Fate’s Song

By

Jessica Jarman

ADVANCED READER COPY: DISCLAIMER

This Advance Reader Copy is the property of Jessica Jarman. The Advance Reader Copy may not be sold, rented, loaned, or copied.

This is an uncorrected copy and may differ slightly from the final published novel, which will be available from Triskelion Publishing in February, 2005.

This work is copyrighted as of January, 2005 by Jessica Jarman.

Prologue

He was going to die.

Death stared Kaelen in the eye and promised to be long and painful. He refused to cower before it. What he’d done was in defense of the weak, the helpless; he’d had no choice but to act. However, his motivations would not sway the Queen. She ruled with an iron fist, and it was going to squeeze the life out of him. Despite his eminent end, he regretted nothing. He may have taken a human life, but he also saved at least three others. Pride and honor would hold him upright during the judgment of his crime.

Kaelen drank in the sight of the Great Hall. This would be the last time he saw it. Flowered vines crept up the ancient stone walls and clung to the ceilings. Normally blooms painted the greenness of the leaves with a multitude of colors. Today, however, every blossom squeezed itself into a small tight bud, almost hiding behind the foliage. Nature mourned the loss of one of her protectors. Kaelen drew in a deep breath. The sweet, earthy scent of the realm seeped into his body, into every cell, and offered him a small measure of comfort.

He surveyed the faces of the thousands who gathered to watch his fall from grace. How often he’d been among them, judging the guilty in their midst. Most wouldn’t make eye contact, glancing quickly away as his gaze settled on them. Murmurs drifted on the air as they discussed the situation. They didn’t like it, having to judge someone of his standing. One man, however, met his gaze boldly with a smirk kissing his lips. Darrick. His cousin.

Kaelen clenched his jaw and inhaled sharply through his teeth. Hard facts rushed through his mind. The realization of what would follow his demise hit him. With him dead, Darrick was next in line for the throne. While the Goddess had cursed Kaelen, she’d smiled on the fate of his kinsman. The thought of his cruel, remorseless cousin as king made his chest tighten. Despair gripped him. What would happen to his people? The peace they enjoyed?

A trill of music vibrated through the air, signaling the entrance of the Queen. All bowed their heads as she passed. Kaelen lowered himself onto his knees and focused on the ground in front of him. He remained so as the Queen’s chancellor read the charges against him.

“Kaelen of Fey, you are hereby charged with tampering with events in the human world by causing the death of a mortal and using your healing powers on humans. This has changed the delicate fabric woven by the Goddess and Fate. According the laws of our people, this is punishable by death. The method of which is to be decided by our Great Lady.”

The expected punishment, being read in that awful, droning voice, made Kaelen cringe and his stomach clench. He’d been thinking of his death since being in confinement yestereve, but hearing the words spoken aloud made it all the more real. He was going to die. Soon.

“Kaelen, rise.” The Queen’s voice rang through the large room, dancing along his spine.

She sounded sad, he realized. Her usually vibrant voice resonated with mournfulness. This was hard on her. Kaelen held that close to his heart, took a deep breath, and obeyed her command.

On his feet, he lifted his head and met his Queen’s wide silver eyes.

“Have you anything to say?”

He shook his head before responding, “I told your men everything yestereve, Lady.”

“You took a human life. You claim it was necessary. How so?”

Damn her, she would make him relive it all again. He fought against the sick, acidic churning in his gut. Forcing his mind to focus only on the facts, not the emotions fighting to surface, he stated the bare details.

“The man was about to torture and slaughter an innocent woman who was with child and her other children. I acted on her behalf.”

“It isn’t your place to act on her behalf,” she snapped.

“I should have watched him butcher them? I’m sorry, Lady, I have neither the willpower nor the stomach for that.”

“You should have walked away.”

Most of those viewing the trial flinched at the harsh tone of their sovereign’s raised voice. Kaelen stared at her a moment, wondering if she was truly so heartless. Or was she truly grieved at what she’d have to do? He shook his head. It mattered not.

“Again, knowing what he would do, I could not.”

“And how is it that you came across this…situation?”

“I know not. I was in my bedchamber sleeping. I dreamt of this woman and must have dreamported.”

“Had you ever seen this woman before? Ever been to her residence?”

“No, Lady.”

“You have no great psychic gifts, Kaelen.”

He shot her a sardonic smile. “I’m aware of that, Great Lady. I don’t know how I was able to see what was happening and go there.”

Though he certainly had a few ideas. He slid his gaze to his cousin. Darrick appeared bored with the proceeding, but Kaelen noticed his clenched fists. Yes, Darrick knew something, but what?

He focused back to his Queen and realized her gaze had followed his. She turned back to Kaelen with a nod and continued.

“Not only did you cause the death of a human, you used your powers to save the life of the unborn child. Without your aid, she would have died. You have meddled with Fate. Perhaps the child’s soul was not meant to be in the world in this lifetime.”

“Or perhaps it was, and that is the reason I was there.”

She acknowledged his logic with a raised brow.

“The necessity of your punishment pains me, but the law is the law. Kaelen of Fey, you are…”

“Wait.”

Kaelen stiffened as the loud voice croaked throughout the Great Hall. Maraana the Elder pushed her way through the crowd. She was the most respected and feared of the fey. While their kind aged slowly, and a person several centuries old could look to be thirty, Maraana was clearly an old woman. Long white hair hung down to her waist, wrinkles coursed over her complexion, and she had a staff she leaned on for support. Kaelen couldn’t even take a guess to how many lifetimes the woman had lived. She rarely left her dwelling, preferring solitude. For her to be here, among the entire fey society, something was wrong. He couldn’t suppress the mass of dread that filled his body and soul. He forced himself to inhale deeply. Whatever it was, he would find out. Whenever Maraana the Elder spoke, all listened.

The old woman bowed her head. “I apologize for the interruption, my Queen, but it is most important that I speak with you. This man will not die.”

Kaelen shifted his gaze back to his Lady. Pale faced, she stared at the elder a moment before nodding. Maraana crossed until she was next to her ruler. The Queen leaned down until her ear was near Maraana’s mouth. He watched as she talked furiously, not allowing the other woman to get a word in. The Queen’s responses were limited to the occasional nod.

Finally, the women separated and straightened to full height. The Queen turned her gaze on Kaelen. Maraana stepped back slightly and focused her eyes on him as well. By the Goddess, what was going on?

The Great Lady addressed him, “It is clear that we do not know all the details of the situation. Because of this and the fact that you acted in defense of another, the death sentence will not be carried out. Therefore, Kaelen, you are hereby banished from this realm.”

The pronouncement, like a physical blow, caused him to stumble back.

“But, Lady, the laws are clear on this crime.” Darrick stepped forward his face blotched with crimson. “You cannot change that simply because the old woman says no.”

The Queen turned toward him. “You are speaking out of turn. Perhaps, you forget who rules here, Darrick.”

“My apologies, my Queen.” He bowed his head and stepped back.

“Don’t make that mistake again.” Her voice, lined with steel, boded no argument.

Kaelen struggled to draw breath into his lungs. Banished. He was banished. Relief should be flowing through his veins, but he felt strangely empty. Shock, he decided. Shock had numbed him.

“No one in this realm is to speak or acknowledge Kaelen until announced otherwise.” The Queen addressed the others before turning back to him. “Kaelen, you will be welcomed back into our midst when you have the love of a woman, a true mate, who can accept who and what you are. She must be accepting of all you have done.”

What in all the heavens was she talking about? Love? How in the Goddess’ name could he get the love of someone if none could acknowledge him?

“The assembly has leave to go. I’d like a moment with Kaelen before he departs.” The crowd dismissed with a wave of her hand.

He watched as his people left, eyes averted, avoiding the sight of him. A trio of males wasn’t as paranoid at following orders. They stood near the end of the exiting procession, staring openly at Kaelen. His heart constricted at the sight of his closest friends. Rhys, Leilen, and Dermet each lifted a hand and touched his fingertips to his lips before closing it in a fist above his heart. A sign of loyalty.

Kaelen quickly glanced at the Queen to gauge her reaction to their blatant disregard of her orders. A ghost of a smile touched her lips as she studied them.

“Thank you, gentlemen, that will be all.” She waited until they had left and turned her smile upon Kaelen. “You are lucky you have such loyal friends.”

“And unlucky you have taken them from me…Auntie,” he snapped. He had no audience now.

She walked to stand in front of him. “Would you rather that I’d taken your life? You’ve been given a chance, nephew; embrace it.”

Anger spurted through him, heating his blood. “I am separated from our people, our women. I can come back only if I receive the love of a true mate. A chance? A chance at what? I’ve looked into the waters; I have no mate in this life,” he ground out through clenched teeth. “You have sentenced me to live my life in solitude until death.”

She reached up and cupped his face in her hands. “Not if you make the right choices.”

Choices? What choices did he have? She’d taken them all from him. Hopelessness filled every pore. He’d resigned himself to death. Now he had a future—an incredibly uncertain future.

The Queen’s laugh trickled from her full lips. “The future isn’t as bleak as your expression tells.” Her fingers caressed his face in a maternal manner. “You have changed the course of your life with what you have done. Your actions, your defense of that woman and her children, determined your fate.”

Kaelen frowned. Maraana. Something the elder said was behind this mystery. He looked down into her eyes and tried to interpret the meaning behind her words.

“She has seen something.” It was a statement.

“I’ve seen possibility.”

Maraana stepped out from the shadows. Where had she come from? He’d seen her leave the Great Hall; of that he was certain. The woman made him nervous, uneasy.

“Possibility,” he repeated, hesitant to raise the questions running rampant in his brain. Pushing them aside he simply asked, “Good or bad?”

The elder tilted her head to the side. Her pale, nearly translucent green eyes shimmered with sadness. “That, my dear boy, depends on your choices.”

Chapter One

“You don’t have a choice.”

Abagail Guthrie wound the telephone cord around her fingers as she listened to her sister-in-law rant and rave over the line. She did not need this. She’d come here for an escape, to get away from people, and yet here she was sitting on the phone with Mrs. Uppity.

“Abagail, you have to sell the cabin and split the money between you and your brothers.”

“Darla, Mom left me the cabin, and I will do what I want with it. You don’t have a choice in the matter. Quit pushing me on this.” She ground out every word through clenched teeth.

“I just don’t see how you can be so stubborn about this. Shutting yourself up in that place isn’t good for you. What about when you start touring again? You need to be in the city to work.”
“I’m not touring anymore. A fact that I’ve informed you of numerous times. I can work from anywhere and choose to do so from here. Now, if this is the only reason you’ve called, I’m going to let you go now. I have things to do.”

Darla exhaled loudly. “You are so selfish, Abagail. You don’t think of anyone but yourself. You—“

“Good-bye. I’ll talk to you soon,” she interrupted and replaced the receiver in its cradle.

Rolling her stiff shoulders, she looked at the piano and thought of the piece she was working on. Her head pounded and her entire body ached with tension. A walk, she decided. She needed the relaxation before settling down to work. She grabbed her jacket and scarf off the rack beside the door and headed out.

Breathing in the crisp cold air laced with the tangy scent of pine, Abagail let herself wander among the trees. She couldn’t remember the last time she’d gone outside other than to run to the grocery for food. She really needed to get out more. Music and composing were eating up more and more of her life. She yearned for something more, something fulfilling. But what? She didn’t have a clue.

Relationships didn’t interest her or fill the void that echoed within her. Sure, she liked sex, but that meant having a man around to distract her. The few relationships Abagail had indulged in hadn’t ended well. Once the men had realized that music was all for her, they’d split. Her last lover said he couldn’t be with a woman who jumped up in the middle of sex to run to the piano because a melody had finally clicked in her head. He made her sound so insensitive. Really, it had only happened that one time! It was just as well, though. She felt nothing more than a twinge of regret when a split up occurred, and the sex was never that good, anyway.

Shaking the thoughts from her head, Abagail continued through the throng of trees. Wet leaves scrunched beneath her boots and the musty smell of autumn filled her nostrils. Snow would be perfect on a day like today. Just a light falling. Anything was better than the drizzling rain that had persisted on and off the last week. She stopped and closed her eyes. Lifting her face to the air above her, she spun in a circle. Why had it been so long since she’d come out like this? She loved the outdoors, and yet, she kept herself chained inside at her piano. Why? Cold kisses suddenly touched her face. A grin formed as she opened her eyes. Perfect. Large, fluffy flakes floated down from the heavens. She laughed out loud, the sound echoing through the forest. Resuming her walk, she soon found herself humming; her heart lighter than it had been in ages. She walked on for several minutes and thought of turning back. No, a little while longer out here in the air would do her good.

Prickles of awareness crawled over her skin, and she stilled. Faint notes of music drifted around her in time with the falling snow. That wasn’t music in her head; it was coming from somewhere. Tilting her head, she strained to hear, to get an inkling of where it originated. Turning to her left, she began to weave through the trees toward where the sound came from. Abagail’s heart ached at the sound of the haunting music. Her skin tingled as she sought its source. Faster and faster she moved until she almost ran. It kept changing directions. A small part of her brain told her this was foolishness. Chasing a song through the trees! But she couldn’t stop; she had to capture it. Even if she couldn’t find where it came from, maybe she could hear enough of it to have a chance to recreate it.

. The music was louder, more intense. Her body vibrated in tune with the melody as she neared its source. Warmth spread through her veins rapidly as her mind wrapped around the sound, or rather the melody wrapped around her mind.

Suddenly she was face down on the damp ground. Dammit, she must have tripped over a log. Lifting her head, she groaned in disappointment. Silence had fallen over the night. Maybe it had just been in her head. She tried to play the notes in her mind. Back on her feet, she brushed the snow from her body. Getting home quickly was the priority now. She had to get home to her piano.

Turning back the way she came, she looked down, not wanting to trip over the blasted log again. All breath escaped her body and the blood drained from her face. It was a man!

Abagail dropped to her knees beside him and immediately felt for a pulse. Her shoulders slumped in relief when she felt it beat strong beneath her fingers. Though how it was so strong was beyond her. The man was like ice. He wore only jeans and a sweater, they were soaked and plastered to his body. Wet socks and tennis shoes covered his feet. His wet skin lacked any heat at all. How long had he been out here? How had he gotten out here? Abagail shook her head to dislodge the questions swarming her mind and ran her gaze over the man. A myriad of colorful bruises and scratches painted his face and a large gash underscored one of his eyes. He needed medical attention; that much was certain.

God, how was she going to get him to help? He was huge. Her hands shook as she unbuttoned her coat and wrapped it around him. She tucked it under his chin and gasped. Silver gray eyes peered at her. He struggled to push off the coat, grasping at her hands.

“Shh,” she soothed. “You’re okay now. Please leave the coat on. You’ll be warm soon, I promise.”

His cold fingers trailed down one of her cheeks. “It’s you. I’ve found you.”

His eyes slid shut. Abagail tucked the coat more tightly around him and, after much maneuvering of dead weight, wrapped her scarf around his middle to hold it in place. She straightened and stood near his head. It was too much of a risk to run to the cabin to call for help. Leaving him exposed any longer than he’d already been wasn’t an option in Abagail’s mind. She’d have to pull him there. She could call an ambulance or something from there. She squatted looped her arms under his and pulled with all her strength. Damn, the man weighed a ton. They’d barely moved a foot.

“I can walk.” His voice floated to her, thin and raspy.

“No offense, mister, but you don’t look like you could lift a finger, let alone stand.”

She gasped as he pushed himself into a sitting position. He remained still for a moment and then began to stand. He wavered and braced himself with his hands on the cold earth. Abagail went to his side and wrapped her arms around his waist. With her help, he stood.

“Okay, lean on me,” she instructed. “Let me know if you need to stop or if you feel dizzy or anything, okay?”

“Okay.”

His breath was ragged as they walked at a sluggish pace. He leaned into her, his arm heavy around her shoulders. Sweat trickled down her back as they made their way through the woods. The slight wind caused it to cool, chilling her. Gritting her teeth, she pushed it out of her mind. A little chill was nothing compared to what the poor man was dealing with. Good god, if she hadn’t stumbled over him, he’d have frozen to death. Nobody else would have wandered by. The deciding factor in coming out here had been the rarity of people wandering around. For whatever reason, most stayed clear of her little section of the woods. Lucky for him, she’d gone for a walk after arguing with her idiot sister-in-law.

The cottage was in sight when he stumbled, and they both went down hard on their knees. She lost her grip on him, and he slid face down onto the snow sprinkled ground. She quickly rolled him onto his back.

“Guess I’m pulling you the rest of the way, huh?”

Again, she looped her arms under his and began the difficult task of pulling the man the remaining way to the cabin. Outside the back door, she stopped and braced her hands on her knees to draw in several deep breaths. Okay, now all she had to do was get him inside. Piece of cake. She unlocked the door and pushed it open. She pulled him over the threshold and into the small house, down the short hallway into the spare bedroom. Her arms and legs shook with exertion as she laid him on the floor next to the bed.

Ignoring the fatigue building within her, Abagail dashed into the bathroom to grab an armful of towels and the first aid kit. Back in the room, she pulled the comforter and blankets back and spread two large towels over the bottom sheet. Stepping back, she stared down at the large man. Okay, she had to get him on the bed. She knelt down and pulled her coat off him. Maybe he was with it enough to help her.

“Excuse me, mister,” she said, gently patting his cheeks. “We need to get you into bed and warmed up. Can you sit up? Maybe stand again with my help?”

The man groaned and moved his head from side to side. He opened his eyes and looked around the room. A perplexed frown touched his lips as he surveyed his surroundings. Abagail watched at him sympathetically. The guy clearly didn’t have a clue where he was or what was going on.

“Hi,” she said quietly, touching his face again. “I’m Abagail Guthrie. I found you in the woods, nearly frozen. We need to get you dry and warm and into bed. Can you get up if I help?”

“Yes,” he responded.

His raspy voice sent shivers up her back. Her stomach tightened as she stared into his mercurial eyes. Focus, she thought. Grasping his upper arm, she helped him into a sitting position. He breathed heavily from the effort and dropped his head forward to rest on his bent knees.

“You just need to stand long enough to get on the bed. Use me for support.”

Abagail wrapped an arm around his waist as he reached up to use the mattress as leverage. After a couple of false starts, they managed to get him sitting on the edge of the bed. She grabbed a towel off the stack she’d dropped on the floor and used it to wipe the moisture from his face, careful not to rub too hard on the numerous cuts.

“Before you lay down, let’s get this jacket and wet shirt off.” She untied her scarf and removed her coat. She grasped the hem of the shirt. “Arms up.”

A weak chuckle escaped his lips as he complied. “You must be a great mother. Very good at giving orders.”

Her lips curved into a smile at his attempt at humor. “I don’t have kids. I’m just naturally bossy.”

A small cry welled up her throat at the sight of his battered body. What had happened to him? She carefully dried from his shoulder length black hair to his sculpted chest. She bit her lip as her hands ran over his taut muscles. Colorful bruises blossomed across his midsection. Blood trickled from several abrasions. Those would need some attention, but first she had to remove his wet clothes.

“Go ahead and lay down now. I’ll help you take the rest of these clothes off so you can rest and get warm.” She gave him a slight nudge until he lowered his head onto the pillow with a sigh.

She went to work on his jeans. Peeling the wet, clinging fabric from his lower body was no easy task. Nor was it a boring one. She drank in the sight of hard dark legs, and his assets were clearly displayed despite the white briefs. Yep, he was one impressive specimen, Abagail decided as she went to work on drying his legs off. Get a grip, she scolded herself. The man’s seriously hurt and you’re ready to lick his body.

“Sorry, but the briefs will have to go,” she informed him apologetically. “They’re soaked. Could you, ah, lift your hips?”

At first she thought he’d fallen asleep. His eyes were closed and he didn’t respond right away. Just as she was about to make do, he lifted his tush.

“Kaelen.”

At the sound of his voice, she stopped and glanced up at his face. “What?”

“My name is Kaelen. I figured if you were going to get in my shorts, you should at least know my name.”

Abagail laughed. God, she loved a guy with a sense of humor. “Well, nice to meet you, Kaelen.”

She finished pulling the briefs off and struggled not to stare. Lordy, the man had done something good in a previous life, because he’d certainly been well rewarded in the physical department in this one. She patted his hips quickly with the towel before yanking the covers up to his waist. Heat crept up her neck and seeped into her face. “Uh, I’m just going to tend to these injuries. It shouldn’t take long and then you’ll be able to rest.”

She opened the first aid kit and removed the antiseptic. Soaking a cotton ball with it, she attended to the first gash on his chest. His breath hissed between his teeth and his muscles stiffened beneath her hand.

“I’m so sorry. I know that stings. It’ll be over soon. Promise.”

He didn’t make a sound or move again as she finished cleaning the abrasions. She glanced up and found his silver eyes staring at her. He studied her with such intensity heat snaked up Abagail’s neck and into her face. Who was this man? What was going in his head? She cleared her throat and smiled.

“There now, all done. I’m not going to bandage them. The bleeding has stopped, and I think being open will help them heal more.” She pulled the covers up and laid them gently over him. “After you’ve had a chance to rest, I’ll warm something for you to eat. The bathroom is through the other door in the hall. If you need any help getting up or anything else, just call out. It’s a small place. I’ll hear you.”

She straightened to leave, stopping when he grasped her hand. It was already warm—a good sign, she thought.

“Thank you, Abagail. For your hospitality and care.”

Slivers of heat coursed through her body at the intimate tone of his voice. “You’re welcome. Now rest.”

She pulled away and rushed out of the room before she gave into the urge to lie down next to him and wrap her arms around a man whom she knew nothing about.

* * * * *

Kaelen stared at the door. He didn’t like this, not one bit. Not that the woman hadn’t been extremely kind, but he couldn’t stay here. Especially after having her touch him. He groaned and closed his eyes. Damn, it’d been too long since he’d made love. The fey were very sexual creatures, and Kaelen was no exception. Though never once had he been with a human, only others of his kind. Hell, he’d never been attracted to a human woman, not in the twenty-six years since his banishment and certainly not before. Until now. Something about this woman called to him and, dammit, it wasn’t going to get him back home. If anything it’d only get him into more trouble.

Of course, he’d about given up on the idea of finding the mate that Maraana had prophesized of. Since leaving his home world, his only glimpses of his kind were fleeting. Once he was seen, the fey in question would disappear like he had a huge neon “banished” sign on his forehead. Unless one of the females was brave enough to defy their queen, his chances of going back were nil.

He shifted and winced as pain shot through his torso. He’d forgotten about that. He lifted his heavy head and pulled the blankets back to examine his chest and belly. Nice and colorful. No wonder Abagail had cried out. He looked like he’d fallen off a cliff. No such luck. No, he’d had the pleasure of having six grown humans pound on him for sport.

With his powers he could’ve flicked them off like flies, but they were gone. Hell, he hadn’t even fought back. He hadn’t cared. Just the thought of escaping the loneliness and the yearning for home had been reason enough to take what the brutes had dealt out. The beating would have killed a human, but he still had two of his fey gifts, longevity and fast healing. Even now, the bruises were fading. Lucky him.

Lying back, he thought about what happened after the attack. It was a blur. They’d thrown him in the back of one of their trucks and hauled him out into the woods. He’d just rolled over and allowed himself to fall into the deep sleep of the fey. Dreams of home had swirled through his head, making more than his body ache. He dreamt of the bonding ceremony between mates; it’s music echoed through Kaelen’s mind. The next thing he knew, he was in his cottage being tended to by a human. A very sexy human.

Exhaustion rolled over Kaelen in tremendous, heavy waves. He struggled to stay away, to watch for the woman’s return. Just before he lost the battle, his last thought was he had to get away. Away from Abagail. Away from the temptation.

Chapter Two

Good lord, what had she been thinking?

Abagail stood in the doorway and stared at the large man sprawled ion the bed. A stranger. A stranger she dragged home with out a second thought. What was wrong with her? She did not do things like this. Ever. She was sensible and cautious. Pretty much dull.

Kaelen. His name whispered through her mind. She couldn’t explain it. Something drew her to this man. It was as though his soul had reached out and touched hers. Some void in her filled when she had found him. The void that had eaten away at her constantly. She’d always thought it was loneliness, but it gnawed even when she spent time with family, friends, lovers. Now it was filled. Filled with the presence of this strange man.

She groaned. Yep, something was seriously wrong with her. Squaring her shoulders, she strode into the room to check his injuries. This had been her intention in the first place. Instead she stood the mooning over the mysterious silver-eyed stranger.

Practical matters, she repeated in her head. First she had to make sure the abrasions weren’t bleeding again. Gently pulling the sheet back, she leaned forward to see his upper body in the dim light from the hall. She didn’t want to turn on the overhead light and disturb him unless absolutely necessary.

Wait a minute. She squinted at where earlier a large gash had marred his abdomen. It wasn’t there. Oh, there was a mark—a puckered red line trailed across his skin. The smaller abrasions had disappeared completely. How was that possible? Closing her eyes she decided she must be more tired than she thought. Now she was seeing things. After a quick mental shake, she opened her eyes and leaned down further until her nose nearly touched his skin. Nope, no gash. Just the scar.

She inhaled sharply and his scent assaulted her, the natural, earthiness causing a tug deep in her belly. Heat radiated from his skin. Concerned, she only hesitated a moment before laying a hand on his chest. Her breath escaped in a relieved hiss. Thank goodness, he didn’t feel feverish. She was about to straighten when his hand grasped the back of her neck, tangling in her curls. A small sound of surprise burst through her lips. Oh god, how embarrassing.

“Abagail.”

Just her name. That was all. Just her name in a husky whisper. The sound caressed her, awaking all her nerve endings. Heat swept through her and centered in her belly. She turned her head to look across his chest at his face. Her hair spilled over her shoulder onto his belly. He groaned and flexed his fingers lightly.

“I’m fine.”

“I can see that. What is going on? You’re healed already. How can—”

Quickly he released his neck and grasped her shoulders, hauling her up his body until her face was right above his.

“Do you really want to talk?”

He pulled her head down and feasted. A small voice in her head told her to stop. That it was ridiculous to let man she had no knowledge of kiss her, touch her. But the voice faded and all thoughts fled. Everything in her pulled toward him. Every cell in her body celebrated and reveled in his touch. Abagail lost herself in the feel of his warm hard body beneath her and his mouth, oh god, his mouth traveled from hers to nibble to her neck and back up again.

“Open your mouth for me, sweetheart.” He ran his slick tongue along her bottom lip and growled deep in his throat when she complied. “That’s a girl.”

Pulling her hands from between them, Abagail ran her fingers through his thick black mane and gripped tightly as she sank further into the kiss, further into him. Man, he was good. Hell, better than good. She’d never felt like this. Certainly not from just a kiss! She was falling, spiraling down. Colors burst behind her eyelids, and music danced in her head.

Kaelen shifted and ran a hand around her to cup her breast. Her nipple pebbled under his thumb, begging for more through the thin cotton, aching for more. The music increased. Notes swelled as she pressed against his hand.

Suddenly she was on her back with Kaelen over her pulling up her T-shirt.

“Oh god,” she moaned as his hot mouth clamped over the tight nub and suckled. A sweep of tongue, the scrape of teeth had Abagail pressing frantically against the leg Kaelen had between hers. She released his hair and ran her hands down the hard tight muscles of his back. Pressing her lips to his neck, she tasted the saltiness that clung to his skin. Her tongue darted out, ran up the hard column of his neck.

He pulled back slightly, and his hands came up to cup her face. Heat drenched her pussy as he stared into her eyes. She leaned up and kissed him gently, then nipped his bottom lip with her teeth before pulling him in to mate deeper, more thoroughly with his delicious mouth. His hot tongue slid in to dance with hers.

Yes, yes, yes, she thought when he ran his hand down her stomach to slip into her pants. She tensed in anticipation of his touch between her thighs.

He lifted his head, his hand stilled under the waistband. A frown marred his lips and furrowed his brow.

“Kaelen?” Abagail wiggled her hips, desperate to relieve the mounting ache deep within her.

“Did you hear that?”

“What?”

“The music. The damned music.”

He straightened and knelt between her thighs, oblivious to his nakedness.

Abagail had to force her gaze away from the sight of his arousal nestled against the dark whorl of curls. Eyes on his face, she responded, “Of course I hear it. It’s always like this—just sprouts up in my head. Wait a sec. You can hear it too? That doesn’t make sense. It’s in my head.”

“Not his time. It’s,” he paused. “It’s gone.”

The room was silent except for the sound of their breathing

“What is going on here? How can you possibly hear…” she trailed off.

What was she doing? Lying with a man between her thighs with her shirt around her armpits? Bending her knees she scooted back to sit up. She pulled her shirt down and studied his face. Jaw clenched and eyes narrowed, he looked ready to brawl.

“Kaelen?”

He climbed out of bed and began pacing. Lord, he was magnificent, she thought before catching herself.

“I don’t know what the hell she’s doing. Messing with that of all things. I told her. Told her there was no way.”

“Kaelen, you’re scaring me. What’s going on?”

He stopped in front of the window and stared out. “Or maybe it’s Darrick. Yes, it has to be him. Bastard.” He began to speak in a strange and beautiful language, though Abagail guessed he was cursing up a blue streak.

Crack! Thunder boomed, causing the house to shake.

Abagail jolted and looked past him out the window. “Holy cow, that was close. We must be in for some storm.”

Glancing back at him, she gasped. He was clasping his head with both hands and was swaying side to side. She jumped up and ran to him. Even in the darkness she could see the paleness of his skin and the sweat beading his brow. Wrapping her arm around his waist, she began guiding him back toward the bed.

“Come on, you need to sleep. You’ve had a head injury and shouldn’t be up and about.” She bit her lip as he lay back down. “Maybe I should call the doctor or get you to an emergency room.”

“No.” He reached out and grasped her hand. “Just need to rest.”

Sighing, she picked up the blanket and comforter that had been kicked to the floor and covered him.

“Sleep well, Kaelen,” she whispered and brushed his hair away from his forehead. Giving into impulse, she leaned down and pressed her lips to his. “Sweet dreams.”

“Beautiful Abagail,” he murmured.

To her amazement tears pricked her eyes at his words.

“Sleep well,” she repeated and hurried from the room.

Once upstairs in her bedroom, Abagail flopped on her bed with a groan. God, her body still hummed and flamed from Kaelen’s touch. She had never reacted like that with a man. Another minute or so and she’d have come hard and fast. That was not normal—at least not for her

She gathered enough strength to sit up and pull the covers down so she could crawl beneath. Pulling them up to her chin, she replayed the last several hours in her head. This was certainly a day she wouldn’t forget anytime soon. Damn it! She never figured out how he healed so blasted fast. He hadn’t given her the chance to ask.

Her swollen breasts ached and her nipples tightened to nubs at the memory of how he distracted her. Desire pooled in the junction of her thighs. She had to think about something else. Fast.

The music. The soft, sensuous music. Now that had been strange. Where had it come from if it hadn’t been in her head? What did it mean, and why did it tug at her so? Her skin tingled at the mere thought of it. It was very sexy. Kaelen had heard it, too. Or had he?

Abagail narrowed her eyes in the dark. She couldn’t be certain he’s heard the same music she had. He had a head injury, for Pete’s sake. Maybe he was hearing things. Considering the massive headache he suffered after the episode, that scenario was entirely possible. That had to be. It was the only thing that made sense. Who had ever heard of two people hearing the same music in their heads?

She breathed a sigh of relief, convinced she had it figured out. Of course, that didn’t explain his injuries and how they’d healed in a matter of hours. Tomorrow, she decided. She’d question him on it tomorrow. By then, they’d both have recovered—he from his headache and she from a different kind of ache altogether. Squeezing her legs together, she closed her eyes and willed herself to sleep.

* * * * *

Downstairs, Kaelen struggled against the weakness settling over him. Damn it, he had to think, not sleep. He hadn’t planned to give into his attraction to Abagail. Nothing good could come of that. All of his good intentions had fled when he’d awoken with her bent over him. All that long brown hair caressing his bare skin, her breath whispering across his stomach. Then when she turned those soft green eyes on him…hell, his body had taken over from there. His only thought was to be with her, to mate with this woman. Then suddenly the song of souls filled the room.

It didn’t make sense. He had no mate in this life. He’s seen that in the waters. And, despite what his dear aunt and Maraana claimed, he’d never known them to be wrong.

It had to be Darrick playing mind games. But that didn’t explain the jolt of power. It hadn’t been a storm as Abagail believed. It’d come from him. He hadn’t reined in his anger. Hell, he hadn’t had to for the past twenty-some years. So how did he cause it? Was his power returning? How? He needed to contact those who had answers.

He chuckled wryly. Yeah, that was going to happen. Any of his people who saw him hightailed it in the opposite directions. What was he going to do now? Could Abagail be his mate? Even in his weakened state his cock twitched at the thought of her. He shook his head. He’d never heard of human mate. Damn, what was he going to do?

Chapter Three

Abagail stood on the edge of a cliff overlooking the dark gray sea. Droplets of salty water misted over her as waves crashed below. She lifted her arms high to greet the moist wind as it swept around her, lifting her hair and tangling her long skirt around her legs. For a moment she felt incredibly wild and sexy. She wore no bra or panties and the sensation of the cool, damp air stealing up her skirt and caressing her hot folds was deliciously wicked. She felt so alive. Every cell tingled, every pore opening for more sensation, for more…more…something.

“Are you a witch then, beautiful Abagail? Conjuring up a tempest on a whim?”

She lifted her face toward the sky, savoring the sound of Kaelen’s voice. “Being here almost makes me believe in magic.”

“Oh, but there is magic, love.” His voice licked her ear as his arms wrapped around her. He pulled her back tight against him, her ass snug on his hard length. “You’ve felt the magic, haven’t you, Abagail? You felt it with me earlier.”

His hands cupped her breasts, taking their soft weight in his palms. She moaned and arched her back, pressing both into his hands and grinding her ass against his erection. Shivers danced up her spine as he nudged her hair aside to press a kiss on the base of her neck.

“Feel that?” he asked and rolled the tight crowns of her breasts under his thumb. “Magic.”

“Magic,” she repeated breathlessly.

“Let me make love to you, beautiful Abagail. Let me show you magic beyond anything you could possibly imagine.”

She turned in his arms and wrapped her around his neck. Standing on tiptoe, she answered him with her lips a hairsbreadth away from his, “Yes.”

His slid his tongue over her lips, coaxing her to allow him entry. Diving her fingers into his silky hair, she opened herself to him. The heat from his mouth enflamed her. She fought against her tangled skirt, trying to wrap a leg around his. With a grunt, he reached down and yanked it up, bunching it against her ass, pressing her tighter against him. She cried incoherently into his mouth when her softness cradled his length through layers of clothing.

“Are you feeling it?”

“Yes,” she gasped. “More. I need more. Now.” She punctuated her demand with a slow roll of her hips. The intensity of the feelings he incited overwhelmed her and made her ache for more.

She felt like she was flying, then suddenly Kaelen pressed her up against the flat side of a large boulder. With what she thought was a curse he gripped the collar of her blouse and tore it down the front. Cool, moist sea air swept delectably over her hot, sensitive skin.

“I need to taste you, love.”

He dipped his head down and took one rose tipped breast in his mouth. Fire race through her body as he suckled and swirled his tongue around the hardened peak. She wrapped his long hair tighter in her fists and held him close. The pressure, the intense pleasure-pain threatened to explode.

“Kaelen.” She said his name at last. Moaned it. “I can’t take this.”

“Yes, you can. Let go; let go for me.”

“I don’t want to come until you’re inside me.” She groaned, reveling in his touch. “Deep inside me.”

He pulled away and looked up at her. She gasped at the stark desire darkening his gaze. His pupils dilated until there was just a sliver of molten, fluid silver encircled the blackness.

“You’ll do both, love.” He flicked his sinfully glorious tongue across her moistened skin. “Sweet Lady above, I cannot get enough of you. I ache for you, Abagail.”

He pulled her skirt up around her waist and cupped her sex. The cool stone kissed her ass as his palm pressed against her pulsating clit. Colors burst behind her eyelids as she squeezed them shut. Oh god, she would go up in flames if he didn’t stop. Of course, she’d have to kill him if he did now, and that wouldn’t satisfy either of them.

All thoughts escaped as he moved his hand in a small, but oh so nice, circle. Sensation after sensation built and spiraled inside her, shooting straight through her belly to her dripping sex. A trickle of moisture slid onto her inner thigh. Her head fell back, and he took the opportunity to sample her sensitive neck.

“Oh god.”

Keeping pressure on her clit, he slid, first, one finger inside her heat, then another.

“By the Goddess, you’re tight.” He scraped his teeth along the length of her neck. “Exquisite.”

She whimpered as she rode his hand, frantic and hard. Desperate for release, she clutched at Kaelen’s shoulders, murmuring incoherently.

“Now,” he commanded and shifted his hand, burying his fingers deep inside her. “Come for me now.”

His thumb flicked over her swollen pearl and sent her over the edge. She felt like she was falling off the very cliff they stood on, but there was no cold sea below. Only heat. Thick, sweet, liquid heat. She screamed as she slid over the final wave and held on tight.

Moments passed with only the sound of the waves crashing below mingled with their harsh breaths. She leaned forward until her lips touched his shoulder.

“Kaelen,” she whispered after pressing a kiss to his wet skin.

“Yes, love?”

“Who are you? Why do you pull at me so? How is it that I feel like I know you?”

Suddenly she was alone, leaning against the boulder. Her clothes intact again, the only memory of the passionate encounter was the moisture between her legs and the quivering of her body.

“Kaelen!” she cried.

Whirling around, she searched for him and continued to call out his name until her eyes fell on a woman and two children huddled near the edge of the cliff. The woman lay in a heap, covered in blood; her children, horror etched on their tiny faces, clutched at their mother and stared toward two men standing a few feet away.

The taller of the two stood with his back to Abagail, but she could read the rage and fury contorting the other man’s face. Both men held themselves stiffly as they regarded the other. With preternatural speed the faceless man closed the distance between them and grasped his opponent’s neck. Bile rose in her throat when the sickening, wet sound of his neck snapping reached her.

It wasn’t until the victor began striding toward the woman and children she saw his face, as rage and fury-filled as the man he’d quickly killed. No, no, no. It couldn’t be. It was Kaelen!

She didn’t realize immediately that the scream slicing through the night came hurling from her lips until his head came up and his gaze met hers. His silver eyes burned as they focused on her.

“This is who I am, Abagail. You don’t know who or what I am.”

His raised voice chased shivers across her skin and she began to sob, as she stood frozen, watching him move closer and closer toward the helpless trio.

“No, please!”

Abagail sobbed as she escaped the dream. She didn’t know what happened. Had he hurt them? Killed them, too? Violently shaking, she pressed a hand to her churning stomach. Why? Why had he killed the man? The woman had obviously been beaten. Why had he done such a thing?

What was she thinking! It was a dream. A bizarre dream, but a dream nonetheless. It wasn’t real. She knew Kaelen was not the monster she dreamed of. If he was, surely she would have known it, felt it, when she was with him. It was a dream, a hideous dream best forgotten. Straightening the covers, she settled back to seek sleep again.

* * * * *

Kaelen leaned back against the headboard as the morning sun slashed though the billowing drapes. He hadn’t slept more than a few scant hours. After the dream he’d had of Abagail, sleep had been horribly elusive. Not surprising with the image of the beautiful woman succumbing to ecstasy firmly entrenched in his mind. He’d woken up hard and sweating, wishing the dream hadn’t ended before finding fulfillment himself. If Abagail were half as responsive as she’d been in his dream, she would consume him in flames if he were lucky enough to sample her.

“Good morning.” Abagail came into the room, carrying a tray. “I thought you might be hungry, Kaelen. You didn’t eat anything last night.”

“I am hungry. Will you sit and eat with me?”

She met his gaze and smiled. “If you’d like.”

“Nothing I’d like more.”

Placing the tray across his lap, Abagail sat on the edge of the bed and quickly jumped up again.

“Kaelen, why do you have the window open? You’ll catch your death.”

“Wait.” His voice halted her halfway across the room. “Please leave it cracked. I like to smell the air, the woods.”

“Okay, but only a crack. You don’t need a chill right now after all you’ve been through.” She left it opened an inch and returned to his side. “Did you sleep well?”

“Well enough, I suppose. How about you?”

“Oh, I’m fine.” She pushed the plate of toast closer. “Eat.”

He frowned. Pale violet smudged under her eyes, and she kept avoiding his gaze. Did his presence make her uncomfortable, unable to sleep?

“I’d like to thank you for your help last night. The goddess must have been smiling upon me when she sent you into the woods.”

She chuckled. “It was hardly a goddess that sent me.”

“Really? What did send you?”

“Nothing really. Just an argument with my sister-in-law. I know better than to let her rile me, but I did anyway. So I went for a walk to clear my head. I tripped over you,” she informed him.

He grinned. “Well, I’m glad you happened upon me.”

“How did you end up there, anyway? Who did this to you?”

“It was nothing, just a misunderstanding.”

“A misunderstanding?” she asked, incredulous. “A misunderstanding left you beaten to a pulp and left in the cold to die of hypothermia?”

He stared at her. “Okay, I was at a club, and a woman hit on me.”

“Oh please, a woman did this to you?”

“In a manner of speaking. Her boyfriend didn’t take kindly to her showing an interest in me, so he and a couple of his thug buddies decided to, how did they say it? Oh yes, they decided to ruin the pretty boy permanently.” He shrugged.

“And they beat you up? Just because some jerk’s girlfriend liked the look of you? How is that your fault?”

“Abagail darling, it isn’t about fault. They wanted to show their women how tough they are. If it hadn’t been me, it would’ve been someone else.”

“Oh yeah, that’s manly and attractive, ganging up on a lone man. Idiots.” She got to her feet and began pacing the length of the room.

She was so agitated. On his behalf, he thought with amazement. Her face was flushed, and she gripped her hands in fists as she quickly crossed the room over and over. Her eyes flashed with anger. She already cared. His heart contracted. What was he going to do?

“Please sit down. I’m fine now, and the idiots will go on living their idiot lives.”

“You could press charges.”

Yeah, that’s what he needed, to talk to the police and explain things he didn’t even want to think about. Yes, officer, I’m a banished faery prince. Will you please arrest these men for picking on me?

“No, it’s behind me.”

She looked away from him and wrung her hands together in her lap. Her teeth worried her bottom lip. Kaelen shifted uncomfortably. Damn, she had a sweet mouth. Soft and incredibly tasty. He found himself swept back into the previous night’s dream. He could almost feel the hot wetness of her kiss. The feel of her firm breasts in his hands and the sweet responsiveness between her thighs. His cock sprang to attention. Shifting again, he hoped the comforter hide his state.

“Kaelen?”

He raised a brow at her whisper. “Yes?”

“How did you heal so quickly? You have nothing but faint scars now. How is that possible?”

Shit.

“Uh, I don’t know, Abagail. I’ve always been a fast healer.”

There. That was honest. He really didn’t know why the Fey were such fast healers and he had always been that way.

She leaned forward. “Really? I mean, I always thought I healed fast. Which I do compared to my brothers, but nothing like that. Have you talked to a doctor about it? Maybe they could figure out why. Imagine what that would mean—maybe they could figure out a way to help other people.”

“No, no doctors. I don’t like them.”

“But, Kaelen, you could—“

“No!”

A strong wind whipped through the room, causing the curtains to swell and Abagail’s curls to flutter around her face. A glass flew of the end table and onto the floor, shattering loudly.

Pain shot through his head, and his stomach lurched. Damn it! He was so careless, letting his emotions take control. How was he going to explain this away? He didn’t want to lie to her. He lifted his hands to cover his eyes. The blinding pain ricocheted through his head. Had to get out of here. Had get away so he didn’t hurt Abagail. He uncovered his eyes to find her on her knees picking up the shards of glass, her face deathly white.

“Abagail,” he whispered.

She looked up at him with wide green eyes.

“I need to leave. If you could get me my clothes, I’ll be on my way.” He bit out each word, the pain in his head intensifying with each syllable spoken.

She frowned at him. “Are you okay?”

“My head hurts a bit, but I’m fine. My clothes?”

“From the look of you, it hurts more than a bit.” She rose and laid the back of her hand on his forehead. “My god, you’re burning up. You need rest. I’ll be right back to clean up the rest of this mess. Close your eyes, and I’ll bring a cool cloth for your head.”

“Abagail.” His voice hardened despite the pain.

Her brows shot up. “Don’t use that imperial voice on me. I’m not the one naked and in pain. You’ll do what I say. Now rest and when that headache is gone, we’ll talk about when you leave. For now, you’re staying.”

With that she spun on her heel and left.

Kaelen closed his eyes and let himself fall into the darkness, the relief from the pain. He had to leave. He would leave. Soon. Through a haze, he heard Abagail return and clean up the glass. Quickly after, she laid a cool cloth on his forehead, smoothing his hair back and murmuring softly to him. Her touch was soothing and light. He knew he had to leave—for her safety—but for the moment, he felt relief that he was still with her. For however short a time.

Chapter Four

She watched him. Again.

Not that she thought he was going anywhere. The headaches, obviously vicious, worried her. She should call a doctor. She winced as she recalled his steely refusal to see one. Well, she’d talk him into it.

Her heart had nearly stopped when he said he was leaving. What was wrong with her? Why was she so attached to a man she didn’t know? The thought of him leaving tore at her. Of course, she’d have to get used to the idea though; he wasn’t a puppy she could just keep cause she liked the look of him. Though it was more than his looks which certainly were devastating. Shaking her head, she walked into the living room and sat at the piano. She ran her fingers over the cool keys and closed her eyes.

Music began to float through the room. Abagail didn’t think. She felt. And played. The music crashed over her like waves, lifting her into the melody. Vaguely, she realized she was playing the music she’d heard in the woods and then in Kaelen’s room. No thought, no plan was in her mind. Her fingers simply traveled the keys, seeming to know what keys to play, what notes came next. Her heart swelled as the music filled her. This was it. This was what she had been searching for when she had come here. This feeling—the joy, the love—that filled her as she continued to play. Images of Kaelen slid into her mind. They fit. The music seemed to come from him as much as it came from inside her.

Her fingers stilled on the keys; tears dampened her cheeks. Exhausted, she rose and climbed onto the couch. Pulling the throw over her, she wondered how she could possibly be falling for a man she’d met less than twenty-four hours before.

Her eyes drifted shut and sleep claimed her.

She stood again on the cliff, salty moisture kissing her face. Turning, she saw Kaelen stride toward her. Without a word, he gathered her in his embrace and captured her mouth with his.

Uneasiness swept over her at his lips’ first touch. Something felt different, wrong. He plunged his tongue deep in her mouth. She gagged and fought against the invasion. Pushing hard against him, she managed to break away. She pulled air frantically into her lungs and looked up at him. Her protest stuck in her throat. She stared into tawny gold eyes, not Kaelen’s silver ones.

“Who the hell are you? Where is Kaelen?”

She shoved the tall man aside and ran several steps away from him. How could she have mistaken him for the intriguing man in her home? They looked nothing alike. Kaelen’s dark midnight mane was a sharp contrast to this man’s golden hair. They were similar height, but Abagail couldn’t figure out how she’d messed up like this.

“I beg your pardon, Miss Guthrie. I’m here to help you.”

“Help me? With what? This doesn’t make any sense. Who the hell are you?”

“I’m a friend, here to help you avoid a mistake.” He stepped forward and touched her arm. “Abagail…may I call you Abagail?”

“Does it matter?” she snapped. “I want to know who you are and what you want.”

“My name doesn’t matter. As I said I’m a friend. You are making a big mistake trusting the man you took into your home. You must make him leave immediately. Call the authorities or whomever you need to accomplish this. Your life depends on this, Abagail, you must trust me on this.”

“Trust you? I don’t know who you are, and Kaelen has given me no reason not to trust him.”

Anger swelled within her, along with loyalty for Kaelen. How could she feel so strongly as so short a time? Confusion swamped her along with the rest of the overwhelming emotions.

“Look,” he gestured behind her with a tight smile. “Is that man you can trust?”

Abagail turned and saw the scene she’d witnessed earlier. Kaelen faced the other man and pounced, breaking his neck in a swift motion. He turned and strode toward the woman and children. Abagail cried out at the look of fury painted across his face. From a distance, he seemed to glow, to radiate a warm red light. He knelt beside the woman and grasped her head between his hands. Words began to flow from his lips. Unfamiliar words. Abagail couldn’t make out what language he was chanting. The eerie red glow intensified and the wind howled angrily, tearing at Kaelen’s hair and clothes.

Abagail squeezed her eyes shut and turned away from the horrific sight. Even in her self-imposed darkness, she couldn’t stop the questions in her mind. Would he kill the woman? The children? What was happening?

As if reading her thoughts, the man beside her spoke. “He kills them all. That is the type of man you’ve invited into your home. Get him out.”

She refused to open her eyes, to look at this stranger. He was lying.

“This is just a dream,” she murmured. “Like before. Just a dream, none of this is real. You’re not real.”

“Then perhaps your subconscious is trying to tell you something. Maybe it is sensing something and is warning you.”

“Go away.” She wrapped her arms around her waist and began to rock back and forth. “Go away. I don’t want you here. You’re not real. You’re a dream. Go away!”

“Get rid of him.” The words echoed in her head as she struggled to wake up.

Abagail sat straight up as she shook off the dream. Her hands trembled as she pushed her hair from her face.

“Abagail, are you unwell?”

She turned toward Kaelen’s voice. He stood in the hallway outside the living room, a sheet wrapped around his hips. A concerned frown furrowed his brow.

“I heard you cry out. Are you unwell?”

She shook her head. God, she was so messed up, she couldn’t speak.

He walked over to the couch and knelt beside her, taking her hand in his. His silver eyes pierced into hers, questioning.

“You’re freezing. And shaking. Perhaps you are ill?”

Looking into his eyes, she simply enjoyed the feel of his hands on hers. His thumb caressed the back of her hand, causing shivers to travel up her arm.

“I’m fine, Kaelen. I just dozed off and had nightmare, that’s all. No big deal.”

“I wouldn’t say that. It obviously it upset you; that’s a big enough deal.”

Abagail’s heart ached. No way was this man a killer. It didn’t fit.

“How is it that I feel like I know you? That we’re connected?” she whispered.

His eyes widened and he stilled.

“Is it just me? Do you feel it, too?” she questioned, desperate for some reassurance that she wasn’t crazy.

He hesitated slightly before replying, “I do feel something, Abagail. A pull toward you. I don’t know why or how, but I do.”

“Oh!” She pulled her hands from his and cupped his face. “You don’t know how relieved that makes me. I thought I was seriously going nutso.”

She pulled slightly and brought his lips to meet hers. Closing her eyes, she allowed herself to slide into the kiss. This was real, not some stupid dream. Damn it, she was going to trust her instincts for once. What did she have to lose?

He nipped gently on her lower lip as he wrapped his arms around her waist. He pulled her against him and stood. His erection pressed heavily against her stomach, and she trembled in response. A spear of heat sliced through her and centered between her thighs, immediately moistening the soft folds of her sex.

“I want you.”

His words, whispered against her mouth set off an explosion within her. She pressed against him.

“I want you, Kaelen, so much,” she gasped, punctuating her words with kisses. “I’ve never wanted.” Kiss. “This much.” Kiss. “Never.”

His hands slid down to cup her hips, fingers digging deliciously into her flesh. He slid his tongue between her lips and seduced a moan from deep within her. She savored the slick, moist dance of his kiss, the slivers of heated desire rushing through her, the pulsing pressure of his cock against her.

He moved away from her mouth and began trailing kisses across her face and down her neck.

“By the Goddess, Abagail, you’re intoxicating. I’ve never wanted like this. Only for you.”

Her hands tightened in his hair, and she pulled gently until he looked in her eyes.

“Bedroom,” she ordered huskily. “Now.”

“Oh yeah.” He grinned and led the way.

They stopped next to the bed and simply looked at each other, hands linked.

“You’re sure?”

Abagail smiled and threw his words back at him, drawling, “Oh yeah.”

“Good.” He pulled her shirt up over her torso; she lifted her arms, allowing him to remove it completely. He groaned at the sight of her bare breasts. “No, I was wrong. Good doesn’t even come close, Abagail. You’re perfection.”

He leaned forward and drew a rosy nipple into the wet heat of his mouth. His tongue maddened her, alternately flicking the hardened nub and swirling slowly. He suckled the tip wickedly; clenching, tight pulls of desire between her thighs answered each tug of his mouth on her breast.

He slid his hands around her and into the back of her pajama pants. Cupping her ass, he dragged her against him until his erection nestled snugly against her softness. Heat seeped through the flimsy sheet and the thin cotton on her pajamas and panties. Too much. The slight layers were too much between them. Abagail tugged at the sheet, groaning as it stayed, caught between their bodies.

Kaelen pulled away, letting the sheet fall. Her breath hitched as she stared into his desire darkened eyes. She tore her gaze away and allowed herself to look her full of his body. Lord, he was magnificent. His dark hair fell across his broad shoulders. His chest was certainly well defined, she thought. She followed the light sprinkling of coarse hair down over his flat stomach to his narrow hips and the bed of tight curls pillowing his jutting penis. She licked her lips as she thought about taking the smooth, rosy cock in her hand, in her mouth, into her pussy. A trickle of moisture slid through her soft folds, dampening her panties even more.

“Abagail,” Kaelen growled deep in his throat. “You keep looking at me like that, this isn’t going to take very long, darlin’.”

She threw her head back and laughed. “Well we have to keep trying until we get it just right.”

“It’s with you; it’ll be just right.”

Heat bleed up Abagail’s neck into her face. She wasn’t exactly the most experienced or skilled lover. What if he was disappointed? It wouldn’t be the first time a man found her lacking. Well, damn it; she’d make sure it was spectacular for him. She wrapped her hand around his hard length and moved to kneel before him. He stopped her by grasping her arm.

“Lie down, Abagail.”

“No.” She shook her head and took a deep breath. “I want to taste you, Kaelen, please.” She tightened her grip slightly on his cock and stroked up slowly.

He groaned and drew in a shuddering breath. She smiled up at him when he released her arm. Dropping to her knees, she stared at his jutting cock. Hope that she could please Kaelen swelled up with in her. She’d never taken a man in her mouth; had never wanted to. Until now. Her clit beat a fierce tattoo simply at the thought of his smooth hardness sliding through her lips. Leaning forward, she kissed the swollen tip, the beads of moisture escaping the slit moistened her lips. Looking up at him, she licked the saltiness away. With a low grunt, he buried his hands in her hair.

“Great Goddess, what you do to me.”

The gruffness of his voice crawled down her spine and pushed her to continue. She opened and took the reddened head in her mouth, swirling her tongue around it. The hardness jumped within her mouth. Bolder now, she took more of him inside. Closing her eyes, she savored the smoothness of his skin, along with every ridge pressing against her tongue. His fingers flexed in her hair, massaging her scalp as she milked him with her mouth. She ran her hands up the fronts of his thighs and around to grip his ass. Her nails dug into the skin as she continued to move over him.

Suddenly he used the grip he had on her hair to pull her away. “Abagail darlin’, stop please.”

She slid her hands around to his front and cradled his balls in one hand, stroked his erection with the other. “You don’t want me to finish?”

He cupped her face and rubbed his thumb across her bottom lip. “More than you can know, but there’s something I want even more.”

“What?”

He pulled her up, sliding her over his body. He leaned his head down until his lips tickled her ear and whispered, “I want to be deep, deep inside you when I come. So deep, so connected for our first time together. Do you want that, beautiful Abagail, will you take me deep inside?”

Unbearably aroused by his words, she simply nodded and backed up a step. Her gaze locked with his, she slipped her thumbs under the waistband of her pants and slid them over her hips and down her legs. She kicked them aside and stood before him in only a wisp of cotton.

“Allow me.”

He moved closer and dropped to his knees. He ran his palms up the length of her legs to her hips. Bending his head, he pressed his lips against her through her panties. Her thighs quivered and her knees buckled as his breath fanned across her heat. With a gasp she grabbed his shoulders to steady herself.

“This isn’t a one night fling, Abagail. You know that, don’t you?” He slid the panties over her hips, her thighs. “This is more.”

She brushed his hair off his forehead and struggled to breathe. “I know, Kaelen. This isn’t a fling.”

She lifted a foot, then the other, allowing him to remove the panties.

“Please get on the bed,” he said, hoarsely as he stood.

She smiled as she lay on the bed. He really did want her as much as she wanted him. Her thighs trembled as he knelt between them. She squeezed her eyes shut and hoped she didn’t disappoint him.

“Open your eyes. Look at me when I touch you, darlin’.”

She met his gaze as he slid a finger inside her. Her hips lifted in welcome.

“Aaah, Kaelen,” she murmured as her muscles clamped around his finger.

He stroked in and out and pressed his thumb against her pulsing clit.

“By the Goddess, you’re so hot and tight. So responsive. So bloody perfect.”

He covered her body with his and claimed her mouth, still stroking her heat. His tongue entered her mouth as he slid another long finger inside her. He coaxed little moans from her as he assailed her mouth and slowly stretched her silken folds. With a groan he broke the kiss and began to trail kisses down her neck to her breasts. He pulled a tight nipple between his lips and flicked it with his tongue. He caressed and tortured the soft mounds sweetly and thoroughly. She arched her back, pressing herself against his mouth. Oh god. She squeezed her eyes shut. Fire swept though her body, obliterating every thought but him from her mind.

His hands replaced his mouth, rolling her nipples between his fingers, as he made his way down her quivering stomach. He didn’t hesitate when he reached the wet heat between her thighs. His tongue darted out and swept over her pulsating clit. Abagail clutched the sheet and arched further. The man should be outlawed! She’d never felt anything close to this madness. Everything in her screamed for more.

He ran his hands down over her belly to her thighs. Grasping them, he draped her knees over his shoulders and placed his hands on her ass, lifting her. He licked his lips and looked up into her eyes.

“You’re so sweet. So damned addictive.”

Lowering his head, he began to feast. Abagail cried out as his tongue laved the soft, wet folds of her pussy and encircled her swollen pearl. Pressure built within her. A blaze stoked with every caress of his tongue, every gentle scrape of his teeth, every pull of his lips. He moved one hand forward and slid one long finger, then another, inside her throbbing channel. With each stroke, she lost a bit more control. Everything was centered on Kaelen and what he was doing to her. He thrust his fingers harder and faster as he pulled her clit between his lips and sucked gently. Her body tensed as the orgasm slammed into her, a tidal wave of heat and sensation. Again and again, she tightened around his fingers. He didn’t stop, but continued to pull the orgasm higher and higher with each stroke, each pull. Only when her body went limp, did he lift his head.

Gently he lifted her legs from his shoulders and made his way up her body again, trailing kisses along her torso. He withdrew his fingers and guided her hand to his cock. “Take me; slide me inside you.”

She grasped his hardness and slid the velvety tip across her swollen clit to position him at her slick opening. She lifted and circled her hips, taking him in inch by delicious inch.

Kaelen began to tremble when the entire length of his cock was buried within her. He dropped his head to rest his forehead against hers.

Abagail ran her hands down his back, over his firm ass and back up to his shoulders. She lifted her legs to wrap around his hips, sucking air through clenched teeth as the divine pressure built again and pleasure knocked through her.

“Oh, darlin’, I’m trying so hard to fight it.” He pulled out and drove back into her, setting a frantic, desperate pace.

Abagail almost laughed despite the orgasm building layer-upon-layer. He was worried he’d come and leave her unsatisfied. Her! Didn’t he realize she’d been a walking orgasm waiting to happen ever since she tripped over him? He’d already made her come long and hard and she was on the brink again.

“Don’t fight it. Can’t you feel what you’re doing to me?” she cried out as her release pushed her over the edge. She slid, spiraled downward through hot honey. “Come with me, Kaelen.”

He thrust into her again and again. With a roar he spilled his seed deep inside her. His cock still pulsating , he cupped her face. “I belong to you. You belong to me. Our souls, our hearts are bound together. If one doesn’t exist, neither does the other. No longer two, but one for eternity.”

Chapter Five

Kaelen lay staring at the ceiling, his woman curled up next to him, her head pillowed on his chest. His woman. Stroking her hair, he thought of what he’d done. In the eyes of his people, he and Abagail were bonded. Mates. Essentially married.

Dammit. He’d try to fight it, but the pull had been so strong. He remembered his father describing how it was between true mates. The need to complete the ceremony, to bond was overwhelming. Kaelen hadn’t understood. Until now.

This certainly didn’t help his chances of returning to his kind. Obviously, Abagail was his true mate. The bond wouldn’t have worked otherwise, and it had worked. He could feel the melding of their souls. But the laws were clear about mating with humans. It was forbidden. Not that faeries had never slept with humans, but it was rare and the punishment was usually banishment. Kaelen chuckled humorlessly. Been there; done that.

No, he wouldn’t be returning to his home. Even if he were accepted back despite what he’d done, he couldn’t be separated from Abagail now. Once the bond was sealed, mates needed the other’s presence, their touch often. Their souls were joined now. He wouldn’t leave her.

Unless Abagail was the woman the Queen prophesied of. Wouldn’t she have told him if it was a human? No, she would have seen that as interfering with fate. Could she be the one to end his banishment?

Kaelen pushed the thought, the hope aside. It didn’t matter. He would spend his life with Abagail. Grow old with her and leave this life when she did.

Kaelen.

He jolted as he heard the voice in his head.

Kaelen, are you well?

Rhys?

It is I. How fare you, my Prince?

He scowled. I am no longer Prince. How is it you can speak with me? This line of communication was severed upon my banishment.

I know not. I felt you, your pain and confusion, and reached out. Have you found a mate? Are you returning to us?

Kaelen closed his eyes, savoring the intimate contact with one of his own. By the Goddess, he missed this. I have mate, but I will not be returning.

What foolishness do you speak? If you have found a mate, a true mate, then the banishment is lifted.

She is my true mate, but she is human.

Silence.

Rhys?

I’m here. A human? I didn’t know a true bond was possible with a human, but even now I can feel her presence within you. You must come back and see the Queen immediately.

You know very well how the Lady feels about mating with humans.

For sex, for pleasure, yes. But this is a true bonding; surely she will not stand in the way.

I will not risk it. I will stay with Abagail and live a human life.

You are the Prince of the Fey! You are not human. You cannot do this to our people, Kaelen.

It is already done, my friend. I must live with the consequences of my actions. My banishment led me to my mate; I cannot be sorry.

There must be a way. I will consult with Leilen and Dermet. We will come to you.

No! Kaelen sat up, jostling Abagail. She opened her eyes and smiled sleepily at him.

“You okay?”

“I’m fine, darlin’, just fine.”

You will not risk yourselves by coming to me. You must obey the Queen or you will suffer. You risk too much already, simply by communicating with me.

We would all lay our lives down for you, Prince Kaelen. We will be in touch.

Kaelen swore as the connection was severed.

“Are you sure you’re okay?” Abagail sat up and touched his arm.

“Of course, I just…” He searched his mind for a plausible excuse for his agitation. “Had a nightmare.”

“Ah, they must be catching.” She grinned. “Well, you helped me get over mine, so I’ll return the favor. On your stomach and I’ll give you a back rub. You can tell me about this nightmare.”

“I’ll take the back rub, but you tell me about your bad dream.”

She narrowed her eyes. “Is this one of those macho men things? Can’t talk about a nightmare cause it might make you look like a weenie?”

He quirked a brow at her. “Maybe it’s because I can’t put together a coherent sentence when your hands are on me.”

She burst out laughing, the sound slid over his body and his cock hardened.

“Okay, okay, roll over and let’s get started.”

He shifted until he was comfortable and groaned as her warm hands began to knead the muscles in his back.

“So,” he drawled, relaxing into her touch, savoring it. “Tell me about this nightmare.”

“Going to beat up the boogie man for me?”

“Of course.” He allowed his eyes to drift shut. “It’s my duty to see to your happiness.”

“Oh, well that’s nice.” She chuckled. “Well you’re going to have to beat yourself up, I guess.”

He popped one eye open and looked at her over his shoulder. “I was the boogie man in your dream?”

She pushed his head back down on the pillow with a laugh. “Don’t sound so offended. It was a dream. Actually, there were two dreams. The first one was on a cliff, and you came to me. We kissed, and, well, you did some incredible things, let me tell you.”

Memories of the dream they shared had his cock swelling and aching. He shifted his hips. The knowledge that they’d shared the dream didn’t surprise him. It only confirmed what he’d already concluded. Abagail was his true mate. True mates often dreamt together.

“And this was a nightmare?”

“No, not that part. It was after that. Suddenly you were away from me and fighting some man. You killed him. You broke his neck. It was horrible. Then there was the woman and children.”

“A woman and children?” No, no, she couldn’t be seeing what he did those years ago.

“You went to them. They were all battered and bloody and you looked so angry, so full of rage.”

“What happened then?”

“I woke up.” She began to stroke his lower back. “Then when I was on the couch I dreamt I was back on the cliff and you came to me, but it wasn’t you.”

Her hands stilled and she sat back on her heels. Kaelen rolled over on his side and studied her. Her mouth was turned down and her face was pale.

“This dream bothers you greatly. What do you mean it wasn’t me?”

She shook her head. “I don’t know. It was so odd. You came to me and kissed me, but it felt wrong. I pushed you away and then, boom, you were someone else.”

“Who? Someone you know?”

“No, I’d never seen him before. I asked his name, and he simply told me that he was a friend. That he came to warn me.” She met his gaze. “About you.”

A chill swept through his body. “What about me?”

“He said you were dangerous and that I needed to get you out of my house. Then you were on the cliff, killing that man again and going toward the others. I couldn’t watch. He told me that you killed them like you did the man. I realized it was a dream, I mean; you’re not a murderer. I know that. I feel that.”

His stomach clenched as she leaned forward and kissed his forehead, his cheeks, his mouth. Love for her and guilt over her unwavering confidence swept over him.

“What did the man look like?”

“Does it matter? He was just part of a dream.”

“Just curious. Did he look like me?”

He had a similar height and build, but he had dark blond hair. It was long, past his shoulders. He had light brown eyes—almost golden really.” She shrugged. “I supposed some women would find him extremely handsome.”

Kaelen grinned despite the cold knot forming in his gut. “But not you?”

“Nah. I find myself more attracted to dark haired, silver eyed men with a fantastic body.” She ran her hands over his chest. “A man who knows how to drive a woman delirious just from a kiss.”

Kaelen grabbed her around the waist and pulled her on top of him. He nipped her lip and swept his tongue over the ache. “I wonder where you can find a man like that.”

“Oh, I’ve found him.” She straddled his hips and pressed herself against him. “It’s a matter of keeping him now.”

His cock slid along the warm silkiness of her pussy until he was positioned to enter her. He buried his face in her hair, breathing in the sweet, tantalizing essence. Her scent slid through him, wrapping around every cell in his body. His erection throbbed against her wet folds, growing harder as she squirmed against him.

“I think you’re doing a fairly good job of that. Are you ready for me, darlin’?”

Her fingers delved into his hair, fisting in the length of it. “Always.”

He surged into her, groaning as her wet heat enveloped him. They met each other stroke for frantic stroke. Hands running across sweat-dampened skin. Lips trailing across faces. Whispers floating through the room.

Kaelen clenched his teeth and struggle to hold on to whatever little control he had left. Her pussy milked his cock with each stroke, coaxing it toward release.

“I meant this time to be slow,” he ground out. “Loving.”

Gripping his hair again, she pulled his face to his until their noses touched. “You slow down, you die.”

He chuckled and thanked the Goddess. Despite his good intentions, he couldn’t stop now. She had him on the edge, but he was taking her with him. He slid his hand between their bodies and found her hot, pulsating pleasure spot, circling it with his finger. That was all it took. She moaned softly deep in the back of her throat. The sound alone nearly set him off, and then her muscles clenched his cock over and over as she found her release. He followed her, driving in her again and again , spilling his seed deep within her, he threw his head back and shouted her name.

Kaelen eased away from the sleeping Abagail and pulled the sheet off the floor. Wrapping it around his hips again, he strode quickly through the small house and found the laundry room off the kitchen with no problem. His clothes were folded on top of the dryer. Donning them quickly, he strode into the living room. He paced the length of the floor and processed all Abagail had told him of her dreams.

Dammit. She had described Darrick perfectly. What the hell was his cousin doing? Manipulating the dreams of humans was strictly forbidden. Then again why was he surprised? Darrick manipulated everything as long as it served his best interests. Laws and rules be damned. So how did it benefit him to discourage Abagail from being with him? Was it simply denying Kaelen happiness?

For the love of the Goddess, he’d even given Abagail the vision of his crime. May he burn for that alone. And telling her that he’d killed the woman and children! He gave up everything to save them, to give them life.

Perhaps Abagail was the one. If she could end his banishment, Darrick’s hope for the throne was squashed. That would make him daring. And dangerous.

Kaelen. We are here. May we enter?

Yes, my mate sleeps.

Light shimmered through the room; green and gold bursts radiated and combined until three men materialized in front of Kaelen.

His eyes burned as he saw his friends kneeling before him.

“Stand, please.” His voice broke slightly. “I am not a prince any longer. You are dear friends, not subjects.”

Rhys stood first. “You are always our prince, and we respect that first and foremost. But friends we are.” He stepped forward and the two men embraced. “You look well.”

Kaelen welcomed each man in turn, savoring physical contact with those long lost to him.

“Rhys tells us you are true mated. We are overjoyed and swear allegiance and protection to your mate,” Leilen declared.

“Her name is Abagail. The Goddess has blessed me with a beautiful and intelligent mate.”

Dermet grinned. “Then we are all blessed, my prince.”

“Would you cut the prince crap?” Kaelen scowled at his friends. “I’m not the prince, and even when I was, you never stood on such ceremony before.”

“Forgive us,” Rhys said. “We are a bit overwhelmed that you are returned to us. And don’t protest that, Kaelen. Suddenly when you find your true mate, I’m able to communicate with you. This isn’t coincidence. She has to be the one the Queen spoke of.”

“Perhaps,” Kaelen conceded. “I’ve been giving it some thought, and I think she may be. Some of my other powers are returned. Though not with the finesse and ease I’d like. It’s like I’m a youth just coming into my power, headaches and all.”

The three men grimaced in sympathy, obviously remembering the difficulty of getting one’s feet wet magically.

“There is one other matter, one that troubles me. Darrick has been meddling in Abagail’s dreams.” He related to them what he’d been told.

Dermet’s face reddened. “Damn him. He’s a fool. Kaelen, you must go to the Queen, present your mate, and put an end to this.”

Kaelen shook his head. “It isn’t so easy. First, if Abagail is truly the one, there is still another step to take to break the banishment. I have to tell her who and what I am. And even if she accepts that, Darrick is still a danger. He will not be accommodating, and I fear what he will try to do to her.”

“The hell with him. We’ll intercede and stop him.” Leilen pounded a fist in his open palm.

Rhys held a hand up. “Kaelen is right. Darrick is a danger. We’ve seen what he’ll do to get to the throne. He was willing to manipulate his own cousin into a death sentence; he’s not going to hesitate to harm his woman. We have to proceed carefully.”

“We?” Kaelen raised a brow.

“Please.” Leilen frowned. “If you think we are going to sit around and do nothing, you’re crazed.”

“Don’t think of arguing,” Dermet chimed in. “We’re in this together. Like always.”

Kaelen conceded with a nod of his head. By the Goddess, it felt great to have his friends at his side again.

“Kaelen?”

He turned to see Abagail standing just within the room. His heart ached and his stomach clenched as he took in his mate’s sleep tousled appearance.

“I’m sorry, darlin’. Did we wake you?” He stepped toward her with a hand outstretched.

She came forward, looking at the men curiously, and clasped his hand. “No, I was just surprised to hear other voices when I woke up.

“These are friends of mine. Rhys, Leilen and Dermet. Gentlemen, this is Abagail.” He shook his head slightly as he saw the men make move to kneel.

Rhys recovered first. “Abagail, we were grateful to hear that Kaelen found you; we worried for him.”

“Nice to meet you. Though I’d say I found him,” she corrected with a smile. “Did he tell you how badly he’d been hurt?”

“No,” Rhys drawled. “But I’m sure he’ll fill us in. Right now, we should be off and out of your way.”

Abagail looked startled. “Don’t be in a hurry on my account. Do you have a place to stay or do you live nearby?”

“We live a ways from here,” informed Leilen. “Though we could stay for a little while.”

Kaelen nodded at his questioning gaze. He’d enjoy spending more time with his old friends.

“Good, good.” She looked at Kaelen with a frown. “You must be starving. We slept most of the day away and didn’t eat much.”

He kissed her down turned lips, whispering against them, “I had other, more enjoyable things on my mind, darlin’.”

A flush crept across her face, and she smiled slightly. “Be that as it may, you still need to eat. Sit and visit while I see what I have in the kitchen.”

Kaelen hummed in appreciation as he watched the hurrying sway of her ass disappear into the other room. His body tightened with desire. It took all his willpower to push those tantalizing thoughts from his head and focus back on his friends. He found the three men staring at him with wide grins creasing their faces.

“It’s refreshing to see you so taken with a woman, Kaelen. Though truth be told, I’m somewhat glad that no true mate awaits me in this life,” Rhys admitted.

“That is what the waters foretold for me as well, my friend. If they were wrong about me, they could be about you.”

Rhys snorted. “What are the odds of that? No, I’ll not have a true mate in this life, and I’m quite content with that. It’ll be a joy to watch you and your woman though, Kaelen. She is quite beautiful and intriguing.”

“Thank you. Now I’m going to see if she needs help. Make yourself useful.” He nodded to the fireplace. “Start a fire. Without magic.”

He chuckled as a collective groan rose from the men and left the trio kneeling before the fireplace, arguing about the best way to proceed. He stopped in the doorway and watched her. She stood on a chair on tiptoes pulling wineglasses out of the cupboard. He drank her in, from the top of her mussed head to her bare feet.

“I’d have gotten those for you.”

She smiled over her shoulder. “You have guests.”

“I’ll help.” He strode into the room.

She stepped off the chair, wincing a bit.

“You’re sore,” he observed, contrite. “I was too rough with you.”

“You were just fine with me,” she corrected. “A little soreness is nothing. Really.”

He wrapped his arms around her and pulled her against him. Rubbing his cheek against her hair, he simply held her.

“You deserve to be cherished, darlin’. Not taken so roughly.”

“I happen to like the way you took me.” She pulled back and grinned at him. “Really, Kaelen , you made me feel cherished, desired. Don’t regret what we had.”

“I don’t,” he assured and kissed her full lips. “I just regret that you hurt.”

“It’s just a little reminder of a lovely experience. Now, I need to find some food. It may end up being sandwiches. I seriously need a trip to the grocery.”

He kissed her again, sinking into the lush softness of her mouth. Running a hand down her back, he pulled her against his hardness. He wanted her again with an intensity that shocked him. He couldn’t get enough of her. He slid his tongue between her lips to dance with hers. With a shudder, he trailed his lips down and nuzzled her neck. Her scent surrounded him.

“Hmmm,” she murmured low in her throat and pressed against him. “You feel good.”

“Next time,” he promised, the intoxicating taste of her on his lips. “Will be slow. Slow, tender, and maddening.”

She trembled against him and exhaled slowly. “I’ll hold you to that. Well, let’s throw some sandwiches together and heat up some soup.”

They made quick work of assembling the meal and carried two loaded trays out into the living room.

“Nothing fantastic, but it’ll fill your bellies.”

The group sat on the floor around the large square coffee table in front of the fireplace. Kaelen noted the roaring fire and guessed they’d used magic despite his warning. Rhys confirmed this by winking at him.

After eating in silence for several minutes, Leilen asked, “Abagail, did you grow up here?”

“No, I grew up in the city, but we came here often. My favorite place. My mom knew that and left it to me when she died.”

Her sadness and grief palpable, Kaelen covered her hand with his. “It must be a great comfort while grieving.”

“It is. My brothers would prefer I sold it and moved back to the city, but I find myself wanting to stay here. Too much hustle of the city getting to me I suppose.”

“Do you have a large family?” Rhys questioned.

“There were four of us kids. I’m the lone girl. My older brothers, Tom and Robert, are married. My younger brother, Will, died in the car crash with my mother and stepfather.” She worried her lip with her teeth before continuing, “It’s been a little over a year and I still expect him to call and say ‘Abby girl, you’re working too hard. Let’s take us a vacation.’”

Dermet frowned. “We seem to keep bringing up things that grieve you.”

“Oh no,” Abagail protested. “It doesn’t hurt quite so bad anymore. I mean, I don’t think the hurt will ever completely go away, but it’s good to remember them instead of avoiding the subject.”

“Good attitude to have,” Leilen agreed.

“What do you do for a living? I noticed the piano and the other instruments; are you a musician?” Rhys asked.

Kaelen bit back a chuckle. They were interrogating her! Though he was learning quite a bit about his mate so he could hardly argue. He leaned back against the sofa and listened

“I used to be. I used to tour and record, but now I stick with composing. I find I’m a much more solitary person than I used to be. And I can work from home. Even in my pajamas if I want.” She chuckled.

“And you can play all those?” Leilen indicated the instruments lined up along the wall and on shelves.

Abagail nodded and took a sip of wine. “Yep, I loved music forever and it came naturally to me. So I make a living doing it.”

The phone shrilled loudly, interrupting the camaraderie.

With a quick smile at the men, Abagail stood and crossed the room to answer it.

“She’s delightful, Kaelen. Down to earth and very sweet,” Rhys observed.

Kaelen nodded, but his attention was focused on his mate. Though her back was to him, he could see how rigid she stood. Whoever was on the phone was not a welcome distraction apparently. He listened to her end of the conversation.

“We’ve been over this. No. I said, no. If that was what Mom wanted she would have told me or left the property to all of us. If Robert has a problem with it, he can call me himself. No. I’m not going to argue with you about this. I have company; I need to go. What? Friends. I do happen to have a few. I’m hanging up now. Goodbye.”

She disconnected, but stood there for several moments before returning to the group with a strained smile.

“Sorry about that.”

“No problem. Are you okay, darlin’?” Kaelen draped his arm around her.

“Yeah. Just a family disagreement. It’s nothing. So,” she signaled a change of topic. “Have you all been friends long?”

“Most of our lives,” Rhys answered.

Kaelen rubbed Abagail’s tense shoulders as his friends regaled her with carefully edited versions of their childhood exploits. Gradually she relaxed and leaned into him as she laughed at their antics and arguments over what had really happened. Nearly an hour had passed when she straightened away from him.

“Guys, as much as I want to stay up and talk more, I’m can barely keep my eyes open.” She stifled a yawn behind her hand. “You’re more than welcome to bunk here instead of heading out this late. The couch pulls out and the bed’s open upstairs since I’m in with…” she trailed off.

Her face pinkened as she stood. “Um, anyways, there’s the bed upstairs, too. Goodnight. It was nice to meet you, Rhys, Leilen, and Dermet.” Her flush deepened when all three kissed both her cheeks in turn, murmuring their goodnights.

“I’ll be right back,” Kaelen said, standing and following her into the bedroom.

She flopped on the bed and grimaced. “Sorry. I pretty much announced that we’re sleeping together.”

“Darlin’, if they hadn’t figured that out already, they aren’t as smart as I give them credit for. Now lie down. You need sleep.”

With a chuckle she climbed under the blankets. “Man, I’m tired. I had a good time, Kaelen. You have nice friends.”

“I’m glad you like them. I’ll go get them on their way and be back.”

He pulled the blankets up to her chin and stared at her face for a moment. Her eyes drifted closed and her breathing slowed. Straightening, he turned to leave. Her voice, soft and trembling, stopped him.

“I thought you might want to go with them. Now that you’re well.”

He turned back and sat on the edge of the bed and cupped her face. “Abagail.” He waited until she opened her green eyes before asking, “Do you want me to leave?

“No,” she whispered. “I don’t want you to leave.”

Relief swept through him, stealing his breath momentarily. He leaned forward and pressed his lips against hers, kissing her gently. “I don’t want to leave. I’ll stay as long as you’ll have me.”

Chapter Six

Abagail left Kaelen sound asleep in the morning and showered. After taking another look at the dismal contents of her fridge, she jotted a quick note to her lover and headed to the grocery.

Soon she found herself in the produce aisle, pondering what kind of fruit Kaelen preferred. Maybe she should have waited until he was awake and could’ve come with her. Oh well, she could always make another trip later. She put her usual purchases in the cart.

As she shopped, she began to plan an intimate dinner. Candlelight. The perfect music. Maybe she could talk him into a little dancing that could lead to a bit more than dancing. She’d enjoyed the evening with Kaelen’s friends. She liked them a lot and had learned so much about him, but now she just wanted to be with him alone. Geez, now she was grinning like a bleeding idiot. What was it about that man? She just wanted to be with him. She’d spent the last several months burying herself into a solitary life. It had been the only way she found contentment. Being alone and submerging herself in her music.

Though today she needed to get some work done. Otherwise she’d be getting some irate phone calls. And not from her sister-in-law.

God, she thought of him before her music. What was that? Her music had always, always, come first. Men had been a distant afterthought. Shaking her head, she thought of her brother. Will had always said when love stuck, she’d experience a reprioritizing that would knock her on her ass. She chuckled until it hit her. Love.

Was she in love with Kaelen? Oh, god, she’d fallen for a man she’d known for little more than twenty-four hours. What in hell was she going to do? She wouldn’t be bringing it up to him anytime soon, that much was certain. She just couldn’t process it, let alone talk about it. Besides, even she knew the quickest way to make a man run for the hills was to mention the L-word to soon. No, she’d just tuck it away and not think about it. Go on with everyday life. Yeah right. First things first, though, she had to shut her gapping mouth and get out of the ice cream aisle.

As she turned, she caught a glimpse of black leather floating around the corner of the aisle. Like the tails of a long coat. Abagail rolled her eyes; even kids away from the city were probably into that gothic look. Chuckling at the fashion trends of the young and angst-ridden, she made her way to the check out and was soon loading her groceries into her trunk.

She’d just dropped the last bag in when the hair on the back of her neck stood on end. Someone was watching her. Unease rippled through her as she could feel the heat of the gaze. Cautiously she looked around. Nothing. The store was pretty dead this time of morning. One of the main reasons she shopped at this time.

“You’re getting paranoid, girl,” she muttered to herself.

Still uneasy, she shut the trunk, pushed the cart into the corral and got in her car. Pulling toward the exit, she caught a movement of black out of the corner of her eye. She hit the brakes and turned. Oh god.

Tawny hair lifted off his shoulders in the wind. Black pants sculpted his legs up to narrow hips. His black T-shirt clung sensuously to his chest. And a long black leather coat billowed behind him, carried on the wind. She couldn’t make out the color of his eyes, but she knew they were light golden brown. Burnished gold.

It was the man from her dream.

He stood amidst a group trees flanking the lot. Unmoving he simply stared at her. Shaking, she shrieked when the owner of a car behind her laid on their horn. Waving a hand in apology, she drove to the exit. Before turning onto the road, she chanced a glace back. He was gone.

Shit, did she imagine him? Was she going nuts? She began the short drive home, questions steamrolling through her head.

Why had she dreamt of this man? Had she seen him around town before? That had to be it. What did her want? A chilling thought lodged in her mind. Was he stalking her? Though she’d been away from public life for sometime, the possibility still could present itself. Over and over, she racked her brain, trying to remember if she’d seen the man at any other time, at some function, around town, in the city.

Questions still unanswered, she pulled in front of the house. Relief flooded her when she saw Kaelen sitting on the porch steps. He smiled broadly as he stood and walked to her door. Jumping out of the car, she launched herself into his arms and held on tight.

He hummed deep in his throat as he pulled her close. “Darlin’, what’s the matter? What’s troubling you?”

She shook her head and burrowed closer to him. “I don’t want to talk about it. Let’s get the groceries in, okay?”

He pushed her away from him slightly and peered into her eyes. Abagail had the feeling he saw all, could read her every thought and fear.

“You are troubled. You need to tell me what is wrong.”

“Okay, okay, I will. Let’s get this stuff in and then we’ll talk.” She forced a smile when a frown marred his gorgeous face. “I just need to think for minute, all right?”

“All right.”

Together, the unloaded the trunk and carted the bags into the kitchen. Silently, they put the food away. Abagail gradually relaxed. The way Kaelen made certain to touch her often had a load to do with that. A light touch of hands. A long sweep of his palm down the length of her back. The soft, but tantalizing brush of his arm against her breast as he reached around her.

She poured them both soft drinks and led the way into the living room. Sitting on the sofa next to him, she thought of where to begin.

“What bothered you so much, Abagail?”

She smiled at the concerned frown on his lips. “It’s probably nothing. I’m sure I’m overreacting, but I had a strange feeling that someone was watching me when I was at the store.” She gave a short laugh. “That’s sounds so crazy, I know, but it isn’t unusual for someone in the line of work I was in to be stalked. Then when I saw that man…”

Kaelen grabbed her hand, held it in his warmth. “What man?”

“Well, that’s the real crazy part. He was the man from my dream. The one I told you about. I must have seen him before and that’s why I dreamt of him.” She shook her head. “I know I’m being paranoid, but I’m now very glad that I had the new security system installed when I moved in.”

Kaelen’s face lost all color and his grip tightened around her hand. “Did he approach you? Threaten you? Harm you?”

“No, nothing like that. It was just majorly creepy. You think I’m way off, don’t you? I know, I just can’t shake this odd feeling.”

“Of course I don’t think that,” he assured and leaned forward to kiss her. “I just don’t like you feeling unsafe.”

“Should I call the police? I don’t know what—” The phone interrupted her. She rose and crossed the room to answer. “If that’s Darla, I’m going to smack her upside the head next time we’re in the same room. Hello?”

“Abby! Glad I caught you. I was thinking of you and thought I’d call. How’s the work coming? Should I expect some pieces soon?”

Abagail smiled. Tom Murdock. Her agent and manager. “Hey there, good to hear your voice. Soon, bud, you’ll have some pieces soon. Promise. How are you?”

“I’d be better if you told me you were ready to start touring again.” His voice sounded hopeful.

She sighed at the expected nudge. “We’ve been over this. That part of my career is over.” She jumped when a hand fell on her shoulder. “Hold on a sec.” Covering the mouthpiece, she turned to Kaelen.

“I’m going to take a look outside, see if there’s anything out of the ordinary.”

Her stomach dropped. “Do you think it’s necessary?”

“Better to be safe. I won’t be long, darlin’.” He moved in to kiss her, long and soft. “Don’t leave the house, okay?”

“I won’t,” she promised. “Be careful.”

“Always.”

She watched as he walked outside. Closing her eyes, she took a deep breath before returning to her call and directing her attention to more pleasant things.

“Hey, Tom. Let me tell you about this amazing melody I’m working on.”

* * * * *

Kaelen strode through the woods, senses alert, searching for any traces of his cousin and power. Nothing. He stopped, stood completely still and focused every cell in his body on the earth around him. He could discern no disturbances. Damn it, he didn’t trust his returning powers. He couldn’t afford to make a mistake. Not with Abagail.

Rhys, I need you.

Wind whirled around him, lifting leaves up into wild swirls. The fresh, intoxicatingly earthy smell of his homeland surrounded him as colors pulsated around him. With a large flash, his friend stood before him.

“What’s wrong?” he asked without preamble.

“Darrick. Abagail saw him when she was at the store this morning.”

“What? Did he harm her?”

“No. He didn’t approach her.”

“So he shows a small amount of sense and self-control.”

“It won’t last,” Kaelen predicted. “Abagail is fine, but she is understandably worried and uneasy. If he tries to harm her…”

“He’ll fail,” Rhys stated firmly. “None of us would allow your mate to fall victim to him.”

Kaelen acknowledged his vow with a nod.

“I’ve put in motion the plan we discussed. Though Darrick isn’t giving us much time to prepare.”

“It will be tonight.”

“Kaelen, don’t act in haste.”

“Tonight, Rhys. I want this ended.”

After a moment’s silence his friend nodded. “I’ll make the arrangements and get the word out.”

“Good. I’ve scanned the area for his presence or evidence of power and found nothing. But I don’t trust my powers yet.”

Without a word, Rhys stepped away. He closed his eyes and raised his arms. Turning in a circle, he radiated power. Kaelen absorbed the immense heat surrounding Rhys. How he missed this. The power. The joy of magic.

“I feel nothing. He hasn’t been here.”

“Thank you, my friend. I need to get back to Abagail. Contact me when all is in place.”

“Have you told her yet?”

“No, I plan to now.” Kaelen swore in the tongue of the fey. “I’m going to lose her.”

“You don’t know that,” Rhys protested. “I believe you are giving her too little credit. She will accept who and what you are, I’m sure of it.”

“She may accept me, but I will still lose her.”

“You’re not making sense.”

“The conditions for my return are that she accepts who and what I am. Just because she does that doesn’t mean she’ll accept a life with me.”

Kaelen knew this and dread built up inside him.

“If that’s the case, what will you do?”

“I’ll return and fulfill my duties and responsibilities to my people.” He cringed at the dull sound of his voice. The thought of life without Abagail pained him to no end. He had to shut down to even contemplate it.

“You’ll just give up on her?” Rhys’ face flushed and his voice echoed through the wood.

“I’ve given this a lot of thought. I cannot turn my back on my duty. Nor can I ask Abagail to leave her world behind. What would you do, Rhys? I will ensure her happiness and fulfill my other responsibilities. Besides, you were the one shoving duty down my throat last night, so don’t start,” Kaelen snapped.

“All I’m saying is give her time to adjust. She’ll make a lovely queen, my prince, one we will all be proud to serve.”

Kaelen’s throat clamped shut, making speech impossible. He nodded curtly and started back toward the house.

Contact me as soon as you know all is ready.

Of course, my prince.

Chapter Seven

He entered the house to find music on the air. His love sat at her piano, pouring herself into her music. Preoccupied and absorbed, she didn’t notice him enter and sit down.

He could feel every emotion churning in the notes she seduced out of the instrument. The fear. The unease. The worry. All of it surrounded him, choked him.

She stopped and sat, ramrod straight, fingers hovering over the keys as if she wasn’t sure what to do next. Or perhaps she sensed his presence as true mates do. She turned toward him, no surprise on her features, and smiled.

“That was beautiful, Abagail. Like you,” he said softly.

“Thanks.” She rose from the bench and came to sit next to him.

“You love your music. That much is obvious when you play so passionately.”

“Thanks,” she said again. “It’s always helped me through every thing and anything.”

Kaelen closed his eyes and inhaled deeply. He didn’t know where to start. How was he going to tell her? Opening his eyes, he found her frowning at him.

“Is everything okay? You didn’t find anything bad when you went out there, did you?” She reached over and grasped his hand.

“No, there was nothing out there. We just need to talk. About something important.”

“Okay.” Her hand tightened on his as if she was trying to reassure him. What a laugh, he thought. Pretty soon she’d want to be as far from him as she could get.

“I need to tell you about myself. There’s a lot you don’t know. You must be curious.”

“I’ll admit to being a tad bit,” she grinned. “But, Kaelen, I trust you. I had a good feeling about you from the beginning, and I know to trust my gut.”

“Darlin’, you aren’t making this any easier.”

She laughed. “What could you possibly say that will make me not want you here? Are you a drug dealer? Serial murderer? Prison escapee?”

“No, of course not. It’s nothing like that, but what I have to tell you is going to be hard to believe, hard to accept.”

Abagail licked her lips and gazed at him intently. “Okay, so just say it. Like ripping off a Band Aid; quick makes it less painful.”

“Right, a Band Aid.” He nodded. “All right, Abagail, I’m a faery.”

She blinked rapidly, her mouth opening and shutting several times as she stared at him. “Uh, if your trying to tell me in a horribly non-politically correct way that you’re gay, I’d have to say, you’ve proven that one wrong.”

“No!” he yelped. “I’m not gay. By the goddess, is that really a term for gays?”

“Uh yeah, not a pleasant one I’ll grant you, but what did you mean if not that?”

“I mean I’m a faery. One who like women, by the way. A faery. The fey.”

“A faery,” she repeated. “Like little beings with wings that flit here and there?”

He groaned and rolled his eyes. Damn humans and their tales. “Not exactly, but it’s a step in the right direction.”

“And you think you’re one of these creatures?” she asked, speaking slowing and clearly.

Great Goddess, she was speaking to him like a child or an idiot. Soon she’d be calling the mental ward and having him carted away in a straight jacket.

“I don’t think I’m of the fey. I know I am. Abagail, I’m not crazy or delusional; I know what I’m saying.”

“I don’t think you’re crazy,” she assured. “I just know that you’ve recently had a head injury. Maybe this is an aftereffect or delayed reaction.”

“No, darlin’, it’s not,” he stated firmly. “I know who and what I am. I understand it’s difficult for you to accept, but we need to talk this through.”

She patted his hand. “Of course we’ll talk about it. When did you first think… uh, know you were a faery?”

Despite the cold heaviness settling in his belly, Kaelen laughed. “You think I’ve gone of the deep end.”

“No, of course not.” She pulled her hand from his and pushed both of hers though her hair. “Well honestly, Kaelen, I’m still not sure what to think. This isn’t a situation I find myself in everyday, you know.”

“I know. Okay, when did I know? I always knew. I was born and grew up in the faery realm. In fact, I rarely ventured into the human world unless it was an emergency.”

“What type of an emergency would take into this world?” Curiosity was still winning out of fear apparently.

“We are connected with nature, in both worlds. If we are needed to heal the earth here, we will come and do so. Human stories of faeries come from our work with nature. We have to concentrate our power, our gift. We become healing light and warmth. Usually very small and condensed. Hence, the little faeries flitting around,” he said with a laugh.

“What went wrong this time? Why were you in my woods and not back at your home?”

“This time was different. For you to understand I’ll have to start at the beginning.” He waited for her nod before continuing. “One night while sleeping, I was transported into your world. I didn’t understand, as I do not possess the power to do such a thing. I was on a cliff and a man was dragging a woman toward the edge. Two children ran after them, trying to pull their mother from the man.”

“My dream,” she whispered, eyes wide.

“Yes, your dream was of that night. I fought the man, realizing his intent to kill the woman and probably the children as well. The woman was with child and bleeding heavily. I killed him. That much of your dream is true,” he acknowledged. “But I did not harm the woman and children. Never! I comforted the children and healed the woman.”

Abagail’s face shone stark white in the sunlight slashing through the windows. “I knew you weren’t a killer.”

“I was banished for my deeds.”

“What?” she cried out. “For saving them?”

“No, for interfering in human lives. It is strictly forbidden. I was lucky; normally it is punishable by death, but with the fact I broke law to save lives and that there was evidence that this had been a manipulation of some kind, I was let off easily.”

“Easily? Banishment is easy? So you can’t return to the faery world?”

“There are conditions that must be met if I am to return. After twenty-seven years, I had given up hope.”

“Twenty seven…” She looked at him in horror. “Just how old are you?”

“A couple of centuries. The exact number isn’t important.”

“Oh no,” she waved her hand in front of her. “A few centuries covers it; why bother with the pesky decades and odd years, after all.”

“Darlin’, breathe.”

“I’m breathing, I’m breathing,” she gasped before violently inhaling.

She lowered her head between her knees and sucked breath and breath into her lungs. Kaelen moved closer and began to rub her back in long even strokes. Relief swamped him when she didn’t pull away from him.

Turning her head to the side and pushing the hair from her face, she stared at him.

“You’re totally serious, aren’t you? This is the truth?”

Her voice was so quiet; he had to strain to hear her.

“Yes, it’s all true.”

“Oh, boy.” She closed her eyes.

“Abagail, I know this is difficult, but you had to know the truth, especially after what happened today.”

She straightened and leaned back against his arm. Eyes still closed, she questioned, “What about today?”

“The man you saw today, the man from your dream, is my cousin.”

“Your cousin?” Startled she shot a look at him.

“Yes, the man you described is Darrick.”

“And why would he be in my dream or at the grocery? What am I to him?”

“I believe it was Darrick who manipulated my actions those years ago. And he has reason to believe that you could end my banishment.”

“How could I end it? I have nothing to do with your world.”

“The Queen, when setting my punishment, claimed that if I found my mate and she loved and accepted me, I would be restored to my place within the realm. Darrick obviously fears I’ve found that with you.”

“And why would he care if you were restored or not?”

“Because with me gone, he is next in line for the throne.”

“So,” she said slowly. “You are next in line?”

“I was, yes. My aunt is currently queen.”

“So he messed things up for you back then. He wanted you dead?”

“Yes.”

“Well, her simply banishing you, with a way back no less, must have been a bite in his ass.”

“Exactly. Now he’s trying to intimidate you so you won’t be with me.”

“I see. Kaelen, I’m sorry, but this is so bizarre. I don’t know what to say.”

“You don’t have to say anything. You have no reason to fear him. I would never allow him to hurt you. Rhys, the others, and I are planning something to out him and end this.”

“Rhys and the others? Oh god, they’re probably faeries too, aren’t they? And all those stories they told when they were here, what, were they lying about your childhood? It sounded so normal.”

Kaelen chuckled. “It was all true. A bit edited, yes, but true. We’ve been friends our whole lives.”

“So they’re a couple centuries old too. Hmm, well, it’s not everyday I meet people old enough to be my ancestor.”

“I will protect you, Abagail. Darrick will not harm you. I love you, regardless of what happens after today.”

“You love me?” she cried, hysterical laughter edging her voice. “We need to work on your timing, bud.”

“Abagail, there is only one—“

A knock on the door cut off his attempt to explain his love and their mating.

“Dammit!” she blurted and jumped up.

Kaelen stood and watched her open the door and admit two couples into the house. Two horribly loud couples. No, just one woman was loud; the others looked sheepishly resigned.

“Abagail, we were so worried about you. We called and called and couldn’t get a hold of you so we dashed on over.”

One of the men put hand on the arm of the woman who was bellowing. He smiled at Abagail. “Hey, sis.”

“Hi Rob. Tom. Darla. Kim.” She acknowledged each of them with a nod. “You didn’t need to come out here. I just talked to you last night,” she pointed out to Darla.

“Yes, but I called all morning and nothing. Who knows what could have happened to you way out here alone.” Suddenly her gaze zeroed in on Kaelen.

He raised his eyebrow at her. By the Goddess, she was obnoxious.

“And just who are you?” she demanded. “Abagail, you didn’t tell us you had a friend here.”

“This is Kaelen.” She looked at him with apology in her eyes. “Look this isn’t a good time. I’m sorry you came all this way…”

The woman bowled right over her. “Nonsense. We’ll all have a nice chat. We need to discuss the sale of this place anyhow.”

Abagail clenched her jaw. “Sit down, then, I’ll make coffee. We’ll settle this once and for all.”

She left them standing at the door and strode past Kaelen into the kitchen. Love for her and annoyance at the situation flooded him as she brushed her hand over his arm as she passed him.

One of the men stepped forward. “Kaelen, is it? I’m Robert, Abby’s brother. Let’s sit down and I’ll make the introductions.”

* * * * *

As coffee brewed, Abagail, leaned against the counter, hands over her face. What next? First, her lover turns out to be future king of the faeries, and then it’s the invasion of her family. Just how much more was she expected to take?

She thought of everything Kaelen told her as she pulled mugs down. It was truly unbelievable, so why did she accept it so readily? Because it was him, she admitted to herself, and because she knew there were things in this world that couldn’t be easily explained. Hell, her mother had believed in magic. Had talked of it often. Apparently she’d inherited that.

Well, what the hell was she going to do? She inhaled sharply and focused. Well, first she’d serve coffee and deal with her psycho sister-in-law. At least with her brothers there she should be able to get the matter dropped once and for all. Then she’d find out how Kaelen planned on dealing with his psycho family member.

“Abagail, who is that man and what is he doing here?” Darla stormed into the room, hissing.

“He’s a friend and it’s none of your business. Will you grab the creamer out of the fridge, please?” She set the mugs and carafe of coffee on a tray and walked back into the living room.

Placing the tray on the coffee table, she perched on the arm of the chair Kaelen sat in. She sighed as he wrapped his arm around her waist. Faery or not, she was glad he was here.

Darla stomped in the room, slammed the creamer on the table, and sat next to her husband.

Robert winced and attempted to smooth things over with conversation.

“So Kaelen, how did you Abby meet?”

“She was kind enough to rescue me in my time of need. I had the displeasure of having my guts beaten in by a group of misfits, and they dumped me not too far from here. Your sister stumbled across me.” He laughed. “Literally. And she nursed me back to health. You have one amazing sister, Robert, Tom.”

Abagail groaned inwardly at the four shocked faces. Did the man have to be so freaking truthful?

Tom recovered first. “Yes, she’s amazing. Lucky you. Not that you were beaten up, of course, but that she found you.”

Darla narrowed her eyes at him. “And just how long ago was that?”

“I’ve been here long enough to get to know Abagail, if that’s what you’re wondering. As you can see, I’m all healed now.”

She was impressed at how deftly he avoided the answer while still sticking to the truth.

“And what is it you do exactly?” Darla continued, not deterred in the least.

“Regarding what?” Kaelen asked innocently.

“For work,” she snapped. “You do have a job, don’t you?”

“Darla, enough.” Abagail glared at her.

“You really are too naïve for your own good. There are plenty of men out there that will take advantage of a generous young girl like yourself.”

“Kaelen isn’t taking advantage of me! How dare you come into my home and insult him? And me!” Abagail stood, prepared to throw the vile woman out, family or no.

“Darlin’, it’s okay. I’m sure Darla meant no insult. She’s merely looking out for you.” He grasped her hand and pulled her back down, this time into his lap. “To answer your question, I work in government. I’m on vacation at the moment.”

Abagail seethed. How could her brother stand being married to such a bitch? Truly the man was a saint in her opinion.

“Now that you’re reassured of my safety and honor,” she sneered. “Why don’t we come to the real reason for your little visit. I’ve told you numerous times that I’m not selling this house. I want the subject closed and never brought up again.”

“You’re not selling?” Robert asked, a frown furrowing his brow.

“No, I never intended to sell and hardly think that is what Mom had in mind when she left it to me.”

Robert looked at his wife, questions in his eyes. “You said Abby wanted to sell.”

Darla lifted her chin. “Well, I thought she’d come to her senses. She should sell this place and divide the money between you three kids. I don’t think your mother would have wanted her to become a hermit and hide out in this place.”

A deep flush spread up Robert’s neck into his face. “Damn it, Darla, leave her alone. If she wants to live here, that’s her choice. Mom left it to her.”

“She is being selfish,” Darla insisted in a holier-than-thou tone. “She isn’t thinking of the good of the family; only of herself. As usual.”

A thought invaded Abagail’s mind. “Do you need money, Rob?”

He grimaced. “No, Ab, things are fine.”

“No, they’re not! We need the money, and she’s holding onto this place. It’s her duty as a family member to think of everyone,” Darla asserted defiantly.

“Be quiet! This has nothing to do with her, and you will not guilt her into anything. Certainly not out of her inheritance.” Robert glanced at his sister. “I’m sorry, Abby. Forget all about this. It won’t be brought up again.”

“Rob, what’s going on?” Abagail hated the thought of her brother being in a financial bind.

Tom broke the tense silence. “Rob and I invested in a new company. State of the art stuff. It will be a while before we get a return on the investment. It isn’t anything for you to worry about.”

“Right, we’re fine. We aren’t headed for the poor house, sis.” Robert glared at his wife daring her to disagree.

She turned away from him slightly with a snort.

Abagail studied the faces of her brothers’ and their wives’ faces before speaking, “I’m not selling the house, but if you need money, I have some put away…”

“Oh, so you can feel charitable,” Darla sneered. “How condescending.”

“And manipulating your sister-in-law isn’t?” Kaelen spoke up, quietly

Abagail turned in his lap to look at him. His tone was seriously dangerous. Her stomach clenched at the set of his jaw and the glint in his eyes. Heat pooled between her thighs and she shivered. Holy crud, what was wrong with her that she wanted him desperately at that moment? Yep, she was warped.

“This has nothing to do with you, so butt out!” Darla nearly sprang off the couch.

Abagail whirled back around. “Watch your mouth in my house. You’re the one who brought this business up. If Kaelen has something to say, he’s free to speak up.”

“So that’s where your loyalty lies? With a man you barely know?”

“I know him well enough. And you’ll be respectful or leave my house.”

“Fine. I’ll leave.” She stood and stormed to the door. “I’ll be in the car when you are ready, Robert.”

She pulled the door open and as she left a strong wind swept it shut hard, rapping her in the ass. Abagail darted a look at Kaelen. He winked at her and turned to her brother.

“Robert, I apologize for speaking like that to your wife.”

“I should be the one apologizing. Abby, I had no clue this was going on. She won’t be bothering you with all this again. And thanks for the offer, but really we’re fine. We’ll get out of your way now. I’ll call soon.” He stood and sighed. “It’s going to be a long ride home.”

“Tell me about it,” Tom agreed, standing as well.

“Kaelen, it was great to meet you, despite the circumstances. I hope we’ll see you again.” Robert extended a hand.

Abagail stood, allowing Kaelen to follow suit. As he grasped hands with her brother, Robert narrowed his eyes, studying him.

“You know, you look awfully familiar. Have we met before?”

“No, I haven’t had the pleasure,” Kaelen assured.

“Hmm, odd. I could swear I’ve seen you somewhere before. Oh well,” he shrugged. “See you soon, sis.”

Abagail embraced each of the brothers and her sister-in-law. “I’ll visit next week, okay?”

“That’d be great. We’ll plan dinner,” Tom agreed.

“Darlin’, why don’t you go take something for that headache. I’ll walk your family out.” He kissed her forehead and led the trio to the door.

How had he known she was getting a headache? Then again, why was she surprised? He was a faery prince, for God’s sake. Could anything shock her now? She went to the bathroom and downed some aspirin. When she walked back into the living room, Kaelen hadn’t returned. Frowning, she went to the window and peered out.

Everyone except Robert had gotten into the large sedan. Her brother and Kaelen were standing close, deep in conversation. Robert nodded several times before reaching in his pocket. He produced a white business card and handed it to Kaelen. They shook hands, and Robert got in the car. Kaelen stood, hands in his pockets and watched them drive away.

She opened the door as he climbed the porch steps. “What was that about?”

“What?”

“Oh please, he gave you his card and looked like he wanted to kiss you. What’s going on?”

“Well, I’d rather you kiss me than him.” He wrinkled his nose. “I simply offered a business proposition. To invest in this company of his.”

“Faeries invest?” she asked. What was the world coming to?

He threw his head back and laughed. “Not all do, but if you spend twenty some years in the human world, you blend.”

“And you have the funds for this? Isn’t that considered interfering in human affairs? Couldn’t you get in trouble for this?” Her teeth worried her bottom lip.

“Don’t worry about me. The Queen will hardly punish me for this when she threw me into this world in the first place. Besides she’s the one who set me up with money and records so I could live as a human.” He wrapped his arms around her and nuzzled his chin against her hair. “I like your family, darlin’.”

“Even Darla?”

“Uh, I’m reserving judgment on her.” He chuckled. “Let’s go in.”

She pulled back and eyed him warily. “We aren’t going to talk anymore, are we? You don’t have any more secrets right? Like you eat toads or eye of newt or anything?”

“Only on special occasions,” he teased. “No, we’ll just have a lie-in. You’ve had a rough go today and need some rest. It’ll only get more crazy.”

Oh, great, just what she needed. She followed him inside and into the bedroom. He pulled the covers back and motioned her in. She lay down. He joined her and pulled her into his arms.

“Sleep,” he commanded.

Fatigue swamped her. Wondering vaguely if he could put a spell on her to make her sleep, she started to drift off. She barely made out his whispered declaration.

“I love you, Abagail Guthrie.”

Chapter Eight

Kaelen glanced at the figure of his lover silhouetted in the window. She sat on the window seat and stared out, not paying Kaelen or his friends any attention.

“We should go now,” Rhys reminded him gently. “She’ll be fine, Kaelen, he can’t hurt her.”

“I wouldn’t allow him to touch her,” he vowed. “Are you certain he will come tonight?”

“Yes, I’ve heard talk and made certain that he got word that you would be with us for some time.”

Kaelen nodded and turned to the woman at the window. “We’re leaving now.”

She shifted to look at him. She nodded regally. “I’m ready.”

“Make sure to get him to talk about setting me up, and…”

“I know what to do! Go.” She turned away. He was dismissed.

The men didn’t bother to flash out of the room, opting instead for the door. A quick glace back was all Kaelen allowed himself before leaving her behind with dread and fear mounting within him.

* * * * *

Darrick laughed as he watched the men leave the house. They were fools. Leaving the woman unprotected? They deserved what they received. He would make a far better king then any of them, especially his weak hearted cousin.

Damn the Queen for not executing him like the law demanded. All because of that old hag, Maraana. Weak hearted, like Kaelen. Soon, he’d force her off the throne and take his rightful place, but first things first. Abagail Guthrie. Stupid woman. Kaelen obviously had her besotted. Why else would she disregard his warnings?

Striding towards the house, Darrick used glamour to enhance his looks. Perhaps he could charm Miss Guthrie. That would be ideal. She was quite the package; he’d like to have her for his own. He shrugged. He’d kill her if necessary though. He could find another human woman that would suit his purposes just as well.

He climbed the steps and rapped on the door. He’d play it this way until it became necessary to switch tactics.

The door swung open and Abagail stood before him. By the Goddess, she was delicious. Yes, he’d find a way to keep her.

“Yes?” She looked at him curiously.

“Miss Guthrie?” he purred. “I need to speak with you about something important; may I come it?”

She shifted, blocking his entry. “What do you need to talk about?”

He smiled broadly at her. He gave her mental push to trust him and allow him to enter.

“I’d like to talk to you about the man you have in your home.”

Her eyes darted behind her before focusing back on him. “Kaelen? He’s not here.”

“But he’s coming back, isn’t he? Ma’am, that man is dangerous, and I surely don’t want you getting hurt.”

He pushed the compulsion harder. Damn it, woman, let me in.

She hesitated briefly and then stepped to the side. “Come on in. Would you like coffee or a soft drink?”

“No, I’m fine. Thank you. Can we sit?”

“Of course,” she agreed, gesturing to the couch and chairs.

He sat on the sofa and studied her as she lowered herself into the chair. He fought to keep from licking his lips. Yes, this was going to work. He’d eliminate the possibility of Kaelen’s return and possess his woman. Perfect.

“You look familiar. Have I see you in town? Are you with the police? Is Kaelen in some sort of trouble?” She gnawed at her plump lower lip and looked anxiously at him.

“Yes, I’m in law enforcement,” he lied easily. “I can’t tell you how much I fear for your life, Miss…may I call you Abagail?”

She nodded as she regarded him with wide eyes. “Is he truly dangerous? He seems like such a nice man.”

“Appearances can be deceiving. Kaelen is very dangerous, Abagail. I think it’d be best if you got away from him. Do you have a place you could go? Someplace you can get away from him? Until I can take care of him?”

“Take care of him?” she whispered.

“Take him into custody,” he modified

She shook her head. “I don’t have anywhere to go.” She fell silent and twisted a lock of her hair as she thought.

“You need to be somewhere safe. Perhaps a hotel or something. Once I deal with the man, I will come to you.” Again, he pushed with his mind, making his words a compulsion.

Squaring her jaw, she looked at him defiantly. “No. I don’t even know who you are. You’ve shown me no identification, no credentials. I trust Kaelen. He’s given me no reason not too. I’d know if he was a dangerous man. You should leave now.”

Darrick swore in his native tongue and flashed beside her. He gripped her arms and yanked her up against him. “Stupid bitch! I won’t allow you to ruin my plans!”

“What plans? Who the hell are you?” Her voice shook and she struggled to free her arms from his cruel, fast grasp.

“I am a man not to cross, Abagail. You will regret that mistake. Over and over again you will regret it.” He ground his erection roughly against her. The thought of overpowering her and forcing her submission clouded his mind, hardened his body. Oh yes, he’d relish teaching this one lessons in obedience and submission.

“Who are you?” she demanded again, still struggling to free herself.

He shoved her roughly into the chair and, placing his hands on the arms, trapped her. His face was inches from her. The fear in her eyes, the smell of it seeping out of her pores, excited him.

“I am Darrick of Fey.”

“Darrick? You’re Kaelen’s cousin?”

Surprise jolted him upright. “He told you of me?”

“Just your name, and that you were his cousin.”

“Did he fill your head with ideas of his being a prince and how being with him will make you royalty?”

Confusion flitted over her face, furrowing her brow and turning the corners of her lips downward. “Prince? Kaelen’s a prince?”

Darrick laughed, dark joy spreading through him. “Not any longer. I took care of that.”

Abagail’s frown deepened. “How could you do anything? If someone is a prince, isn’t he so forever?”

“Not if he does something against the laws of our people. Like murder.”

She paled and shook her head frantically. “Kaelen isn’t a violent man. You couldn’t make him do something like that.”

Darrick laughed. Pride swept through him at his cleverness. “Oh, I know my dear cousin’s flaws. He’d do anything to protect the weak. Even kill. I merely made sure he was in the right place at the right time. Though I’m certain he’d think it was the wrong place at the wrong time.”

“You manipulated him so he’d lose his position? Why? He’s your family.”

“Please, Abagail, you can’t really be that dense. Kaelen was prince, the next in line for the throne. He was healthy with many years ahead of him. There was no chance anyone else in this generation would make it to power with him in the way.”

A cry welled up her throat. “You did this so you could be next in line?”

He shrugged. “Of course. Self-preservation, my dear. It’s the strongest of motivators.”

“What you did wasn’t self-preservation! It was pure greed and selfishness. How on earth did you get away with this? What if those in power find out?”

“How did I get away with it?” He grinned. “I’m not without power and resources. It was fairly simple to cover my tracks. As for anyone finding out, that won’t happen. No one would even look into it after so many years.”

Lifting her chin, she glared into his face. “Kaelen could make it known.”

“Hardly. After I carry out the death sentence that should have been set then, the only people breathing that will know the truth is you and me.”

“Oh god.” Her voice shook and she gripped the chair. “You’re going to kill me, too, aren’t you?”

He grabbed her wrist and pulled her up against him again. “Not necessarily.” He sniffed at her neck, inhaling the soft floral sent that clung to her skin. Inwardly he groaned. Aching for a taste of her, he ran his tongue up her neck to just below her ear.

She gasped and jerked her head away. “What do you want from me?”

“I think that’s plainly obvious. I want what you’ve been giving my idiot cousin. Please me, Abagail, and you have nothing to worry about.” He ran a hand up her side and grabbed her full breast.

“Please don’t,” she cried brokenly.

The desperation and fear in her voice made his blood surge through his body. He felt invincible. It was all working perfectly. He’d get exactly what he wanted.

“Release her, cousin.”

Darrick spun around, turning Abagail until her back was against him. He wrapped his arm around her neck and faced the entryway.

Kaelen stood at the open door; ramrod straight, fury reddening his features.

“I don’t think so,” Darrick sneered. “I rather like her close. Did you enjoy her, cousin? I certainly intend to.”

The tightening of Kaelen’s jaw and clenched fists empowered Darrick. His cousin was weak, powerless. He’d dispose of him and move on with his plans. By the Goddess, it was finally happening. Everything was falling into place, and nothing, certainly not Kaelen and the delectable human, could stop him.

“No harm will come to my mate.”

Darrick threw back his head and laughed. Tightening his grip on the woman he asked, “How do you plan to stop me? You are alone, without power. You think to fight me?”

The lights flickered as lighting flashed and thunder boomed. Darrick felt power surge through the room, through his every cell. Startled, he surveyed the room. Where had that come from?

“He is not alone.”

Kaelen stepped further into the room, and Rhys, Leilen, and Dermet strode inside to flank him.

Anger consumed Darrick. How dare they aid Kaelen, an outcast banished?

“You cannot be here,” he shouted. “It is against the command of the Queen!”

“Don’t lecture about obedience,” Rhys snapped. “You who have disregarded everything sacred to our people.”

“This does not concern you,” Darrick continued. Confidence in his powers calmed him. He still held all the cards and, more importantly, Abagail. “And I’ve done nothing against my people. I’m setting things right, ensuring things are as they should be.”

“According to whom?” Abagail asked in an eerie voice.

Darrick’s arm numbed and fell, releasing her. She stepped away and turned to him. Chin lifted, she looked at him defiantly.

“You never counted on Kaelen outsmarting you, did you?” The voice came from behind him.

His heart beat wildly as he turned toward the kitchen. Abagail stood watching him, mouth set in a grim line. Frantic, he spun back toward the woman close to him. Her body shimmered, and like a chalk drawing in the rain, her image melted away to reveal that of the Queen.

“No!” he cried.

This couldn’t be happening. This was a trick, a manipulation on the part of Kaelen and his cohorts. How dare they test their powers against him? The fools.

“You cannot fool me, cousin. Illusions conjured by your friends cannot frighten or harm me.”

He tried to flash across the room toward the human woman, but found himself rooted to the spot.

“Darrick, you have lost all rights to the powers of the fey.”

“Doesn’t feel too nice, does it, cousin?”

Darrick looked at Kaelen. “You only lived because of the old woman and our aunt. Two soft females who can’t do a man’s job.”

The Queen laughed softly. “It was you who made it possible for Kaelen to live. The very act that caused his banishment was essentially the same that broke it.”

“What are you talking about?” Darrick frowned. She made no sense. She didn’t deserve to rule.

“We all knew Kaelen looked into the Waters of Fate and saw he had no true mate during this lifetime. This was true until you meddled. The woman and her children were meant to die that night; you changed that. The woman was with child. That child was Kaelen’s true mate. Abagail.” The monarch nodded toward the pale woman in the doorway.

“No,” Darrick shouted. “No, you lie. The fey cannot true mate with humans.”

“There are not hard, fast rules. Those wise enough to rule understand that. We take what Fate and the Goddess give us,” she continued melodiously, the sound grating to his ears. “Darrick of Fey, you have used your birthright for harm and conspired against the throne and your family. You will stand before my people and face your fate.”

Darrick screamed, but no sound escaped his lips. It simply echoed and echoed inside his head. With a wave of her hand, his aunt sent him spiraling into darkness.

* * * * *

Abagail sagged against the doorway and watched the regal woman cross the room to stand before Kaelen, Rhys, Leilen, and Dermet. The four dropped to their knees and bowed their heads. Her mind reeled as she tried to digest all that had been said.

“Stand, nephew.”

Tears burned her eyes as the Queen embraced Kaelen, murmuring in her ear. The love she felt for him was obvious as she ran a hand over his hair and cupped his cheek.

“I’m sorry for all that was done to you. I’m afraid I didn’t do all I could have. I beg your forgiveness.”

“Lady, there is nothing to forgive. You did what needed to be done.”

“We must return. Even now, our people gather in the Great Hall to celebrate the return of their prince. Judgment must also be passed on the traitor.”

Abagail couldn’t hold back the cry that built in her throat at the mention of his leaving. This was it. She was losing him.

All eyes fell on her.

“Beautiful Abagail,” Kaelen whispered and closed the distance between them.

“Well,” she breathed. “It worked. Everything is exactly as it should be. Prince Kaelen,” she added with a small smile. “Though, wow, I didn’t expect that. You saved my family. That’s why you looked familiar to Rob, I suppose. I guess I should say thank you.”

He wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled until their bodies molded together. She buried her faced in his neck, inhaling the spicy, intoxicating scent that would haunt her always.

“I didn’t know that it was your mother…” he whispered.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      A0                                                                                                                                                                           =0                                                                                                               

“Kaelen, we have to go.” The Queen’s voice was quiet, regret tinged.

“Abagail,” he murmured against her hair.

Pulling away, she cupped his face and smiled into his eyes. “Go. Go back to where you belong, where you’re needed. I’ll be fine.” She laughed lightly at his frown. “Really, I will.”

He leaned down and captured her mouth, shutting out all the others in the room. Heat swept through her whole body, consuming her. God, she didn’t want him to leave. Knowing she had no choice, she allowed herself to fall into the kiss, into all the sensations.

He nipped at her bottom lip, a heavy sigh escaping. “I love you, Abagail Guthrie. Never forget that.”

“I love you, too, Kaelen of Fey. Always.”

She stepped away from him and nodded to his aunt and his friends. The Queen waved her hand, not giving them the chance for more words as she flashed them from the room.

She stood still a moment and fought the sob welling up within in her. It was over. Dammit, she managed just fine before without him, she’d do it again. Everything would go back to normal.

“Liar,” she whispered to the empty room. Nothing was ever going to be the same again.

Chapter Nine

Abagail walked through the trees and reveled in the moments the sun’s warmth kissed her face. Weaving through the light and shadows, she savored the deep earthy scent surrounding her. It reminded her of Kaelen. Her body hummed at the thought of him. Granted, he was always there, lurking in the depths of her heart and mind.

She continued walking until she came upon the hot springs she’d previously discovered nestled into the side of a huge hill, hidden in a mass of boulders. Sitting on the stone edge of one of the large pools, she kicked of her shoes, pulled her skirt up to her knees, and dipped her feet into the warm, churning water. She braced her arms behind her and leaned back, eyes closed.

“Hello, my beautiful Abagail.”

She squeezed her eyes tighter as the sound of Kaelen’s voice slithered down her spine. She forced herself not to leap up and jump the man. She turned her head and opened her eyes to find him leaning against one of the large boulders. Desire ignited instantly as it always did when she saw him and pooled in her belly.

He stared for a moment before straightening and striding to her. Kneeling behind her, he placed his hands on her shoulders and began to knead the knots hiding within.

“You’ve been well?” His breath fluttered across her cheek as he leaned in to question her.

“I’m fine,” she answered, disgusted at the breathlessness of her voice. “You?”

He chuckled softly and pushed her hair aside to lay his lips on the base of her neck. “Getter better by the minute. Great Lady above, I miss you, Abagail.”

She shivered as he nuzzled the sensitive skin and tilted his head to give him easier access to her neck. He obliged her and began to kiss and nibble. She shifted and turned slightly to wrap an arm around his neck. He pulled away and smiled.

“Fancy a swim?”

She shrugged. “I don’t know. You go ahead.”

He leaned in and kissed her. His lips coaxed hers open and his tongue delved inside, seeking its mate. Abagail sighed into his mouth and sunk into the sensations. The man could make her forget everything with a look; his kisses, well, they could convince her to do almost anything.

With a reluctant groan, he pulled away and stood. Stepping away, he pulled the T-shirt up over his head and tossed it aside. She drank in the sight of his hair sprinkled chest. He toed his shoes off and bent to remove his socks. She knew he wasn’t deliberately trying to entice her. Nothing in his moves showed any motives of seduction. Of course, that’s what was so seductive about it. He seemed oblivious to the storm his mere presence stirred up inside her.

She bit her lower lip, welcoming the pain as a slight distraction as he unbuttoned his jeans and slid them over his hips and down his legs. He kicked them aside. Oh boy, she thought as he slid his thumbs under the waistband of his boxers. He slid the off and she groaned inwardly. His hard cock jutted up proudly, swollen and ready. She lifted her gaze to his smiling face. Oh yeah, he knew what she was thinking.

“Sure you don’t want to join me?”

“In a bit maybe.” Damn, this playing hard to get was tough on a girl.

He winked at her, strode to the edge, and dove in. Abagail took the opportunity to draw in a few ragged breaths. Okay, enough of this. She knew what she wanted and she was going to get it. As she watched him surface and swim to the opposite edge, she reached up and began to unbutton her blouse. She pulled her feet from the water and stood, never taking her eyes from him. She slid her skirt and panties off and unfastened her bra. He swam closer and grinned when she flung the garment aside. Pulling in a deep breath, she dove under.

Warm water sluiced over her body as she swam under the surface. The silky wet caress stoked the fire already burning inside her. Coming up for air, she found herself face to face with her mate. Her mate, she repeated in her head in disbelief. None of this seemed real. If she hadn’t lived it, she wouldn’t have believed it. She threw her arms around his neck and claimed his mouth. She feasted, reveling in the taste of him.

“Hmm,” he murmured against her lips. “I need you, Abagail. Need you so much.”

“I know.” She rained kisses across his face, his neck, his chest. “Me too.”

Desperate for more, she wrapped her legs around his waist, pulling his hardness to nestle against her soft folds. He managed to get them to the edge of the pool and pressed her against the stone. He reached between them and slipped his fingers over her swollen, throbbing clit. Her head fell back and a cry slid from her lips. She’d never get enough of him. Never.

He grasped his cock and rubbed the bulbous head over her sleek sex, teasing the sensitive pearl peeking out. Positioning himself to enter her, he looked into her eyes.

“I love you.”

She swallowed hard before gasping, “I love you, too.”

He braced his arms against the stone behind her. With his mouth, he claimed her as he surged inside her. She clutched his shoulders, nails biting the skin, as her muscles stretched over him. He plundered her mouth and thrust hard and deep within her, setting a frantic pace. Abagail met him stroke for stroke, desperation enveloping her even her body responded to her mate. Heat built up within her as his cock thickened. His release pushed her over the edge. She cried out as the orgasm swept through her. She fell hard, sliding through the dense fog of emotions and sensations Kaelen pulled from her.

Abagail let her head fall to his shoulder as they both struggled to catch their breath. He buried and hand in her damp curls and rubbed his cheek across the top of her head. She squeezed her eyes shut against the tears that flooded.

“You’re going to leave me again, aren’t you?” she whispered against his neck.

“I’m sorry, Abagail. So sorry.” He pulled her head back until she stared at him. His hand moved forward to cup her cheek and catch the tears escaping. “I’m so damned sorry. I love you.”

Abagail jolted awake. Tears ran down her face, dampening the pillow. She rolled onto her side and pulled her knees up to her chest. Dammit, why couldn’t she just get over him? Every night since he’d left she’d had these dreams. Dreams that seemed so real.

She glanced at the clock. Eight a.m. She might as well get up. No chance she’d get any more sleep. Not with the memory of him crowding her head. Might as well try to get some work done. Pulling herself out of bed, she was determined to move on.

An hour later, she sat at the piano, eyes closed, fingers on the keys. Silence reigned, as it had for the past two weeks. The music had left her just as surely as Kaelen had.

“Dammit!” She slammed her fists on then keys. Disjointed notes echoed through the room. “Damn him!”

The emptiness that filled her gnawed incessantly. The damned void Kaelen’s presence had filled shrouded her, threatened to consume her. Unable to work, she’d been desperate enough last week to go stay with her brother in the city, but even the distance and distraction couldn’t pull the thoughts of him from her mind. So she’d returned to mope in silence and solitude. And curse herself and Kaelen for it.

Her skin prickled and she felt a light breeze swirl around her. Power and heat swept thought the room. Heart in her throat, she turned quickly to see light shimmering throughout the room. Kaelen.

“I’m sorry. It is only I.” The Queen. Kaelen’s aunt.

Abagail stared at the beautiful woman. Kaelen had her eyes, she realized before finding her voice. “Hello. Is something wrong? Is he all right?”

“My nephew is fine. He is being crowned tonight.”

Swallowing the painful lump lodged in her throat, Abagail stood. “You’re stepping down?”

“It is time. May I sit with you, Abagail?”

“Of course.” She motioned to the sofa and wondered why the woman had come.

“Do you love my nephew?”

Startled, Abagail’s eyes widened. “Does it matter? He’s in his world; I’m in mine.”

“Love always matters. Do you love him?” she repeated.

“Yes, I love him.”

She nodded and continued to stare. Her eyes seemed to penetrate into Abagail’s every thought and pierce her soul. Finally she spoke.

“Kaelen sent me here. To make sure you were all right. To ensure your happiness.”

“Well, you can tell his highness that I’m just fine and as for happiness, no one can ensure it.” She shrugged and let out a humorless laugh. “Tell him I’m happy and not to worry.”

“But you’re not happy, are you, my dear?”

“I’m not turning cartwheels and cheering, if that’s what you mean. I thought I’d found a man I could spend my life with and then lost him. All in a matter of days. Plus I find out he killed my father to save my mother and us kids. That kind of stuff takes a little time to work through.”

“Would it be easier if you had never met him?”

Abagail shifted uncomfortably under the intense stare. “You can’t turn back time. I don’t regret my time with him.”

“That isn’t what I asked. Would it be easier if you had no memory of him and your time together? To go back to your life before?”

“You can do that?”

“Of course, if it would make you happy.”

“Why? Why would you do that for me? A mere human?”

The Queen remained silent and continued to stare at her. Realization dawned and anger erupted through her mind and body.

“He asked you to come here, didn’t he? He wants you to just, bam, make my memory vanish? Well you just go tell him, I’ll hang onto my memories, thank you very much! The idiot! I won’t let him ease his damned conscience so easily.”

“I don’t think it is that simple. He knows that it is very uncomfortable to be apart from him. You are bonded, mind, body, and soul. You heard the song of souls when you came together, and he spoke the words. He wants to make it easier for you, not for him.”

“He mentioned the bonding thing. What does that mean exactly?”

“For our people, meeting one’s true mate is very rare. Something that doesn’t happen every lifetime. When two true mates meet they hear the song of souls. They know that they are meant. When they come together physically, one will recite the binding words and they are mated. It’s similar to marriage in the human world, only stronger.”

She felt the blood, the heat leave her face. “So we’re married?”

“In a manner of speaking. When two are mated, they have the need to be with their partner. Being apart can be quite uncomfortable and distressing. Kaelen wants you spared that.”

“How can we be mates if I’m human?

“I’ve never known it to happen with a human, but Fate tends to throw us some curve balls at times, doesn’t she? It is my belief that Kaelen was meant to save your mother’s life and give you life. He healed you as an unborn child. That had consequences; it gave you gifts.”

Abagail frowned. “What gifts?”

“You heal faster. You’ve noticed that, I know. Not as fast as the fey, but fast for a human. Have you ever noticed that the weather does what you want?”

She shook her head. “No, it doesn’t. If I could control the weather, it’d never be crappy out.”

The older woman laughed. “When you really think about what you want the weather to be, doesn’t it happen?”

Abagail thought about it, and her mouth fell open. The very day she’d stumbled upon Kaelen, she’d been hoping for a light snow, and it had happened. Oh god, that was weird. She started to smile. But kind of cool. She pushed the thoughts aside and focused.

“Okay, so Kaelen and I are mated. Doesn’t that cause problems with your people, my being human?”

The Queen smiled with a dainty shrug. “Some are probably uncomfortable with the thought but you and Kaelen are true mates and they will accept it.”

“But Kaelen doesn’t.”

“He doesn’t want to ask you to give up your life. He thought this was the only way to ensure your happiness.”

“Oh sure, erase my memories and everything with be hunky dory.” A thought struck her like a sucker punch in the stomach. “If it’s uncomfortable for me to be from him, is it the same for him? When he’s from me?”

“Yes.”

“So he has you erase our memories so we both can just go on with everyday?

“No,” she drawled. “Just you. Kaelen has decided to keep his memories.”

“Oh he has, has he?”

“That is disturbing for you?”

“Hell yeah, it is. He decides for both of us, huh? Pig. He never even asked me what I wanted. Maybe I’d have gone with him, if that was allowed.”

“Of course it is allowed. You are true mates.”

“I’d have to give up my life here, though. My family?”

“To a degree. You could still see your family. You’d have use glamour to give the illusion of aging, so they’d remain unknowing of the fey world.”

“I wouldn’t age?”

“You would, but much more slowly in our world.”

“Why are you telling me this? I’m sure Kaelen didn’t instruct you to.”

“No, he wanted me to do the deed without your knowledge, but I feel you deserve a choice in the matter. Though at the moment you look like you’d rather strangle him then spend your life with him.”

“Oh, I wouldn’t strangle him. Though I think the man needs a few lessons in modern relationships.”

“Do you want to come back with me? Think carefully, Abagail, about what you are giving up. Yes, you can see your family and visit this world, but you will no longer be a part of it. Merely a visitor.”

She sat back and closed her eyes. Could she do this? Did she want to? She sure as heck wasn’t having any of her memories taken from her. Could she live without him? Yes, she knew she could. But did she want to? That was the million-dollar question.

Opening her eyes, she grinned. “He’s going to be a bit shocked to see me, don’t you think?”

“Oh yes, he will. I knew you were a strong woman, Abagail. Fate knew what she was doing when she paired you with my nephew. You will make him happy.”

“Maybe after the initial ass kicking.”

Beautiful laughter filled the room as the Queen threw her head back. “Oh, yes, you are exactly what Kaelen needs.”

“Okay, what do we do now?”

* * * * *

Kaelen entered his dwelling, heart heavy. He was now a king. Amazing how empty it was. The urge to leave it all overwhelmed him. Though he had nowhere to go. His mate no longer had memory of him. Although he knew it was as it should be, the thought of her not knowing him or remembering their time together gutted him.

With a curse, he sat and removed his boots and heaved them across the room, listening to the heavy thuds against the wall. A pitiful show of anger, but momentarily satisfying.

“Not very becoming of a king.”

He closed his eyes at the sound of Abagail’s voice. Would her presence in his mind ever diminish? Or would she always dwell there?

“How does it feel? Being king? Does it help you forget me?” Her voice slid over him, hardening his body painfully.

“Never,” he whispered hoarsely.

“Aren’t you even going to look at me? I came all this way, you could at least acknowledge my presence,” she snapped.

His eyes popped open and there she stood. Framed in the doorway, she was a vision of sheer beauty. Her hair fell in soft curls around her shoulders. A midnight blue camisole clung to her skin, the generous swell of her breast spilling tantalizingly over the neckline. Her navel peeked out above the nearly transparent blue silk draped around her hips. She shifted from bare foot to bare foot as she studied him.

He groaned and ran a hand over his eyes, trying to erase the image of her from his mind.

“By the Goddess, isn’t it enough that you live in my head and haunt my dreams, now I have to see you while I wake?”

“Do I haunt you, Kaelen? I hope so. You had no right dictating my life for me, sending your aunt to steal my time with you.”

He stared at her as she strode to window, anger making her movements stiff and jerky. She appeared so real, as if her could touch her. He stood and crossed to stand a few feet from her.

“As your mate, it is my right and responsibility to ensure your happiness,” he insisted, feeling idiotic for explaining his motives to a figment of his imagination, for wanting to reach out and touch a vision.

“Wouldn’t it follow that it is also my right and responsibility to see to yours? Though your method was a bit moronic, if I may say so.” She glanced at him over her shoulder. “Your world is beautiful, Kaelen.”

He shook his head. “Moronic? You told me to go back where I belong! You all but dismissed me. And you learned that I killed your father? It was your father that was on the cliffs, you know? What was I supposed to do? Leave you with your memories to be miserable?”

She spun around to face him, jaw set in anger. “You really are an idiot sometimes. I guess men from both worlds share that. First of all, how could I possibly blame you for killing him? He would have killed my family. I would have never lived. Oh yeah, I hate you for that!” She rolled her eyes. “And I knew you had to return here. You wouldn’t turn from your responsibility. I wasn’t going to beg you to stay, make you choose between your world and me! And what did you think? That once my mind was free of you everything would be miraculously perfect? Did you want me to meet a man, a human man, and get married and have babies? Is that the happiness I was supposed to find?”

Black jealousy erupted within in, flooding his mind. The thought of another man with Abagail pushed him to insane violence. He clenched his fists and breathed deeply, trying to chase away the burning in his soul. He had done the right thing. What Abagail did with her life now was none of his concern. Everything inside him roared against the thought.

“Would you then mate with one of your kind?” she continued, anger tightening her voice. “Have little princes and princesses with her? Was that the point of your manipulations? To free your conscience so you could do what you wanted guilt free?”

“No!” he shouted. “Damn you, Abagail, go away. Leave my mind for a blessed minute.”

She closed the distance, lifted her hand and slapped his face. “Not on your life, buddy! I will not make this easier for you!”

Shock enveloped him as pain spread across his cheek. How? The one word reverberated through his head.

“How could you send her to take you away from me?” Her voice cracked as tears gathered in her eyes. “Why would you do that? Why would you choose a life away from me?”

Still doubtful, he reached out and ran his hand down her face, catching a tear with his fingertips. The wetness clung to his skin, the truth dawning on him.

“You’re here. Really here,” he whispered hoarsely.

She cried soundlessly, tears falling as she rubbed her cheek against his palm.

“How is it possible?”

“Your aunt came to me and gave me the choice you denied me.” Her eyes accused him harshly.

“She defied me?”

“Don’t be angry with her, damn it. She knew I wouldn’t choose to be away from you.”

He pulled from her, shaking his head. “No, this isn’t going to happen, Abagail. You don’t belong here. You don’t realize what you’re giving up.”

She snorted. “Please, give me a little credit, you male chauvinist. I’m perfectly capable of making my own choices. If you don’t want me here, be man enough to admit it.”

He continued to shake his head at her. She didn’t understand. Didn’t comprehend what being with him would mean.

“I belong to you. You belong to me. Our souls, our hearts are bound together. If one doesn’t exist, neither does the other. No longer two, but one for eternity,” she recited the bonding words. “Did you mean those words when you said them, Kaelen? Or was it simply the sex talking?”

“You know it wasn’t just sex, Abagail! We cannot say the oath without meaning it. I love you, but I can’t ask you to leave your life behind. Leave your family and your career. Everything you worked for.”

“You didn’t ask. I came here of my own free will. If you want me gone, if you want me to have no recollection of you and our relationship, then you do it. You take my memories from me. I know you are powerful enough to do it. Have the guts to do it yourself. But think long and hard before you decide.”

She grabbed his hair and pulled his mouth down to hers, claiming his mouth roughly. Her hands burrowed, clinging tightly to him. With a groan, he returned the kiss with matching passion. No gentleness dwelled in this mating of mouths. Every ounce of his wants and desires poured into the kiss. He grabbed her hips and pulled her against his hardness. She shifted, accepting his offering into the softness between her thighs.

“Do you love me, Kaelen? Enough to be with me?” she murmured against his mouth, nipping at his bottom lip before soothing the ache with her tongue.

“I love you, Abagail Guthrie. More than anything. But I can’t ask you…”

She stopped his words with her hand. “You’re not asking. I am. Do you love me enough?”

Every cell of his being shouted his answer. Yes! He trembled as her fingertips fluttered over his lips. His tongue flicked out, laving one after another until her trembling matched his.

“Yes, I love you enough, Abagail. I just worry for your happiness here in my world.”

She smiled and the sexiness of it punched though his doubts. “I trust you, Kaelen. Trust me when I say, I’ll be happy with you. I could survive without you, but I wouldn’t be happy. And I don’t believe you’d be happy without me. Isn’t that what this true mate business all about? We’re meant to be together, no?”

He stepped forward, pushing her against the wall next to the window. “Yes, we’re meant to be together. Always.”

He took possession of her mouth again, sinking into her softness. The taste of her seeped into him, claiming him.

“You have wings,” she said with wonder, sliding her hands behind him to run her fingers over the thin silver tips.

He trembled at the touch. She didn’t realize how sensitive they were, how sexual the caressing was. Every touch of her fingers sent spears of heat coursing though his body. His cock tightened as she tentatively caressed the silken wings.

“You like that?” she whispered.

“Yes,” he drawled out.

“Do you always have them?” She kissed him roughly and continued to stroke up and down. “Do you get turned on when anyone touches them?”

“They retract.” He ground his hips against her. “We don’t go around touching others like that. It’d be like going around grabbing breasts or cocks.”

“So only I get to touch them?” Excitement and wonder made her voice breathless.

“Only you.”

She groaned deep in her throat and gazed hungrily into his eyes.

“Say the words again, Kaelen, say them and mean them.”

He kissed her cheeks. “I belong to you. You belong to me.” He ran his mouth down her neck. “Our souls, our hearts are bound together.” His fingers grasped her skirt and yanked it to her waist. He lifted her by her until her legs wrapped around his waist. Her heat seeped though the cloth of his pants, bathing his erection in her sweetness. “If one doesn’t exist, neither does the other. No longer two, but one for eternity.” He leaned back, circling his hips. “You’re mine.”

“I am,” she agreed, gasping. “And you’re mine.”

He slid a hand between them, found her wet and ready for him. Circling her pleasure nub, he bent forward and sucked a nipple into his mouth. He nipped the hard tip through the damp silk. She pulsed beneath his fingers as she cried out. Frantically she reached between him, hands tangling with his as she struggled to free his hardness from the tight confines of his pants.

“Oh yeah,” he gasped as she succeeded and circled his cock in her hand.

“In me. I need you in me now,” she demanded, guiding the engorged tip to her tight entrance.

Her hands returned to his shoulders, and her nails bit into his skin as she clung to him. He shuddered as her legs brushed the lower tips of his wings.

“I love you.” He surged into her and groaned as her tightness clamped around him.

“I love you, too. Now get on with it.”

He laughed and began to move within her. With every stroke, he thanked the Goddess for his mate’s stubbornness and strength. For her refusal to accept what he’d decided.

“Oh, Kaelen, yes,” she gasped and ran her fingers down his wings again.

“Don’t, darlin’,” he protested, his cock swelling, his control slipping. “Too much.”

“Never,” she cried, ignoring his command. “Come with me, my Kaelen, come with me now.”

Her pussy contracted around him as she began to orgasm. The little noise she made in the back of her throat dissolved the last bit of control he had. Pumping into her over and over again, spilling his seed deep inside her. “Mine. Always,” he ground out, burying himself as deeply as he could.

* * * * *

Abagail stared at her mate as he slept. They made it to his bed. She grinned. After some intense encounters on the way. Her body ached deliciously, and still she wanted him inside her again.

“Aren’t you tired?” he asked, eyes still closed.

“No, I don’t think I could sleep now. I’m afraid it’ll all vanish. That it’s all a dream.”

Lids lifted to expose silver eyes. The corners of his lips lifted as he touched her face.

“No dream, darlin’.”

“Good.” She pressed a kiss to forehead. “I like reality, even if it’s a bit odd.”

He lifted his head and rested it on his folded arm. “Are you still okay with giving up everything?”

She laughed. “You still don’t get it, do you? I didn’t give up anything. I can still see my family whenever I want. I still have my music. Your aunt made sure all my instruments are here. And I get you. I think I made out pretty good, all in all.” A frown kissed her lips. “Is having a human mate embarrassing to you or going to cause problems?”

“Of course not!” he protested. “I just want you happy, Abagail. With your new life.”

“Oh I am. I’m looking forward to the next couple of centuries with you.”

“By the Goddess, so am I. I will devote my life to your happiness, my queen,” he quipped, a mischievous smile in his eyes.

“Oh god. I forgot about that! I don’t know anything about being a queen, Kaelen.” She sat up, the sheet slipping to expose her from the waist up.

“We’ll figure it out together, darlin’. We have all the time in the world.”

He grabbed her around the waist and shifted quickly until she was beneath his warm body. Her breath caught as she felt his hard cock against her hip.

“Now, I believe I owe you something slow…” He licked the hollow of her throat. “Slow and maddening.”

She wrapped her arms around him and arched into him. “Bring it on, love.”

Heat and promise enveloped the mates as Kaelen began the slow, maddening assault of her body and soul.