“A warlock is afraid of a werewolf?” Lincoln laughed.
“He is.”
“What about Emily? Clint’s been chasing her for months.”
“He’s still pining over her. He’s so cute, swooning and wooing, but she continues to shut him out. He hasn’t quit talking about her. Frankly, I’m sick of hearing about his unrequited love.”
“She’s trying to let him in, but her past…” He shrugged. Lincoln wasn’t one to pry, and he had no clue what ghosts still haunted her, but knew it must have been hell. Emily didn’t come around often, but she was closed off when she did. She could hold pleasant small talk, but anything deeper and she shut down. Robert and Clint were the exceptions. Still, she kept Clint at a distance, but he wasn’t giving up. “One day, he’ll find a way to break down her walls.”
Monique shook her head. “Maybe she doesn’t need her walls broken down. Might be she needs someone to slip in behind them.”
Lincoln shrugged. “Perhaps. That’s not why I’m here though. Hopefully, I’m not a pain, but I need some help. I have a date with Victoria tonight.”
She grinned. “I heard.”
“From who?” he asked nervously.
“Victoria.” Monique ducked behind the counter and pulled out two boxes. “She wanted me to give you this. An outfit you’ll be able to dance in, and will look great on you. Plus shoes.”
Rubbing the back of his neck, he took a slow breath. “I’ll thank her.”
She rolled her eyes. “I get it. You’d rather pay for these yourself. However, it’s a gift, one she wanted to give. She said she would agree to a refund if you insisted, but let me urge you to accept her generosity.”
“Of course. In fact, I think I’ll repay her kindness with my own gift. The question is what? She has everything.” He stopped, remembering how he found her the night before. Sitting on the dock, her feet in the water with a big candle and leather bound journal. His brow arched. “I have an idea. Thank you.”
“Um… okay. Can I ask what?” She laughed, then waited patiently.
“She likes to write in her journal on the dock. The old wooden planks could use an upgrade. I’ll make it a sanctuary.”
Monique let out a dreamy sigh. “That’s romantic, and exactly why you’ll get the girl.” She winked. “Here, and enjoy your date. I have to get back to work. I’m filling an order for Erik.” She rolled her eyes with a groan.
Lincoln knew she had a history with the necromancer. He screwed up years ago. Now he was trying to fix their relationship, but she wasn’t having it. Keeping his opinions to himself, he picked up the boxes. “Thank you again.”
* * * *
Preston dropped into the chair across from Robert who sat at his desk. “What now?”
“I had to go into Byron’s head to break HARP’s brainwashing. They really worked him over. There were things he’d heard, or seen, and it was all wiped away. They expected Byron would be taken.”
“Not surprising. Hadraniel told me what Jophiel endured at HARP’s hands. This guy, Jones, is one sick fuck who has no problem forcing his will.”
“What’s his goal though?”
Preston shrugged, shaking his head. “World domination?”
Robert leaned back in his seat. “They work in cells, like terrorists. I’m worried that if we wipe out this one, more will come in. They have hybrids bred to combat everything, Preston. Teams built to seek out and destroy all types of Others. They’re worldwide and building an army. I think Jones suspected Jophiel had a child and that they were in Edenton. That’s why Monty was changed. The vampire who changed him was one of Jones people before he had Byron kill him as part of the bait.”
“That’s a leap, though logical.”
Robert shook his head. “I saw the evidence in Byron’s memories. HARP has two sides. The one they show human recruits and the side they show Others they’ve captured or recruited.”
“Shit runs deep then. That’s a lot of planning years in advance. Did you find any clues about where they might be now?”
Robert shook his head. “No, because they move operations on a seemingly random schedule. They clear everything out before going to the next location. And they don’t tell anyone in Byron’s position until they’ve moved. The new address is sent by text. And no, they didn’t send it to Byron’s phone.”
“But they’re focused on Edenton?”
Robert nodded. “Yeah. Byron picked up pieces of plans. Not how they would infiltrate, but people they want to use. I’m wondering if they’ve gone after any of the other towns like Edenton. Council’s not often welcome at those, but maybe Toryn can find us some information.”
“I’ll call him.”
“Think we should be worried about Lincoln?”
Preston chuckled. “No. He has a sharp mind. Plus impressing Victoria is high on his to-do list, and this is the perfect way to achieve that. He’s been training at the gym, learning to fight, freerun, and lifting weights. Give him a chance. I think he’ll surprise you.”
* * * *
Lincoln stepped beside Clint. “Want to spar with me?”
Clint looked over and nodded with a smirk. “Sure, but go easy.”
His brow cocked. “You’re the werewolf.”
“Not as impressive as what I heard about you.”
“What did I miss?” Jamie asked.
Lincoln rocked back on his heels and took a slow breath. “Slater probably told him I’m a Nephilim.”
Jamie’s eyes rounded. “A what?”
He sighed. “My father is an angel. In fact, he’s in town trying to figure out what’s going on with HARP.”
Clint patted Lincoln on the back. “Slater told his enforcers and no one else. Wanted to make sure we weren’t caught unaware if your wings make another appearance.”
Lincoln nodded. “I don’t blame him. I’m surprised the information hasn’t gone further, in all honesty.”
“Why’s that?” Clint asked with narrowed eyes.
“Secrets tend to spread fast here.”
“Not important ones. Sure, there’s gossip, but things that need to stay secret tend to.”
“About that sparring?” Lincoln asked, hoping to end the conversation.
“You’re on.”
Lincoln looked to Jamie. “I may be up for the parkour set after this.”
She grinned. “You got it. Remember, you have a date tonight. Leave some energy in the tank.”
“See, that didn’t stay secret,” Lincoln pointed out.
“No, but it’s about time you went after her,” Clint replied.
“I’m taking your advice. Making a move, but my way.”
“Good for you.” Clint hopped over the rail, into the ring, and beckoned Lincoln with a gesture.
Jamie leaned against the rail to watch.
Lincoln leapt into the ring and didn’t give Clint a second to prepare before he dove at him.
“Shit,” Clint grunted as he hit the ground. “Gonna be one of these days?” He let out a laugh before rolling with the intention of pinning Lincoln.
Twisting, Lincoln came to his feet and danced out of reach. “Too much?” he asked.
Clint shook his head, determination in his eyes. “Never.”
Moving with enhanced speed, Clint closed the distance with a series of roundhouse kicks as Lincoln dodged each one, moving in a circle. Lincoln dropped low, swinging his leg out to knock Clint to the ground.
He went down, but didn’t stay. Clint rolled to his feet, putting his fists up, waiting.
Lincoln advanced, swinging with his right. Clint ducked and threw a swing at Lincoln’s chest. A grunt left his lips, but Lincoln didn’t go down. He backed up, shaking his head, bouncing from foot to foot.
Crouching, Clint snorted. “You okay? I didn’t pull that punch.”
“Yeah, I’m fine.” He wanted to rub at the spot which would be a bruise later. He might not heal like a werewolf, but he healed faster than humans. By nightfall, he’d be fine. �
��Come on, I’m not done yet.”
Clint lunged, and Lincoln hopped back but he felt a ripple down his back as his wings appeared, sweeping him out of reach.
Landing on his knees, Clint stared up at him, slack jawed.
Lincoln’s wings worked enough to keep him afloat as he tried to catch his breath.
Shock made it hard to breathe. “Sorry, didn’t expect that.” He took a quick look around and frowned. Every pair of eyes was on him.
Taking a deep breath, he focused on the mat below. Once his feet were on the ground, he closed his eyes and willed his wings to go wherever they went when they weren’t in use. Too late, he realized he should have asked his father a few more questions.
Everyone went back to their workout without a word. Jamie still watched, a look of awe on her face, but she didn’t make a fuss either.
Clint nodded at him. “Hey, you’re part of Edenton. Have you ever known us to turn anyone away for being different?”
He shook his head. “No. I need to remember that, but I’m not used to this. I never thought I’d have wings to deal with.”
“Don’t worry. But we need to think of new ways to train you. Or have you practice with your father until you get used to them.”
“Good point. Maybe for now I should work on freerunning.”
Jamie gave him a smile. “Let’s do it. No cheating though and flying the jumps!”
Chapter 14
With box in hand, Lincoln entered his home. Jophiel sat on the couch, reading Pride and Prejudice, Mom’s favorite book.
Smiling, he asked, “Have you read it before?”
He looked up with a grin. “Many times since I last saw your mother. She was reading it when I found her again.”
He set the small packing box on the table. “I brought her journals and letters. There’s even a copy of that book. She had several, but would hold the one in here to her heart with a faraway look like she was lost in the best memories of her life.”
Jophiel wore a sad smile. “Thank you, Lincoln.”
“You’re welcome.”
“How long before your date?”
“I was planning to get ready and head over there. How about you look through these first, then show me tomorrow. I have a feeling most of those letters are for your eyes only.”
Jophiel set the book aside and stood up to walk to Lincoln. “I doubt she would mind you looking. I truly appreciate this.” He gave his son a hug.
Lincoln squeezed back. “I wish things were different. I wish I could have seen you two together.”
Jophiel closed his eyes. “Me too. I would give almost anything to go back and be there for you both.”
Patting his father’s back, he took a step away.
“Go on, get ready. I’ll be here, reconnecting with your mom.”
Lincoln dipped his head in a nod before striding for his bathroom. Between the dusty attic, a long workout, and creating a special place for Victoria, he needed to freshen up. It was close enough to sunset he hoped Victoria would spy on him once again.
After locking the door, he shed his clothes and climbed into the shower, cranking the heat. He closed his eyes and stood under the spray as he attempted to relax each muscle in turn.
All he could see against his lids was Victoria smiling back at him while curled in his arms on the couch. He could still feel her lips and taste her kiss.
Remembering his dad in the next room, he rushed through washing, until he felt her eyes on him. He quickly rinsed off, and stepped toward the open window, without a towel, still soaking wet, gesturing for her to come to him.
At first nothing happened, then the shadows behind the nearest tree dissipated as she moved closer. Her tongue darted out to lick her lips. “I shouldn’t…”
“I like you watching,” he admitted breathlessly. “I need to taste you, though.”
She groaned low in her throat as she closed the distance and leaned up through the window. He caught her face in his hands. His mouth descended on hers. Her fingers trailed up his chest and played over his nipples. Sharp pleasure shot straight to his straining cock.
Embarrassed by the need coursing through him, he broke the kiss, panting.
She swallowed hard as she stared into his eyes. “I want you so badly, but not like this, with your father—the angel—in the next room.”
He let out a strained laugh. “I have a better idea for that, but first, we have a date.”
Her eyes closed. “I’ll be at my place. Otherwise I’m coming through the window and embarrassing us both.” She blew a kiss before the shadows wrapped around her, taking her from sight.
Stepping back, he looked down at his erection. Later, we’ll deal with you later, and properly—I hope.
* * * *
Victoria slid through her front door with a sigh. Before Lincoln came by, she needed to feed. She’d never craved the blood from an Other so bad. It was worse than when she’d first broken her habit. And the thirst wasn’t even upon her tonight.
He smelled like heaven.
Cute, she thought with a sneer. Don’t think like that. You can’t drink from him, no matter where things go.
Mentally slapping herself, she went to the fridge to get a bag and sucked it down.
Declan walked in with an arched brow. “You okay?”
“No,” she answered immediately. “I’m not sure I can resist Lincoln. In any way.”
“Why is that bad?”
“I can’t drink from him! I won’t. Never.”
“Didn’t you tell me about a Shadowstalker who managed to drink from one Other and supplemented with human blood? That their particular bond kept her from falling to his powers, and he didn’t suffer the same side-effects most vampires suffer from Other blood?”
“Doesn’t always work. I’d rather not risk it. I want to explore what this is between us, without any strings. If he changes his mind, I have to let him go. Forming a bond would make that harder.”
“And if you form a bond of the heart anyway?”
She smiled sadly. “Time will tell.”
“I wish you wouldn’t doubt yourself so much.”
“I’m trying not to. I need to brush my teeth.” She ducked her head and walked to her bathroom.
By the time she was done, the bell rang. She rushed to the door, beating Declan there, and opened it, smiling. “Good evening, Lincoln.”
His eyes practically glowed as he nodded. “Same to you.” He peeked in and waved at Declan. “Hi, Dec.”
Lincoln was stunning in the dress pants, and button-down silk shirt. She wanted to run her hands over his sculpted chest, down to his belt—Whoa, slow down. He needs to be on the same page.
Declan cleared his throat. “Have fun, I won’t wait up.” Then he breezed upstairs and out of sight.
Shaking his head, Lincoln held his arm out for Victoria. “Shall we?”
“Am I driving?” she asked.
“I was hoping you wouldn’t mind riding in my Prius?”
“Of course not.”
He walked her to the passenger side, and opened the door. “I think later, we should go for a walk to the lake.”
“The lake?”
He nodded. “I have a surprise for you there.”
A smile spread. “You do?”
He nodded. “I do.”
“I can hardly wait.” Not a single guess came to mind. She wasn’t sure what he could possibly have planned. “You know I don’t expect a gift, right?”
He leaned in to place a soft kiss on her lips. “I don’t expect them either. However, I had this idea I think you’ll love.”
“Dancing first.” Excitement bubbled through her.
Chapter 15
Pleasure buzzed through Lincoln after their lesson. Victoria was graceful, and managed to lead when needed, until he got the hang of the moves. She smoothly let him retake the reins once he was ready.
They walked in silence through the woods, back to the lake. He’d spent a chunk of the afternoon
upgrading the dock. There was now a roof, with water-proofed cushions, and a small durable rug underfoot. He’d built an enclosed bookshelf with a small table. There were old-fashioned fountain pens, and a new journal, in the drawer. He made small shelves at each corner to place the rose-scented candles she seemed fond of.
“Don’t be nervous,” she murmured. “I’m sure I’ll love whatever it is.”
He gave her a tiny nod and took a slow breath. He wanted to take their relationship further, and knew he’d have to initiate the first step. He was terrified he would do something wrong, but she had proven she trusted him, allowing him to swing her all over the dance floor. Seducing her had to be easier, right?
They stepped past the trees and the dock came into sight. Her breath caught. “Oh, Lincoln, I don’t have words.”
“Hang on,” he pleaded. “One thing’s missing.” He moved forward and lit each candle before turning back.
She stood at the edge of the cushions, slipping her shoes off. “I love it.” Her smile was radiant, warming all the way through him.
Lincoln opened the drawer. “I wasn’t sure what you read, but I saw you writing here. I hoped this would give you more opportunities when it rains.”
“This is amazingly thoughtful. Thank you.” She closed the distance. “The perfect gift. Did you do everything yourself?”
He nodded. “Other than help having things delivered, I did.”
Licking her lips, she took a look around. “Come here.”
He moved closer. Then she closed the last bit of distance, pressing her body against his. Lincoln could do nothing but lean down for an explorative kiss. Breathless, he pulled back to look into her eyes. “I want more. If you do.”
“Mmm, I do, but Lincoln, shouldn’t you give yourself to someone special? You waited all this time.”
“You are special, Victoria. I’m done waiting. You’re the one I want.”
She placed a hand on his chest.
He rubbed his nose down hers. “Tell me I’m not the only one who feels something powerful between us.”
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