us to this point, made everything about this moment mean more than the world itself. “Álainn,” he whispered before he captured my mouth with his once again. With our lips connected, our hands worked quickly to remove our gear. Every part of me wanted—needed to feel him. To be connected. My body was warm from emotion and I was ready for him. This wasn’t about passion or about consuming each other with sultry needs, nor was it about arousal. It was the need to be together, be as close as we could to each other skin and skin. Slowly, he laid me back, settled between my thighs as I widened them to accommodate him. He ran his hands along the sides of my head and entered me with the smoothest movement imaginable. I sighed at the perfection of it. He stared adoringly into my eyes. With each long, slow stroke, our love blossomed deeper. There was nothing else—nothing in the world that mattered except us in that very moment. Lovemaking at its finest. Kyden’s eyes were deep and soft. I gazed deeply into them, seeing my future resting within their depths. We would have a life full of love, happiness and complete admiration for each other. How had I become so lucky? He grasped my head tightly as his thrusts continued, long and slow, stroking so I felt all of him. So I understood just what it meant to be completely connected to him and how glorious it felt to be united. I reached up, cupped his face, and drew him closer to me. We faded away from existence, knowing only each other. We were bare, completely naked and hid nothing. We exposed every bit of ourselves that defined who we were.

His angle changed, and with it came waves of pleasure deepening my breath, and arching my hips toward him. He groaned deeply as my muscles clenched against him in the pure agony of my release. His speed never increased. His eyes never left mine as I moaned out our love, completely surrendered to the satisfaction rushing over me. As the sensation grew, our souls captured each other in our building release. We never closed our eyes—never looked away as we both came together in nothing more than total trust in each other. We had belief in the wonderful prospect that was our life. “Gods, do I love you.” Kyden breathed heavily, still gazing deeply into my eyes. “Right back atcha.” I used Kyden’s famous line. He never was one to say the words. But it meant more because I knew when he said it, like moments like these, he felt it deep within him. He chuckled deeply as he rested his head against my neck. Everything was quiet around us as we took a moment to recover. Finally, I asked, “So, what exactly is bonding?” He rose up, leaning on his forearms and stared down at me, a brow arched. “You have agreed to something you know nothing about?” “I know it’s like marriage,” I shrugged. “I just wondered what you do exactly?” “It is very much the same. There will be a ceremony similar to a wedding. The difference is the bonding will tie us together magically. It will deepen our bond.” “Really?” What we shared was something I wasn’t even capable of dreaming up. “I can’t imagine it being much deeper than this.” He brushed my hair off my face. “It is permanent in ways you cannot imagine. That is why you do not see many who have done it.” That I had taken notice of. Only a few Guardian couples I had met were bonded. Even Talon and Zia, who seemed so perfect for each other, hadn’t taken the plunge. “Tell me then, why are so many hesitant?” “We will belong to only each other. You will be unable to be apart from me without a sense of real loss. We will feel each other more deeply—know each other’s emotions.” “You will feel what I feel?” I asked a little surprised. “Indeed I will. It will be similar to your bond with Haven.” Then, he winked. “Just a little more intense.”

“Ha.” I laughed. “You’re in for it then. Look at what Haven goes through.” She was always on a constant roller-coaster ride with what I went through on a daily basis. Kyden brushed his lips along mine. “It will be a moment of great peace for me to finally know all you feel. Trust me, Álainn, nothing will please me more.” “We’ll just see about that.” He obviously had no idea what a basket-case I could be.

Chapter Four

With the blanket pulled high up to my chin, I snuggled into the pillow, wanting nothing more than to just stay in bed forever. Happiness swept through me as thoughts of my night with Kyden came rushing back. Leaving him last night was tough, but I made a promise to Rynn that I would be with her when she woke up. I wasn’t about to go back on my word. Suddenly, I got the sinking suspicion that someone was watching me. I cracked open an eye to see Isla’s face very close to mine. I screamed, startled and bolted upright, causing Rynn to scream right along with me. “Jesus Isla, don’t do that!” She laughed, thoroughly pleased. “Morning.” I glanced over to Rynn, who looked a little ruffled. She started laughing and the sound relaxed me immediately. It was a nice sound to hear. “What are you doing in here?” I snapped at Isla. “I have a message for you.” She smiled brightly. A few moments passed as I waited for her to say more, but she just sat there smiling at me. “Okay. What’s the message?” She handed me a piece of paper. I looked at it: Zia told me about the bond. I’ve already started planning. There’s a full moon party tonight and you better make it. I miss you. Love, Haven.

I missed her too, incredibly so. We’d never been away from each other this long before. “Do you mind if I come?” Isla asked. “To the full moon party?” I questioned. She nodded, happily. “Are you up for a party?” I asked Rynn. “What kind of party?” She was understandably hesitant. Isla interjected. “It’s so fun. The Otherworld always puts on a big bash to celebrate the full moon. You’ll love it.” She bounced up and down on the bed. “Come on, we have to go.” Rynn looked uncertain. I grabbed her hand and gave it a little squeeze, hoping it would comfort her. “It really is a good time and you could use a night of fun, right?” She thought for a moment, then asked. “Will Briggs be going?” So she was sensing something between them. It made me smile. Isla laughed. “You think he’d go anywhere without you?” I shot Isla a look to keep her mouth shut. She didn’t take the hint. “You are his mate and all.” I hissed, glaring at Isla. “That was not for you to tell her.” Rynn appeared completely taken back. “I’m his what?” she squeaked. I sighed and glared at Isla. “Time for you to go.” She scowled, crossing her arms over her chest. “No way, I want to hear this.” “Oh no.” I got out of bed, grabbed her arm, pulled her with me then pushed her out the door. “You’ve done enough. Let me talk to her.” Just as we reached the door, Briggs appeared behind her. Confusion marred his charming face as he looked between us. “What’s happened?” he asked. “She’s kicking me out,” Isla growled. “Are you now?” Briggs laughed. “What have you done, Isla?”

“She told Rynn about being your mate,” I whispered. Briggs laughter ceased immediately, tension filled him. “You…” He glared at Isla. I gave her a shove and pushed her down the hall trying to save her from a serious thrashing. “Just go, Isla. I’ll see you later. We’ll go to the full moon party together.” She smiled at me as she tried to keep her footing. “Great, I’m going shopping. I’ll get you something.” Thankfully, she left. Briggs looked past me to Rynn. When I followed his gaze, she was wide-eyed and trembling a little. “Shit,” Briggs exhaled. “It’ll be alright. Let’s go explain it to her.” I took his hand, pulled him into the room. We sat down on Rynn’s bed. Briggs rested at the end of it, keeping a good distance from her probably in hopes it would comfort her, while I sat next to Rynn. “Mate…what…” Rynn’s words were as confused as the look on her face. “I’d explain this to you, but I am a little lost myself.” I said in all honesty. “So, go on Briggs. Tell us how it works?” With his gaze fixed on Rynn, he said. “I did not want this conversation to come about like this. Are you sure that you are up to hearing about this? I don’t want to rush you.” “I…what.” He gave her a soft smile, moved forward and took her hand. She stared at their joined hands, then met his eyes again. “Do you feel the connection between us?” he asked, his tone gentle. She glanced back to their hands and sighed deeply. “I don’t know what I feel. I know that I feel safe with you and I do like it when you touch me.” Briggs lightened at that, his eyes beamed. “Of course you would, darlin’. It’s because we share a deep bond. Our souls have found their counterpart.” “So, you’re my future husband?” she exclaimed, obviously still in shock. He laughed. “That is a human word. You’re my destined mate. As I am yours.”

“I don’t have a choice in the matter?” she snapped. “You won’t want a choice. This is the way of the wolves. I’m your perfect mate. My role in your life will fulfill you completely. You will not need to look elsewhere because I’ll be everything you will need and want. As you are everything to me.” “But I don’t know you.” He gave her a soft smile and it spoke of a thousand words of rightness. “You do—your soul does. Do you not feel it?” Unexpectedly, she reached out, trailed a finger lightly up his arm and the desire burning through him was undeniable. “I knew from the second I met you,” she whispered. “I wanted to do this to you.” Okay, now this was awkward. This was such a private moment—one I shouldn’t be witnessing, but I didn’t want to get up and leave. I didn’t want to interrupt them, so I sat quietly, wanting to look away but unable to. Briggs held both her hands, raised them up to his heart. “We do not need to rush this. I know your soul has been damaged and I will take my time to see that it is healed.” Tears ran down her cheeks, her eyes flickering between pain and trust. “The weirdest part about all this is that I believe you.” He wiped her tears away and smiled. “That is a good thing, darlin’.” In a move that shocked the hell out of me and appeared to have the same effect on Briggs, she leaned forward, cupped his face and kissed him. My eyes widened as they shared one of the deepest kisses I’d ever witnessed. Her entire body sank into him as he wrapped her in his safety. Their mouths worked perfectly as if they had kissed each other for a lifetime. After a very long moment, she drew away. “Wow.” Briggs looked ravished, as he ran his fingers along her neck. “Wow is right.” They gazed deeply into each other’s eyes as tears fell down her face. I cried right along with her—seeing for the first time since she came here, her eyes held a little life in them—a little hope.

Briggs reached up, cupped her cheek and brushed his fingers down her cheek. “We will take our time with this.” She smiled, and leaned into his hand. Wolves were such amazing creatures. The bond they shared must be an intense one because since their kiss, Rynn instantly glowed with happiness. In less than ten minutes, Briggs got her to trust him, and after what she had been through that was pretty incredible. It was as if, in that very moment, she realized that she belonged with him—that he was her safety blanket. Briggs eventually sighed. “I wish we could stay here, but the gathering has been called and we need to go.” Tension instantly filled Rynn, her face tight with emotion. Briggs slowly reached for her. He was gentle, his movements slow, not wanting to scare her. It was obvious just how much control it took on his part. The desire in his eyes was fierce. When a wolf meets his mate there must be an immediate demand to immediately bond with them. But judging the way Briggs was being with her, you’d never know it. “I’ll be with you,” he told her. “Let your fear go. I will never let harm come to you, darlin’.” Then, he cupped her face again. “Do you trust in that?” She relaxed a little. “I do.” “Let’s go then,” He kept her hand enclosed in his as they walked toward the door. I sat there dumbfounded, taken aback a little at what I had just witnessed. She glanced back at me. “You are coming, right Nexi?” I gave my head a shake and jumped off the bed, attempted to pull myself together. “Of course! Sorry…that was…er…amazing.” Briggs chuckled as he opened the bedroom door. “The bond that wolves share is a deep one. Once you open yourself to it, it cannot be denied.” His smile was sly. “Kyden told me you have accepted him.” I smiled as I stepped through the door. “What can I say—loves in the air.” As we headed down the hall, I noticed for the first time since meeting Rynn, that she wasn’t glued to my side. Briggs now held that role and the sight of it brought tears to my eyes. She was going to be okay.

Quickly, we were out of the house and Briggs led us around the back of Valor’s home to an open part of the valley. When I took in the scene, my eyes widened. It was filled to overflowing, with men and women—well wolves to be exact. Kyden waited beside Valor. When he turned our way, his gaze immediately zeroed in on Briggs and Rynn’s joined hands. He glanced at me, his brow arched. I returned his look with a smile to answer his question, that yes, things better them were just as they should be. Happiness flashed across his face. Valor looked too and immediately beamed, knowing just what had taken place. “Holy cannoli,” I said to Kyden when I reached him. “The Utah pack is huge.” He glanced out to the crowd, then back at me. “Many do stay within Valor’s protection. I’m sure you can understand why.” Of course I could. Being protected by the top dog meant a whole bountiful of safety. “Oh, by the way, Haven sent me a message. Looks like Zia told her about our bonding and Haven has spread the word.” Kyden laughed at that. “I have a feeling she’s going to become our bonding planner.” “I contacted Talon last night to tell him the news.” Then, he gave me a knowing look. “Would you expect any different from Haven?” I shook my head fiercely. “Nope.” I looked back at Rynn, who appeared nervous to say the least. “What’s going to happen here?” Apparently, Kyden didn’t feel the need to answer because he said nothing. All he did was give an outwards nod, which I followed. Valor approached Rynn, his hand held out, waiting for her to take it. She glanced at Briggs who gave her a reassuring nod. “Go on,” he told her. “He is to be trusted. I will stay with you.” Hesitantly, she placed her hand in Valor’s and he led her in front of the crowd with Briggs following close behind. The murmuring crowd instantly hushed. Rynn glanced back at me. I gave her a huge smile, hoping it would settle her. But really, I’d be just as scared as she was right about now. “Welcome,” Valor’s voice poured through the night air. “Tonight we are here to recognize this young wolf as a member of our pack. Wolves accept Rynn,” he shouted. Suddenly, as if Valor’s words had magical influence—they probably did—the entire crowd shifted, along with the wolves standing beside us.

I gasped, causing Kyden to chuckle beside me. Then, in complete unison, the wolves howled loudly. Rynn was tiny in comparison to Briggs and Valor beside her. Valor approached her and nudged her side. In complete understanding, she lay down in front of him and rolled onto her back. He let out a low growl, with it came a rush of wind. I shivered in response, then something inside her changed—her entire body relaxed—settled. Valor immediately shifted, kneeling beside her, and whispered soft words to her. “Calm yourself, Rynn. Remember your form and return to yourself.” Nothing happened, then Briggs sidled up and nudged her with his nose. She immediately responded, and shifted back to her sweet little human state. The other wolves followed suit. “We are your home. We will protect you—always,” Valor declared. Then, he looked at Briggs. “Is it your wish to claim her?” Briggs examined Rynn, his trouble features spoke of the battle going on in his mind. “I am unsure.” Torment obviously ran through him. He was desperate to claim what was his but didn’t want to rush her. I thought it sweet. Rynn stepped into his arms and he accepted her immediately, his arms wrapped around her tight as he glanced down at her. “I want it,” she whispered. Again, I was a little astonished at how strong the bond between them was. To find out that destiny has given you a soul mate, then half an hour later, to be basically married—wowzers. If only all relationships were as easy. Many broken hearts and therapy appointments would be saved if humans had this luxury. Briggs brushed Rynn’s hair away from her face. “Alright then, Valor. It is my wish to claim my mate.” Loud applause came from the crowd and Rynn looked out, laughing. Valor was right about how the pack would help her overcome all she’d endured. The darkness that sat hard in her eyes lifted. All the hardships that had become her life, she wouldn’t have to face alone anymore. She had others to lean on—thousands of them. “Rynn, wolf of Utah, is it your wish to be claimed by Briggs, Beta to the Patriarch?” Valor’s voice was soft. Rynn glanced up to Briggs, smiling sweetly. “It is.”

Valor turned to Briggs. “Briggs, Beta to the Patriarch, is it your wish to claim your mate, Rynn, wolf of Utah?” His smile was pure possession and happiness. “It is my honor.” Valor touched their heads. “As in my right, as the Patriarch, I name these two wolves bonded by the moon.” Then, his smile turned glorious. “Kiss her, my friend Briggs. Seal your bond.” Briggs gathered Rynn tight against him and kissed her lips with a passion that had the crowd whistling and shouting with merriment. There was probably more going on here than I could see—a magical bond created. Judging by the way Briggs cradled her, there was a real strength of protection that he felt for her. I sighed, and melted into Kyden. “It’s so sweet.” He smiled down at me, joy for his good friend expelled from him as he snuggled me against him. “It is that, Álainn. It is that.”

Chapter Five

“Ooohh goodie, you’re back,” Haven exclaimed, running toward me as we made our way through the grounds of the Otherworld. It might appear simple to some, with just flat grass, but the remarkable castle and the spectacular garden which held every flower and bush imaginable, clearly made it anything but. “Prepare to be mauled,” I whispered to Rynn in haste. Rynn’s brows rose at my words. My attention shifted from her as Haven threw herself into my arms. “I’ve missed you so much.” I laughed, laid my head against her shoulder as I hugged her back tightly. “Me too.” I did. Being back here with her, home never felt so good. She drew away and instantly wrapped herself around Rynn. “Rynn, right?” She didn’t wait for her to answer. Typical Haven. “It’s so nice to have you here.” Rynn patted her back, and looked a little bewildered. “Thanks, and you are?”

“I’m Haven,” she answered, backing away. “Nexi’s soul-sister.” “Soul-sister?” Rynn repeated, apparently confused by the term. “Just think of it as best friends,” I told her. No need to confuse her further. If I hadn’t felt it for myself, I still wasn’t sure I’d believe it possible. “You’ve brought some furry friends with you.” Haven giggled, giving Isla and Dante a quick wave. She linked her arm in mine and gave me a once over. “You look extra sexy tonight.” I glanced down, a little embarrassed. When Isla said she was going to get me some clothes, I should have declined. She came back with a black lacy shirt that consisted of straps, which barely covered my nipples, and jeans that worked up a sweat to get into. Kyden appreciated the clothing. Me…not so much. “I thought she’d look damn fine,” Isla said proudly. Kyden smacked my ass. “I can only hope I’m able to get those off later.” “I can only hope I don’t lose my legs from lack of circulation,” I grumbled. His devilish grin, which always left me a little breathless, never got old. I was sure it never would. Haven pulled me forward, snapped my attention back from southern regions as we headed toward the garden. “I’ve already started planning the bonding ceremony. Zia said it will be next week, so we have to get on top of things.” I gave Kyden a knowing look, which he returned. Then, I looked back at Haven. “What can I help with?” “Oh nothing, I’ve got it handled. You just have to show up and look pretty,” she replied, happily. “I’m living vicariously through you since I won’t ever do it.” Huh? “Why? You and Finn won’t ever be bonded?” Her expression saddened, the feeling washed right through me. “Finn doesn’t think I could handle it. You know, with his job and all. He thinks it best we don’t.” She shrugged. “I guess he’s right.”

It was sad, but Finn was right. Feeling the emotions that go along with the scenes that we, as Guardians, experience was something Haven wasn’t capable of dealing with. Every time Finn felt anything, Haven would lose it. She could barely control what I felt, and as Kyden said, the bonding made the emotions more intense. Still, it didn’t mean the knowledge of that truth made it any less sad. “Bonded or not, you’ve got something good.” Warmth ran through me as a loving smile spread across her face. “You’re right about that.” Then, she looked out to see Finn approaching from the garden, and the warm feeling inside me grew immensely in reaction to her emotions. She dropped my arm and ran toward him. He caught her up in his arms and spun her around, kissing her in pure dramatic fashion. He put her down just as we reached them and gave Kyden a wide grin. “Fastening the ball and chain…tough guy,” he said, punching Kyden’s arm. “About bloody time, I’d say.” Kyden laughed, and returned the hit. Finn groaned and rubbed his shoulder. Kyden packed a hell of a punch. In macho land that meant I’m happy for you and thank you. Then, he turned to Dante. “It’s been awhile since you’ve been here.” Dante gave a delicious smile that would sink any woman to their knees. “Isla didn’t give me a choice.” We all laughed. Isla had a little combination of my personality mixed with Haven’s—a force to be reckoned with for sure. “Ready to have some fun, darlin’?” Briggs asked Rynn. “I think so,” she answered, her voice trembling a little. “I’m still recovering from the portal thing. That was just bizarre.” It amazed me too. I had no idea there were other portals in the Earthworld that would bring you into the realm of the Otherworld, but Valor had one at his home. Apparently, since Valor was a superior supernatural and being that he was the Patriarch, he fell into that category. Scents of healthy, thriving flowers tickled my nose as we made our way along the stone path through the garden. We passed the pond, which held fish that splashed around under lily pads. Even a bullfrog croaked as we startled it.

Iron gates with green vines woven around the bars appeared at the end of the path. When we stepped through the gate and entered the Witches Meadow, Rynn gasped in surprise. God, had I been there, knew the awe she was feeling. This place was pretty spectacular, rolling hills, eons of trees, colorful wildflowers—a fairy’s playground. Tonight, the meadow was full with Supes. Weres gathered in abundance, as did vampires and witches too of course—all celebrating the full moon. It wasn’t until my magic came through that I truly got the meaning of this party. However, it’s similar to drinking twenty cans of Red Bull—gave the body a giant boost of energy. Suddenly, Willow’s snarky voice came from at my feet. “About time you came home…I…” She hesitated as if lost for words. That was definitely a first for her. I scooped her up and gave her a little snuggle. “I missed you too, Willow.” She purred loudly in response. Kyden reached over and rubbed her head, which made her purr even deeper. We were home and it felt great. After a few more scratches, Willow jumped out of my hands and sauntered over to the other Familiars who belonged to the Witches here in the Otherworld. Zia approached, her smile glowing with pure joy. “Congratulations are in order,” she said, pulling me into a tight embrace. Being hugged by her was nothing short of wonderful. I sank into her as I wrapped my arms around her and smiled. Zia was as close to a mother as I’d had in a very long time. To have her approval was just a good thing. Talon stepped forward and gave Kyden a rough manly hug. “Glad to hear of it, son.” Then, he grabbed me, laid a wet one on my cheek. “It will be good to finally make you my daughter—officially.” Well, well, Mr. Show No Emotion might be having a breakthrough after all. His face flushed red when he realized what he’d said, so to ease him, I quickly changed the subject. “How are things?” Zia answered, “It has been quiet around here the past few days.” Then, her gaze landed on Rynn and her face instantly softened. “Welcome to the Otherworld. You are Rynn?” Rynn nodded, a little reserved. “I am.” “I am Zia, Master of Witches. Please consider this your home as well.” Rynn blushed. “Thank you.”

Zia’s look turned curious as she watched Rynn. Then, she glanced at Briggs. “She’s your mate?” Briggs beamed. “Aye, she is.” Zia clapped her hands. “Wonderful news, Briggs.” She leaned forward, held her hand out to Rynn. The second their skin made contact, she snapped hers back, gasping. Rynn exclaimed and quickly leaned into Briggs, who wrapped an arm around her. Oh yeah, she saw it—Rynn’s traumatic night. “Poor thing,” Zia said to me. “I know.” Zia reached back out to Rynn, the sadness was very prevalent in her eyes. She leaned forward and whispered something in Rynn’s ear. Rynn listened, then her expression turned to one of shock. “You can do that?” Zia nodded. “My magic allows me that gift.” Rynn was thoughtful for a moment, looked at Briggs curiously, then said, “No, I don’t want you to erase the memory.” Zia smiled softly, then leaned back in, whispering in her ear once again. A moment later, she met Rynn’s eyes, who looked hopeful. “Now that is something I would want.” Zia gave her arm a little squeeze and pain filled Rynn’s face. Briggs tensed immediately, looking ready to intervene. Rynn grasped his arm, obviously sensing his tension, but when she opened her eyes again, she looked peaceful. Slowly, Rynn glanced away from Briggs to look at Zia. “Thank you,” she whispered. Zia moved her hand Rynn’s arm and cupped her cheek. “I hope that gives you some peace, Rynn.” I examined them, as did everyone else, wondering what the hell she’d done to her. If she didn’t want her to erase the memory than what was she doing? Zia glanced to me and winked.

Part of me wanted to be a nosy parker, the other part knew better. I left it alone though, knowing whatever she’d done was personal and none of my business. Abruptly, I felt a poke on my shoulder. I spun around to see Zennah looking fabulous. Kyden’s ex was one hot chick. I was envious of her Kate Beckinsale beauty. Zennah glanced at Kyden, gave him a soft nod, then looked back to me. “I heard of your acceptance to bond with Kyden and…well…” She hesitated, then finally said, “I just wanted to say congrats.” Wow! What a shock. The bitch actually had something nice to say. “Er…thank you.” It was actually really nice coming from her. It had taken some time and effort for things to improve between us. We would never be best friends, but at least we weren’t sworn enemies. Dante quickly stepped forward, his gaze focused on Zennah, his eyes sweeping the length of her. “I am Dante.” She went from happy to sultry in a millisecond. “Hello, Dante,” she purred, reaching her hand out to him, and he kissed it happily. “I am Zennah.” I looked at Kyden, who was smiling. Dante would be a good fit for Zennah. She was more than a handful. That tough wolf would keep her in check. The only thing was…it wouldn’t be everlasting. He could never accept her as a mate since she wasn’t a wolf, but they could have a good roll in the hay. Which, by looking at them now, was in the immediate future. “I could smell you from a mile away.” A voice thick with French accent sidled up beside me. I snorted loudly and spun to the side to face her. “Hello, Thalia.” This Vampire was an elegant French rose. Beautiful, with her soft brown hair pulled up and dangling along her pale skin and pinkish cheeks. Her dark eyes showed just how happy she was to see me. Most of the Mistresses of the United States were hard asses—Thalia, the Mistress of the Mid-West was sweeter than bumble berry pie. Hayes stood behind her, smiling brightly. He was your classic Scottish regale—scruffy, ruggedly handsome, but without the kilt. A real shame, in my opinion. Thalia leaned in very close to my face and inhaled deeply. “Mmm, just as I remember it,” she said with a lick of her lips.

“Put those away.” I swatted at her fangs. It was never a blessing that my blood smelled appealing to vampires—something to do with my mixed heritage. I hadn’t really delved into the reasoning of it. I was perfectly happy ignoring it. Thalia smiled innocently. “You must come for a visit soon. Wouldn’t that be wonderful, Hayes?” He bowed his head. “The pleasure would be all ours.” “I am sure it would,” I grumbled under my breath, glancing out to the crowd. The music was the normal African tribal drums that pounded out a beat like pure sex. Supes just had that spirit to them. Sexuality was quite normal and very accepted within these parties. Briggs passed by us, pulling Rynn into the crowd, and slowly began dancing oh-so-gently with her. “He is very sweet with her,” I said to Kyden. Kyden followed my gaze, glancing at his friend. “He will have to be.” Then, he stepped closer to me, a sexy grin on his face. His rock hard body was tight against mine. “Come dance, Álainn.” Yum! “Have a pleasant evening,” Thalia said as I walked away. Too lost in having Kyden wrapped around me, I gave a simple wave as my response. Slowly, he made his way through the crowd and stopped in the center. The loud beat was booming and created vibrations that ran along the ground. He wrapped his hands around my hips, dragged me forward, then rubbed his erection along my thigh. Sweet Jesus! This guy lived hard. My hands inched their way along his strong arms, relishing the curve of each carved bicep. I grasped them tightly in my hands, felt each muscle flex with need for me. His gaze bored into mine. Lust, love, and need raged in his eyes. I wiggled against him, wanting to feel more of his hard warmth, and he groaned in response. Leaning down, he took my mouth with pure hunger. I leaned my head to the side to capture more of his mouth as his tongue swirled with mine in a smooth grace that sent wet warmth pooling between my thighs.

When he began to move our bodies in sync with the music, his hot body teased mine and I nearly lost my mind. His hands ran all over my body, as he seemed unable to get enough. I definitely needed more of him. The heat building within my body began to burn, to hurt with urgency. I grasped his arms tighter, grinding my hips against his until it became too much to endure. I tore away from his mouth. “I need you.” My voice was so husky I barely recognized it. Kyden growled and pulled me up around him, which was harder than it looked. These jeans were not very giving, plus the added tension between my legs made me want to scream with agony. As we passed the crowd, Talon’s laughter came deep. He knew when it came to each other, our control was always lacking. Now, I could hardly care and ignored him entirely, and began ravishing Kyden’s neck. His body filled with tension and his groans became growls with each step he took. Within minutes, a door slammed. I realized we were home, but I never stopped tasting his delicious salty skin. He rushed toward the bedroom, and threw me onto the bed, separating us. His gaze focused on my face, molten lustful eyes stared back at me. I pulled my shirt off and wiggled off my heels. Getting to work on the jeans, I watched as Kyden tore his muscle shirt and jeans from his body. I yanked at the jeans, squirmed, and shoved. “Shit,” I gasped. “I can’t get these fucking things off.” They were glued to me. I angled my butt up, trying to pull them down, but it was impossible. With Kyden’s smoldering eyes staring at me, urgency was beginning to consume me. Now naked, his erection ready and eager, he lunged forward, grabbed the waist of my jeans and pulled. With the effort he put in, I went flying off the bed, landing flat on my back―hard. He burst out laughing. “That didn’t go as planned.” “Ouch.” I laughed, rubbing the back of my head, then I squirmed again―the throbbing between my thighs was reaching near lethal levels “God, just get them off.” He knelt down as I raised my butt off the floor and pulled again, but nothing happened. Being that I was already sweaty, they were stuck on like superglue. This was brutal! I wanted him more than my body could control and being restrained like this made the moment unbearable. He swore, grabbed the side of the jeans, and with all the strength he had, ripped the side of them open.

The second I was free, he tore my panties off, and dove in between my legs with a fierceness that had me gripping his head in my hands. I watched his mouth work wonders against my skin. Oh, he knew me well. He knew the spots to hit and just how to work them and bring me to climax, and oh did he! His mouth only released me when the shuddering of my orgasm eased. I shoved him back, grabbed his erection and took him into my mouth with more determination that I’d ever felt in my life. As my strokes and licks pulled him toward sweet glory, his breath deepened, his groans became ones of desperate need. He stood with me still attached to him. I wasn’t at all ready to let go of the wildness overtaking me. I glanced up at him, the desire moving through him only made me work harder. With a hiss of breath, he finally tore himself away, regardless of the fact that I wanted to keep going. He reached down to cup me under my arms and lifted me to him. He tucked his arms under my knees and leaned over me, palming my backside as I wrapped my arms around his neck. In a second, he was home thrusting inside me with ferocious strength. I screamed out at the pure satisfaction of being stretched so deeply, so fully. He used my body to guide the movements and immediately began thrusting harder toward fulfillment. His groans were deep, my screams loud. Sweat poured off our skin. There was nothing gentle about this. Right now, this had nothing do with love and emotions. It was about hard cold sexual satisfaction. He wasn’t waiting for my release to build naturally. He demanded it, but he wouldn’t come without me. Thrusting the way he was, hard and fast, was one sure way for me to lose my mind. And he knew it. My breath became nothing more than shallow gasps as my orgasm began to build into holy shit territory. Kyden growled deep as my muscles went into spasms around him. He plunged harder and I saw stars. Then, I was thrown on the bed with him resting on top, breathing deeply in unison with one satiated male. Sometime later, my thoughts came back to me. I blew the hair away from my face. “We should get back.” I pushed softly so he lay beside me. “I hope Rynn is okay.” Good friend I was! I’d forgotten all about her and was kicking myself for being so selfish. Not that I didn’t enjoy it, but I was filled with mixed emotions. “Not to worry,” Kyden replied, jumping off the bed. Instead of putting his clothes back on, he pulled me to the bathroom. “Briggs is with her. Shower first, then we will return to the meadow.”

A retort was on the end of my tongue, but it was true, I was all sweaty. A few more minutes away wasn’t going to be the end all to end all. After a quick shower, we both dressed in our guardian gear. Now that we were home, it felt awkward to be wearing anything but our normal attire. Within minutes, we were out of the door and making our way back to the meadow. The moment we joined the party again, I was pleased to see that Kyden had been right. Briggs had Rynn wrapped within his arms as they danced intimately. Ahh, new love, it’s so sweet. Haven and Finn were nowhere in sight—probably off indulging in their own selfish necessities. I hoped they were. It would make me feel less guilty for disappearing with Kyden. Suddenly, Briggs’ head shot up and he glanced past me. I turned, followed his gaze to see Valor quickly approaching. Dante and Isla were immediately beside me. I glanced at Dante and chuckled. He wasn’t his normal put-together self—his cheeks were flushed and there was a relaxed edge to him. Zennah had a hand in that I was sure—literally. “What is it, Father?” Dante asked quickly, breathless. Valor looked grieved, his body tight with tension. “There have been two more attacks against women not far from our home.” Dante looked stunned, his tone equaled as much. “In Utah?” Valor nodded grimly, rested his hand on Dante’s shoulder. “I am afraid it is true. Come now, all of you, we must meet with the Council.” Kyden grasped my hand and we followed Valor into the Council’s Hall where Finn and Haven also waited. Apparently, they had been notified of the meeting and urgently, if Haven’s look was anything to go by. She was a mess. When we reached her, I helped smooth her curls, which were in complete chaos. “There, much better.” I laughed. She giggled. “Thanks.” Talon and Zia quickly joined us, and took their seat beside Brax and Zade. As he sat, Talon asked, “What has happened, Valor?”

“I was contacted earlier tonight by a fellow pack member. His oldest son lost control and killed a woman.” Valor sighed deeply. “I went to him immediately, needed to handle the matter. As you can imagine the wolf could not willingly kill his son.” “Understandable,” Zia said. “Did he say what happened? Did he know why his son committed such an act?” Valor shook his head. “His son has never given him trouble and had just recently mated. They are expecting their first cub early next year. He has no explanation for why this would happen.” “What state was the wolf in when you found him?” Zade asked. “He was in an utter rage. The power that emanated from him was intense. Powerful enough…he took a couple good bites out of me.” A gasp escaped everyone in the room. It was unheard of. Valor’s strength gave him the ability to finish off a wolf in a split second. The fact that this wolf had enough strength to attack him at all was incredible. I quickly realized Valor was injured. Deep, gaping wounds layered his arms. “Here let me help,” I reached out, drew in on the Spirit element. With a trickle of adrenaline, I released my magic, watching the wounds heal before my eyes. Valor groaned a little, then smiled a thank you. “And there was more than one wolf attack?” Brax asked. “Yes. Immediately after returning home, I was contacted by a long time friend, who suffered a similar situation. He handled his wolf, but received great injury by doing it.” “Jesus,” I exhaled. Kyden gave my hand a squeeze, feeling the trepidation right along with me. Crazed wolves on the loose killing humans—talk about one hairy situation. “What are your thoughts on this?” Talon asked Valor. He shrugged, his expression completely baffled. “I have never met a wolf who was capable of attacking me. My strength is unrivaled. I have no understanding of what is going on here. Why our wolves are attacking humans with such rage and at these staggering numbers are beyond me.”

It was only three, but even that was an outstanding number in such a short amount of time. Wolves were generally gentle creatures—nothing of this capacity. “Hmm…it is quite the problem.” Zade pondered. “What could be their motive behind it?” I interjected. “What reason do any of them have—they’re all nuts!” Kyden laughed deeply. “Well said.” “We must return to the scene, recreate it, see if there is anything we can learn from the events that transpired,” Zia said. “Right,” Valor agreed. “I believe that is our only choice. I am at a total loss about these incidents. Hopefully your insight will shed some light here.” “Go on then, all of you,” Talon commanded. “Find some answers as quickly as you can.” Briggs looked utterly tormented. He had himself wrapped around Rynn protectively. “Boss…” he started. Valor raised his hand to stop him. “As of tonight, I release you from your duty to me. Your place is with her now.” He rested his hand on Briggs’ shoulder, gave him a soft smile. “Your position will be waiting for you when you are ready to return.” Briggs exhaled a deep breath. “Much appreciated.” “Make it right for her and that is all the thanks I will need,” Valor said softly. Briggs gave a gallant nod. On my way out, I hugged Rynn. “Will you be okay now?” She hugged me back and whispered. “I think so. Thank you so much for everything.” Before I could respond, Valor shouted, “Isla, go home.” She scowled and yelled in return, “If you think I am not taking part in this…” In the quickest of moves, Valor pushed her out of the Council’s Hall. Seconds later, loud screams and too many obscenities to count echoed through the hall just before a door slammed loudly. A moment later, Valor came back grinning. “We can leave now.”

Chapter Six

The surroundings looked very similar to Valor’s ranch, mountain skyline with lush wilderness. Actually the landscape where we presently stood reminded me of an episode of Little House on the Prairie. It just had that old feel about it. “Where is your home from here?” I asked Valor. “This is Hyde Park. It is only a few hours away from Cache Valley.” A small house was nestled in a surrounding forest—almost a mirror image of my Carson City home. A bit rundown, but full of character with white washed wood paneling, black windowsills, and an old rickety swing sitting on a large porch. “It is best that I speak to the family before we go around back.” Valor told the group, then looked at me. “Would you mind coming along?” “Not at all,” I stepped forward. “I will wait here for you,” Kyden said, giving my lower back a light rub. I smiled, returning his as if that is even a question grin. Just as we walked away, I heard Haven say. “Oh Finn, look, it’s so pretty here.” I smiled, hearing the awe in her voice. Utah was beautiful—an outdoor enthusiast’s playground. Valor climbed the old rickety steps, knocked on the door, and it immediately flew open. A woman stood before us, trembling, eyes rimmed red and her face was stone white. “Valor,” she said with a deep sniff. “Please, do come in.” “Thank you, Ayan.” He glanced back to me. “This is Nexi.” She smiled softly. “Welcome to our home, Nexi.” She waved us in. “Please, won’t you come sit?” Hospitality right to the core, even when all that surrounded her was despair, she was still using manners. It made this entire situation all the more bizarre. How could a wolf that came from this woman be capable of such brutality?

After Ayan sat down, Valor and I followed suit, opposite her on the flowered couches. Valor looked around. “Is Narn not here?” Ayan shook her head, tears forming in her eyes. “I do not know where he has gone. He…is,” she raised a tissue to her nose, “not handling the death of our Rhoden well.” Without hesitation, I stood, then knelt down in front of her and took her hands in mine. “I’m so sorry for your son. Believe me, Ayan, we will find out what has happened here.” She squeezed my hands, her palms clammy. “You are a Guardian?” she asked. I nodded softly. “Among other things.” “Then, I trust that you will keep your word. Our Rhoden would do nothing of this cruelty. There must be an explanation.” “May we go around back?” Valor asked. She nodded, releasing my hands to wipe her nose. “By all means, do whatever you need to catch the one who did this to my son.” After a few reassuring words from Valor, we exited the home. Kyden met me at the door. “Alright?” “Yeah.” I waited until Valor joined us before I filled them in on what I knew. “She truly believes that he is innocent,” I told everyone. While I held her hands, I read her a little, searching for anything that could help us. “From what I saw, her son definitely didn’t seem the type to do something this vicious.” Valor sighed, and gave his head a rub. “Let’s go see.” When we reached the back of the home, there was a little vegetable garden off to the left and an uninhabited area filled the rest. Sitting next to a rock was a man, sobbing hysterically. “Narn, I take it?” I asked Valor. Valor nodded, then approached him. “Narn,” he said loudly. The man lifted his face, heartbreak aligning every part of his face. I froze where I stood. I had seen eyes like that staring back at me in the mirror just after Gloria and Frank died. They were completely desolate.

“Valor…I…apologize you are seeing me this way,” Narn said, desperation hitting every note. Valor helped him to his feet, his hand tight on the Narn’s shoulder. “Think nothing of it. I would be in no better condition.” “Narn, do you think it wise that you stay for this?” Dante asked him. “I must be here,” Narn replied, his tone firming with each word. “I need to be here to see what happened to Rhoden.” I understood why. The unknown is always the worse part of loss, the hardest thing to get over. He was searching for a reason, needed to find some sense in all this tragedy. My eyes connected with Haven’s and I gave her a nod to proceed. She stepped forward, raised her hands to the sky, and within seconds the scene was before us. The Earth element gave her the gift—which Zia also had—an ability to manipulate time and bring a moment back. They could recreate past events that happened, imprints on time that showed exactly what had taken place in this backyard. What we saw wasn’t good. A woman, knocked out cold, was lying on the grass as Rhoden growled fiercely beside her. His teeth were pulled back in a snarl as salvia poured from his mouth. I’d never seen anything like it. His expression was crazed and he looked rabid. Suddenly, the woman stirred, moaning as she awakened from unconsciousness. She turned her head slightly. When she saw the wolf, she scrambled away, only to be stopped by Rhoden. He bit into her calf, forcing her still. She screamed out loudly as Rhoden went wild on her. Tearing into her slowly, he ripped pieces out of her flesh. Terror and horror shot straight through me, but it wasn’t all mine. I turned to see Finn grab Haven and cover her ears with his hands as she hid against his chest. I glanced back to the scene as the woman was mauled to death, piece by piece. By the time it was over, all that remained was her skeleton. My stomach turned. “He ate every piece of her?” I said to Kyden, aghast. He nodded grimly. “Indeed he did.” Haven sobbed in Finn’s arms. She never could deal with this part of our jobs. Hell, I wasn’t sure I could deal with it. Gruesome never did sit well. Usually that part was easy to get past, when the need to stop the one who did it began to consume me.

The wolf lay next to the bones, stared intently at his kill. “When I found Rhoden,” Valor said. “He had not moved. He was still in this exact same position.” Narn stepped forward, wiped tears off his face. “His eyes are not his. None of my son lies in there.” Squinting my eyes, I looked closer, more intensely. Rhoden was lying down, breathing oddly. His quick, shallow breaths just didn’t seem normal. When I looked into his eyes, I instantly understood what his father meant about the eyes. They didn’t seem in any way right to me either. Wolves eyes were always yellow or silver—a bright vibrant color. Rhoden’s were dark, completely shadowed. I reached out with my powers, searched the area and opened myself to all that was here. I could sense something was off. It was faint, but it was definitely there, and I had felt before. I glanced urgently at Kyden. “We need to get Zia here immediately. There’s something wrong here.” He shot a look in Finn’s direction, who instantly rushed off with Haven to the front of the house. Seconds later, the scene faded as Haven returned to the Otherworld. Within minutes, Zia arrived. “Haven is sleeping soundly,” she assured me. Zia had had to erase more memories from Haven’s mind than I could count. She just couldn’t deal with the violence. Her sweet heart couldn’t bear it. Zia promised it didn’t cause her any damage, and I couldn’t deny that it wasn’t for her benefit. “Glad to hear it.” Then, I looked around. “There is something here,” I announced. Zia stepped free from the crowd and lifted her arms, bringing the scene back again. It flashed by quickly. My stomach was as unforgiving as the first time. When it froze, she knelt down and examined the wolf. Then, she met my gaze with a knowing look. “Dark Magic surrounds him.” I sighed deeply, glad I was on the right track, but annoyed by it too. “I thought it could be something like that.” My experience with Black Magic was limited, but it felt very similar to when I fought a Black Witch not long ago. Had the similar edge to it that made it difficult to breathe, but a little fainter.

“You think Rhoden was influenced by Dark Magic?” Narn asked. Zia stood, wiping her hands on her long black skirt. “He was either seduced by it or somehow it was placed upon him.” Narn cried. “I knew it. I knew something had overtaken him. He would never do something like this.” Zia glanced my way. “He may have chosen it.” “Why would he?” I couldn’t imagine why he would do such a thing when he had a wonderful home and family. She shrugged, then glanced to Narn. “He was not having any trouble?” Narn shook his head. “He was happy, awaiting the birth of his first cub. He was a good soul. Never would he turn to the darkness. He had everything he needed. Someone must have forced him into it. They must have.” Zia examined Rhoden a little longer, then looked at me again. “Darkness is wrapped so tightly around him I do not sense anything good in this wolf, do you?” “He ate her entirely. I can’t see anyone with an ounce of good doing something like that.” “What do we do from here?” Valor asked. “We return to the Council,” Zia said, and instantly headed toward the front of the house, each of us scrambling behind her. The moment we hit the front lawn, we all grasped hands, making the needed connection for teleportation. Then, with a bright flash, Utah disappeared as we landed back in the Council’s foyer. Weird as it was, that’s the way it worked. Wherever you stepped through the wooden door, the magic held within the portal, read your mind on the location you needed to go. To return, you only had to revisit that spot and think of the Otherworld. Quick and easy transportation at its finest. When we stepped into the Council’s Hall, Zia didn’t waste a moment in bringing the other Council members up to speed. Within minutes, she was done, and the room was silent enough to hear a mouse scurry. Finally, Talon broke the silence. “Dark Magic!” he exclaimed, surprise widening his eyes. Zia nodded without hesitation. “It had overtaken him completely.”

“Intriguing,” Brax exhaled. “This makes no sense!” Valor said. “Rogue wolves are normally the ones to turn to Magnus’ realm. They have been cast out by their packs, needing somewhere to belong, but Rhoden wasn’t rogue. He had a family, a cub on the way.” My thoughts ran along the same lines. “I agree, something’s screwy here. When I read into his mother there was nothing at all that would lead me to believe he would accept the darkness.” “Could he have been bewitched?” Kyden asked. Zia was thoughtful for a moment then said, “I suppose it could true, but what would they want with a crazed wolf?” No one had the answer to that. “If this is true.” Valor sighed deeply, breaking the eerie silence. “We are in grave danger. None of us are safe here.” “I should say not,” Zia noted grimly. Without any warning, Valor suddenly growled, deep and low. He was eager to annihilate something, as was Dante. Then like a bat out of hell, they ran from the hall. “Well that was just weird.” I said aloud. Kyden nodded. “Indeed.” He stepped forward, his body tight with concern. Curious as to what had caught his interest, I followed his gaze and immediately understood his distress. Valor and Dante rushed back into the hall, carrying a wolf. Isla followed close behind, her face streaked with tears. Zia ran toward him before I even had a chance to comprehend what was happening. After Valor and Dante placed the wolf on the floor, she knelt down, rested her hand upon his chest and began shaking. Shock froze my breath. I had never seen Zia strain so much healing someone—the wolf must have been very close to death. Zia wavered, nearly toppling over, but Talon lunged forward to scoop her up before falling over just as the wolf shifted.

The moment Zia’s hand released from the man’s chest, I sprinted forward, drew on Spirit and gave Zia a little burst of healing. Within seconds, the tiredness left her eyes and she gave me a quick wink. Glad that little bit of silliness was over, it was time for answers. I straightened up to find the wolf was Thor, the Alpha of Texas. He looked the same as he did the last time I saw him—gentle with a perfect baby face. Not what you’d expect to see in an Alpha, but appearances were sometimes deceiving. I’d seen this wolf kill another in a split second. “What happened to you?” Valor asked him. Thor stood, then glanced back at Isla. “I owe you much, Isla. If it wasn’t for you, I’d be dead.” They shared a look―one that was unmistakable. I’d seen the same look between Briggs and Rynn. She must be his mate and made me curious. Why weren’t they bonded? Isla stayed with Valor and never once had I heard of this. As much as I was intrigued, now wasn’t the appropriate time to let my mind drift away with such thoughts. I gave my head a little shake to clear the swirling questions and focused back on the present Apparently, Valor caught the glance as well and looked none too happy about it. “What happened?” he growled at Thor. Thor snapped his head toward him, leaving Isla’s gaze full of longing. “A wolf in my pack killed a man tonight,” he answered. “His mate contacted me and when I went to him, he was in the worst of sorts.” Valor nodded dourly. “We have just recently discovered this. Did he attack you?” Thor looked nothing short of pissed. “I was not expecting it. Being an Alpha…” He hesitated, grumbled something incoherent then finished, “I was not prepared for such an intense battle.” “He nearly killed you,” Isla cried out, wiping tears. Thor met her gaze again, his brows furrowed in unhappiness. He was about to reach out to her, but pulled his hand back at Valor’s growl. I glanced at Kyden and his look of I’ll tell you later was clear. Oh yeah, he’d be telling me later. This was juicy gossip—the best kind. “Where is the wolf now?” Brax asked.

Thor shrugged. “It is Isla who can answer that. I don’t remember what took place. She came for me.” Valor’s growl deepened, while he glared at her. “You did what?” She lifted her chin. “I sensed danger, so I used the portal to go to him. What should I have done, let him die?” Sensed danger, huh? They weren’t bonded yet. The idea left me flabbergasted that the bond between mates ran that deep. Even without the connection sealed, they still held the ability to feel each other. Werewolves are so cool. It appeared Valor wasn’t feeling as awed as I was. He stepped forward, wrapped his hands around her shoulders and shook her. “This is not your place, Isla. I have told you over and over again, you are too young to be dealing with matters such as these.” “You think I’m too young,” she shouted at him. “I am not! I’m Nexi’s age and look at what she does.” Everyone looked at me. I gave a little shrug in her defense. “She has a point.” Valor scowled at me. I quickly raised a hand to my mouth. “Okay, mouth zipped.” I locked my lips, threw the key over my shoulder. “Tell me what took place.” Valor demanded from his daughter. “I felt that something was wrong, so I went to him, and found the wolf attacking him,” she answered, examining her fingernails. “Soooo…” She glanced back up to meet her father’s furious gaze. “I returned home quickly, grabbed a bat and went back.” “Go on.” Valor’s voice had deepened. She didn’t look at all put off by the anger ruminating off him. “He was so focused on Thor that he didn’t even notice me. Basically, I swung the bat as hard as I could at his head.” Dante laughed. “You hit him with a bat?” Valor glowered at him. Dante’s smile faded instantly. Isla shrugged. “It was the only thing I could think of. I had to get him off quickly. The second he started to black out, I grabbed onto Thor, and we landed back home. Then, I dragged him back through the portal, which leads us to now.”

The room was silent enough to hear a pin drop. Everyone awaited Valor’s response. I thought Isla had done really well. Without thought, the stupid part of my brain made me reach up and give her a high five. “Way to go, Isla.” She laughed, beaming from ear to ear. Valor growled at me which lowered my hand in a flash, then he hovered over Isla. “You took a huge risk with your life, Isla. I should thrash you for disobeying me.” “Do it.” She squared her shoulders. “Give me the biggest beating, I don’t care. I will not feel bad about doing it. He’s…” She glanced to Thor, who gazed at her intently. Valor stepped between them, breaking their locked gazes. “I will take her punishment,” Thor said adamantly. Pride for Isla ran through me. Valor could be one tough cookie, yet she was standing up to him as if he didn’t scare her one bit. Plus, respect for Thor couldn’t be denied if he would suffer the brunt of Valor’s dismay. My heart broke a little watching them, they weren’t lusting after each other, they were desperate to be together. It was gut-wrenching to see. Valor grumbled, dismissing the whole incident with a wave of his hand. “We need to find this wolf now. Dante, contact the other Alphas. Inform them of this situation.” Dante nodded, then gave his sister a pat on the shoulder, obviously sharing my sense of pride for what she had done. “I will be able to scent him out,” Valor said to the Council. “But I do fear we will need help in destroying him.” “Of course,” Brax answered. “Kyden, Nexi, go with Valor, deal with this wolf.” Kyden nodded firmly. I sighed and glanced at Kyden. “Let’s just hope we don’t become doggy dinner.” He grinned. ****

The forest was lush with most of the grounds covered in rocks and weeds. “Texas is pretty and all, but I wish this damn wolf had chosen somewhere a little more flat to go run and hide,” I grumbled as I slipped on a rock once again. Rough terrain looked easy compared to this. Kyden chuckled. He held my hand tight as we made our way through the thick bush. Of course, he had yet to slip, which only pissed me off. Valor had shifted immediately upon arrival, having caught the scent of our wolf. I purposely slowed down, hoping to get a little info. When Valor was a few feet away, I whispered to Kyden. “Why is Valor refusing to let Thor and Isla be together?” He smiled. “As you heard, he believes she is too young.” “Oh I get it,” I nodded in understanding. “He’s suffering from Daddy syndrome.” Kyden arched a brow. “Daddy syndrome?” “Yeah, you know, can’t let his little girl go.” Kyden’s brow lowered as he gave a soft nod. “Thor is being patient. Isla, on the other hand, is pushing for him to get over it.” “I just bet she is.” My mind drifted to the handsome wolf that was her mate. I’d be raising hell, too, if I wasn’t allowed near him. Suddenly, Valor growled low. Kyden threw me over his shoulder and rushed forward. He made quick work of the ground beneath him as he ran to catch up to Valor. When he stopped, he set me down and I gave his shoulder a little punch. “That wasn’t necessary.” “Didn’t want you to slip, Álainn.” His voice was serious, but the glimmer in his eye conveyed his amusement. My fist clenched to give him another punch, but when Valor shifted, my hand eased as I stretched it out. Jerk! “He is in those caves there.” Valor pointed next to him. My gaze followed the movement and noticed a small entrance to a cave that was no bigger than our living room. The ceiling was rigid and drips of condensation splattered down on the stone floor. “We have to go in there?” I whispered to Kyden. “There could be bats.”

“You’re afraid of bats?” he asked, intrigued. “Just so happens that I am,” I lifted my chin a little, trying to save a little pride. Vampires, easy and crazy witches, easy. But rats with wings, not so easy. “No better time than the present to face your fears,” Kyden pulled me toward the entrance. Oh Jesus! Good thing our vision is superior because the place was pitch-black. Even better, the cave was very shallow. The second we stepped through, the wolf appeared, his eyes glowing as he snarled at us. “Oh there you are.” I shook my finger at him. “You are a very bad doggy.” He growled lower and deeper. His eyes were wild as he flew toward us. Kyden pushed me out of the way and kicked out hard, sending the wolf flying out of the cave. Moments ago, he may have irritated me, but I could never ignore just how sexy he looked when fighting. The man exudes power and I may have sighed a little as I watched his muscles flex. The wolf growled again and broke my ogling. I could have used the Fire element to disintegrate him. However, I made it a rule that unless I was fighting witches, I kept to my Guardian roots. It kept me true to my both halves. “Come on,” Kyden raised his hands, calling him forward. The wolf lunged and Kyden reciprocated with a hard punch to the wolf’s snout, which sent him flying twenty feet away. The wolf roared, lunging back toward him. In the moment of his lunge, I shot forward and kicked his side, causing him to crumble to the ground. The wolf didn’t really have a chance. One of us could kill him, both Kyden and I were strong fighters. With the both of us together, he was as good as dead. He snarled, glancing up at me. I gasped out a breath upon seeing his eyes. They were so dark, so viciously cruel. Nothing of a good wolf remained here. Only one thing could cause eyes like that…Black Magic. But why were these wolves turning to such darkness? They had families, their pack―what would the magic give them that they didn’t already have? None of which I had answers to. The only thing I did know was that this magic was making them crazed and dangerous. It meant they had to die. Kyden drew his sword. When the wolf lunged toward me, he sliced sure and swift. The wolf’s head flew in the opposite direction of his body as blood arced through the air.

When the body dropped to the ground, I glanced at Kyden. “Nice teamwork.” He winked at me. I glanced back at Valor. He was sitting on a rock, looking thoughtful. “You okay?” I asked, as I approached him. He raised his eyes to mine. “You think I am being harsh on Isla?” That was unexpected. “Valor, I don’t think it is my place to…” He interrupted. “I am making it your place.” “Total honesty?” I asked. “Nothing less.” I quickly glanced at Kyden. He gave me an encouraging nod. I let the zipper open, sent my lips a flapping. “Well, she is grown and…” I hesitated, searching for the right words. “Now having Kyden, I couldn’t imagine life without him. He has made me so happy. If Isla has something this wonderful available to her and she can’t experience it because you are withholding her…” I put my hands on my hips. “Well, that just seems wrong in my books.” He rubbed his face. “These are the times I miss Hanna the most.” “Isla’s mother?” “Yes. She died while giving birth to Isla.” “I didn’t know about her death, I’m sorry.” Valor gave me a little nod. Suddenly, I realized why he was talking with me about this. He desperately needed a female’s input. I knelt beside him and got right to it. “Okay, what’s the problem?” He got a little teary-eyed. “If she is not in my home, I cannot keep an eye out for her.” “Thor is a strong Alpha,” Kyden said. “He will protect her.” Valor rubbed his face again. “I trust Thor with her safety. It is just Isla is…well…much like you, Nexi. She acts on impulse, makes quick decisions that endanger her life.” “That doesn’t sound much like a compliment,” I said, a bit grim.

He laughed quietly. “It is what it is.” Then, his smile faded. “Thor cannot always be by her side and as Alphas we are always presented with danger. As you saw tonight, her impulse to save him might get her killed.” I sighed, understanding his concern, but I also knew how to ease him. “I’m assuming Alphas are possessive in nature?” He nodded hurriedly. “Well then, you have nothing to worry about. Thor will guard her with his life.” I gave Kyden a knowing look following that statement, since I had a protective fool of my own. He just grinned and winked. Isla had better kiss me for what I was about to say. “You’re preventing her from being truly happy.” I grabbed Valor’s hand. “It’s time to let her go.” He actually wiped away a tear. “It is not so easily done.” “Of course it isn’t. You’re a good father to her, but really Valor, she’s twenty-four. Her hormones are probably eating her alive.” I said, then instantly regretted it. I shouldn’t have gone there. He grimaced. “That is my biggest concern of all.” Oh god, now we were about to have a sex talk. Get me the hell out of here. I glanced at Kyden, who grinned devilishly, seeing me squirm. But like the protector that he was, he took the wheel. “Thor will be gentle with her, Valor. You know this.” “I do know this, but…” He cringed a little. “It doesn’t make it any easier.” I finished for him. Valor gave a soft smile. “No, it doesn’t.”

Chapter Seven

The next night, I was glad I could give myself a jolt of energy, or I’d need a double shot of espresso to get my butt in gear. I was zonked. The past few days had been a bit of a whirlwind. I was still

getting used to non-vacation mode. As Kyden and I entered the Council’s Hall, the tension in the room was so thick we needed a pair of shears to cut through the air. When I saw Sabi sitting on the floor with her head bowed, I understood why. She’s a classic witch all the way. Long dark hair, tight but fine features, eyes almost cat-like. Presently, she was having a premonition. It was her gift—she could see parts of the future—trouble stirring within the darkness. The only thing was that it came just minutes before, so action was needed quickly. Just as we reached Sabi, she gasped loudly and her head shot up. “Black Magic Witches are doing a ritual. A wolf is with them.” Her voice sounded exhausted—premonitions always left her a little weak. “Where are they?” Zia asked urgently, as she placed her hand on Sabi’s arm to give her boost of energy. Seconds later, Sabi jumped to her feet, revived. “Come, I’ll show you.” “Nexi, come with us,” Zia shouted, and ran past us. Kyden started to follow behind, but Zia quickly spun around. “No. You cannot come.” “I will go with her,” he spat. Zia scowled at him. “We do not have time for this. It is not safe for you there.” I grabbed his arm, willing him to hear her. “Listen, she is right. You could be killed,” I begged him to understand. “Please stay here.” He glowered as I pulled away from him, but he didn’t follow. I ran, following Zia. I could hear Kyden pacing the room behind me. He always had trouble allowing me to fight, especially when I went without him. It was never easy for him. Just as I reached the door, I yelled back to him. “Don’t worry, I have Willow.” If I was in danger, Willow would protect me. She had chosen to be my protector. She probably didn’t realize what a full time job that would be. There wasn’t much she could do about it now though. Once chosen, there was no going back. It was doubtful that knowledge would appease Kyden, but hopefully, it would keep him from acting foolishly. He had no protection against magic. If he went up against a Black Magic Witch, he would lose.

Once we reached the portal in the Council’s Foyer, Sabi, Zia and I grasped hands and stepped through the door. A flash of light shut my eyes. When my vision came back to me, I couldn’t believe what I was seeing. Four Black Witches stood, circled around a black powered pentagram. It looked like any normal pentagram I’d seen, but experiencing it in use was scary as shit. Breathing was almost impossible. The air was thick and darkness surrounded us entirely—practically sparking off the wind. The witches chanted in some odd language as a wolf lay in the centre, howling in pain. “Er…why are they not attacking us?” I questioned aloud. “They are entranced,” Zia answered. “Given up to the dark spell they have cast.” She glanced at Sabi. “Go quickly, get the others.” Sabi nodded, then vanished immediately. “We will need more than the three of us to defeat them,” Zia told me, worriedly. “They don’t feel as strong as Astoria did.” She was the only bitchy Black Magic Witch I had the not-so-great pleasure of encountering. “These witches are not in Magnus’ guard,” Zia answered. “They just live in his realm. They are not gifted with such a strong force.” The witches continued to chant as the wolf continually writhed and howled in complete agony. Suddenly, the wolf began to shift forms quickly, changing back and forth from wolf to man repeatedly. He screamed and when he shifted, my heart plummeted. “Dante,” I screamed, and rushed forward. Zia grabbed me, her arms wrapped around my shoulders, forcing me still. “Don’t.” “That’s Dante,” I shouted, trying to break free. “We must do something.” “We can’t.” Zia held me tightly. “He is lost now. Look at him. Look at his eyes.” I squinted, noticed that Dante’s eyes were now clouded over with shadows. Then, like a smack in the face, the answer laid before me. This wasn’t the wolves’ doing at all. Dante would never accept the darkness. He was the essence of good. What was he doing here? How had someone done this to him? The last I knew, he was off telling the Alphas of this situation. Now he was knee deep in it. “This is so horrible,” I managed in a whisper.

“Very,” Zia replied. “What have they done to him?” I asked. “They are doing a Black Magic ritual. They have used black ash and blood to draw that pentagram there. It is summoning the darkness to steal Dante’s soul. Do you see the markings in the ground?” I followed her gaze, and saw serpents drawn together in a weaving pattern, which sat around the edges of the pentagram. “What is that?” I croaked. “That is an offering ruin.” “An offering to whom?” “Magnus,” Zia replied with a little growl. “Why would they do that?” She shook her head slowly. “I have no idea. This offering ritual here is how Black Magic Witches welcome a new one into their realm. They are offering Dante’s soul to Magnus—offering him to the dark realm.” She glanced back to Dante. “Never have I heard of this ritual being done with one who didn’t want it.” She looked back at me. “Ever.” “Ever?” “Think of how you feel about them.” She gave a nod when my face grimaced. “That is how they feel about you.” She glanced back at the witches. “They would never force someone to come into their realm, just as we wouldn’t them.” “But it’s Dante, he’d never…” I started. She stopped me, raising her hand. “Exactly, which makes this all the more peculiar.” I gave my head a little shake trying to make sense out of all this. “Not only that, but why are they making the wolves kill humans?” She shrugged, completely unknowing. “That is what we need to find out.” She nodded toward the witches. “I am afraid these witches are not going to be so willing to tell us though.” “Yeah, I kinda figured that,” I grumbled.

So far, I hadn’t even gone on a witch assignment yet. My Guardian role was the only one that kept me busy. This was a hell of a first assignment as a witch. Going up against four Black Magic Witches wasn’t my idea of fun. “Can we get his soul back?” I asked, hopeful. She cupped my cheek, deep sadness lay in her eyes. “It is not an easy task. Let us get through this first. Keep your mind clear of anything and everyone else but these witches.” Just then, Sabi reappeared with seven other witches including Haven. She came up to my side and whistled. “Jumping jellybeans, there’s some bad witches.” Jumping jellybeans. Oh, Haven. Only she could take a dark situation and make it light. “You’ve got that right.” “By the way,” Haven said. “We better make this quick, Kyden is about ready to tear the hall apart. I’m pretty sure he has already worn out the floor with all his pacing.” She glanced at the wolf who was still flashing between forms and her brows furrowed as she focused on him. Then, her eyes widened. “Oh no,” she gasped, and raised her hands to her face in horror. “Dante!” Sabi came up beside us, her voice filled with regret. “I wish I could have seen this earlier. It might have given us more time to save him.” “You saved a lot more lives by seeing it at all. We will help him. He’s going to be okay.” Was that for my benefit or hers? I wasn’t quite sure. I could only hope I was right. Zia interrupted, bringing the focus back on the task at hand. “They need to close the circle before we interrupt this. If they don’t, demons can be released into the Earthworld.” She sighed, and met my gaze. “This is not something we want.” “That’s for damn sure.” I stated. Demons—I shivered. Coming face-to-face with one wasn’t on my wish list. I glanced over at the Black Magic Witches who slowly walked in a circle, continued to chant, but this time it was softer—quieter. Dante had gone silent as well and remained in his wolf form. Dark fog drifted along their feet. The snakes drawn within the ruin slithered about, moved quickly in sync with their chants. “It’s closing,” Zia warned us. “Be ready.”

Suddenly, there was a loud bang. The witches’ gazes shot to us, practically frothing at the mouth. With as much force as possible, I drew on my powers and threw fire at them. It crackled loudly as it blasted straight for them. From that point on, it was complete chaos. Magic was everywhere. Fire, Air, Water—all types of fury unleashed. My shield held strong against it, which made me one lucky witch. I had an added protection from Spirit that no one else did—a blessing for sure. Just as a blast of thick air hit my shield, Willow shimmered beside me. A calming sensation washed over me as my big black panther stood before me. “Being your protector is becoming somewhat tiresome,” Willow stated. “Got that right,” I drew on every strength that lived within me. Every reserve of power I stored, I threw at the witches. My magic connected and as the Fire blasted the witch, Willow shot forward and ripped out her throat. The witch was dead. Through the cries and jolts of magic came a low deep growl. It was a furious sound that immediately caught my attention. I quickly glanced in its direction, my gaze landing on Dante. He was a second away from tearing Willow to pieces. Without a moment’s pause, I drew in quickly, whished air out and caged him where he stood. Just another cool thing I could do. He growled and snapped his teeth viciously. He was safe and wouldn’t be a pest again. I focused back on the witches in front of me. Their magic was everything darkness is. Shadows of misery surrounded us. Everything quieted around me. I calmed, focused on the witch closest to me. With a deep breath, I drew on the Fire element and sent those flames spiraling toward her. I never let go of the magic, never ceased, not until all that was left of her was dust. Willow pounced forward again, attacked with great speed, but she didn’t see the fireball coming toward her. I shrieked, but it was already too late. She let out a little scream as she tumbled to the ground. I couldn’t go to her, had to remain where I stood. If I moved, it would endanger Haven. I positioned myself in front of her, so I could shield her from any threats. The magic couldn’t touch her if it hit my shield first.

She knelt down behind me, leaving her hand fixed to the ground. Zia and I were the only witches here, other than the dark ones, who had the ability to throw magic without touch. Mainly, it was just the two of us fighting. Haven and the others were providing shields against the magic shooting at us. Being that this was my first real assignment against witches, I didn’t really get the whole gist of it. The more it went on, the more I could see there was strategy here. Zia had the strongest defensive magic. It would have to be Zia that would need to destroy the witches, but she wasn’t safe like I was with my shield. The other White Magic witches provided that protection for her—using their magic to put up walls, create wind—do anything that would deflect their power away. They did everything possible so Zia could destroy the threat. The remaining two witches continued to come at us hard, blasting with swirls of fire, swoops of air, just about every type of natural disaster imaginable. One option weighed heavily on me. Not long ago, I’d discovered that I held the ability to draw the darkness into me. Not accept it in any way, but gain the strength that Black Magic provides. It was an easy way out, but the more I accepted it, the harder it would be to resist it. Zia was sure of that. In resignation, I let go of that thought and continued to assist Zia in our attack against the witches. Sweat gathered on my skin as it took every ounce of my control to hold my shield against their force. Zia stepped forward, braced herself, and released the magnitude of her ability. Combining her Air and Water together with such a force, she blew apart the witch in front of her, causing her to explode into tiny particles through the sky. After the initial shock of seeing Zia’s magnificent powers, I focused on the lone witch. She continued to weave around the magic. Zia went harder, dug down deeper, not letting up for a second. I followed her moves, sent my Fire to join in with Zia’s Air as the other White Magic Witches continued to protect her. However, it was pointless. This witch held the ability to move in lighting fast speed. Before the magic would hit her, she released her own, and quickly dodged ours. We needed to end this. “We have to work together,” I urged Zia. She squealed as fire blasted up her arm. “Thoughts quickly.” “You need to distract her, so that I can hold her.”

“Watch closely.” Over and over Zia went at her, but the witch moved quickly away. My gaze followed her movements, anticipated the way she threw her magic, so I could understand her next move. She weaved her from left to right quickly. I focused on the rhythm. When I knew I had it right, I released my Air in full force of its strength. The witch instantly realized what we had done. Her eyes went wide as she stood frozen, unable to move. Knowing she was scared shitless expression, I sent a fireball blasting toward her. Seconds later, it was over. Without thought, I hurried over to Willow. “Are you okay? Please be okay,” I pleaded, reaching out to touch her. Her chest continued to rise and fall. She was still alive. I drew in a deep breath quickly and sent a blast of Spirit to heal her. A split second later, Willow jumped to her feet and scowled at me. “Ouch that hurt. You better appreciate what I do for you,” she said, her tone snarky. I let out a deep breath. Relieved, annoyed—I was just glad she was okay. “I thought she killed you.” Willow grinned in her feline way. “It takes more than one psycho bitch to knock off this kitten.”

Chapter Eight

When we returned to the Otherworld, Zia joined the Council in her chair and I glanced around. Except for the Witches who had joined in on the fight, and the Council, the hall was empty. “Where’s Kyden?” I asked. He had been angry, but he wasn’t that mad that’d he wouldn’t wait for me. I was expecting him to snatch me up in his arms when I returned, not leave me deserted. “Out on assignment,” Talon replied. This wasn’t good. Well, having Kyden no longer angry was good, but what Talon had just implied was so very bad. “A wolf assignment?” I asked hesitantly.

Talon nodded, reassuringly. “Do not worry yourself. We have sent Finn along with him.” “It’s not him I’m worried about,” I stated, glancing at Zia. “I have to agree,” she said grimly. “This is very worrisome.” Talon raised a brow, missing the gist of our conversation. “If there was another wolf incident,” I answered his unasked question. “Then, the witches we encountered tonight were not the only ones.” The light dawned for him,. “I see your point.” “What do you think this is about?” Haven asked. Zia shrugged, dumbfounded. “Your guess is as good as mine. I cannot find a reason why the witches would be killing humans. They are no threat to them.” She sighed deeply, her frustrated gaze meeting mine. “There has to be something we are missing.” Just then, Brax entered the hall and said, “Valor is on his way.” Dante was lying a few feet away, sleeping soundly. Zia had knocked him out with her magic until we could figure out a solution to this mess. If she hadn’t, he’d been tearing the place apart. Only seconds past before Valor tore into the hall, running toward Dante. Tension and grief oozed from him. “How did this happen?” he demanded. Zia raised a comforting hand to his shoulder. “We are unsure of anything right now.” “Lots of questions with zero answers,” I said, giving Valor a hug. Tonight, he sank right into me. It was hitting him hard and his turmoil flayed through my mind. Instantly, I threw up my block. This wasn’t something I wanted to read. I’d had enough hardships myself, thank you very much. Valor backed away from me and rubbed his hands along his son’s side. “Is he gone?” Zia knelt beside him, placed her hand next to his on Dante’s stomach. “He is, yes.” Valor looked at her, his eyes pleading. “What can we do for him?” “There is only one way to release him from this.”

Valor jumped up, his shoulders strong, stance ready to go off into battle. “Tell me. I will do anything.” “I am afraid it is not something you can do,” she told him. His shoulders sank; sadness lay hard on his body. “What must be done?” My heart ached for him. Despair swept across his features in every way. Valor was good. Dante was good. They didn’t deserve this. None of them did. “Magnus must grant the release and this…” Zia hesitated, “is not something he will do lightly. We will owe him something for this request.” “Christ,” I gasped, grasping the disparity of this situation. “Owe him what?” “Whatever he wishes. It is his to decide what he feels Dante’s soul is worth.” She sighed heavily. “I will go and contact him now. Arrange for a meeting.” She strode out, her steps heavy. Mixed emotions ran through me. I desperately wanted to help Dante, but the mention of the Magnus made me want to bolt. “What has happened?” Kyden’s voice came loudly as he and Finn rushed into the hall. He glanced between me, Valor and Dante lying on the floor. He reached me first, ran his hands along my body, then turned me around a few times. “You are not hurt?” “No.” The world spun. “Stop that! You’re making me dizzy,” I snapped. Thankfully, he did, then knelt beside Dante to touch the side of his head. “What has happened to him?” I grabbed his hand, allowed the memories of what happened to bring him up to speed. This was a hell of a lot easier than going through the whole event with words. When the memories stopped, Kyden arched a brow. “Witches are responsible for this?” I nodded bleakly. “They are, and we’re up shit creek.” Kyden stood, removed his hand and glanced at Valor. “We will make this right.” Valor’s expression was fully desolate. “It will be a great cost to have Magnus release him.” “Whatever the cost,” Kyden assured him. “It is worth it.”

Zia rushed back in, breathless from having travelled to God knows where to contact the Underworld. I suspected there was a connection in the Earthworld somewhere. Maybe some freakish Goth club. “Magnus has agreed to meet,” she exhaled in a long breath. Talon and Kyden stepped forward, but Zia shook her head. “You are not to go.” Talon lunged forward, grasped her tight by the arms and pulled her toward him. “You will not be going there alone.” She cupped his cheek and smiled softly. “You’re right, I won’t be going.” Then, she looked at me. “Nexi will.” “Over my dead body,” Kyden roared. I gulped deeply. Haven rushed forward and wrapped herself around me. Obviously, she sensed my anxiety. Go to the Underworld, alone. A place where demons existed…over my dead body too. “This is Magnus’ request.” Zia looked about as happy as Kyden. “He has assured that she will be kept safe and returned home immediately after.” “No,” Kyden roared, grasped my arm and yanked me closer as if to glue me to his side. “Ouch,” I complained as Kyden’s grip dug into my arm, while Haven hugged my other one fiercely. “I haven’t left yet. Let go. The both of you. You’re hurting me.” Neither of them listened. “I am not happy about this either, but this is the only way to save Dante,” Zia spoke softly. “Kyden, if she does not go, we will have to kill him. Is this what you want?” Kyden’s eyes swept over Dante, a thousand conflicting emotions rushed along his face. “She will not go there alone.” Valor stayed quiet. The confusion gave his face a pained look. He was torn. Wanting to save Dante, but fearful of the risk to me if I went there. “Kyden is right,” Talon said fiercely. “She will not go there alone.” He moved in closer toward me too.

This was ridiculous. “Okay, everyone back off.” I ripped myself away from their arms and stepped away, tried to free myself from the claustrophobic state. I needed to think for a second. My gaze focused on Valor’s eyes. Memories of what he had done for me played instantly in my mind. If it hadn’t been for him, Kyden would be dead and so would I. That was as a fact. He would never ask this of me. Would never want to put me in a dangerous situation, but I had never asked him to help when he did, and he’d acted without hesitation. It was only right for me to do the same. “I’m going,” It took all of two seconds for my words to have the appropriate effect. Instantly, Haven, Kyden and Talon surrounded me, all of them yelling at me. “It is the right thing to do,” I looked over Haven’s shoulder, to meet Zia’s gaze. She looked beyond worried, very unsure, but agreeable. “It is the only way. I am not thrilled with you having to go there, but Magnus gave his word. You will be kept safe.” “And you trust his word?” She shrugged. “In this regard, I do. He is a leader first and foremost. We have an allegiance with the Underworld. He will not break this.” The yelling continued. “This is crazy, Nexi. Crazy. What are you thinking?” Haven screamed. “You will not be going,” Kyden roared. Talon just seemed to be screaming obscenities. Even Willow, who I didn’t know was here, added her thoughts. “They are right, you idiot. I cannot protect you there. I cannot gain access to the Underworld.” I sighed, choosing to ignore them and glanced back to Zia. “I’m a little worried about what he’ll want me to do for him once I get there.” “It concerns me as well, but his request cannot be that you join him. You would have to accept the role of Siren that he has offered you in his guard of your own free will. If he forced you, we would know, therefore creating a war. He wouldn’t do this. It is to your advantage that Magnus wants you in his realm. It will keep you safe from any harm of others. Plus, you are very strong, Nexi. I do not doubt

your ability in any regard. Your shield will keep you safe. Remember, whatever he asks of you, think cautiously when you are deciding. Never doubt Magnus for a moment. He will trick you.” “He’s a sneaky bastard—got it.” I glanced back to the three screaming idiots. “Stop it,” I yelled at them. They quieted instantly, though Kyden still looked ready to rumble. “This is the only way to help Dante. What do you want me to do?” Valor approached me, the raw emotions on his face completely exposed. “I know why you are choosing to do this, but you do not owe me. What Magnus wants of you cannot be worth Dante’s life—no matter how much I might want to save it.” I sighed, ignoring him too and raised my gaze to Kyden. “I’m going.” “No,” Kyden’s voice was a fierce and scary thing. “You are not.” Haven started crying. “It’s not safe. I’m sorry, Valor. I know this will mean the death of Dante, but Magnus is the Lord of the Underworld. Who knows what he will want her to do.” “It’s fine.” I gave her arm a pat. “I’ll be fine.” Kyden crossed his arms. “No.” He was unwavering. “I’ll get in. Do whatever he wants and get out. It’s simple,” I reached up, touched Kyden’s tense arms. “No,” he growled. I lifted my chin, squared my shoulders, and nearly shouted, “Kyden, I’m going.” “I will not have this,” he roared, and suddenly exploded—spinning and punching the wall until it crumbled into pieces. His anger wafted from him. He would never let me do this. Too bad the choice didn’t belong to him. I could only hope that he’d forgive me for what I was about to do. I leaned up, kissed his sweet lips. “Nexi, if you go there…” His voice was so angry it came out as a whisper, his gaze burned with rage.

Slowly, I started backing away. Oh, there would be repercussions for this, that was a no brainer. It was hard enough for Kyden to let me go out with Zia. Having me go to the Underworld, and alone for that matter, we were about to have the fight. A fight that was inevitable. He wanted to protect me, and though I loved him for it, but this was my choice. If he couldn’t support me then he’d just have to deal with it. That was that! Haven was full out sobbing, now in Finn’s arms. Kyden slowly stepped forward. He knew what was coming and there was no way in hell he was about to let me leave. “Where do I go?” I asked Zia. “When you go into the portal, think of Magnus. He has provided an entryway for you to be drawn into the Underworld.” Two more steps passed beneath my feet before Kyden suddenly lunged forward, but I was ready. I spun away from his reach, almost drawing on my magic to trap him. The thought vanished immediately. After the stunt with Astoria, Kyden made me swear I would never hold him with magic again. I wouldn’t break my promise to him, but there was something else I could do. “Talon, grab him!” I shouted as I ran from the room. No matter how much I wanted to stay away from Magnus, and no matter how much fear was shaking every part of me, I had to go. I had to make this right for Valor. I heard a loud bang as Talon tackled Kyden to the ground. “Get the fuck off me,” he roared. “Nexi…” I ran hard, made it quickly to the Council’s Foyer, slammed into the door for the portal, and grabbed the handle quickly as Talon shouted for Kyden to relax. With a deep breath, I opened the door and instantly fell into a pit of darkness. The portal to the Otherworld was light, a bright flash. A Black Magic portal was hell, thick, a blackness that was bottomless, and eerie. I never felt alone when I was here. Damned souls seemed all around me. Thankfully, it only lasted a second, before I hit the ground hard. I groaned, reaching back to rub my throbbing butt. “The way you all travel sucks,” Magnus chuckled. “It takes time to get used to the power.”

I raised my head once again, a little taken aback at how normal he was. Very sleek indeed—his ripped body was decorated with a shiny pair of black dress slacks, and black dress shirt rolled up at the sleeves. The last time I’d seen him his black hair was slicked back—tonight it was nearly shaved to the scalp. He grinned, his light brown eyes softened instantly as his lips curved perfectly with pearly whites resting behind. This is the devil? Magnus waved out with his arm. “Welcome to the Underworld, Nexi.” A loud sharp bark of laughter escaped my mouth as I glanced out. “This is the Underworld?” I was expecting molten lava, not a gated community. “You’re kidding, right?” Magnus shook his head, appeared to enjoy my amusement. “I told you before we are not caged underground.” “Yeah, I remember that,” I grumbled. “I didn’t believe you.” Magnus held out his hand, offering it to me. “Come.” Being polite, I took his hand so he could help me to my feet, but I instantly released it—once again shocked at how warm he felt. I couldn’t sense an ounce of evil from him. As much as I tried to find a reason for that, I kept coming up blank. One after another, we passed mansions that were lavishly decorated to the hilt with manicured lawns and million-dollar landscaping. There weren’t streets or anything that resembled a civilized Earthworld neighborhood. It was all grass with houses scattered around, in no real sense of order. The lack of structure of it was unsettling for some reason. I couldn’t quite grasp why. It was just all types of wrong. Magnus led me up a hill that was just past one of the mansions. A person in the window of the house caught my eye. My eyes narrowed, looked closer and there was a human smiling at me. Huh? “Are there humans here?” I asked Magnus. “No.” He smiled. Confused, I looked back to the window. The person was gone. Creepy.

When we reached the top of the hill, a house stood before us, made of all glass. The entire inside was visible. There were three stories I could see from our angle. The living room on the bottom, kitchen on the second floor, and it looked like bedroom up above. “This is home.” Magnus nodded toward the house. I admired it in silence. No need to give a voice to how exquisite I thought the place was. Keeping this strictly business was ideal. Magnus opened the door, and the second we stepped through, darkness washed over every part of me. I shivered and froze. This sense of normalcy was an illusion. I had to remember that. He rested his hand on my lower back and gave me a little push forward. “You have the ability to sense dark beings. That is a gift not granted to many.” He examined me, looking a little awed. “You are safe here. I have given my word.” Trust the Lord of Hell. Yeah right! Down the hall to the right was the living room. Furnished with modern, sleek elements, everything was fresh and light. I laughed. The devil likes bright colors. Funny. Magnus arched a brow at me. “Something amuses you?” I shook my head before I walked over to the window and looked out to the Underworld. His home sat perfectly atop of the hill and it gave a full view of the world before me. At this elevation, I could see there was a pattern to the houses. It was a symbol―a pentagram. It was intricate, but it stood out to me, forced me to swallow back fear instantly. “Lord, can I offer the witch a beverage?” a voice said behind me. I jumped, startled, and spun around to see a lovely little thing smiling at me. She looked no older than twenty with long, honey wavy hair, skin like peaches and cream. If it wasn’t for her black eyes, she would have been your classic girl next door. There was a darkness to her eyes, though, that clearly made her anything but. “Demon, I take it?” I managed. She laughed, and it sounded sweet. Her gaze moved to Magnus who nodded. “That’s right,” she answered.

“But you look so human.” “We can take any form we choose. Magnus thought this form would comfort you. Do you like it?” She lit up, her smile looked every bit as sweet as a hot fudge sundae. I snorted loudly. “Yeah, if I didn’t know what lies within you.” Magnus chuckled. “Wine will do for now.” I didn’t take my eyes off the demon as she left. Like I said, normalcy was an illusion—I had to stay on my toes. Nothing would be as it seemed here. When she cleared the room and I found space to breathe, I asked Magnus, “Can you change forms?” “No.” His voice had deepened. “Do you not approve of my look?” I ran my gaze over him. He was pretty. “You look fine,” I said quickly, not wanting to give him the compliment, but not wanting to piss him off either. He winked at me. The demon came back in and handed me a glass of red wine. Hesitantly, I took it from her hand, being careful not touch her just in case she would possess me. The depths of her eyes made the need for alcohol quite appropriate. I desperately needed the help to relax and make it through this. I sniffed the wine—it smelled fine. My lips went around the glass and the warm liquid poured into my mouth. I almost sighed in pleasure. It was by far the best red wine I’d ever tasted. It wasn’t dry, but sweet. “Alright.” I glanced at Magnus over the rim of my glass. “What do you want in return for Dante’s soul?” He clucked at me, shaking his head. “So quick to start negotiations.” He waved me forward. “Please, come, sit.” “I’m fine where I am.” He nodded toward to the chair with a firm look. He wasn’t really giving me a choice. I grumbled something close to an obscenity in my head and went to join him. As I sat, he said, “I was glad to hear you made your way home to the Otherworld after our last visit.”

“Visit?” I repeated. “Encounter then. Does that suit you better?” I nodded. Hell would freeze over before I would call meeting with Magnus ‘a visit’. To me, I’d rather lose a finger or two then be here now. “The Patriarch came to you, did he not?” Magnus asked. “He did,” I responded hesitantly. There was something to his tone—calculating. “That joys me so. The Patriarch must have you in the highest regard to take such acts to ensure your safety.” “He is honorable, through and through.” Again, he seemed way too interested in what he was saying. A sparkle lit his eye that made me uneasy and sent goose-bumps dancing along my skin. Magnus’ smile was sly. “I thought you might feel that way about him.” With those words, the light dawned on where he was going with this. “You took Dante on purpose, didn’t you?” His smile grew. Shivers rattled my bones. I jumped to my feet, enraged. “Why did you do that? What has Valor done to you?” “It is not him I wanted—it was you.” My brows rose, I suspected my expression was as stunned as I felt inside. “Huh?” “I was informed of the current situation you find yourself in.” He took a sip of his wine, appearing completely at ease. “It was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.” Zia was right. He was one sneaky bastard. He’d get his horns and pitch fork in me any way he could. “Which leads us to what you want with me.” I snapped. His eyes burned, his lips formed a thin line. “I said we would not discuss that now.” For the briefest of moments, he couldn’t hide his power, and it had me sinking back in my chair. I bit back the fear, and tightened my shaky hands against the wine glass. “Fine.” I surprised myself, my voice sounded stronger than I felt. “What do you want talk about?”

The anger in his eyes diminished, his face settled back to one of interest. “Tell me a bit about yourself.” “Don’t you already know everything about me?” I retorted, surprised. “Yes I do, but…” his eyes focused on my mouth, “I want to hear it from your lips.” Then, his gaze slowly met mine. “I thought this could be a good time to get to know each other.” Get to know each other? Was he auditioning to be my new BFF? That was very unlikely. But what choice did I have? Just to get this over with I said, “Well, I was born…” Magnus sat in delight as I told him my entire life story. From my childhood, all the way up to my life in the Otherworld. He sat quietly, sipping his wine, and running his gaze over me as I continued with my stories. “That’s about it. That’s my story,” I was glad that was over. I made the stories quick and short, leaving out everything personal. It was the coldest version of my life. “Interesting. You have had one…” he winked, “hell of a life.” I snorted, huffed his words away. “My story is much simpler,” he said. “I was born within this realm and grew up to become the Lord I am now. Nothing of the exciting adventures you have had.” We sat quiet a moment since I could care less about his life to ask more about it. He examined me. I was bored with a slight edge of hysteria. Darkness weighed heavy in his home, which meant one thing, demons were here in abundance. Not a very settling thought. “Do you like it here?” he finally asked. “No,” I snapped. He grinned, even let out a little chuckle. “You answered that awfully quickly.” “There’s nothin’ to think about. Demons don’t do it for me.” He guffawed at that. “You are by far the most interesting creature I have ever met. You have no fear.” His brow arched slightly as he examined me further. “Why is that?”

This was an easy answer. “What’s to fear? You’ve promised I will be kept safe.” He stood from his chair, came over to me, placed his finger on my chin and tilted my head up to meet his eyes. “Like I said, interesting.” The look in his eye told me my suspicions of our last encounter were dead on. This wasn’t about joining his guard or my magical abilities. The whole you will be mine bit of nonsense was to be taken literally. He had an interest in me that was far from platonic. As much as I wanted to continue to ignore the situation, it suddenly became apparent that if I didn’t face this, it would never end. “Why are you looking at me like that?” I asked quickly so I wouldn’t chicken out. “You know why,” he purred. Yeah, I did. “I want clarification.” He stood, walked over to the window. “It is rare that anything intrigues me.” He glanced over his shoulder at me. “You intrigue me.” “I don’t want you and I never will. Get over it.” His eyes deepened with rage. Suddenly, I went flying back in my chair to hit the wall. I gasped loudly as my head smashed hard. Instantly, Magnus was there, lifting me to my feet by my throat. “It insults me how you dismiss me as if I am nothing,” he growled. He released me, but the darkness in his eyes never faded. “I respect you by treating you with such care and you treat me with such disrespect.” “This is treating me with care?” I asked, rubbing my throat. “You angered me. Do not do it again.” he stated as he ventured back over to the window. I coughed a little, trying to get feeling back. Spirit came up to assist me and sent a bit of healing my way. I stayed right where I was, a little nervous, a hell of a lot scared, and confused as to how to handle this situation. “What do you want of me?” I whispered. “I want all of you.” He turned around, and approached me again.

There was an immense pull to him. It was undeniable sex appeal, and it didn’t matter how much I loved Kyden, my body wanted to go to him. I forced my feet not to move, shook the need away, and chose my words carefully as not to upset him. “I’m already taken.” “For now…” “For always,” I growled a little. He caged me against the wall between his arms. “I admire your fierce nature. It appeals to me.” In a move quicker than I could anticipate, his lips captured mine. My entire body sank against him. His mouth held pure intensity and power as he worked his way into mine. It wasn’t even a question of denying him—I didn’t want to. Within minutes, I was cradled into his body, running my hands along his strong back as his lips moved deliciously over mine with his tongue teasing eagerly. Like a smack in the face, I woke up. What the hell was I doing? With as much force as I possessed, I pushed him away, gasping for breath. He smiled, his gaze connected with mine, and it sent shivers of something down my spine. “Why deny yourself? You enjoyed it.” “What trickery are you playing? What magic are you using?” I snapped. “I don’t want you.” He shook his head slowly as he stared at me intently. “No magic.” The look in his eye scared the living daylights out of me. He looked at me as if he just found the answer to something he had been long searching to find. Finally, he released a long, deep breath then waved his hand back to the couch. “Come sit. Let’s discuss the matter you have come here for.” The sudden change in his demeanor was far from settling. The intensity lighting Magnus’ eyes said one thing—his conquest of me was far from over. “You want the wolf’s soul back?” I nodded quickly, taking a seat. “That’s right, I do.” “You know you will owe me if I do this?” “Yeah I got that much.” I waved him on, eager to get on with this for some many reasons it was hard to count them. “Lay it on me. What’s the damage?”

His lips curved slightly. “There is a Warlock here in the Underworld. He is my only known threat.” Fear sliced through me, knowing exactly where he was going with this. He couldn’t be asking this of me. “After you kill him, I will release the wolf’s soul to you.” Yup, he asked it. I gulped deeply, and a couple more times after that. “If he is such a threat why don’t you just do it yourself?” He sighed, annoyed. “He is powerful. I…” he hesitated, looking not at all happy about it, “I am not strong enough to destroy him.” “And you think I am?” I questioned his mental state. Magnus was full of power, which was an undeniable truth. That he believed that I was stronger was ridiculous. His expression was as calculating as it was cold. “You can deflect his magic away. I do not hold that ability. You will succeed where I have failed.” I placed my hands on my forehead, then rubbed my temples. Holy fuck! “His name is Pye. He is an old Warlock that has long been after my position, and has been a constant enemy.” “And just how do you expect me to kill him?” “The plan is a simple one. Pye knows nothing of you—of your abilities. He will not be expecting you to kill him, which gives you the opportunity to take him by surprise.” This was insane. “Okay, come on, how do I get out of his home? I assume he has guards?” Magnus inclined his head. My stalling, plus my questions to get out of this had plummeted to zero. “You do realize this will probably kill me?” His smile was raw and scary. “This is what I ask of you. You want the wolf then you will do this tonight. I will set up another portal to send you to his home. I have already scheduled a meeting with him. Be ready in an hour.” Fucking fuck!

Chapter Nine

The journey back was as hard as the way in. My butt took a hard blow as I landed on the hard marble floors in the Council’s Foyer. As I walked back into the Council’s Hall, I rubbed the pain away with my hand. However, new pain of annoyance gripped me the moment I stepped into the room as Zia exclaimed, “He kissed you.” “Thanks a lot, Zia. Geesh! Not helping here,” I snapped. She smiled a very unforgiving grin. “It just took me by surprise is all.” Kyden stood against the wall, arms crossed, expression calm. Calm angry is much, much worse than raging mad. My gaze was drawn away from him when Haven rushed forward, and wrapped her arms around me. “I’ve been so worried about you.” She backed away. “He kissed you?” I sighed, my annoyance growing. It would have been nice to tell Kyden this myself, alone, when I could fully explain what happened. Hearing it the way he was now, wasn’t going to settle his mood any. “I stopped him and besides he was doing it just to goad me.” “What happened?” Zia asked. Quickly, I ran through the nights events, but stopped before I told them the job I had to do. “Did you know it looks like a gated community?” I asked Zia. Her eyes went wide, the blue seemed to grow lighter. “It what?” “You heard me right,” I retorted. “There were mansions spread out in a giant pentagram. Did you know it looked like that?” She shook her head, clearly shocked. “I have never been.” That surprised me. “Really?” “No one has. Magnus does not welcome others who don’t wish to live in his realm.” “So tell, tell, what is the job?” Haven asked, impatiently.

I grit my teeth, this was the part I dreaded and attempted to put off for as long as I could. “There is a Warlock in the Underworld Magnus wants me to destroy.” Zia gasped, her hands coming up to her chest. “That is what he wants of you?” I nodded grimly. “Someone named Pye.” Fear swept across Zia’s face as she took a giant step forward to reach out me. “By the Gods, he can’t expect this of you.” Her attempt stopped when Valor grabbed me by the arms and placed me directly in front of him. “You are not to do this. Dante wouldn’t want you to do this. Pye is a powerful Warlock who could very well kill you.” “What Dante wants isn’t really up for discussion now is it?” I commented. “When does he want you to do this?” Talon asked. My gaze met his, and I took a giant step back. Anger seeped off him with a pure need to keep me safe. My heart clenched a little knowing just how tight my and Talon’s relationship had become. As much as hearing words was nice sometimes, his reaction spoke volumes, and that only made me feel loved. “In an hour,” I said quietly. Without any warning, Kyden growled possessively and lunged forward, tore me from Valor’s arms and slammed me up against the wall. “Get the fuck out. All of you,” he roared. Shock ruminated on every face, including mine. Kyden has always been possessive, but this enraged tone was one that even I had never heard before. He was always put together, rarely wavered from his calm demeanor. “Kyden,” Talon said softly. Kyden turned and glared at him. “Get the fuck out.” Talon gave his son a concerned look, but nodded and followed the rest of them out. I held my breath, waiting for the storm to hit. Sure, I understood that I’d be facing his wrath when I returned, but truth be told, I wasn’t quite expecting this. His gaze turned back to mine, and I actually shrunk a little. He looked scary—damn scary.

“You are mine,” he growled. I chose to say nothing. “No one gets to kiss your lips. No one gets to drink your blood, and you do not get to fight others without me.” I waited, letting him get what he had to say out. If I said anything, I’d be a Nexi pancake. “You continue to not listen to me. You continue to act foolishly. Going off on your own, endangering yourself, and I am going to put an end to it.” I blinked. He leaned in. We were nose-to-nose. “You will not be going to do this.” “Kyden…” “No,” he roared, pushing against my arms to keep me immobile. “I made a promise to Drake to keep you safe, and by the Gods, I will keep it.” “I have to,” I whispered. “No. You. Do. Not,” he said through gritted teeth. “It’s Dante…” He slammed my shoulders hard against the wall as if to knock some sense into me. “I said you will not be going.” I sighed deeply. This was pointless. We’d just be running in circles with this conversation. Instead, I just stared at him. He held me tight against the wall, making it quite clear that if he wanted to stop me, he could. I didn’t doubt that. Half an hour passed and nothing had changed. He had me pinned, the fierceness in his eyes never faded. How could I get him to see reason? Urgh, I was coming up blank. He was scared for my life. Hell, I was scared for my life. This wasn’t a vampire I was going up against. This was a very powerful Warlock in the Underworld. He would never allow me to go. He couldn’t. It wasn’t in his nature to let me go off on my own and fight a battle without him. We would never agree. Many more minutes passed before the others sauntered back into the room. “We need to discuss this,” Talon said firmly. “Kyden, she cannot go in there blind.” Kyden’s gaze never left mine. His fierceness only grew as he began to accept that it didn’t matter what he said, what he did. I’d be going.

“You have to let go,” I whispered to him. “I can’t,” he said fiercely. Reaching up, I grabbed his hands and pried them off my shoulders. He was right. He couldn’t let go, couldn’t allow this, but what choice did he have? I wiggled out beneath him and made my way over to Talon, taking a quick glance back. Kyden had flopped back against the wall, definitely needing the support. Talon said, “What you need to know is that there will be many guards with Pye. As you said, Magnus got you a meeting alone with him. This will be an advantage for you. You will be able to kill Pye before the others will be aware.” “Yes,” Zia agreed. “Keep your Spirit strong with you. Protect yourself completely. He will have guards with him. These demons hold strong Black Magic, but your shield will guard you.” “Focus on Pye,” Talon added. “He will be your greatest target.” Zia took my hands, holding them securely in hers. “As much as I do not like this idea, you will need to use Black Magic in order to destroy him. Our White Magic will not compare to the force of Pye. This will be your only way. Draw on it instantly and use as much force as you can. He will come at you strong. Do you understand?” I nodded. Right about now, I was kissing the elements for gifting this to me. Without it, I’d be toast. “When will the other demons near him be notified?” I asked, curious just how much time I had to get out. “You will only have minutes before the others will come,” Zia continued. “So, you need to get out of there quickly. Keep your shield up strong and run back to the portal. The demons’ only defense will be to try to steal your soul. If your shield holds and blocks them then you will be able to make it out.” “So they cannot physically attack me?” I asked. Zia shook her head firmly. “No. They are demons. They have no physical strength. All their strength thrives from Black Magic. They will come at you hard. That is why you need to get out of there quickly. A few demons your shield can handle, but more than that, you will not be able to sustain your hold.” “Okay, so what about the guards he has with him?” I asked. “What do I do about them?”

“Do not worry about them. Once you have destroyed Pye, just get back here. They cannot cross over the dimensions without Magnus’ consent and I doubt he will give it to them.” She may have been sure about that, I wasn’t. “What will it be like? I mean with the demons.” I had to ask. Zia squeezed my hands tighter. “They are stealers of souls. Imagine that. Imagine how bad you think it will be, and then multiple it tenfold. It will be something like that.” I gulped deeply. Wonderful! Valor suddenly approached me, took my hands from Zia’s and raised them to his heart. “You don’t need to do this.” I smiled, stepped into him. “Let’s just move past all this, okay. I’m going. I know what it feels to lose ones you love. I don’t want you to feel that, Valor. I can help you and I’m going to. That’s the end of it.” “No. You do not owe me this debt.” “Everything will be fine. I’ll be fine.” Deep within me, I believed it. I had become strong—I didn’t doubt in my abilities. The demons were a little worrisome, but I would just do what Zia said. Kill Pye and get out. Simple right? Valor backed away very slowly. He didn’t want to let me go. He looked about as wound up as Kyden. I definitely had to make it through this or Valor was going to carry a heavy burden. The guilt in his eyes said one thing…he believed he was sending me off to my death. Well, my answer to that—I hadn’t been given this gift to sit on it. I had to do whatever I could. “I would go with you,” Zia said. “But I cannot get through the portal. Magnus will set it up for you alone.” “I know you would, Zia.” I lifted my chin and squared my shoulders. “Would you all stop looking as if I am about to die? Have some confidence! Geesh.” No one’s expressions changed. Surprisingly, Finn was the one who took me in his arms and hugged me tightly. Haven sobbed loudly behind him. “Do it quickly. We will wait here for you,” he said.

I smiled softly when he released me. “Get in and get out.” He nodded, encouragingly. “That’s right.” Haven abruptly lunged forward and yanked me into a fierce hug. “No, don’t go. I don’t want you to go. Don’t do this.” “Me neither,” Willow’s voice was sad at my feet. I hushed Haven, patted her back, then glanced down at Willow. “I will be fine. I have my shield to protect me. If Magnus thought this was going to kill me he wouldn’t have me do this.” Why I believed that beyond a doubt was a bizarre thing, but for some reason, I knew he wouldn’t endanger my life. “He thinks I can defeat Pye, so you all should too. I will be back before you know it.” Haven clenched me tighter. I sighed and reached up to pull her arms away. Putting them in this position, sucked—the next hour was going to be taxing for them. I reached down and gave Willow a little pat before I moved on. Kyden stood off to the side. His glare burned the back of my head. He was holding on by a very thin thread. I glanced toward him. His fierce expression remained intact. I slowly walked toward him. When I reached his side, he was stiff as a board. Every muscle clenched, every vein in his body bulged, and his knuckles were stone white. I raised my hands to his chest and just rested them there. He trembled beneath me. There was only one thing to do. Words could not properly explain why I needed to do this for Valor. I opened my connection with Spirit and let through every single memory I had of what it felt like when I lost my family. Every emotion I suffered―the loss, depression, the deep heartbreak. When the visions stopped, I opened my eyes. Kyden’s head was bowed. He quickly pulled me into him, hugged me with every ounce of strength and love he had. “That’s why,” I whispered. He leaned back and looked down to me. No words needed to be said. He finally understood why I couldn’t let that happen to Valor, why I needed to do this. He also saw that I wanted him to trust me and support me. He simply had to be there for me. It softened him a smidgen. His eyes bore into mine as he shared my soul. Saw my world as it once was, saw my pain exposed and raw. He saw exactly what I desperately needed from him.

“Come back to me, Álainn,” he whispered, then his lips met mine. Then, I left, walked toward the darkest place I’d ever gone. Alone. **** When I connected with hard ground, I gasped in pain then raised my head to see one of Hugh Hefner’s playboy bunnies. At least, that’s what she looked like, but I knew better. She was a demon. “Pye will see you now,” she said, and began walking toward a large mansion. I got to my feet and ran a little to catch up with her. We were approaching a gate that led into a large, ranch-style mansion. Neatly trimmed bushes that were more art than plants decorated the grounds as a huge stone fountain flowed water over a beautiful woman. She opened the front door, we stepped through and my breath was immediately lost as evil surrounded me. Oh yeah, he had guards―apparently lots of them. I could only hope they were on another floor to give me time for my escape. The demon led me down the hall, turned into a large sitting room and motioned for me to sit on a chair. “Wait here.” Too nervous to sit, I glanced around. It was a normal rich person’s sitting room—expensive with all the trimmings. I quickly drew on Spirit, held my shield firm around me for the added security and to settle my nerves just as the little playboy bunny stepped back into the room. “Pye requests your presence. Come with me,” she ordered. Following behind her, she headed toward the back of the house where a door sat. The closer we got the more evil crept through. I sucked in a deep breath, trying to keep the nerves at bay. I got the sinking suspicion that there were far more demons in this house than expected and far more than I first thought. Once at the door, she stopped, then opened it and we stepped through. Fuck! Magnus didn’t know what he was talking about, or maybe he did. Why I believed what he told me was just plain stupid on my part. I wasn’t going to have a private meeting with Pye—the twenty demons surrounding him made that pretty obvious. “Come forward,” Pye demanded.

I pushed back my fear, knowing the demons in this room could feel it. Obviously, the plan had changed. I couldn’t help but wonder how the hell I was going to get out of this. Zia said I wouldn’t be able to handle too many demons for long. But what could I do? If I didn’t destroy Pye, Dante would be gone forever. It was too late to turn back now anyway. I had no other reason for coming here. What could I say, that I just wanted to stop by for a tea? Just because the situation changed didn’t mean I had a choice in this. My only hope was that I could kill Pye fast enough to get the hell out. Just as I was about to draw on my magic a woman suddenly stepped away from the crowd. “What the fuck?” I growled. “Nexi, my darling,” Tyrianna hummed. “Is this some sick joke?” I managed. I met her gaze and knew instantly that it was. Her eyes were shadowed, dark—nothing of the wonderful witch lived in there. This wasn’t her. Another thing Magnus wasn’t truthful about, Pye knew enough about me to know the look of my mother. “We thought it would comfort you,” Tyrianna the demon said. “Well it doesn’t. So, fucking stop it,” I spat. The demon shimmered and returned to her normal form. I exhaled with a clenched heart. Seeing my mother, no matter how she was depicted, still affected me. “Just trying to make you more comfortable,” Pye said. “Now then, tell me what business someone of the Otherworld has with me.” He was sitting in a throne chair and resembled a Greek God. Short blond curly hair, perfect cream-colored skin—all he needed was the toga. After that little escapade, this was going to be easier than I thought. Now, I was mad, and that anger pointed to only one place—Pye. “I would just like to say that this isn’t personal,” I said, and prepared myself. Pye’s brows rose. “What isn’t personal?” “This gift from Magnus,” I growled, and with as much power I had in me, I blasted him with fire. It flew toward him, but before it hit, one of Pye’s demons jumped in front of him and it burned the demon into black smoke. Dammit!

Immediately, Pye jumped to his feet and blasted me with his magic. It hit my shield and it was heavy with darkness. This was nothing like the Black Magic I’d experienced before. This was pure evil and unbelievably strong. I kept my shield up strong against it. Poured everything I had into Spirit, prayed it would hold tight. To make matters worse, the demons had shifted back into the original shape of black figures that flew through the air to surround me. Trying to invade me, but my shield wouldn’t allow it. Darkness engulfed me—the demons slid along my hold, trying to find a way in. Quickly, I focused on Pye and waited for him to throw more magic at me. Seconds later, he did. When it blasted me, I opened myself up, allowed it to enter my being. Allowed the dark force to become part of me and gave me a strength that was unrestrained. My blood ran black, my eyes shadowed with black as I returned his magic to him. It came out in something I’d never experienced. The Black Magic before was still elemental. Pye’s wasn’t. It was energy. It didn’t come out as Air or Fire. It came out as a rippling wave that sped back to him. It felt good. I felt strong and unstoppable. Pye’s screams echoed through the large room as I continued with my assault, used all his dark power to finish him. His magic came back to me again as he gave a final push to save his life, but the darkness that invaded me made my shield thick, unbreakable. The second it hit, it rebounded and flew back to Pye. He blew up into a thousand pieces leaving nothing but particles of the Warlock he once was. The demons screamed around me as their leader was now destroyed. They grew in stronger around me. Darkness hit everything. The air was thick as my vision blurred with blackness. I drew in harder and screamed out with pure vengeance as the demons screeched a loud, high-piercing noise that dropped me to my knees, forced me to cover my ears. They were everywhere. Fury consumed them as they searched their way through my shield. There was no way out of this. Their screams forced me immobile. I couldn’t move, run or destroy them. I was unable to get a hold on them or pinpoint their location in order to end this. There were enough of my senses left to feel a harsh wind blow around me. The demons’ screams grew louder. I curled around myself, tried to shield the noise as their intense roars came at me from every side. Abruptly, they left my shield and flew around the room. Something was happening. The demons weren’t focused on me anymore. Their attention was elsewhere, but their screams made it impossible for me to move or look at what had captured their focus.

The release of their darkness from my shield was a much-needed relief. It provided me strength to revive myself. However, with the distraction of the demons gone, the darkness of the Black Magic within me sank in deeper, eager to take over my soul. With all the goodness that lived within me, I fought against it, but I was losing. My soul couldn’t fight against the strength of Pye’s darkness. It wanted to consume me, wanted to take me. I wanted it too. It felt rich and powerful. Momentarily, I imagined everything I could do with it, all that it offered me. I couldn’t deny it any longer. I craved to keep it. To hold the power to stop anyone or anything that stood in my way. Suddenly, sense slowly returned, everything quieted and the darkness slowly withdrew. My soul was returning. The evil that ran through my blood began to subside. I was left lying, gasping and panting on the floor. When I opened my eyes, Magnus was kneeling beside me, his hand on my stomach. “What?” I gasped. Confusion filled every part of me. Magnus smiled gloriously. “Job well done.” He assisted me, holding onto my arms, bringing me up to a sitting position. The room was empty of the demons that were here before, but now it was full with other ones. “What happened?” I had to ask it. The demon I had met at Magnus’ stepped forward. “You think we would not assist you?” she said snippily. I laughed. It was all I could do. “I wasn’t really counting on it.” The room erupted into loud laughter, the weirdness of this situation just got stranger. Hearing demons laugh so sweetly is far from normal. “Pye was our biggest threat.” She smiled. “Once he was out of the way we took care of the others.” “You killed the demons for me?” I asked, shocked. Her smile grew. “Makes you like us, doesn’t it?” “This…” I gave my head a shake. “I…” I shook my head again, and glanced at Magnus. “You helped me?”

“They would have been a continuing threat if they had not been destroyed. You never asked if I planned to assist you. It was my intention all along to give you aid once Pye was destroyed.” “So, you knew it wasn’t a private meeting?” I ground out between clenched teeth. “I am the Lord of Underworld,” he said without remorse. “I do what I have to to get what I want. If you knew, you never would have agreed.” Wasn’t that the truth. I sighed, deep and long. “I’m tired.” And I really was. I tried to give myself a little healing, but it only came out in little flickers. I didn’t have enough to fully revive me. Magnus ran his hand across my face. “You are incredible,” he whispered. I sighed deeper. “Not this again. If you even think of kissing me, I’ll find it in me somewhere to punch you. Got it?” He laughed boisterously and the demons followed suit. “You don’t have the strength to give me the kiss I deserve. That will come later.” I ignored that comment, wanting nothing more than just to get the hell out of there. “So, you are going to return Dante’s soul, right?” He nodded, before lifting me into his arms. “It has already been done.” He began to walk out of the room. Apparently, he was allowing me to go home. Being in his arms felt all too weird but I took it as an immediate invitation. With the only power I had left in me, I read into him. He smiled down at me, knowing what I was doing, but didn’t stop me. He opened himself up so I could understand his world. The visions came quick. What I saw was far from what I expected. Magnus was a leader and this was just his world to protect. Demons were indeed soul-takers, but it wasn’t innocent souls they were taking. The souls they took were ones given freely by humans who wanted something in return. He never used the Black Magic against others to hurt them, nor did he push others to do so. He wasn’t looking to kill, only to keep his world alive. Human souls are what fed their magic. The choice was the only one. It was definitely a rude awakening. I misunderstood the evil that dwelled here. Black Magic was from a dark source—that was undeniable—but it was just another source. Did it turn some to evil? Of course it did, but there was evil that came from the Otherworld too.

Was it something to fear? Absolutely, but not all who held this magic was out to kill. They were doing what they needed for survival. Did Magnus stop evil ones from taking innocent souls? No. To him it gave his world strength. That is where the Underworld differed from the Otherworld. We stopped evil from consuming the Earthworld. The Underworld didn’t. Just because I understood it more didn’t mean it still didn’t scare the crap out of me, and made me damn glad that I wasn’t going to be a part of it. When the visions stopped, a thought occurred to me. “Why did you draw the darkness from me?” He was the reason I didn’t succumb to it, his hand on my stomach was the connection needed to draw it away. “You could have just let it take me and kept me here in this realm.” His gave a clever smile. “Time will soon answer that question.”

Chapter Ten

When I landed back in Foyer, strong arms scooped me up immediately before I could even hit the ground. “Zia,” Talon shouted. A second later, she was there, reaching out and gave me an oomph of healing. Two breaths passed before I felt brand new again. Lord did it feel good. Having your magic drained is the equivalent to having the swine flu—horrible all around. Willow’s rough tongue met my hand. “I’m glad to see you in one piece, but it was a stupid move. Very, very stupid.” I smiled at her and patted her head. “It was a close one, that’s for damn sure.” She nodded and purred into my embrace. My gaze left hers as a body knelt down in front of me. I glanced up. Dante wore an expression of immense gratitude. “I owe you my life. What you did…” he smiled, “…was brave.” “It wasn’t brave.” I shook my head. “It was right.”

Valor joined Dante then leaned in and kissed both my cheeks. “Consider your debt repaid. You are never to feel it necessary to do that again. Understood?” I laughed, relieved that this night was over and my job was done. “Let’s hope we don’t have to do anything like that again.” Zia reached down, placed her hand on my shoulder as she read my mind. Only a minute later, she gasped, appearing utterly floored. “Magnus helped you?” “He did,” I replied. “Why?” Zade looked about as surprised as anyone. I shrugged deeply, unsure of that answer myself. “I’m just glad he did. I wouldn’t have survived that if he didn’t.” I gave myself a good shake. “Demons are nasty things.” Everyone laughed. “That is unheard of,” Brax said while he examined me with interest. “What does he want?” Magnus’ gift to me wasn’t without consequences. The slimy bastard would always want something in return. My gaze scanned every face here. I realized someone was missing. “Who knows? He said nothing and I never asked.” “Where’s Kyden?” I asked Zia. “He’s in the garden. He was having some trouble waiting for you to return,” she nodded toward the wall. It had been pummeled into pieces. I stood swiftly. “I have to go find Kyden.” “Wait,” Talon said quickly. “You need to tell us what happened.” I chuckled, reached out to him and replayed the events in his mind. When it stopped, he stood there stunned. “You tell them.” I smiled, and started walking away. Haven stepped forward and wrapped me in a warm hug. “I don’t have to tell you not to do that again, right?”

I patted her back, then laughed. “Nope. Heard loud and clear.” I gave everyone a little wave, heading out of the castle, walked quickly toward the garden. Think botanical gardens, but better. I followed the rock path quickly as it weaved its way along the garden and halfway in, Kyden sat on the ground next to the pond. When I got close enough to him, I knelt down, wrapped myself around his back. He reached up and grabbed my arms, hugging me tightly. “You’re home,” he whispered. I squeezed tighter. “I’m home.” He pulled me over his side so I was sitting on his lap, took my hands in his and sighed deeply when his gaze met mine. We sat there a moment just staring at each other. “I have never stopped wanting to be a Guardian,” he finally said. “Never stopped wanting to live in the Otherworld until this very moment.” “Kyden…” I whispered. “It drives me to a place of near insanity knowing that you are in danger. Every part of me wants to keep you here, safe in my arms.” “I know you do. I wish I could stay here too, but I can’t. This is what we’re left with. This is our life.” He looked down to our joined hands, then slowly raised his eyes to mine. “It doesn’t have to be our life.” That was completely unexpected. “You want to leave the Otherworld?” “I want you to be safe.” “Give me some credit. I made it through tonight.” There was no need to tell him just how close I came to not making it. Some things were better left unsaid. He shook his head and concern masked his face. “I do believe in you. If I didn’t, Álainn, you would not have gone tonight. I would have chained you to a chair if I thought you couldn’t handle yourself. It is not that which troubles me.” He sighed deeply again, sounding utterly spent. “It is that I am not with you. I should be with you—always.” He released one of my hands and brushed my hair behind my ear. “You have always believed that my possession of you is a natural trait. It isn’t so. It is that I love you so undeniably, that it pains me that you are in any sort of danger. This is not the life I

would wish for you. Then, on top of you being in danger, I cannot be there to protect you as I should be.” “But you can’t be. It’s not safe for you and never will be.” I equaled his sigh. “I need you to be behind me—I need your support. You’re always right with me in my heart. I’m never battling alone since I have you there.” I leaned in, and kissed his lips. “And we cannot leave the Otherworld, Kyden. They need us.” “I don’t care what others need of us,” he ground out. “My only thoughts are of you.” “Kyden…” I began. Shocking me completely, he rested his hand against my stomach. “One day I want my youngling to rest in here,” he said softly, a dream of the future laying in his eyes. “And I fear that will never happen if we stay here.” My heart clenched a little. We have never discussed a family. I put my hand over his, held him as close as I could. “I want that too, but what would the world be if we don’t stay to make it a better place. What world would we be bringing that youngling into?” He rested his forehead against mine. I wrapped my arms around him. Nothing needed to be said. We both knew how true my words were. No matter how much Kyden might wish our life was different—safer—we couldn’t leave. This was our life. No matter how dangerous it was. It was ours. “Come on you two,” Talon called to us in the distance. I glanced over my shoulder, then met Kyden’s gaze again. “We have to go,” I whispered. Just because this event with Magnus was over, didn’t mean our problems were. There was still the whole situation with the Black Witches that needed dealing with. He nodded, stood, then helped me to my feet. “What’s up?” he asked Talon as we approached him. “I got in touch with the FBI,” The FBI? Kyden laughed softly as I glanced up at him in blatant confusion. “Remember, Supes are infiltrated in all high levels of government.” “Just how high?” I asked, suspiciously.

He winked. “As high as it goes.” I suddenly had an urge to take a little trip to the White House just to see if the President of the United States was indeed human. Actually, now thinking of it, it wouldn’t surprise me in the least. Lately, anything shocking was normally supernatural related. Hurriedly, I followed Talon and Kyden through the grounds of the Otherworld and back into the castle. The moment we stepped through the Council’s Hall, Haven bounced over. “Yikes, that was emotional.” “You betcha.” The whole conversation with Kyden stirred many emotions. My gaze then lingered to the vampire talking with Zia. She was one tough chick—exactly what you would expect to see involved with the FBI. Her long black hair was pulled back into a long ponytail, and her suit looked designer. She had the body of an all-American athlete, but the face of a Victoria Secret model. “Nexi, this is Hadley,” Zia introduced. I reached my hand out and she shook it. “Hi.” “Pleasure is mine,” Hadley responded. “You have become a conversational piece within the Bureau.” “Yeah, I tend to do that,” I admitted, not too happily. Kyden laughed, giving me a little smack on the ass then looked to Hadley. “Are you doing well, Hadley?” She gave him a smile that was pure sexual. “I am.” I glanced between them, instantly annoyed. They had slept together. It was written all over her face. Kyden, of course was unreadable, but a hint of amusement lifted the corners of his mouth. He knew that I knew. I sighed deeply, not wanting to let my jealous radar creep up any higher. “Moving on.” Kyden gave me a wink.

I shot him a dirty look. “Tell us what you know,” Talon said to Hadley. “A week ago, a couple new recruits joined the Bureau and told us of murders that had happened in their jurisdiction. After a bit of digging, we discovered numerous murders with the exact same M.O. have taken place within the United States.” “How bad is it?” Talon asked. She gave him a knowing look. “As bad as it gets. Once we started connecting them together, the number of killings is a staggering amount.” “Why didn’t we know about it?” I piped up, asking the obvious question. If a supernatural creature killed a human, the Council should have known it immediately. “In many of the cases, it appeared that either an animal did it or it was committed by a human,” Hadley said. “Now we know different, of course.” This just confused me. One case I could see being overlooked, but a staggering number… It seemed odd, but I kept any questions to myself. There was no need to look stupid in front of one of Kyden’s ex-lovers. “What have you discovered so far?” Kyden asked. She glanced at him, her eyes twinkling. “We have our files at the Bureau. I suggest you come and have a look at them. It may help you here, and whatever helps you, helps us. We have come to a dead halt on these cases.” “Are we allowed to come to the FBI?” I asked. “I mean come on, it’s the FBI for frig sakes. I doubt we’re allowed to just walk in.” Hadley nodded with a grin. “I have passes for four of you to join me, and Caliana has helped with regards to the humans and assures me that we will not have a problem once you are there.” “Caliana?” I repeated. Kyden arched a brow. “She’s a vampire.” “Oh, right.” I gave my hand a wave. “The whole glamour thingy-mi-jiggy.” “Yes, the glamour thingy-mi-jiggy.” Hadley laughed.

I noticed she wasn’t looking at me. Her eyes were quickly scanning Kyden’s body—slowly ran over every curve of his muscles. My teeth ground together and my muscles flexed with jealously. “Ahem,” I said loudly. She met my gaze, and the desire running through her eyes was fierce. “Yes,” she purred. “Please keep your mouth shut,” Zia said sternly. Okay so maybe I put my foot in my mouth a few times and Zia knew it. Resolved, I swallowed back my remark and looked at Kyden, who had a barely contained smirk on his face. I quickly punched his arm. “It’s not funny.” He laughed loudly and flinched. “Oh, but I think it is.” Hadley looked confused. “Sorry, have I missed something?” I shook my head, sighing deeply. “No, nothing. Please continue.” She studied me, then her eyes widened with understanding. “Are you two together?” Kyden nodded. I remained silent, afraid if I did anything, Zia was going to be very unhappy with me. “I hadn’t heard,” Hadley said. Then, surprising me, she took my hand in hers. “I apologize. If I had known then I would have kept my eyes to myself.” She glanced at Kyden. “One has finally stolen your heart. I never thought I’d see the day.” Her gaze met mine again as she smiled softly. “I meant no disrespect.” My smile in return was unencumbered. It was nice to finally meet someone from Kyden’s past that wasn’t a complete bitch and didn’t rub it in my face that they had been together. “It’s fine. Sorry, I…” She raised her hand to stop me. “Think nothing of it. I would do the same. Trust me.” “Can we go?” Ryker grumbled off to the side. “I am about to be sick.” Ryker’s your G.I. Joe type, rockin’ bod, handsome face. To me, though, he was just Ryker. A tough-ass Guardian. Apparently, now that this situation had upped the ante, Talon felt the need to bring Ryker onboard to help. Fine with me! The more help, the better.

“Ryker!” Hadley exclaimed, her face lighting up. Obviously, Kyden wasn’t the only one Hadley had a fancy for. Ryker pushed forward and stopped just a few inches away from her. “Been a while, Hadley. You are looking…” his gaze lingered on her body, “…well.” She laughed flirtatiously. “Working for the FBI is a cushy job. It leaves the body in good form.” “That it does,” he purred. Now I was on the verge of being sick. “Okay, let’s go.” “I’m going with you,” Ryker said, staring heavily at Hadley. “I will join you also,” Zia added. “You all need to change. You can’t go in looking like that,” Hadley told us firmly. “What? You mean walking into the FBI half naked is inappropriate?” I said sarcastically. She laughed and gave me a knowing look. “Nexi, if you walked in looking like that, I am pretty sure Kyden here would see just how lucky he really is, he’d spend an hour fighting off half our squad.” **** When thinking of the FBI, I think scary, dangerous. Not, your everyday white-collar business suits. Not that the building didn’t look fantastic sitting along America’s Main Street—it did. It was just your typical commercial building. The only thing that made it awe-inspiring at all was its sheer size. We think supernaturals are a problem—the fact that a government needs a building of this magnitude to control their criminals is mindboggling. “This is the J. Edgar Hoover building?” I asked, staring at a large cement building with hundreds upon hundreds of windows. “You were expecting something different?” Hadley asked, a hint of amusement lit her tone. “Actually, yeah. Considering what goes on here, I was expecting something a little more brilliant.” “It does the job.” Then, she stopped walking. “I almost forgot. Here put these on,” she handed us name badges.

Immediately, I burst into laughter. The card was obviously from the CIA. Just the thought of me being in the CIA was way too funny to keep in. I clipped it to my pantsuit and followed behind the others as they started forward, but I had to say, “Nice to meet you, Special Agent Mueller,” I laughed reading the name on Kyden’s card. He smirked in return. We made our way into the front entrance. Hadley passed the guard sitting at the table and gave him a little wave. He gave a firm nod back, then approached us, eyeing our identification badges. He logged them into his computer and waved us on. All business here—that was evident immediately. We approached the elevator. Hadley hit the up button and a moment later, the doors opened and we stepped in. The doors closed behind us, Hadley pressed ten, the elevator shot straight up, and my stomach leapt with it. When the doors chimed open, a sign, which read, Criminal Investigation Department was on a large glass wall. “Hadley,” a man said as he moved toward us. He was just a man—no supernatural here. “I have readied the files in my office for you.” “Thanks, Mike,” Hadley replied. She glanced back to me as we walked by. “That is the Special Agent in Charge of the Criminal Investigation Department.” “Are you telling me that the vampire used glamour on every single agent here?” She nodded, and smiled. “They think you are from the CIA following up on this case.” The thought made me feel mildly corrupt, so I chose not to make eye contact with them. It felt a bit wrong knowing they’d all been mind-warped. We entered the office, and Hadley closed the door behind us. There were more than ten boxes lining the wall. “Christ. These are the cases?” I gasped. She nodded grimly. “It’s a big case. I’ll go get us some coffee,” she replied before she left the room. “This is going to take a while,” I grumbled at Zia. She eyed the boxes with annoyance. “Let’s get started.” We each took a box and got to work. The first file I pulled out was of a brutal killing in Louisiana. A woman mauled to death, in what they thought was a bear attack. The second I looked at the picture

my stomach turned. There was barely anything left of her. She resembled nothing of the pretty picture I had seen of her when I first opened the file. “Here,” Hadley said, drawing my gaze to her as she returned. She handed me a cup of steaming hot coffee. It’d been some time since I had coffee. Now, having my magic abilities to give me a boost, coffee was a thing of the past. When the smell hit my nose, I moaned in utter bliss. When I lifted the cup to my mouth and drank down the delicious aroma, I groaned deeply. The room erupted in laughter. I glanced over the rim of my cup to see everyone watching my intense pleasure. I smirked at them. “You forget the finer things when you haven’t had them for a while.” Kyden winked, then dug back into his box. I put the cup down, and lifted out another file. This one was in Montana. The woman had been killed in a manner very similar to the last. A college grad abducted. After a long search, her body was discovered in the bush brutally ripped to shreds and declared a homicide. With little evidence, and no leads, the case was closed. Case after case, all similar situations—young women taken, brutally murdered. “I don’t get it. How do you know these were wolf killings?” I asked Hadley. She lifted her head from the file she was buried in. “Call it a hunch.” “A hunch, huh?” She nodded. “When I started looking back at unsolved murders, I began to find a connection between them all. All the young women were killed so brutally.” “Yeah, I see that,” File after file that was the method of death. Very little remained of them. “I’m confused.” I said, looking back at the file. “I thought the Council was always contacted when a wolf kills?” Needing my earlier question answered, I no longer cared if I was going to look silly. I needed to understand this better. “They are,” Hadley answered, drawing my gaze back to her. “But that is what is so unusual with these cases. There was no evidence of a wolf doing this.” “Ahh…sorry, but someone’s throat missing is a pretty clear indicator,” I remarked.

“You would think so, but that is not how we do things.” I glanced at Kyden. “It’s not?” He shook his head. “The Detectives will only contact the Council if there is a lingering scent at the scene.” “Oh,” I said, my mind made quick work of absorbing that information. “I hadn’t thought of that. I figured in vamp cases the fang marks were a pretty clear indicator.” He nodded, being patient as he always was. “Of course, those cases are easier to determine, but without the assistance of Haven or Zia, wolf cases are discovered only by the scent left there.” “Even if their throat is ripped out like this? How could you come to any other assumption?” “You can never make assumptions,” Hadley interjected. “You have no idea what humans are capable of.” I snorted softly. “I guess I don’t.” I glanced back at the file in my hand. “So, wolves are hiding their scent?” I commented. “Exactly,” Hadley said. “It took some time to put this all together. It wasn’t until we started poking around did the fact that wolves were involved in this emerged. The coincidences between the cases were just too high. Then, when Talon contacted me, I knew we were on the right track. The biggest concern is just how the wolves are doing this.” “Anything is possible when using Black Magic,” Zia stated. “But the question still remains—why are witches getting the wolves to do this? What have these humans done to deserve such a horrible fate?” “There must be a connection between them,” Kyden said, rummaging through his file. “We’re just not seeing it.” Then a light bulb went off in my dense head. It would happen sometimes―when my mind put pieces of a puzzle together―not often, but on a few occasions. “Hadley, do you know if the girls were raped?” “Couldn’t say. There have been five cases of young women in the past week. We never did a rape kit on them since there wasn’t much of their bodies remaining.” “What are you thinking?” Kyden asked, intrigued.

“I don’t know. I was just wondering if the cases were the same as Rynn’s attack. If there is a connection, a similar story.” I pulled the first box over again. “The odd thing is that Rynn survived.” Kyden arched a brow at me. “Good thing she did.” I waved it away, knowing his misunderstood me. “No, I know it is a good thing, but why? All of these women were basically eaten. Rynn was bit, yes, but she survived. He didn’t destroy her completely.” “She does make a good point,” Ryker added. “If all these cases were so similar why did Rynn’s attack veer away from that?” “Could it be another change in the pattern of attack?” Zia said, but it was clear she was thinking aloud. Hadley looked shocked, her eyes wide with excitement. “This girl survived the attack?” “Indeed she did. The Patriarch is looking after her as is his Beta.” “Did you talk with her?” “No,” Kyden replied. “Hmm…maybe I should pay her a visit,” Hadley said. “Oh, no you don’t,” I said quickly. Hadley snapped her head toward me. “That wolf has been through enough. Having someone from the FBI come in and interrogate her is the last thing she needs.” Hadley looked about to speak, but, I continued. “Besides, what can it help? Even if we knew more about the wolf who attacked her, it isn’t going to help any. It’s like finding a needle in a haystack. Our best bet is these files. A name, a witness, anything that gives us a lead.” With that, Hadley resigned and we all dug back into our files, searching, hunting for anything to solve this mystery. After another five hours of receiving endless paper cuts and drinking enough coffee to give me the jitters, I was pretty much at the same point I started with. Nothing really connected. Yes, all the crimes were very similar, but that was about it. No names, no witnesses—nothing. Zia sighed deeply. “This is far worse than I imagined.” She looked around the room at the boxes. “All the cases I have seen have the same M.O. Young women killed for no apparent reason. No evidence, no contacts, simply cold cases.”

Kyden sighed, and threw his file back into the box. “I have nothing here.” “Me neither,” Ryken commented. “All my cases run exactly along the same lines.” I sighed. “All young women—brutally murdered.” I started putting the files back into the box. “What do we do now?” I asked Zia when I was through. Her gaze met mine, worry etched across her face. “I am not sure. Even if we captured a wolf, they would not be able to tell us anything about who is behind this and why. You have seen them. I doubt they will be eager for conversation.” Kyden added, “Which brings a question to mind about who these witches are and why did they choose Dante to be turned to the darkness? He has authority. It was a risk to take him. Seems odd that whoever is behind this would go after such a powerful wolf.” “Oh, I know the answer to that,” I said, hastily. “Magnus took Dante to get to me.” Kyden’s face darkened. “Did he now?” “You got it. He knew of my relationship to Valor. And because he needed to use my magical abilities to get rid of Pye, he used it to his advantage.” “Pye?” Hadley looked interested at the mention of his name. Ryker smiled, and nodded toward me. “She took him out.” He appeared oddly proud. Once he gave up on annoying the hell out of me, or Kyden, with his charming attempts, we had actually become friends. Ryker was a lot like Kyden—hence why the two of them had a hard time getting along. They were too much alike, but with my helping hand, their relationship was slowly improving. Hadley looked stunned, shocked, scared—any of those s words fit the bill. I waved away her expression before she asked any of the questions I could see were running through her mind. “This is old news and I really don’t want to relive it.” Zia’s sudden gasp startled me. When I met her gaze, her eyes were wide full of comprehension. “If Magnus gave up Dante’s name,” her words came in rapid speed, “then he knows who is behind this.”

Christ! I hadn’t put two and two together. “You’re right.” I smacked my head. “With all that happened I just never thought about it. Do you think he is involved somehow?” Zia shook her head. “No. Magnus wouldn’t bother with such things.” “But his followers would,” Kyden quickly added. Zia nodded. “That only leaves us with one option.” I stated. Kyden slowly met my eyes, and sighed deeper than I had ever heard come from him. “You only just got back from there.”

Chapter Eleven

“I did it,” I exclaimed as I actually landed on my feet. It was a much better way to enter the Underworld. I raised my head to see the demon that I had met on a couple of occasions now. She looked all too happy to see me. “Hello again,” I said in an attempt to play nice. She smiled brightly. “Magnus is waiting for you at his house.” She began walking away. “I suppose I should introduce myself,” she said, glancing back to me. “I am Misa.” We started up the hill that led to Magnus’ home. “I’d say it’s a pleasure, but I’m not quite sure it is.” She laughed softly. “I wish you would get over your prejudice of us. We could be friends.” I snorted. “I really doubt that.” “Such horrible things you say.” She appeared wounded by my words. “Yeah, I know. I’m evil, right?” She chuckled to herself. Quickly, we made it up to the house as the conversation between us remained light and meaningless. At the door, Misa wiped her shoes on the mat, which made me laugh. Normally, I would

have done the same, but now, I wished I’d run through a mud puddle, just to squish dirt into Magnus’ carpet. When we stepped into the sitting room, I instantly noticed Magnus where he stood, looking out the window. He immediately spun around and smiled gloriously. “Welcome back, Nexi.” I huffed, which made him laugh. “Please do come in.” He smiled waving to a chair. “I wasn’t expecting another visit so soon.” I eyed him doubtfully. “Weren’t you?” His eyes all but twinkled with amusement. “I have to say, I was surprised you didn’t ask me anything when you were here before.” He clucked deeply. “Took you some time to put it all together, did it?” I shrugged away his implication that I’m slow so I didn’t lash out at him, but felt the need to defend myself. “I think my mind was a little preoccupied at the time.” He walked toward me, took a seat in front of me. “So, you want to know what I know, is that it?” “That would be nice, but I’m guessing this information isn’t going to come for free.” His brow arched. “You think so poorly of me.” “I have had enough dealings with you to know that you are always after something. So, get to it. What do I have to do to get you to spill?” He laughed softly, and as much as I hated to admit it, it looked and sounded extremely sexy. “Have dinner with me?” That was unexpected. “Pardon?” “Have dinner with me. That will start this little game of ours. I will answer one question, then go from there.” I sighed deeply, considering. If Kyden knew what I was about to do, he’d throttle me. And with that thought, it became all too obvious why Supes were tentative to bond. If Kyden knew my emotions, he would sense everything I felt around Magnus, or any other male, for that matter. He would sense that I was hesitant to do this not only because he was the Lord of the Underworld, but for some sick reason I felt a little attraction to him. His dark charms were hard to miss. “So, I have dinner with you, and then you will tell me about this?”

“That’s right.” This was in every way wrong. Was I betraying Kyden by doing this? If he had dinner with someone else, I’d flip my lid, but what choice did I have? We needed to get to the bottom of this. I finally succumbed. “Fine, dinner, that’s it.” Magnus laughed, then suddenly, we were no longer in the sitting room. “Bah,” I screamed as I sat at an intimate table with a candle in the center, looking out to an amazing view of waterfalls. We sat on a flat portion of rocky ground. The waterfalls were in a huge oval formation with steep cliffs, and lush greenery. Then, I noticed my clothing. Suddenly, I was in a spectacular red dress. Silky, sequins, sexy—a perfect outfit for anywhere but here. “Where are we?” I demanded. Magnus took the bottle of wine that sat atop the table and poured it into large wine glasses. “Iguazu Falls in Brazil.” Then, he pointed to the u-shaped part of the falls. “That is the Devil’s Throat.” I snorted. “I see the significance.” Suddenly, soft music spilled around us. I glanced behind me to see a demon playing a harp. “You really went all out.” “What can I say, you bring the romantic out in me,” he purred. Great, just what I wanted to do. Abruptly, food appeared in front of me, and it smelled amazing. It was a thick cut steak with a creamy wine sauce on top and steamed vegetables on the side. Magnus nodded toward the food. “Enjoy.” I grabbed my knife and fork and cut into the thick steak. If I had to be here better get something out of it—besides I was starving. When the steak hit my mouth, it exploded with flavor. It was cooked medium-well, exactly how I liked it. Not bloody, nor overcooked. Instantly, I closed my eyes, my taste buds fully aroused. “Is it to your liking?” Magnus asked, amused. I opened my eyes, licked my lips. “It’s good.”

He slowly smiled, and in reaction, butterflies fluttered through my stomach. I froze, confused. I didn’t remember having this reaction to him before. Sure, I thought he was sexy. His masculine features couldn’t be ignored, but tonight there was something more to him that had me shaking in my boots. I was desperate to ignore it. He picked up his glass of wine, took a sip, then said, “You can ask your question.” It was important I was very smart here. He made it clear that every question I asked, I’d have to do something for him. I needed to ask a very limited amount of questions. “I need you to tell me the whereabouts of the witches behind this.” He took a bite of his steak, swallowed, then replied, “I can do that.” “Yeah, I know you can do it, but will you?” He grinned sexily, and it actually captured my breath. Why was I reacting like this to him? I gave my head a little shake, forcing myself to release these reactions to him. “That is two questions,” he retorted. I took a sip of my wine, hoping the booze would stop my body from acting so silly. “What else do you want then?” “A kiss,” he purred. “Next,” I spat. He laughed and gave me a curious look. “You know, most women want to kiss my delectable lips.” “Yeah, well, I am not one of them.” “Yes.” He looked annoyed. “I am discovering this.” “Okay, let’s move on then.” “No,” he growled, and a waft of his power came out. “I am enjoying this line of conversation.” When my breath returned from the little force of power he sent my way, I replied, “I’m sure you enjoy seeing me squirm.” “I enjoy watching you that is undeniable.”

Now this was just becoming tiresome, I slammed my glass down on the table. “Magnus, what are you after?” “You know the answer to that question,” he drawled. “You want me, right?” He nodded slowly. “I do.” “For what exactly? What is all this? Why do you keep trying to seduce me? Isn’t it a bit of a ball-breaker that I keep denying you?” The side of his lip curved ever so slightly. “It is amusing.” “It is pointless,” I shot back. “I have zero interest in you.” “Nonetheless, still amusing, but also inevitable.” “What is?” “This…” Before I knew what was happening, he had me in his arms, pressing his lips against mine. My magic flared up to stop him, but suddenly, a wave of pleasure swept through me. I could think of nothing else but his lips on mine. At first, his kiss was soft, tentative, until he reached his hand around the back of my head and pulled me in closer. He opened his mouth, lightly teased my tongue with his. By the time my mind cleared, I was cradled against his body, moaning against his touch. With each glide of his tongue, I gave more of myself to him. The worst thing—and it was more wrong than I could even grasp—I didn’t want to stop. I liked kissing him and it made me want more of him. It was as if I was meant to be here, cradled in his arms. He groaned deeply, pushed his hard erection against my stomach. I met it with a little roll of my hips against him. In reaction, he slowly caressed my face. I reached up to run my hands along his strong back. His body was sculpted, each muscle flexed beneath my touch. When he drew away, I gasped unhappily, and he chuckled deeply. He leaned back down and lightly kissed my lips. I opened my eyes and stared at him. Suddenly it all made sense. Why he’d been so intent on me and so patient.

I was his. I knew it in every part of me. My soul belonged to him, and the second I left his presence, I would only yearn to return. “Now you know.” Magnus brushed his fingers along my lips. Tears filled my eyes. “Oh god…no.” “We are destined to be together.” Magnus said in a soft whisper. “You are my Lady.” I stepped away from him, pushed against his shoulders to put distance between us “No,” I shouted. “You were using some trickery on me. What did you do?” The instant I no longer felt his touch, my body was gripped with sadness, wanting to return to his arms. I couldn’t give in. I stood strong—far away from him as I trembled. Magnus took his seat, trailed his finger along the rim of the glass. Hating myself, I followed the movement with my eyes. My body warmed at the sight of it, wanting that finger to run along my body. “I did nothing. I allowed our bond to show itself, and when I did, you accepted it.” “It didn’t show itself last time you tried to kiss me. Explain that?” He was using something on me. This couldn’t be real. “I did not open the connection to you then. I was giving you time to get to know me first. I figured if I waited until you accepted my world, it would be easier for you to accept me.” “I will always deny you,” I screamed. “Just because I understand more of your world doesn’t change anything. I don’t want to be with you. I belong with Kyden. I love him.” Magnus’ expression darkened with annoyance. “You may have strong emotions for the Guardian, but it is nothing compared to what you and I will share.” “No,” I whispered. Deep down, I knew he was right. As much as I loved Kyden, nothing compared to a bond between mates. The pull to Magnus was tremendous. The want to stay here with him, be with him forever, and the joy I felt that I finally found him. A thousand conflicting emotions made breathing difficult. I didn’t want this. I didn’t want him, but my soul told me otherwise. “You will only be able to deny it for so long,” Magnus said, his voice soft. “Now, that you have seen the bond it will start to consume you quickly.”

“But I don’t use Black Magic! How could I be a part of your realm? How could I be mated to you when we don’t use the same magic?” I yelled. His eyes twinkled. “Fate is an interesting creature, isn’t she? It does provide me much amusement that I find myself in this current situation. Why she has chosen my Lady to be a White Magic Witch is humorous indeed.” “That makes no sense.” I roared, trying to grasp anything that resembled sanity. “I will never accept the darkness.” “It is not a choice. You will not be able to stop it. You will come to the darkness, and be where you were meant to be all along.” “If I was meant to belong here, why didn’t you just take me before? Why did you stop it if it is inevitable?” “I wanted you to come to me willingly. It does not interest me to force you. It arouses me to know that you are choosing me.” “No,” I screamed. “I want to get out of here. I want to go home. Right now.” I needed to get away. If I didn’t, I was scared I would choose not to leave. The longer I stayed here the more what he was saying made sense, and I couldn’t let it, couldn’t allow this take me. I needed to get back to Kyden. Needed the reminder of what we shared. “Go then.” Magnus’ gaze focused heavily on me, and my body betrayed me as wetness spread between my thighs responding to his intent look. “I have waited a very long time for you. As I told you before, I am not going to push you. Your view of me is quite inaccurate, and my only wish is to see you happy.” “I’m happy with Kyden,” I snapped. He ignored me. “I can continue to be patient with you. Now that you have discovered the truth, it will not be long until you come to me willingly.” Then, I landed back into the foyer with Kyden waiting there for me, lifting me into his arms. I took one look at him and burst into tears. “Zia,” Kyden shouted. She shook her head and remained where she stood. “She is not injured. Nexi, what’s happened?”

“The worst thing ever,” I sobbed.

Chapter Twelve

The emotions running across Zia’s face as she read into my mind only made my tears come harder. Never had I wanted to see such sadness sweep across her features. She gasped and sank to her knees beside me. Her breath shuddered as she raised her hands to her face in horror. “You’re his Lady.” Kyden’s eyes met mine. The hurt that rippled across his beautiful features, sank my heart. It was there in every part of him. Pain, betrayal, rage sat hard in his gaze. “I will kill him,” he said in a low voice that barely made a sound. Haven was sobbing loudly, and suddenly she threw herself at me. “You can’t be.” “I don’t want to be,” I cried with her. “I can never go back there. I can never see him again.” Kyden’s grip tightened around me. I held onto him to save myself for all the same reasons. This couldn’t be happening, couldn’t be real. After everything I’d been through, all I lost, life was still going to take more from me. What had I done? Why had I deserved such pain? It wasn’t fair. It just wasn’t fucking fair. Talon knelt down beside me, placed his hand on the top of my head and asked softly, “What happened?” It only took minutes to tell them what had taken place. By the end of it, even Zia was wiping away tears. “I love you, Kyden,” I cried. “I want you.” Kyden still hadn’t said a word. Just sat there and watched me with a pained expression. Zia took my hands in hers and squeezed them, offering support. “Your heart may belong to Kyden, but it appears that Magnus has your soul.” “I don’t understand.” I screamed through the tears. “What does that mean?” “The dark world is different from ours―we do not have destined mates,” Zia answered. “Our world isn’t about power, isn’t about producing stronger offspring. Therefore, the destined bond mate never seeped into our realm. It just wasn’t needed.

“However, the Underworld is similar to what you have seen in wolves. The wolves need to produce stronger offspring to survive―to provide protection around them. The Underworld craves it for future power. So in these beings, the soul searches out a mate who will make them stronger and provide more powerful younglings.” Her face became all too sad. “With you, it appears Magnus is your destined mate. Your bond with him will make you both stronger.” She gave Talon a knowing look. I shot straight up, lunging out of Kyden’s arms and I stared at her accusingly. “You knew?” She sighed, her eyes sank as she frowned. “It crossed my mind, yes. I had hoped that when Magnus took an interest in you it was only for your powers, but I did fear it might come to this.” “How can this be?” Finn asked. “She is a White Magic Witch.” “This is unusual indeed,” she replied. “But Nexi is unusual. We all know that.” “What do I do?” I begged. “How do I stop it?” “You can’t,” Talon answered dourly. “You are only lucky that Magnus has let you return to us. It is in his right to take you and keep you there.” The world beneath me swept away as hot flashes of pure fear ran through my blood. “He can keep me there?” Zia nodded solemnly. “It is in his right to claim you. I wonder why he hasn’t.” “Dear God,” I gasped, realizing why he hadn’t forced me. He wanted me to love him. He desired that we be together, but wanted me to come willingly. Haven held on tighter, her small hands gripped onto me as if she was trying to save me herself. “We have to stop this. I cannot lose you to him. What about Kyden? You two are meant to be together. This isn’t right. Finn, help her. Do something…” Finn removed her hands from my arms, lifted her up, and hugged her tightly. “There is nothing I can do, my sweet.” Kyden finally let out a deep breath, lifted my face to his. “It will be alright, Álainn.” “How can it be?” I pleaded for him to make it okay. “How can anything be alright?” He smiled softly and cupped my face. “Because I love you.” Leaning down, he kissed me.

I accepted it—the warmth, the love, everything that was good. Needing more to reassure me, I grabbed him as hard as I could, kissed him with every ounce of strength I had. I wasn’t going to let Magnus win or let this rule me. Just because I was destined to be with him, didn’t mean I had to be. Kyden was my heart, my all—that had to be enough. It just had to be. Without thought, I reached down, and unclipped his kilt. “Go to the Council’s Hall,” Talon added quickly. He knew what was about to happen. They all did, obviously, and understood the reaction. I needed Kyden with everything I had in me. Needed him to tell me this was all going to be okay, to reassure me that I was his. His kilt fell to the floor just as he rushed us into the Council’s Hall. The door closed behind us. Evidently, the others were taking care that we wouldn’t be disturbed. Kyden unclipped my kilt as he carried me in his arms, then dropped me in one of the Council’s chairs. He yanked off our shorts, spread my legs, pulled my hips up, and impaled me. I wasn’t completely ready for him, but it didn’t matter. The friction made this feel more real, more forceful. “You are mine,” he growled, his thrusts were rough and demanding. He pinned my shoulders hard against the chair, using his entire weight to level me with his body. “I’m yours,” I shouted, needing to scream it, demanded it to be true. My body responded to his intentions and wetness spread along his length to give him easier access while he took me. His thrusts grew harder as he pushed the meaning of our love into me. The rightness when skin met skin. He was in pure possession mode—it was in the grip of his hands, the determination on his face and the hardness of his body sliding in mine. “Mine,” he growled again, repeated it with each hard blow to my body. Over and over again it poured from his mouth. Within minutes, he had my body arching toward him sending all thoughts vanishing from my mind. After a few more hard thrusts, Kyden grunted deeply, and collapsed on top of me. My body was shaking from my release, but also in response to the horrible truth. He slowly raised himself off and glanced down. “You are mine.” His growl remained. I raised my hands to his face. “I am yours,” I whispered. “Always and forever.”

“Nexi, we need you two back out here,” Zia’s thoughts reached me. I was little agape at myself for not putting up my shield, but it was the least of my concern moments ago. As much as I wanted to stay right here like this forever, the Council needed us. The situation with the Black Magic Witches was still happening, and they needed my magic to help stop this. If I didn’t, more lives would be lost. Besides, a little distraction is just what I needed right now. I leaned forward and kissed Kyden’s lips. “We have to go.” He nodded, apparently feeling the same sense of duty, and stepped away from me as he pulled up his shorts. Quickly, he handed me my gear, and once dressed, we headed for the door. The door opened just as we reached it, and Talon handed Kyden his kilt. No one seemed at all bothered knowing what we had done. The only expression on anyone’s face was complete and total dismay. “I really hate to interrupt,” Hadley said softly. “But did you get any information?” she asked me. “No. I…well…after…” I stumbled. Kyden interrupted. “You did the right thing by coming back,” A door suddenly slammed open, Brax ran through the door from outside, out of breath, and it was only then I realized he had left when Kyden and I were preoccupied elsewhere. He stopped in front of Zia. “Magnus is sending someone to us.” Just then, Misa stepped through the portal door then politely closed it behind her. She glanced at me, smiling brightly. “Nice to see you again, Lady Nexi.” Everyone looked to me—disgust very evident on their faces that I was on friendly terms with a demon. “What is it, Misa?” I snapped. “I am here to protect you.” “You’re what?” “Magnus has assigned me as your guard. He wants to ensure that since you are not living with us that you are well protected,” “I will protect her,” Kyden growled. She sniffed at him. “What are you going to do? You’re just a Guardian.” Kyden puffed up, but I grabbed him back. She might look like a pretty little dainty thing, but this was a demon. If Magnus entrusted her to protect me then she was a powerful one.

After a few tense moments, Misa finally glanced at me. “Magnus has instructed me to give you the information you requested.” Magnus had kept his word. “Okay, well tell us.” I was hoping the change in subject would calm the situation. Misa’s eyes glowed at Kyden, and he looked about a second away from grabbing his sword. “Let’s go somewhere more comfortable,” Misa said. “This is going to take a while.” We made it back to our residence quickly. Kyden kept a good hold on me, and I was glad he did. The world was crumbling around me and there was no way to stop it. Just because fate was a bitch, and said I was destined to be with Magnus, didn’t mean I had to give into it. I wouldn’t. Not ever. Kyden had my heart and it would remain that way. “Go on then, Misa,” Talon told her after everyone had taken a seat. “This situation came to Magnus’ attention a few months back. After we did some investigating, it was discovered that Pye was arranging to dethrone Magnus.” Misa’s voice sounded almost bored. “There is a group of witches who have followed Pye for some time. They are the source behind the murders of the humans.” Now, this was a turn in a direction I hadn’t expected. Curiosity always did get the better of me. “Why?” “The witches have been using the wolves to kill humans for them.” “Yeah, we know that.” I waved her on. “They’re virgins,” she said causally. So I was right. “What do virgins have to do with it?” “It is the reason the witches are growing stronger. The virgins are dying as an outlet to drive their power. Since their virginity is pure, it is that energy fueling their magic. While their souls are consumed, the virginity is taken and drained with it. They are being killed for no other reason except that the witches need this energy from them to make Pye’s regime stronger.” “Why are they using the wolves and not just doing the killing themselves?” Brax asked.

“It was to throw us off,” Misa answered. “If the wolves were killing, and not the witches themselves, we suspect they thought it wouldn’t raise any alarm to what they were plotting.” “We discovered a young girl who was attacked, raped, but not killed,” Zia said. “Do you know why that would be, Misa?” Her face fell with guilt, which was quite an odd sight coming from a demon “When it was discovered what Pye was planning, Magnus, well…intervened.” “Intervened?” I repeated. She couldn’t even meet my eyes. “He knew of your relationship to Valor.” She finally looked up. “He took the opportunity to start a little plan for himself to see the end of Pye and…” Nothing else needed to be said. I raised my hand to stop her words. This had all been a plan to have me. “He planned all of this?” I asked in a whisper of disbelief. He was a sneaky bastard. All this—everything all maneuvered to suit him. To benefit him. Fucker! Misa continued, “Magnus destroyed the wolf and aided the young woman to ensure that she would be strong enough to stand the change. He wanted to make sure Lady Nexi was close to Valor when Dante was taken, to guarantee that she would be obligated to help him.” I hated him for this, but at the same time, my heart clenched a little knowing that if Magnus hadn’t killed the wolf, Rynn would be dead. “Since Lady Nexi wants this matter dealt with, Magnus has given me the locations to find all involved, and to destroy the rest of Pye’s regime.” Warm feelings spread through me at the words Lady Nexi. My soul liked hearing that I belonged to Magnus—liked knowing this. Haven gasped, her voice came out is a scared shout. “No, Nexi, you have to fight against feelings like that.” I sighed, gritted my teeth. “Trust me, Haven. I am going to fight against it,” A blast of rage filled me. Rage that this was happening and had no control over it. Kyden tensed beside me.

Hadley stood. “Let’s go back to FBI headquarters, gather our witch units within the FBI and we can go from there.” Zia nodded. “Yes, come on, Haven, Nexi.” Kyden released my hand, but as I stepped away, he pulled me into his arms while everyone headed for the door. “We will get through this,” he said firmly, grasping my face in his hands. His gaze was intent. He believed what he was saying. It was also obvious that he was seriously restraining himself. Probably for my benefit. He was trying to remain calm so I would. “I told you once, I do not share.” “I’m yours and yours alone.” “That you are.” He pulled me toward him and laid a kiss against my lips that spoke of love but held a possession that only he was capable of commanding. I hoped that his strength would be strong enough to break a bond that ran soul deep.

Chapter Thirteen

Back at FBI headquarters, the meeting room was packed with witches. Hadley had called in reinforcements from many of the other police departments in the surrounding areas, while Zia gathered as many witches as possible to help as well. “All right team,” Hadley said. “From Misa’s information, this is the location of the five houses containing our suspects.” Hadley had a map pinned with the locations. Being a vampire, she wouldn’t come with us, but she was obviously used to being in control because she was taking this situation in stride.“Nexi,” Haven whispered beside me. I leaned toward her, angled my head down, but kept my eyes focused on Hadley. “Yeah.” She grabbed my hands with hers, and I glanced at her. “I’m scared.” And boy did she look it. Those feelings tore right through me, and nothing about that felt good. “It will be okay,” I reassured her. “There are lots of us.”

She squeezed tighter, her hands trembling against mine. “No. I am scared for you. I can feel it in you. I can feel his hold growing. If you go to Magnus, we won’t have our bond anymore. It will be taken from us.” I gulped deeply, knew the truth of her words. “Let’s just get through this, okay? Then, we can deal with everything else.” I said because in all honesty, I didn’t want to talk about it. Ignorance was ideal right now. If I didn’t think about it, about Magnus, then the connection would just evaporate. Right? Hadley’s voice drew me back. “Zia, what location will you handle?” Misa stood, and walked over to the map, pointing to a location that was in West Virginia. “We need to go here,” she said. “This is where the leaders are. They’re the strongest and will be the hardest to destroy. I think Lady Nexi’s skills will be needed here.” Every gaze swung to me. The sight of everyone judging me sent a pang of irritation through my blood. “What?” I growled. Zia’s brows rose at my tone. “Nexi,” she chided. What the hell was that? That didn’t even sound like me. I gave my head a good shake and settled my emotions. “Sorry,” I said quickly. “I don’t know why it came out like that.” Zia came over, sat next to me and took my hand in hers. Concern weighed heavy on her face as she brushed her fingers across the back of my hand. “I think you are right, Misa. It is best we deal with this house ourselves.” Hadley began to assign the other four locations to the witches throughout the meeting room. I sat there quietly, dealing with what had just happened. Why was I filled with so much rage? Normally having everyone look at me would annoy me. But never in my life had I growled like that. Was it happening? Was it beginning? Could it be happening this fast? Suddenly, I craved Kyden, wished he were here. I needed his reassurance that everything was going to work out. Right now, I wasn’t so sure and was on the verge of vomiting. Sickness made the room feel three times smaller as sweat beaded my skin. Zia sighed deeply, apparently, reading into my horror. She leaned forward and kissed my cheek. Not saying a word or trying to comfort me. She knew better. Nothing could comfort me now. Haven was crying, her breathing hitched as she took the brunt of the wild emotions stealing my soul. “Zia. Make it better. Take it away,” she sobbed.

My heart wanted to suck back things, feelings, in order to save her from suffering this. But I couldn’t find the strength to do it. Haven had to come second. Realizing that, though, only made the sickness worse. The other witches in the room, including Hadley just watched us with confusion. No one knew what was taking place here, and I wasn’t about to tell virtual strangers everything. This was as personal as it comes. Zia reached out to Haven with her free hand, cupped her cheek and wiped her tears. “I’m sorry, I can’t.” With Zia’s touch, Haven immediately stopped crying. Obviously, Zia provided her a little strength through her magic. “We have to deal with this first. We need to stay strong.” Haven nodded and wiped her remaining tears after a long, deep breath. “Okay.” Then, she glanced to me. “I love you, Nexi.” “I love you too.” I forced a smile. Haven’s eyes welled up again, but Zia quickly grabbed her hand in hers and held it tight. The strength she provided to her wasn’t enough, which showed just how broken Haven was. I could only look at her with uncertainty. What was she feeling that I wasn’t? I meant what I said to her, but by the look in her eye, I had to think otherwise. Fear swept through me. She was sensing something I wasn’t, and that told me one thing… I was losing control of myself. Zia quickly took control of the scene, sending the witches on their way to end this reign of terror the Black Magic Witches had begun. While Misa, Zia, Haven and I returned to Otherworld, then went back through the portal into West Virginia, not a word was said. Maybe they were preparing themselves for the battle ahead or maybe it was heartbreak that made them silent. Misa, of course, probably had nothing to say since her allegiance belonged to Magnus. I doubted she’d even understand what I was feeling now or that a demon could even comprehend such emotions. After the flash from the teleport, we stood before a beautiful Victorian home which was nestled along a quiet developed street.

“We will need to get some vampires here when this is over,” Zia said to Haven. “Go on. Go tell Zade to prepare them. We will need them to provide a story to the humans once we are done here.” Meaning, glamour them into believing that something else took place. They were likely to take notice when magic suddenly blasted through their quiet neighborhood. She nodded, then disappeared. Suddenly, five other witches appeared. Sabi and Zennah were among them, along with an older group, including Briar. Briar immediately lunged at me, hugged me tightly. “I have heard the news.” She squeezed me tight. “Why the daughter of Tyrianna has been mated to such a creature as Magnus is in every way wrong.” Something deep in my soul hated her for saying those things, but I adamantly ignored them and leaned into her. “You’ve got that right.” Why did it feel like I was lying? I felt guilty for the words I just spoke, which conflicted with everything in my heart. When she backed away, the look in her eye made my heart tumble. Was it inevitable? Was I just counting down the hours until my bond with Magnus became too much to ignore. The look on everyone’s face told me it was. “Let’s just get this over with,” I said to Zia, fighting tears. ‘What’s the plan?” She sighed deeply, tears glittering in her own eyes. “Right.” After a little shake of her head she continued, “From what we know they are going to be using the purest form of Black Magic since they are taking virgins to give them greater power. Their force will come solid. Nexi, you will enter first. Keep your shield strong and we will follow in behind you. Briar and I will hit them defensively. You others block their magic. Take a witch each and concentrate on throwing off their attacks.” Suddenly, Haven reappeared. “I have told Zade. He is gathering some vampires together. When we are finished here, we are to get them.” Zia nodded. “Good.” “I would like to help you here, but I can’t,” Misa said. “I can only assist you, Lady Nexi, if you are in danger.” “You want to help us?” I asked, aghast. “Sure,” she said with a shrug. “It feels wrong to sit back and let you all have fun without me.”

I laughed loudly. As much as laughing through this time seemed impossible, the idea of what she was implying was just entirely ridiculous. “A demon thinks something feels wrong.” Everyone else laughed too. “You really have to stop putting us into a box,” Misa snapped. “Not all of us are what you think we are.” “Sure you’re not.” “You’re hurting my feelings.” She scowled at me. That shut me up real quick. Did that really just come out of her mouth? Did I have the wrong impression about her? Was I being harsh without really knowing her? First appearances were usually wrong, but I just couldn’t get past the fact that she was a demon. It is her job to be evil and harsh. Oddly, I felt horrible. “I’m sorry,” I touched her arm. She glanced down at my hand, her entire body tense. I took the moment to read into her a little just to understand her better. What I saw was not what I expected to find. Misa was a demon that longed for normalcy. Her views ran very much along the same lines as the Otherworld. She believed that those who take innocent lives should be destroyed. She believed in order, but she also believed in the ways of their world. Her life thrived around giving souls, she took them without hesitation, but she only took those who were willing. What she said about wanting us to be friends, she truly meant. She liked me. Liked what I was all about, which was just a whole bucket full of peculiar. It instantly made me feel like a bag of shit. My words to her, the things I said. I judged her wrong. As much as it made me feel bad, it also dug at me that I was accepting more of the Underworld. It showed me just how strong the bond between Magnus and I was growing. That didn’t mean I was still going to keep fighting against the feeling of rightness. I had to remember all the evil that lived there and why I thought it was wrong because now it was hard to find those reasons. The visions of her memories flipped quickly through my mind, when suddenly, there was a vision of her and a white-haired Warlock in an intense conversation, but I couldn’t quite grasp what they were saying. Just as it began, it vanished as Misa pulled away from me. “What was that?” I asked her curiously, interest piqued at what she didn’t want me to see. She smiled, and it was in every way cold. “There is more going on in my world than you know.”

Huh? “What?” She shrugged away the question and flicked her hair over her shoulder. “Now is not the time to discuss it.” What the hell did that mean? There was more going on? Before I could even think more on the matter and ask another question, Zia grabbed my hand with hers and pulled a little. “Let’s go.” “I will protect you,” Misa whispered behind me. I glanced back at her, a little annoyed. “I don’t need your protection.” “Yes, I know that, but it’s my job.” I sighed, and looked at the house as we began our approach. The house was secluded with waist-high bushes closed off by a gate. Zia opened the gate, stepped through then glanced at me. “Ready?” Her tone was rapid and tense. “Ready as I’ll ever,” “Then go,” Zia shouted. Without further request, I drew in Spirit around me. With it protecting me, I booked it toward the house, running as fast as I could. I met the porch stairs two at a time and lunged for the door. I grabbed the door handle and threw it open. Instantly, I felt a blast of power. It was raw and thick, and stole my breath immediately. The force of it sent me flying back to land where the others stood on the front lawn spread out in formation. “Christ,” I gasped as Zia helped me to my feet. “That was unbelievable.” My shield had just saved me from vaporization. “They are powerful,” Briar said from beside me, readying her stance. Immediately, twenty or more witches poured from the house, displaying everything Black Magic is. Hard cold eyes resided in their faces, as pure evil expelled from them. “Zia,” one of them growled through clenched teeth. “You have no business here.”

“You will stop this,” Zia ordered, “or we will have no choice, but to stop you.” She laughed evilly. “We have grown stronger than you. You will not stand a chance against us.” “I have to say, I think I believe her.” I whispered to Zia. “Hrmph.” Then, with total confidence, she nodded me forward. “Alright then.” I drew in a deep breath. With my shield strong around me, I stepped out toward them, stopping only a few feet away. “You have the choice to come and join us. You can leave this and live.” They all laughed, practically spat in my face, as they looked down their noses at me. “We know who you are, Nexi Jones. But even you do not have the strength to destroy us.” Rage consumed me that they doubted my ability, who I was. That rage came out in a cackle, and shut them up instantly. Before I could even stop myself, the words came out of my mouth. “As Magnus’ mate, you will surrender.” The witches’ faces went from amused to frightened, in a second flat. My hand went straight over my mouth. “Dear God,” I said beneath it. “She’s right,” a Black Magic Witch said in a gasp. “Look, there is a demon with her.” Everybody was dead silent. No one even moved. I glanced back at Zia and Briar, who both looked devastated. Haven started crying. “I don’t know why I said that.” I managed. Briar gave me a knowing look. “Simply because it is true, my dear.” “No,” I screamed, rage filled every part of me. Rage that my life was no longer my own and I had no control of what came out of my mouth. Rage that after all I’d been through, I was about to lose it all. That anger needed an outlet and I had the perfect way to release it. I lunged forward and pummeled one of the witches across the face. She cried out and fell the floor. My smile was cold as she lay unconscious on the ground. As I raised my head, witches began to back away from me in fear. Oh yeah, I had these bitches right where I wanted them and they were going to pay for all the evil they caused. They were going to pay with their lives.

With all the Guardian strength that had been born within me, I attacked. Misa was close to me, I could sense her, but she didn’t intervene. She stood protectively, waiting for someone to endanger me. The witches appeared stunned that I wasn’t using magic on them, but right now I needed to beat the hell out of something. I let go of all my restraint and let the fury come forth. One after another, I attacked the witches with punches and kicks. Their magic came at me again and again, but my shield held strong. They couldn’t get through, even as they tried their damndest. The power within me was rich and I was undeniably strong. After I leveled a witch into a heap on the ground, I drew my sword from my back. The knowledge that I was breaking my one rule―fighting against witches with magic―tinged in my mind, but my ire didn’t care. Suddenly, my shield faltered and fire rippled down my arm, sending a little scream of pain to erupt from my throat. Before I could even react, Misa let out a high screech. With a blast of pure power, she faded away to black smoke, and whipped around the witch. The witch’s scream grew loud, then suddenly she was gone in a puff of smoke. Misa returned to form, resuming her protective stance. My rage continued to be all-consuming. Anger filled every part of me for all the wrongs that had ever happened, and was coming out in its purest form. Witch after witch died by my sword. To prove the truth—fuck with me, you die. Abruptly, I became aware that I was fighting this battle alone. Zia and the others weren’t taking part in the fight, but I was glad for it. I needed to get this out, let the wrath free, and this was one place I could do it. To hurt those who deserved the pain and deserved to bleed. After my sword sliced the head off the witch before me, I spun around and shot fire out at two others. They erupted into flames and dust flew through the air as their bodies evaporated. My wrath never faded. Hate seeped in every part of me. Hate for the situation I was in, for my soul that craved Magnus. For just the whole-fucking thing and these witches were getting the tail end of that hatred. Misa stayed close to me and had finished off a couple of witches by the time it was over. Not to help me by any means. She only assisted me when my shield faltered—if they posed a danger to me.

Within ten minutes, they were all dead. Either by my magic or by my sword, but all that mattered was they were dead. I sheathed my sword. The anger flowing through me made my limbs shake. My blood boiled, my entire body tense, and my jaw clenched tightly. A growl came loud beside me. Quickly, I glanced toward it, seeing if there was threat. But when I saw Willow, I let out a deep breath that seemed to give way to some of the harsh emotions strangling me. Seeing her snapped me back to the present, and I gave my body a shake to ease my aching muscles. It surprised me that she was here. I hadn’t even noticed my big black panther had arrived. She watched me with an expression I’d never seen on her sleek beautiful face before she stood, stiff as a board. Frozen—stunned. A little irritation whipped through me that she didn’t help me. But I resolved, she hadn’t helped because she didn’t need to. I had it handled on my own, and with Misa assisting me, there was no need to intervene. My gaze left Willow as I looked over at Misa, her expression was not one I expected. She looked worried—torn. “What?” My voice came out in a thick growl. I shook my head, pushed away the lingering anger that remained. “Sorry.” I smiled. “I don’t know why my voice is coming out like that. Thanks for the help.” Misa never said a word. Suddenly, a deep profound sadness washed through me. It’s wasn’t mine. Haven. I spun around to see Haven in Briar’s arms, sobbing loudly. “What happened to her?” Quickly, I ran toward her. The moment I was beside her, she threw herself into my arms and hugged me with all that she had. “Oh no…Nexi…no,” she screamed. Confusion filled me. My eyes fell to Zia’s. Tears were also streaking her face. Her mouth opened as if she wanted to speak, but nothing came out. “For Christ sakes, what is it?” I snapped. Briar placed her hand on my shoulder, her face a mirror image of Zia’s. “My dear, it’s happening.”

Uncertain of what she meant, I glanced around at the other witches among us. Their faces were horrified. Immediately, I understood. What had I just done? My stomach wrenched and a wave of perspiration washed over my body. My reasons for killing those witches came out of rage and hate―emotions that fed Black Magic. “Oh God, no,” I managed in a whisper. It didn’t matter what my reasons were for killing the witches. It was that those emotions were inside me at all. White Magic was about everything good. Killing for the greater good. Not for personal reasons or because of anger. Briar was right, it was happening. I was losing my soul. This was the beginning of the end.

Chapter Fourteen

I reached out, trailing my fingers through the soft leaves of my weeping willow. The second we came home, I couldn’t stand being near anyone. Haven continued to cry hysterically, and it annoyed me beyond belief. I just wanted to be alone. Without hesitation, I came to my willow. It felt like a lifetime since I’d been here last. But the longer I sat, the more I couldn’t remember why I liked being here so much. I filtered through every memory I had, ran through every experience that happened here. The connection to my mother, my first time with Kyden, but I couldn’t feel anything. It was as if it was blocked. My life’s special moments held no importance anymore. Footsteps made me lift my head. Kyden slowly approached. He gave me a soft smile, and I watched him intently. Why was I interested in him? What was it about him? After a few seconds of pondering, I still couldn’t find an answer to that question. When he reached me, he sat down beside me, and took my hand. The instant our skin connected I was slammed with every answer to those questions. This was my willow, my favorite place to be and I loved Kyden with all that I was. How had I even questioned that?

Tears filled my eyes as I gazed at him. “I’m not me anymore. When you’re not touching me it’s like I’m gone.” I glanced down to our hands, pained to even look at him. “This is the only way I feel like myself anymore. The only way I still feel connected to you or feel connected to anything. I’m disappearing, Kyden.” He reached up putting his hands on my face as he cupped my cheeks. “You are still in there.” I shook my head, tears falling down my cheeks. “Every minute that passes I lose more of myself.” I felt sickened by the truth of what was happening here. “I wasn’t expecting this to all happen so quickly. I thought I’d be strong enough to fight against it. I thought I could beat it.” He sighed deeply, his grip on my face fierce. “You can beat it. You are still there and we have to hold on to that. You need to hold onto that. You can’t let that part of yourself go. Do not give into it.” “I’m trying, but it’s getting harder. Look at what I did tonight. I killed those witches out of anger, Kyden.” Shame and disgust made it hard to swallow. “It’s taking me.” “You are still in there,” he said fiercely. His words were an attempt to hold onto us—to save us from this—to keep a smidgen of hope in the midst of all this chaos. “I can’t lose you,” I barely got the words out. “I can’t go on without you.” “You won’t have to, Álainn.” He leaned in, took my lips, and I lunged myself on him. Scared that soon this would be the last time I would be myself around him. How much time would I have left with Kyden? “Kyden…” I whispered. He raised his hand to my mouth and pressed his fingertips against my lips. “Don’t say it.” “I have to. You have to let me,” I said against his hand, needing to make sure he understood how I felt because after tonight, I wasn’t sure how much longer I would feel it. He slowly pulled his hand away, and as he did, tears filled his eyes. “I love you, Kyden—truly, and irrefutably love you. I love you so much sometimes it hurts. Hurts to be away from you, even hurts to be near you. No matter what happens, my heart is yours, and only yours. Remember that! Remember that I…” I pointed to my heart. “The real me is missing you and wishing I was in your arms.” He caught my tear with his finger, and smiled sweetly. “It is not over, Álainn.” The words were said, but it was a lie. The darkness was beginning to overtake me, and it was inevitable that I would eventually give in to it. No matter how hard I tried, it was going to win. I knew it

and so did Kyden. All I could do was cry as my dreams with Kyden, the life that was once mine would be over and my heart crumpled to pieces. “Hush,” Kyden hummed. He laid me back and unclipped my kilt. As I raised my hips, he removed my shorts slowly. “We have tonight. We have now. This is what you have to remember. It’s this,” he said softly, caressing my body. “It’s the way I love you.” He removed his gear, rubbed himself leisurely along my body. “It’s how my body feels when it’s close to yours.” He lifted his hips, entered me oh-so-gently. “It’s the way it feels to be joined.” I moaned, his words were so true. This was right. This is where my heart belonged. It belonged to him and it always would. Magnus could never have that. No matter how much he tried to steal it away. Kyden enclosed his body on top of mine and we hugged each other as we made love—held onto each other to keep this night forever. This wasn’t about sexual satisfaction or heat, it was about relishing in what we shared. He whispered soft words in my ear of how he loved me, that he needed me, and I made his life complete. I cried hearing them. Wished that this wasn’t happening, that I could stay right here forever. However, wishing for it wasn’t going to change what was happening. Something deep within me was changing—far too rapidly. I never climaxed, and Kyden’s release was quiet and barely felt by me as I cried in his arms. The part that tore into me was knowing that when Kyden’s touch left mine, the despair I was suffering would wash away to something dark. Desperately, I wanted to stay like this locked in his arms forever. If I held onto him, our connection remained. I would stay. I wouldn’t be lost. “You can’t ever let go of me,” I whispered. Kyden rose up above me, determination strong on his features. “I will do what I have to in order to keep you.” I never replied. What could he do? “Nexi, I’m coming down,” Zia’s voice came to me. “We have to get dressed,” I said to Kyden. “Zia’s on her way.” Kyden let go of me and a wallop of anger filled me, an overwhelming blast of fury. He dressed quickly, took my hand and the sadness sank back in. Exhaustion overtook me immediately. Suffering such quick, intense emotions was more than draining. He helped me dress, never letting go of my hand.

When Zia and Talon reached us, they sat beside us, and we all just stared at each other. No one said a word. What was there to say? Zia started crying. I reached out to her, wanting nothing more than to ease her pain. She was like a mother to me, and as hard as it was to be facing the loss of Kyden, it would be just as hard as to lose her too. “Zia,” I said softly. Surprising me, she jumped to her feet. “No,” she roared. “You have to fight against this. Do what you must. You cannot let this be so.” Without any inkling of warning, she slapped me across the face impeccably hard. I sat there, stunned. “You must stop this,” she screeched. “I love you. I need you here.” I reached up, put a hand to my stinging face. “What can I do?” My cries were loud screams. “I don’t know what to do. I don’t know how to stop it. Don’t you think I would if I could? I don’t want this!” Sobbing, she fell to the ground and Talon gathered her up in his arms. “No,” she cried. Again and again she screamed it. All I could do was sit and watch her. I met Kyden’s sad eyes. “What do I do?” I pleaded for him to tell me, for him to find a way to stop this. Kyden stood, strong and determined. “No more of this. We are done talking.” He reached down, took my hand and pulled me to my feet. “Let’s go. I am taking you somewhere where you can have a moment’s peace.” As we walked away, my gaze met Talon’s. He still had said nothing, but he didn’t need to. His face said it all. He was hurting. The further away we got from them, they less I understood of what had just taken place. Why had Zia’s words affected me so? What the heck had I been crying about? I was close to her, I knew that much, but that is where the feeling stopped. It was a thought, more of a word spoken, then a feeling inside my soul. All that remained in me was a jumble of confusion. A wonderment of what it actually meant to be close to her. Why was I feeling nothing toward her? Furthermore, what did it feel like to feel anything at all? I gave my head a shake, clearing the thoughts. “Where are we going?” I asked Kyden.

He gripped my hand, his eyes searching. Apparently whatever he was looking for, he didn’t find. His gaze tore from mine as he bowed his head. “I’m taking you to see something that is filled with happiness.” Silence fell between us as we made our way through the grounds of the Otherworld, back toward the Council. My gaze flicked between Kyden, the grass, and the sky. I felt exhausted, nearly ready to just fall down and die. Kyden’s presence beside me was the only thing holding me together now. His strength provided a much-needed blanket to keep going. He was right, we had now, and all I thought about. Forced myself to remember why I loved him, the way he made me feel. It surprised me to find these emotions for him still lay strong within me because besides his presence in my heart, I felt nothing else. Once at the castle, we stepped in the foyer, then quickly made our way to the portal. Still unknowing where we going, I let my mind go blank as Kyden opened the door. The flash of light hit and when it ceased, I opened my eyes to see Valor’s home. The view only lasted a second as I caught sight of Rynn and Briggs who approached from the side of the house. When they reached us, Rynn gave me a strange look. “Nexi?” she said as if she’d never met me before. “Something is terribly wrong. What’s happened?” Kyden quickly gave her a rundown, a condensed version of our hell. By the end of it, Rynn was trembling, but Briggs didn’t look shocked to hear what was being said. Apparently, word had spread about my current situation. “There is an Underworld?” Rynn asked, her voice trembled slightly. “Like demons and scary things like that?” Briggs nodded. “Aye.” Then, her stunned gaze met mine. “And you’re going to be mated to their leader?” All I could do was nod. The point of denial had passed. It wasn’t a question of if, now the only question was when. My gut told me time was counting down. My only thoughts were of Kyden. If I kept the connection with him, he wouldn’t be lost to me. That is all that mattered now. The tone of Rynn’s voice was almost beseeching, “We have to do something to help you.” Then, she glanced back to Briggs. “What can we do to help her, Briggs?”

“I’m afraid, darlin’, there’s nothing we can do.” Then, he took my hand and pulled me away from Kyden, into a hug. The second my touch left Kyden’s, darkness seeped in, resentment held me frozen. Resentment for what, I had no idea. All I did know, I wanted this wolf off me, and I wanted it now. Kyden lunged forward, pulled me back to him, and the detestation within me subsided immediately. “She needs the connection.” “He can’t let me go,” I told Briggs firmly. It was all we had left, a thin string we scrambled to keep hold of. As the words left my mouth, only a small part of me understood why I needed him so much. “We have some news of the attack on Rynn,” Kyden said to Briggs, breaking the silence that had filled the air. Rynn’s eyes went wide. “You do?” Kyden gave them the low down on Magnus’ plan and the extent of Rynn’s involvement. By the end of it, Briggs looked torn. He finally glanced at me. “This comes with mixed feelings,” he said softly. “I know,” I told him in all honesty. If Magnus hadn’t planned what he had, done what he did, Rynn would be dead and Briggs wouldn’t have met her. His mate. I gave Briggs a hug, keeping a hold on Kyden’s hand—awkward to say the least. “I wouldn’t change any of this if it meant Rynn survived. Remember that.” Sad gazes met mine. Tears filled Rynn’s eyes as she leaned against Briggs. “You don’t even sound like you.” “What do I sound like?” I asked. She wiped away a tear that rolled down her cheek. “Cold.” Again, silence fell around us as the others processed what was happening here began to sink in. It was obvious that I was changing. My heart told me to say and think things, but inside I was beginning to die. Everyone saw it. Briggs finally let out a deep sigh, placed his hand on Kyden’s shoulder. “They are waiting for us.” Kyden glanced down to me, gave me a soft smile. “Come on, Álainn. This night is because of you.”

I gave him a curious look as he pulled on my hand a little to get my feet working. His words confused me, what had I done that would bring us back to Valor’s? When I met the back of Valor’s house, and saw his backfield was full of wolves, my confusion only deepened. “What’s happening here?” I asked Kyden. He smiled. Never had his smile looked so sad. “A mating ceremony.” “Whose?” “Isla.” Oh! I glanced back out, immediately connecting with Valor as he approached me. By the time he reached me, he was frowning. “Nexi,” he whispered. “Hello, Valor,” I said in return. His entire body tensed. Why was he looking at me like this? He could barely contain himself. What was going on? Before I could think of that anymore he leaned forward, shocking me completely when he kissed my lips. As he backed away, he placed his hands on my shoulders, and bowed his head to meet my gaze. “You are a part of my family, no matter what. Do you hear me?” Before I had a chance to really process that, Isla appeared beside me. She wore a long flowing pink chevron dress, her eyes focused deeply on Thor even as she said to me. “Thanks, Nexi.” My mind reeled, trying to understand all this. Why was she thanking me? But then, a memory surfaced, a conversation with Valor. It was impossible to understand my motivations now. Why had I thought it so important that Valor agree to this bonding ceremony? After a moment of thinking, I came up blank. Luckily, no one said more on the matter Valor took Isla’s arm and approached Thor. Then, the ceremony began. Kyden wrapped himself around my back. I leaned against him and listened to Valor’s words. Saw the happiness spread across Isla’s face and the way Thor watched her with adoring eyes. As each second passed and each word spoken, an odd feeling began to stir within me. I tried to shake it away, clenched onto Kyden tighter, but something about being here, seeing this bond gnawed at me. Made me yearn for something, but I just couldn’t pinpoint what it was.

“Thor.” Valor smiled, completing the ceremony. “Kiss your mate and seal your bond.” Thor smiled gloriously, then took Isla into a brilliant kiss. Two souls, long withheld from one another had finally become one. Swiftly, it hit me then. What I felt made sense. I was filled with an uncontrollable jealously, completely desolate that they were experiencing this and I wasn’t. This should have been my life. The worst part—and it hit hard—I was feeling it in Kyden’s arms. I was losing myself while he touched me. A wave of sickness washed over me. Without thought, I pulled away from him and ran. “Nexi,” Kyden called out. I didn’t look back as I ran toward the front of the house. Once there, away from watchful eyes, I dropped to me knees and threw up violently. I heaved so deeply, it was impossible to breathe. After my stomach settled, I raised my head to see Rynn standing beside me. “You okay?” she asked. I wiped my mouth and leaned against my legs. “No.” Anger burned within me, and for the life of me, I couldn’t remember why I had been throwing up. What made me sick? I knew something upset me, but I just couldn’t place it. Couldn’t remember the emotion that went with it. Rynn lunged forward, wrapped herself around me and hugged me tight. “It will be alright. It has to be.” My arms stayed glued at my sides, fists clenched. “No, Rynn. It doesn’t.” My voice came out as a low growl. Everything was wrong. Nothing was how it should be. I wasn’t where I should be. Immediately, she backed away, scrambled back so she rested a foot away. Darkness, hate and rage burned within me. Briggs suddenly was there beside her, lifting Rynn to her feet and placing her protectively behind him. “Nexi,” he said, cautiously.

“What,” I snapped. Apprehension spread across his face. Why shouldn’t he be afraid? I could destroy him where he stood, but I didn’t want to do that. Something made me hesitate from taking my rage out on him. Kyden was right behind him, but he didn’t stop and didn’t look afraid. He stalked right toward me. “Stay away from me,” I growled. “No,” he growled back, threw his body at me. The second his body landed on top of mine, I was flooded with heart-wrenching despair as my mind cleared and I realized what had just happened. Even his connection was fading. The bond with Magnus was taking me to the one place I thought it would never reach. “Kyden…” I exhaled. “I am here,” he stated with a heartrending sigh.

Chapter Fifteen

The smell of flowers and thriving grass was all around me. I circled around, my gaze running across a view of a beautiful garden. As much as it pleased me to be surrounded by a natural wonder, something pleased me more. “Magnus,” I called out. Magnus chuckled softly and suddenly appeared beside me. “Hello, beauty,” he purred. I smiled back in return. Every part of me was glad to be with him. Happiness rang high in my soul. “Where am I?” My voice sounded songlike. “This is the dreaming,” Magnus replied, taking my hand. I glanced down toward our joined hands. It had never felt so right. “You can enter someone’s dreams?” “I can enter yours.”

He pulled me down to sit on the soft grass in front of a rushing brook. Reaching over, I ran my hands through the cold stream. It felt so real—too real. My gaze drew back to him as he reached up, brushed his fingers against my cheek. “I am glad to see you.” I leaned into his hand, a touch never felt so good. “Me too.” He squirmed in closer, leaned down to take my lips. His kisses were slow and savoring. He didn’t rush anything about it. There was no heat in them, just love and adoration. This wasn’t about ravishing my body, he wanted to enjoy it. I grabbed onto his shirt, pulled him closer, and our lips met with the softest of touches. With every glide of his tongue, caress of his lips, I melted into him further. He sighed deeply, then released me. His expression shone of intense longing. “What do I have to do to show you? To get you to see that my only wish is your happiness? To give you everything you ever wanted?” “I believe you,” I whispered. And I did. I believed he would give me everything I wanted and more. I would never go without. Never be in danger again. He would protect me always. I didn’t doubt it for a moment. His face softened and he leaned back in to take my lips. Seconds later, I was naked. I wasn’t sure which of us did it, but it didn’t matter. All that mattered was that his soul was connected to mine, and we were about to deepen our bond. There was nothing dominating about him, nothing that pushed for this. He lowered me back slowly until I lay on the ground before him, then he lifted his head to gaze upon me. “You are utterly exquisite.” I blinked. When my vision returned, he was naked too. I rejoiced in seeing his brilliant body. Every muscle cut splendidly, hard lines defining his sculpted physique. Nearly bald head, high cheekbones, dark eyes were all superb. He was all mine to savor and enjoy. His square chest meshed with deeply defined abs that led to a glorious V, which met large-toned thighs, and a perfect part that made him purely male. He lowered himself between my legs, and kissed along my neck, nibbling, teasing until I began squirming beneath him, urged him to take my body and claim me. His hand ran the length of my body and he reached down, tested my readiness for him. When I soaked his fingers with a pure need to have him, he groaned deeply.

“I would take the time to pleasure you until you are well satisfied, but I fear we do not have the time. I need to take you.” His voice was tight with urgency. His words confused me. Why didn’t we have time? We were meant to be together. Why did we have to rush? When he pressed himself against me, thoughts fled my mind. I moaned as he slowly entered me. He slid inside me and spread my thighs wider with his legs to give him a deeper reach. Nothing felt more beautiful. He didn’t thrust deeply, but moved slowly, his eyes glowed as he looked down at me. I lifted my hips to meet his as little flickers of pleasure began to overtake me. Finally, everything felt just as it should be. To feel skin against skin and know our bond was at last settling into place. My soul was thrilled—I was his. This was nothing about possession. This was about two souls that were meant to belong together finally becoming one. I reached up to cup his face as he began to increase his speed. Never had my body responded like this, my body was completely and utterly aroused by him. Without as much as a hard thrust, he had me climaxing, his body hitting the perfect spot over and over again. He was meant to be inside me, the perfect length and thickness to hit the source of my pleasure constantly. As my body tightened around him, he lowered his head to mine so our gazes locked, unable to look away from each other. “Yes, give yourself to me.” Only a stroke later, my orgasm tore through me, leaving me to shudder beneath him. He never stopped moving slowly. Never stopped gazing at me. The longer it continued, the more he glowed. Apparently, he needed this to seal our bond, to feel me give myself enough to orgasm because he was overjoyed. Within minutes, he had me right there again, but this time his face was intense, he was about to finish. Just then, a scream cut through the sensation. “What was that?” I gasped, my orgasm exploded through me, even though my mind was telling me that something was wrong. Magnus began pumping harder, needing to finish. A hard slap on my face startled me.

“What?” I managed as the lingering effects of my release tingled. Magnus let out a deep groan as he shuttered his release. Then, he raised his hand to me face, sighed with annoyance. “Soon I will have you and take your body as I like.” He smiled. A black flash filled my eyes. Then, I was back in my bedroom, lying on the bed with Zia slapping my face hard. Haven and Finn were there as was Talon. Kyden was shaking me, yelling. Zia slapped my face again hard. “Ouch,” I complained. Her face relaxed from its grave position. “Are you okay?” she asked quickly. My head was swimming. I couldn’t quite grasp what had happened. Haven sobbed loudly. “What happened?” I asked Kyden, grabbing his hand to feel the connection to him. It was still there, but weaker than before. Kyden looked tightly wound, torn to pieces. “He was fucking you,” he growled. Clarity emerged. “Oh God…no.” I had just given myself willingly to Magnus. What had I done? “Nexi,” Zia shook me. “Do not feel shame over this. He took you in the dreaming. You are not as strong there. You would not have had the ability to refuse him.” My tears came hastily, my voice all but a broken whisper. “Kyden…” “No,” he shouted, causing me to jump. “He does not get to fuck you.” Talon lunged forward, punched Kyden in the face, which knocked him straight to the ground. Kyden slowly raised his gaze to Talon, then he erupted. The two of them were rumbling around the floor, scuffling in anger with Haven screaming for them stop. Suddenly, she passed out. Finn lunged toward her and scooped her up. Obviously, the situation was too much for her to handle. “Stop it,” I roared in a voice that wasn’t my own, and with it I sent a blast of Air, separating Talon and Kyden. Annoyed, I urgently just wanted to be alone. When these idiots were fighting over… What were they fighting over? Me being with Magnus? But why would that upset them? With that, my annoyance shifted to rage. Why was I here? Where was Magnus?

“You fool,” Talon spat. “She needs you. This was not her choice.” Kyden’s shoulders sank in defeat. “I can’t take this.” Zia suddenly propelled me forward, pushed me into Kyden’s lap. My mind returned to me, I grabbed his arms and held them tight, as they lay lifeless. “I love you, Kyden. I love you.” My heart sank as it was beginning to feel like those were just words with no emotion behind them. I knew a part of me loved him, but it was such a small part now, and I couldn’t quite remember what loving him meant. Kyden slowly met my eyes, and the thin line of love I felt plummeted. “It is not enough, Álainn.” With that, he stood and left. My butt hit the floor as I slumped to the ground. Empty. Confused. Angry. The moment shared with Magnus had stirred something in me. It solidified our bond, made me need him more. Want him more and miss him terribly. Seeing Kyden walk away made me feel nothing. “How did you know?” I asked Zia, my voice cold, empty and flat. What I really wanted to ask is why did you stop it? “Willow’s hissing woke up Kyden and he came to me. Just as he did, Haven appeared, sensing something was wrong. When I came to you, I read into you, saw what was happening,” Zia said, grabbing my hands in hers. Rage gripped me that they intervened. “I fucking hate this.” “I love you,” Willow said as she lunged into my lap. “Get off me,” I yelled, shoving her off. Willow let out a little whine and snuggled into Zia. Zia sighed, petting her head. “Fate has dealt you a difficult hand but we will love you nonetheless.” “I’m just so … so … angry.” Tears fell from her eyes, her bottom lip quivered. “I know you are, Sweetie. I believe it might be time for you to accept this and move to the Underworld. The strain on you is becoming too much. Look at how angry you are becoming. This is what will happen if you continue to stay away from Magnus.

Now that you have sealed your bond with him, it will only get worse. Your soul is craving him. You cannot deny it any longer.” The biggest part of me was saying, yes, that is exactly what I need to do. Go be with Magnus where I belong. However, a very small part, told me to stay. It only made the rage within me burn deeper. Haven finally came to, and Finn took her away while she sobbed hysterically. I gritted my teeth and clenched my fists, ready to hit something, when I was unexpectedly lifted into strong arms. With Kyden’s touch came a rush of emotions. The strongest one was sadness, then longing and yearning for who I once was and with it came tears. “Hush now,” Kyden whispered. “I’ve got you.” I could barely breathe, let alone speak. Everything was just wrong. All that remained was sadness, but the oddity of it was that I couldn’t quite grasp why I was so sad. I just was and profoundly so. Kyden headed out toward the garden. At the bench by the pond, he sat and cradled me in his arms. We stayed there like that what felt like hours while I cried, and he held me tight. “I shouldn’t have left you,” Kyden finally said when my sobs became controlled. “I am sorry for that.” I gripped his neck tightly as I met his gaze, not wanting to hear apologies, because I was sure if anyone owed one, it was me. I couldn’t find it in me to say it, though. “Doing that with him…it won’t be long now, Kyden. It strengthened his hold. I feel it. Our connection is weak. The only thing I feel around you is sadness. I can’t remember anything else. It’s like I know that I want to be here with you and everyone, but I just can’t remember why. There is no emotion behind anything anymore. I act and do things, but it’s almost like instinct, not because I really want to.” Kyden’s sigh was full of heartache. “This will all be over soon.” “Over?” I repeated. “How?” “I have issued a challenge to Magnus,” he said. I jumped off him, fearing for his life. The moment his contact left mine, however, anger fumed through me. “You did what?” Rage consumed me. Hate for Kyden, even at the suggestion to kill Magnus, engulfed my entire being.

Kyden grabbed my hand in his and pulled me back onto his lap, the storm quickly smoothed away to fear for Kyden. “It is the only way to end this. I cannot continue on this way. Seeing you go through this. Seeing you in this much pain…It is intolerable, and I told you, I will do what I can to keep you.” “No, Kyden!” My voice shook with fear as I pleaded for him to stop this. Magnus was a Warlock, Kyden had no protection against magic. “He will kill you.” Kyden sighed deeply, his eyes showed deep despair and emptiness as he sat with slumped shoulders. “I am already dead if I do not have you, Álainn.” “No,” I screamed at him, at the world. I spun on my heels and ran to find Talon. At the castle, I threw the door opened and rushed into the Council’s Hall. Talon had his arms wrapped around Zia in a tight embrace. He released her at my approached, and I slammed into him, began to thump on his chest. “You have to stop this. You cannot let this happen. You can’t let him do it. Stop him.” Talon grabbed my wrists, forcing me still. “I can’t. This is his choice. It has already been arranged.” “No,” I shouted. Kyden held a sword, a sword that could rain terror along a body. “He will hurt Magnus, he could kill him.” Zia and Talon exchanged looks of disbelief, which left me confused. Why was this surprising them? They needed to protect Magnus for me. Protect him against anyone that was wishing him harm. “I am sorry, Nexi,” Zia said grimly. “It has already been done. The challenge has been issued for an hour from now.” Footsteps came behind me, I spun around, Kyden was slowly approaching. My teeth clenched as I ran at him, wanting to hurt him for even thinking of this. When I collided with him, he grabbed me in his arms. The second we connected, the rage changed to terrifying panic for Kyden. “Do not do this. He has magic. You can’t fight against him. He will kill you, Kyden,” I cried, feeling drained. Zia and Talon both stared at me with blatant confusion. Obviously, the battle going on inside me was now exposed. Kyden’s expression was fierce and unwavering. “I will do fine.”

“No, you won’t,” I screamed holding his arms tightly, not wanting to break the connection that was here. “This cannot happen.” Suddenly, Finn entered the hall with Haven in his arms. “I can’t ease her,” Finn said worriedly. Haven was sobbing uncontrollably, the only state she seemed to be in lately. All it did was annoy me. She was weak, pitiable. I wanted her to just go away. Zia approached her quickly, rested her hand on Haven’s shoulder. Seconds later, Haven fell fast asleep just as Finn adjusted her head to rest on his chest. “I will wake her when this is over,” Zia said, looking back to me. “It is only going to get worse.” Finn nodded and carried her away. Before he left the hall, he glanced back at Kyden, and the look they exchanged sank my heart. They were going to lose each other. Two Guardians that had been as close as brothers were now saying goodbye. As much as I couldn’t understand the reason why it hurt me deeply, I only knew it did. It cut into my stomach, and forced me to sink to my knees while my hands trailed down Kyden’s legs. “No,” I whispered in agony.

Chapter Sixteen

An hour later, Kyden held my hand tightly in his own, as Zia and Talon followed in behind. Misa led us past Magnus’ home toward a large stone building that adjoined a forest. The closer we got the more I realized that it was an auditorium or something very similar. When we stepped through the glass doors, I gasped. “Jesus.” The entire place was full of demons, witches and warlocks—looked more like a Dallas Cowboy game than a challenge—even had the grass turf and all. Suddenly, I froze. Kyden glanced at me, arching a brow. “You alright?”

“I…” Something stirred within me, pulled deep. I searched the room quickly. There was something I needed to find, something here that wanted me. Just then, Magnus stepped into the center of the room and my heart leapt with joy. Mine, it said. With that, the last of my connection with Kyden simply vanished. He was just a guy I was once with who now held no meaning to me whatsoever. One that I wanted in my past. “Magnus,” I whispered. Kyden’s hold on my hand tightened. “Fight it,” he said urgently. My gaze snapped toward him. “Why are you holding me?” Why did Kyden prevent me from going to Magnus? It made me hate him because he wanted to keep me away from Magnus. He was nothing to me, a lover at one time, but I felt nothing for him. Why was he doing this? His entire body slumped, the green in his eyes nearly black with despair. “You belong to me.” “No. I do not,” I shouted. “Let go.” I pulled frantically at our joined hands. “Let go of me.” He frowned. “No. I cannot.” I pulled again, but his hold was so tight. “Let go, right now.” “No,” he roared. With all my might, I pushed out, sent him falling back. The second we disconnected, I spun on my heels and ran toward Magnus. Zia let out a loud cry and Kyden yelled my name loudly, but I needed to get to Magnus. Needed to connect with my soul mate, needed it beyond reason. A second later, I slammed into Magnus with such force it sent us both flying backwards. Without a second to lose, I took his lips passionately. He reached up and grasped my face, met me with pure intensity. Nothing else mattered except that I was here with him now. Finally, the anger that had been burning inside me released. Magnus soothed me. It was him―all him―who made me feel good again. He was right. He would make everything better with his delicious lips against mine, teasing my tongue to make me wild, I couldn’t wait to have more of him. I reached for his pants. He stopped me, chuckling. “I would love to indulge that thought, but now is not the time.”

“Why not?” I demanded, meeting his gaze. He nodded out toward the crowd. I followed his gaze, now aware of just how many watchful eyes were getting a free show. “Er…forgot about all of them.” I squirmed off him, jumped to his feet, and helped me to mine. Now resuming a non-horizontal position with my mind leaving my erotic needs, I glanced through the crowd, my gaze stopped on Zia. She was crying, and Talon was restraining Kyden. Something in me tingled. I couldn’t understand why Zia was crying. What was making her so unhappy? It began to eat at me a little. I was annoyed she wasn’t happy for me. She should be happy for me. Kyden’s expression just stunned me. This did not look like a face who was about to have a challenge. That gave a thought to rise. “Why is he challenging for me?” I asked Magnus. For the life of me, I just couldn’t remember the reasons for it. Kyden was nothing to me. There were no feelings there. What could this be about? Why was he so intent on keeping someone who cared nothing for him and wanted to be with someone else? None of it made any sense. Magnus gave me a reassuring squeeze and a soft smile. “He is after something that does not belong to him is all. Don’t fret, this will not take long and then we can be alone.” I nodded, fully confident that he would handle Kyden quickly. The Guardian didn’t stand a chance at defeating him, which made me wonder why he would even bother. He was committing suicide. My confusion deepened, I had better things to do than witnessing this stupid fight. “Make it fast,” I told him, giving him a quick peck on the lips. Magnus’ eyes flared with heat as he read my lustful intentions. “There is something we must do first and I want the Guardian to see this.” He pulled me into the center of the auditorium, then turned to the crowd, his voice rang out with authority. “Welcome all.” When he wrapped his arm around me, I sank in beside him. It felt so right to be encased in his warmth. So good in fact, I could only wonder how I ever lived without him. Magnus continued, “Before we see to this challenge, it is in my right to claim what is mine, and I will do so.” The room applauded and I laughed. Most looked as thrilled as I was. This was perfect in every way. Finally, my life was going to settle into something great and I owed that to Magnus. I wouldn’t see death anymore—no more pain—just happiness. “Azar come to us. Seal our bond.”

A Warlock stepped forward. He was old and powerful, and looked oddly familiar, but I just couldn’t place him. He had long white hair that swept across his body in the most masculine way. His face was scruffy, his gray eyes deep. He stopped in front of me and took my hand in his. “It is a pleasure, Lady Nexi.” Then, held up a long black dress that was cut low in the front and the back. Magnus stepped in front of me, unclipped my bra, then let my kilt fall to the floor. His gaze roamed over my bare breasts and smiled sensually. Normally, I’d feel embarrassed standing naked in a room of strangers, but with Magnus’ smoldering eyes at me, I could hardly care. Desire burned through me. He ran his hands down my arms, lifted them above my head, and slowly draped the dress down my body. When it settled into place, it fit perfectly—everything was perfect. “Now you look just as you should to rule the Underworld.” Magnus smiled, and lightly kissed my lips. Then, he backed away and turned to Azar, giving him a nod to begin. “Lord Magnus you have been given a wonderful gift in our Lady Nexi. Is it your wish to take her as your Lady?” he asked Magnus. Magnus smiled gloriously. “It is my wish.” I gave him a little kiss for that. Azar looked to me, happiness nearly glowed on his features. “Is it your wish Lady Nexi to accept Lord Magnus as your Lord?” “Nexi,” Kyden roared a desperate plea. My gaze hit his, Talon had him on the ground now, forcing him still―by the look of the strain on Talon’s face, it wasn’t an easy task. Only adding to my confusion of what this was all about. Why was he so angered? A finger came under my chin before I could finish my thought. I allowed my head to turn, Magnus gave a soft smile. “It is time to hear your answer,” he said. Focused back on him, I returned the smiled. “Yes, it’s my wish to bond with you.” Tears glistened my eyes. How could I be so lucky? Magnus was everything I ever dreamed of. Tall, dark and handsome—perfectly mine.

“Before you followers, and as my right within the Underworld, I hereby declare that Lord Magnus and Lady Nexi have now recognized their wish to seal their bond before us.” Then, he nodded toward Magnus. “Take her my Lord, seal your bond.” Magnus wistfully pulled me into his arms and kissed me deep enough that left me weak in the knees. In an instant, my soul screamed out in happiness as our bond settled into place. A joining, which had me feeling him deeper, experiencing what he had, tying our magical abilities together. I felt stronger than ever. I never needed nothing, or anyone else besides him. He was all I ever wanted, and I would make it my job to see that he was always happy, cared for, and safe. When he drew away, he wiped the tears off my face with his fingers. “I knew my plan would lead us to this.” “I’m sorry I have been so difficult,” I whispered, shamefully. And I meant it. I was wrong to reject him, and shame sunk deep that he had to go to such measures to get my help when he needed it. That would never happen again. More than that, too, I refused his interest in me. Which at the present, I couldn’t quite remember the reasons for denying him for so long. The only thing I knew was that I had. Nothing about that felt good. “That is long forgotten,” Magnus smiled gloriously, “Nothing will separate us, now.” Then, he kissed my lips softly. Not desire filled, but showing that he wanted nothing more than to share his life, his duty as Lord of the Underworld with me. “Let us rejoice in our new leader,” Azar shouted, sending the entire crowd to erupt in screams of delight. Just as the crowd silenced, Azar took my hand in his and with it came a blast of pain between my shoulder blades just at the base of my neck. “What was that?” I screamed out, then reached up to touch the mark of pain. My skin felt raw and sore. “You have been marked as a ruler of the Underworld.” He handed me two mirrors, which appeared out of thin air. “This is the mark you have been granted.” I raised the mirrors and moved my hair to the side to reveal a black willow tree that looked more tribal than anything. It was beautiful. The longer I looked at it, I noticed it slowly moved, weaved around itself. A willow tree.

Here was that damn tree again. What was and the connection between me and this friggin tree? My confusion continued as I met Azar’s gaze. “Why a tree?” My voice was puzzled. “This is the mark you have been given,” Azar told me simply. “It holds special meaning to you.” What special meaning? Azar took the mirrors and when he did, they simply vanished. “It is an exquisite mark for a unique being.” “What mark do you have?” I asked Magnus. He turned around, and removed his shirt to reveal a black serpentine that was gloriously dark. I ran my fingers across it, marveled at its beauty. It seemed to move with my touch, followed my movements. “This is my family’s crest,” Magnus told me quietly. “Now that you have been granted yours, your followers can draw this mark into their ruin to serve as an offering to you.” “Oh! Does that mean that I have accepted the darkness now?” I asked hopeful. Azar shook his head, answering for Magnus. “Not at this time. We will save that for another time.” My heart sank. I wanted to accept it. To be a complete part of Magnus realm. Magnus looked inquisitively at Azar. “Why wait?” “Let us make it a beautiful thing,” Azar responded with a grin. “These ceremonies were necessary, but I believe that you and Lady Nexi will get more enjoyment out of the process if you are alone.” Magnus eyes went molten. “Yes, you are right,” he told him. “It will be quite enjoyable alone.” “I don’t want to wait,” I told him angrily. He laughed and kissed my lips before he said, “I want you to be naked, and my body pleasuring you when I give you the magic. It will make for a more intense experience.” Warmth spread right through me and lingered right between my thighs. “Mmm, sounds good,” I purred, slowly rubbing my hand down his chest until I met the hard bulge in his pants.

Magnus groaned at the contact. A deep gasp drew my eyes away. I glanced toward it to see Kyden shaking tremendously. Why was he looking so unhappy? “What…” I started. Something stung within me. Just as quickly, it vanished, leaving only questions to remain. Why wasn’t Kyden thrilled like everyone else? If he respected me at all, he would be ecstatic that I have finally found my soul mate. He was being selfish, and that thought made me hate every bone in his body. He was just jealous of my happiness. Now, I was only too glad that Magnus was going to make him suffer for it. Magnus took my chin in hand, drawing my eyes back to him. “That is no concern of yours. Go stand with Misa, let me deal with this.” His face darkened and his body tensed with the awaiting battle. He gave me a little push and I left him in the center, made my way to stand beside Misa on the sidelines. She gave me a little smile, which I returned. “So, what happens now?” I asked her. She nodded toward Kyden, who began his approach on Magnus. “They will declare the rules, then the challenge will commence.” I glanced back to her. “Should I be worried?” “Worried for whom?” “Magnus of course,” I said, snippily. “Who else would I be worried for?” She shrugged, as her gaze turned almost calculating. Her look stunned me. What had she meant by that? Why hadn’t she answered my question? Then, I heard Magnus speak and my thoughts focused instantly on him. “Azar, let’s begin,” Magnus growled in a stare down with Kyden. “The challenge has been issued by the Guardian; therefore, he will get the first attack,” Azar instructed. “From then on, there are no restrictions. Whoever remains standing at the end will be declared the victor.” “Well, we know who that will be,” I said, certain. “We will just see,” Misa said under her breath.

My gaze snapped to her harshly. “What the hell is that supposed to mean?” She shook her head, dismissed me and focused back on the impending battle. “I never said anything. You’re hearing things.” Before I had a chance to call her on that lie, Azar shouted, “Let the challenge begin.” Nerves shot right through me. Magnus would be fine, I didn’t doubt that. But I still felt very unsettled. Why, I wasn’t quite sure. Kyden drew his sword, and slowly began circling Magnus. “You stole what belonged to me,” he growled. “I stole nothing,” Magnus growled in return. “She came to me willingly and is now mine.” Kyden snarled, punched Magnus, then quickly sliced through his stomach. His blood spattered through the air. I screamed out as Magnus fell to the ground, gasping. He was bleeding. Oh God, he was hurt. Misa held me back as I tried frantically to get to him. As much as that gripped my thoughts, another filtered through. Why hadn’t Kyden taken the chance to kill him? The wound he gave would only injure Magnus, not kill. That made my breath whoosh back into my body. He wanted to die for me. All the unanswered questions grew to a point where they reached their boiling point. Sometime was wrong here. It wasn’t adding up. Why was I feeling so confused? I glanced to Misa for help, she watched me with curious eyes. Then my thoughts cleared when Magnus sucked in a deep breath, and stood. “That was your first shot. Now it is time to die.” The second his words finished, he blasted Kyden with magic, sending him flaying back and screaming out in pain. He was doing nothing to him, not holding him in anyway, but I knew it wouldn’t be long before he was dead. Zia was crying loudly. Talon kneeled, looking at the ground, obviously unable to watch his son die. My mind again filled with a mess of confusion. Something about this bothered me. Something urged me to yell for this to stop. Seeing Zia and Talon upset bothered me. It just sat wrong within my gut. I was too confused to act or move. I glanced at Misa again, nearly begged her to make sense out of my scrabbled mind.

Instead of answering, she gave me a soft smile as she took my hand in hers and led me over to Azar. She placed my hand in his and he gripped it tightly. “Consider this a reminder from a friend.” Suddenly, a blast of power rocketed through me and sent me a step back. It was like waking and stepping into a cold shower. The haze over my mind cleared, but the confusion stayed. “What the fuck?” I gasped. What the hell was going on? What was happening here? Misa smiled, knowingly. “I told you there is more going on here than you know. I can only hope it is enough.” With that simple reminder, the sense of myself slammed back into me. The draw to Magnus was still there, but Kyden lived strong in my heart. The reality of this situation returned. “Kyden,” I screamed, lunging forward, and did the only thing I could. Without a second’s consideration, I drew on Spirit and demanded that it give me everything it could. With a deep breath and a heavy push soul deep, I threw my shield around Kyden. The instant it connected with Magnus’ magic, it deflected it away and flew a sparkle of power to rip through the auditorium. Loud gasps echoed followed thereafter, and even I had to gasp myself. My shield had proved to protect me, but to protect someone else, that was certainly new. My panic apparently made me stronger. Kyden’s shouts of pain quieted. Fear wrenched through me, not knowing if it was because he was dead, or that he was just unconscious. “What is going on here?” Magnus growled. He glanced around the room, his eyes settled on Azar, who stood, shaking terribly. Obviously, withdrawing the hold over me took an immense amount of magic on his part. “Azar, you will die for this betrayal,” Magnus roared. Then, he glanced to his demons. “Kill him.” No one moved. Shock and treachery flashed across Magnus’ face before his gaze fell on me. “I can’t let you do this,” I said softly. Just because the bond had been broken momentarily didn’t mean I still didn’t feel connected to Magnus. He was my soul mate, we were bonded and he was embedded into every part of me. Killing him would mean killing a part of myself. Was I capable of that? “You are my Lady.” Magnus’ face darkened. “What are you doing?”

Tears filled my eyes, my words barely able to form. “I don’t know. I just can’t let this happen.” The battle inside me was intense. Reason and heart told me to save Kyden—but my soul wouldn’t hear it. Questions swam through my mind as I battled within myself. I had never chosen Magnus. Just because fate brought us together, did that determine true love? My heart told me no. Kyden was the man who loved me for who I was. Magnus would want me to become something different—dark. Kyden gave me everything I needed and no bond was needed to declare it. It simply was. In that very moment, I defied the odds. My heart grew stronger. The fierceness that compelled me began to fade as Magnus’ connection to my soul weakened. His was a bond not based on love but on compatibility. I was the best choice of a mate for him. We could be more powerful together. We would provide everything we needed to each other, but that was not love. Love is messy, confusing, comes with highs and lows. It wasn’t something convenient. With my heart winning, I stepped forward. My soul screamed at me to back away, to stop what I was about to do. Every part of me shook in need to just run into Magnus’ arms and forget everyone else. I glanced quickly at Kyden’s lifeless body and the trembling stopped. I wasn’t Magnus’. I was Kyden’s, always and forever. I knew it in every part of my body, even if my soul declared it otherwise. Magnus’ grin was cold and evil. “You are meant to be mine. It lies there within you. You feel it. The pull. You need me. If you do this you will kill your soul.” “My soul is nothing without Kyden,” I stated as I let my magic fill me. Magnus screamed my name as power began to whip around us. He tried to catch my focus, tried to get me to hear his voice so I would stop, but my only thought was of Kyden. I centered myself around every ounce of love we shared and drew on it. My soul was only one part of me and my heart at this very moment was stronger—solid. Low hums filled the auditorium as energy began to flow rapidly. The magic I conjured was nothing I’d ever felt before. It wasn’t elemental. It was all energy and it felt powerful.

The willow on my neck began to tingle in response to the magic forming inside me. I considered drawing Magnus’ Black Magic within me, but instantly knew that I didn’t need it to destroy him. The bond created with Magnus gave me part of his ability, and it made my magic stronger—gave more energy to my elements. It derived from Black Magic, relieved and fueled mine. Magnus screamed louder. The betrayal and hurt was strong in his voice. It ripped at me. My soul nearly crippled hearing it. I roared against the desire to stop the magic from consuming me, and deny the need to see him dead. Magnus threw his magic at my shield. It hit in spurts, coming at every angle. He was strong, which made me feel oddly proud. The one destined to me should be powerful, but the part that sunk deep wasn’t strong enough. I could unleash my power at any time and finish him. It was just getting to that point. Killing him was like separating my soul. My shield stayed strong around me, repelled his blows, but the deepest fight was going on inside of me. I was ready to end it, one second, and the next I was bringing it back. I just couldn’t decide. Magnus continued to scream my name and it cut through me. My soul emptied as each passing moment, but as I glanced down at Kyden, the answer was clear. Kyden had to survive. If that meant Magnus had to die then that was the only choice because my world was no world at all if Kyden didn’t exist in it. With a final last look at Magnus’ forlorn expression, tears filled my eyes and I screamed, “I’m sorry.” I shut my eyes as I freed the power, willed it to destroy the one destined to love me. Power exploded, ripped me apart. Energy flowed like a heartbeat as Magnus’ screams grew ear-shattering. Then, with a loud bang, it stopped, and my soul shattered into a thousand pieces as his life force ended. I fell to the ground, empty, starved of belonging to him. A second later, Talon was there. “Nexi,” he shouted, shaking me. The only sound to escape my mouth was a loud sob. He grabbed me in his arms. They were protecting, rejoicing, and adoring just as a father’s would. The instant Magnus died my soul fell into a pit of darkness, but then it instantly rebounded, and his hold evaporated. The relief that came with it brought me such joy that I could only cry because of it.

That is what my tears were for, I realized. I was free from him. My soul was finally my own again. All I felt was the love I had for Kyden and it was stronger than ever. The anger gripping me was gone, as was the confusion. Once again, I was Nexi Jones, Witch, Guardian…and Kyden’s. As I lay cradled in Talon’s arms, Zia ran to Kyden and laid a hand against him. After a few moments and a bit of strain from Zia, he immediately jumped to his feet, and glanced around a few times. When his gaze met mine, a soft whisper came from his mouth, “Álainn.” Then, he ran, fast and hard toward me. I scrambled out of Talon’s arms, needing to touch him. Feel him. A thousand conflicting emotions raged through my heart. Betrayal for the events with Magnus, heartbreak over what almost was, but right now, the strongest was joy. We still had each other. Everything else would be dealt with and sorted through. We made it through hell and back. Right now I wasn’t going to ruin it with guilty feelings. When I reached Kyden, he grabbed me, hugged me with all his might. He leaned back a bit looking agape. “You killed him.” He grasped my face in his hands tightly. “You overcame the bond. How did you do that?” “It wasn’t without help,” I said through tears, glancing at Misa and Azar, who smiled brightly. My smile in return came easily. This was the first time I looked at Misa and didn’t see a demon. She saved us—saved me—and I could only hope her reasons behind it were good ones. Truth be told, I had reached my limit. I couldn’t take anymore. Kyden ran his fingers along my cheeks, bringing my gaze back to him. His eyes were soft, victorious, and again, possessive as they always were. “You were wrong you know,” I told him, as the crowd and noises faded away as I lost myself in his eyes. He arched a brow. “Wrong about what?” “Love is enough.” Kyden’s grin was devilish. “This time, I’m glad I was.” He squeezed his hands tighter along my face, pulled me closer toward him, and met my lips in a passionate kiss that was the essence of love. I sighed at the perfection of it, knowing I was right where I belonged. Did my connection with Kyden run as deep as the one I had with Magnus? Maybe not, but it was better. It was real.

Kyden didn’t own my soul, he captured it and I gave it to him freely. That would always be enough and more than I could ever want. He released my mouth, laid a few sweet kisses more, then rested his forehead again mine. My eyes shut of their own accord just relishing in this. The now. No thinking. No moving,. Just the enjoyment of his breath against my skin and his hands on my face. The love surrounding us. Then Azar shouted, “All hail our new leader, Lady Nexi,” and our peace was interrupted. Slowly, I drew away from Kyden, glanced around the auditorium to see that everyone had risen to their feet and were bowing. “All hail, Lady Nexi!” they shouted as if their lives depended on it. Kyden’s chuckle came quiet, but enough that I heard it. Confused, I glanced at him. He gave me a knowing look, and with that amused twinkle in his eye, annoyance flew through me. “They can’t possibly think…?” He nodded as if I was right on the money, his mouth closed in an obvious attempt to refrain from laughing. My gaze glanced back out to the crowd, who awaited me to acknowledge them. “Oh, for Christ sakes!” The End

About the Author:

Stacey Kennedy is an avid lover of the paranormal romance and urban fantasy genres. If she isn't plugging away at her next novel, tending to her two little ones, she's got her nose deep in a good book. She lives in Ontario, Canada with her husband. Be sure to drop her a line at www.staceykennedy.com, she loves to hear from her readers. Meet Lsb Authors At The House Of Sin Lsbooks.Net

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