by Nikki Landis
Unknown: Are you thinking of me like I’m thinking of you
Me: Totally
If he could admit it, I certainly could. Why play games? I added Rex into my contacts, smiling widely at the confession.
Rex: Need a ride to school
Me: No, going with Rin
Rex: I’ll text you later
Me: Sounds good
Rex: Night, sweetheart
Me: GN
Ten minutes later my phone buzzed again.
Rex: It’s later
Me: You’re in trouble
Rex: I’m always in trouble
Me: I believe it
Rex: I’m outside your window
Me: No way
Rex: Look
Me: Nope
Rex: Why not
Me: Not even tempted
Rex: Liar
I couldn’t resist giggling at his antics. He may be outside, but I wasn’t going to look and get caught.
Rex: You’re laughing
Me: Don’t be a creeper
Silence stretched for a few minutes. I wondered if he was busy or decided to no longer text.
Rex: I didn’t leave
Me: You didn’t reply
Rex: I wanted to see if you’d wait for me
Me: Brat
Rex: Cora
Me: Yes
Rex: Sleep well, my sweet
I didn’t answer but I was certain it didn’t matter. Rex would show up whenever he wanted, and I was more than fine with the dhampir in my life.
Chapter 9 – Colin
“Did he just fucking kiss her!?” Casey’s voice boomed so loud in my ear that I shoved him aside and glared at Rex as he handed Cora the helmet and they sped away from Lake Minora.
“My vision is the same as yours,” I replied sarcastically, more than a little annoyed. “So, yes, he did.”
“What the hell? What’s the deal with the dhampir? Rex made it clear he didn’t want anything to do with any of us after that accident. Now, he’s all over our witch.” Casey huffed and puffed like an angry dragon. It was almost comical.
“Listen, Bro. Cora isn’t anyone’s property. Both you and Rex seem to forget that.”
Alright, I was irritated and pissed, too. Both Casey and Rex had kissed her, and I had done nothing more than dream constantly about it. Worse, I was still trying to keep my distance and be the friend and protector she needed but it was becoming increasingly harder. Emma’s memory still lingered but was fading. A part of me felt relieved that I wasn’t miserable twenty-four-seven, but another part felt like I was betraying her in some way. Casey’s words earlier had struck a chord.
Snorting, he called my bluff. “You know, this is dumb. You should just come clean. Cora is sexy, smart, sweet, and a powerful witch. Just admit you like her.”
“Fine, I like her.”
“Oh no, not like that. You like her.” Sometimes my brother was entirely too childish. Scratch that. All of the time.
“Casey,” I warned, stomping off as we headed back to my car. “Enough.”
“You’re so deluded.”
“No, I’m a stalker and a fool just like you. Get in the damn car.”
Once we were driving back to the house he began laughing, hard. “I may be a conceited, annoying ass but you have me beat. I think she likes you best of all.” At my incredulous look he continued, “in fact, I think she’s trying to make you jealous. Funny, I don’t even care. I’m attracted to the little witch and enjoy our game far too much to complain.”
Gripping the steering wheel tighter, I didn’t indulge any of his words but that didn’t mean they didn’t bang around in my head all night. Pacing back and forth in my room, I couldn’t dismiss the possibility of his words or the pleasure that tingled along my body at the thought that he was right. Sinking onto the mattress, my head fell forward into my hands.
“Emma,” I whispered hoarsely, “forgive me for betraying you. I’m sorry.”
A soft knock rapped on my door and I blew out a breath as I opened it, expecting Corinne. Surprised, I was momentarily rendered mute as I looked down and into Cora’s silvery gray eyes with violet sparks. Tugging on her bottom lip with her teeth, she was utterly adorable and sexy as sin.
“Can I come in for a sec?”
Nodding, I didn’t trust my voice as I backed up and gave her room to enter. My first instinct was to leave the door open, but I didn’t want Casey to listen in on anything she had to say. Who knew when he would decide to show up? I closed the door with a soft click and inhaled a deep breath before I turned around.
“Everything okay?”
“Not really,” she admitted, walking over to my window and gazing outside at the stars. “I think you owe me an explanation and I want the truth this time, Colin.”
Startled, I wasn’t sure what she was asking. There were so many damn secrets I didn’t know where to start. “You’re going to have to be more specific than that,” I finally replied.
“Right.” I didn’t miss her sarcasm. “Let’s start with something simple. Why are you and Casey always following me around?”
“Are you asking why we do or what we are?” Folding my arms across my chest, I tried to keep my expression stoic. “They’re sort of the same answer.”
Pursing her lips, she nodded. “Yes, to both.”
“We’re Watchmen. Guardians of the Circle and its secrets as well as the council, fierce protectors and warriors raised to take our place in the Order.”
“The Circle?”
“We’re witches, just like you. I’m pretty sure you know that already since Rex can’t shut his big mouth.” I sounded way more bitter than I intended.
“At least he’s honest. That’s more than I can say about your entire family, even Rin.” The pain in her voice fizzled all my anger and I took a step forward.
“I’m sorry about all the secrecy. We’re bound to the Coven. I wasn’t free to speak of it until you knew.”
Sighing, she sank down on the edge of my bed. “Secrets never help anyone. Don’t ask about my unending experience. Sarah’s the only one who’s ever been completely honest since I was a small child.”
My chest ached at the sadness in her tone. I sat on her right and placed my hand over her own. “I never lied to you, Cora. Now that I can say more, I’ll answer your questions.”
She nodded, exhaling a deep breath. “I appreciate that, Colin.”
“What would you like to know?”
“Can you explain what the difference is between the Order and the council?” She hopped up and began to pace but listened carefully.
“The Order oversees the various Covens, including but not limited to the original families which are the most powerful. The council is a group of Elders that decides all decisions regarding the Order and its witches. My parents are Elders,” I added, watching her fluid and graceful movements. Tempted to speak of her uncle, I decided it was best to wait until I had a chance to talk to my father, so I had updated information.
“Is that why you didn’t tell me you knew magic? Your parents?”
“Partially. It’s my duty to guard and protect the Coven. I take that responsibility seriously and believe it or not, so does Casey.”
She tapped her chin thoughtfully. “I believe you. He’s arrogant but just as protective and charming as you are. I suppose that’s part of being a Guardian.”
“It is,” I agreed smoothly, delighted she thought we were both charming, “but me and Casey are quite different. He’s dark where I’m light. His powers the opposite of mine. He’s at peak strength at night while I am during the day. We’re twins, born to complement one another and take our position within the Coven.”
“Are you saying that twins are born to fill this position by witches in the Order? Are they using magic to ensure twins are born?”
Smiling, I shrugged. “Some may use magic. Twins run in our family. We didn’t need to use divination. My parents were confident they would have at least one set and they we
re correct.”
“Your parents had four children,” she observed. “What happened to your other sibling?”
“They actually had five, but Connie’s twin died shortly after birth. A crib death, or so the doctor said. My parents were reluctant to have more children but then Corinne was born, and joy returned to our family.” Speaking the truth aloud was less traumatizing than I thought. Maybe Cora’s soothing presence helped. “Until the accident.” My voice broke on the last word and Cora rushed forward, throwing her arms around my neck.
“I’m sorry, Colin. How did it happen?”
“You’re touching me,” I pointed out, mildly shocked.
“Oh, yeah, you’re right.” She pulled back as if she was planning to move but I slipped my arms around her and tightened my hold.
“You let Rex touch you. Casey’s touched you. They’ve both kissed you,” I pointed out. “I thought you didn’t like to be touched or your space invaded. I’ve honored that because I care about your feelings . . .” my voice trailed off as I realized I’d just stuck my big fat foot in my mouth.
Shit.
Her gaze dipped to my lips and I couldn’t wait a second longer. My mouth claimed hers in a fierce kiss of possession and desire. I demanded her surrender as her body stiffened only to relax and melt into my embrace as the kiss between us deepened. My mind went blank as our tongues tangled and the sweet taste of her mouth invaded my senses. This wasn’t the first time that I kissed a girl. In fact, I’d kissed my fair share including my first love Emma. Every single kiss before this one paled in comparison. A feral, visceral, uncontrollable need began to grow and the next moment I was flat against the mattress as she straddled my waist.
“Colin,” she panted, her eyes closed, “that was . . . indescribable.”
I could think of at least a dozen adjectives and most of them were expletives. “Damn, Cora,” I breathed, inhaling her clean floral scent as she rested on my chest, “just lay here for a minute. Don’t move.”
“I wasn’t planning on it,” she admitted, sliding her fingers through my own.
Our hands clasped tightly together as we watched the stars twinkling through my open window. I nearly forgot her last words until she lifted her head and cupped my cheek.
“What happened to Connie?”
“She died,” I gulped, “along with Emma.”
“Emma?” A knowing look entered her eyes. “Your girlfriend?”
Nodding, I didn’t have the ability to answer.
Cora pressed a gentle kiss to my forehead. “How did it happen?”
“A spell. The Circle failed to protect them both.” My eyes closed briefly as I was overcome with grief and guilt. “Both Casey and I failed Emma and Connie. The fault is ours.”
Chapter 10 – Cora
The parking lot was crowded on Monday morning. Most of the upperclassmen were hanging around their cars while students mingled, some kissing or cuddling, others listening to music. I arrived with Rin and stood in our normal group avoiding Coop and Landon and trying desperately not to hear their raunchy jokes.
Rin giggled as she tugged on my sleeve. “Are you gonna tell me or what?”
I’d already spent hours discussing Rex, so I wasn’t sure what she meant. “Huh?”
“I should smack you. He’s my brother and neither of you are providing any juicy details.”
Blushing, I was instantly aware of two things at once. One, Rin knew about my kiss with Colin. Two, a motorcycle engine was rumbling close by and had pulled into the school lot.
“Uh, I’ll let Colin talk to you about that.” My eyes were glued on the Harley and the black motorcycle jacket zipped up over the ripped torso of a certain sexy dhampir.
“Cora!” Rin reprimanded until she saw where my gaze led. “Oh, now I get it.”
Shooting her a mild look of annoyance I tried to play it cool as Rex pulled up and lifted his helmet, those piercing hazel eyes devouring my presence.
“Wanna go for a ride?”
“Now?” I asked, gesturing to my backpack.
The bell rang and students began to move toward the buildings. My friends were taking their time, more than a little interested in my response.
“Why not?”
One glance at Rin and she was already reaching for my backpack. “Go, I’ve got this.”
Who knew my bestie had a wild streak? Shaking my head, I leaned down and whispered in her ear, “I’m pretty sure we’ll have plenty to talk about later.”
Her loud laugh drew attention as I slid on the back of Rex’s bike and tugged on his helmet. A part of me felt rebellious and thrilled with the idea of ditching class. Rex had the bad boy role down to a fine art. He was sexy, intriguing, and exactly my type. He appealed to my wild side and I was unable to resist. I’d always been somewhat of a rebel, but Rex made me want to embrace that lifestyle fulltime.
“You only live once,” he rumbled, his deep voice doing funny things inside my stomach.
“YOLO,” Rin giggled, shaking her head. No one said that anymore but with Rin it was kind of adorable.
I lifted my hand and waved as Rex revved the engine and we sped off, quickly leaving the parking lot and zipping down the road. Relentless tendrils of wind pulled at my clothes as I sat on my skirt and hoped I didn’t end up flashing people all over town. One hand had to keep my skirt from blowing upward in the front while I held onto Rex with the other.
Xavier Academy had a strict dress code. I had to wear the stupid plaid and pleated skirt, solid vest, and white button-down blouse every single day. At least the outfit was semi cute when paired with knee-high socks and my boots.
We stopped at the lake again as I sighed with relief. Maybe now I wouldn’t have to worry about my clothes. He waited as I stood and slipped off the bike and quickly followed, helping to lift the helmet over my head.
Rex immediately leaned down and stole a kiss, his teeth nibbling on my bottom lip before he pulled away. “You’re a little too irresistible dressed like that.”
Grinning, I couldn’t resist teasing the half vampire. “Miss me much?”
“I probably shouldn’t tell you how many times I picked up my phone to text you.”
“No, you definitely should not,” I agreed, “just as I won’t tell you . . . oh, never mind.”
“Hey,” he pouted, reaching for my waist and tugging my body closer, “no fair.”
“How is that? I’m not obligated to tell you about how much I think about you, too.” In mock surprise I clasped my hands over my mouth and pretended I’d told a big secret.
Rex’s loud laugh echoed across the lake as he gestured to my clothes. “Well done. I almost believed your performance.” He winked. “You should remember I have a massive amount of useful skills and abilities. I’m pretty hard to fool.”
“You don’t say?” I asked, enjoying our lighthearted banter. “I’ll remember that for the future.”
“That’s good to know.” He tilted his head to the side as if in deep thought. “I heard a little rumor that you don’t like to be touched. Care to elaborate?”
My smile wobbled and I turned away. “We should practice some magic today. I’m pretty sure that’s why you brought me here, right?”
“Cora.” The deep command in his voice was hard to resist but I did.
“Don’t tempt fate, Rex.”
“You know, my sweet witch, someday you’ll have to share that trauma or it’s going to eat you up inside until there’s nothing left.”
“What skills were you talking about?” I asked, trying a different distraction tactic.
“Coraline Blackbyrne.” His voice was so sharp I couldn’t help swiveling my head back in his direction. “I’ve been alive a long time. I think if anyone can understand your past, it’s me.”
“How did you know my entire name?”
“It doesn’t take a genius to look up school records, not that Colin or Casey was at all helpful.” He tilted my chin up until our eyes met. “Look, this isn’t easy for you
. I get that but you need to confide in someone and clearly it isn’t your new family or Guardians.”
“I’ve had nightmares since I was little,” I began, trying to pull from his arms but Rex held tight and refused to break eye contact. “There’s this deep, unsettling fear about being touched and I’m not sure where it came from. All I know is that I panic, like really panic when I’m caged in or held against my will. I don’t like my personal space invaded. At all.”
“I see. What’s changed?”
Frowning, I wasn’t sure what he meant. “What?”
“Something has changed. You’ve let the Bradford’s all touch you in one way or another and you’ve let me. There has to be a rational explanation for that. Not to mention the fact that it’s progress.”
I hadn’t really thought about it. “I guess I feel safe here.”
“And you haven’t before?” His voice held an edge I didn’t understand.
“No, Rex. How would that be shocking? I grew up in the system and was moved from home to home since I was old enough to talk. My last family was verbally abusive, and the Fishers were mean. I’ve never had a single person in my life that cared or stuck around besides Sarah.” Shoving him away, I suddenly couldn’t breathe right. I felt boxed in. Nearly in a panic, I almost ran into the trees to escape the feeling.
“Cora!” Rex grabbed me from behind and wrapped his arms around my torso. “I’m here. You’re not alone and you’re safe. No one will harm you. I swear it.”
Dizzy, I fought the wave of nausea and flash of heat through my limbs. “Rex.”
“Breathe through it. Concentrate on inhaling and exhaling, the rise and steady fall of your chest. Nothing else matters.”
Listening to his instructions helped. A few minutes later the panic was receding. Exhausted, I sank to the ground and he caught me, holding my back against his chest as he lowered his cheek next to my own.
“Better?”
“A little,” I admitted. “Where did you learn that?”
“One of my younger sisters has anxiety. We’ve practiced many times.”
“You have sisters?”
He laughed lightly. “I suppose I should have mentioned that sooner. Demi is in your class and Sadie is a junior. They’re a pain in the ass but I kind of adore them both. Don’t tell or I’ll just deny I said so and punish you later.”