Soul Bound (Soul Series - book 2)

By Annie Nadine

1805-This book continues following Annie Belle's life as she attempts to find her love, Baden. She now has the help of her new family but she finds herself gaining the unwanted attention of many. Jory joins the search for Baden and brings more complications to her life already filled with snatchers and trackers. Everyone's lives become more intertwined than they all first anticipated and as lies encircle them all no one knows where it will lead them. But for one, in the end who they love could be the end of them.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Annie Nadine
• Release date: Jul 27, 2013
• ISBN: 9781301925766

Annie Nadine

CONTACT ME: www.facebook.com/annienadine I grew up and currently reside in Newcastle, Australia. I enjoy spending my time in my fantasies, always have and I think I always will. I began my love of writing in my early teens with poetry. I branched out to novels in my late teens and though poetry is still a love of mine, I find myself becoming more lost in my novels as the years pass.

Book preview

CHAPTER 1:

January 1805

Annie woke in the night, startled from a nightmare that she instantly couldn’t remember. She sat up from her pillow in fright and was covered in sweat that chilled her to the bone. Her breathing was heavy as she looked around the shapeless black room, waiting for her sense of reality to seep back into her. After her eyes adjusted to the moonlight that was filtering in through the window she could make out large objects such as the settees and desks and after a moment she remembered she was in Miss Danes’ manor, or Martha as she had recently come to know her as.

After Annie’s fear abated slightly she fell back onto her pillow in frustration. This night, like every other night since Baden was gone, had resulted in a tumultuous sleep. Placing her hand to her forehead she closed her eyes and tried to push away the sense of dread that was increasing daily over not finding Baden. It had been weeks since he disappeared. She had reluctantly stepped into the new year without him and it felt like he was going to be lost forever.

Resolving not to let the defeat sink in she tried to reassure herself. Soon, she promised, soon she would be with him again. There was no other option. After laying there silently for most of the night she fell back into a restless sleep.

That morning Annie woke late and felt a stiffness in her bones that was becoming far too familiar. Her bed was so big and the sheets so overwhelming that she felt lost amongst them. Her room felt empty though the unnecessary expanse was filled with all kinds of lavish furniture. And even as the sun lit up the place brilliantly and it held every necessity known to man, it still didn’t house everything she wanted because Baden wasn’t there.

After a weary sigh Annie threw the blankets back and crawled out of bed. Lethargically she dressed in a plane navy blue dress, not realizing that she had recently been matching her attire to the way she felt; dark and miserable. Eventually she went to find Martha who was sitting at a desk in the library, surrounded by books and paper. A sight that had become their daily setting, due to their endless researching to find Baden.

Annie, how are you this… Martha looked over at the mantle clock. Morning, she said after she had checked the late hour. A kind smile came to Martha’s face and though much had passed between them they were fast becoming quite close.

Would you mind if I had a bath? Annie asked trying to ignore her drowsiness. Usually she went straight to reading the books, trying to find a way to Baden but this morning she felt too tired. My bones are aching and I think the warm water will do me good.

Of course, but firstly go to the dining room and I will make some food for you before your bath, Martha suggested.

Martha had dismissed all of her staff to ensure their privacy so she took care of Annie’s needs for the time being. Annie had tried to refuse Martha’s service because she knew how to take care of herself. But Martha had insisted, she felt it was the least she could do after everything that had happened. In any case, as soon as Everard arrived from the institution he would be more than willing to assist but it really didn’t take much effort, after all she was a snatcher.

It took some time for Annie to get used to being waited on but once she was willing to be helped it made Martha’s job easier. It also made Martha very happy.

Annie didn’t feel much like eating lately, and especially this morning, but she thought it would probably be best if she did. Soon after forcing the food down she was sinking into a steaming hot bath. The porcelain white bathtub stood in the middle of the room and was quite deep. It was carefully and beautifully decorated with lovely, feminine details. The back rose up further than the foot end and it was so filled with bubbles that she was almost lost amongst them. There was a huge window peering out onto the surrounding trees and gave an enchanting view. A decorative French partition was set over to one corner where Annie’s sun-yellow dress, which Martha had picked, was hanging. In the other corner there was a delicate looking dressing table with a large, oval mirror that had an intricately designed frame. The colours of the room were plush pinks and creams. But the loveliness of it all was lost on Annie.

After washing her hair she closed her eyes and tried to relax as she rested against the tub. Though the discomfort in her muscles had eased slightly her heart still was aching. Rain began pattering against the window and made her cold even though she was sitting in a steaming hot bath.

When the door creaked opened she assumed that it was Martha coming in to give her, or tell her, something. She heard footsteps over towards the partition and clothes rustling. What was Martha doing? After a moment of blind guessing she looked up and saw the bare back of a tall, broad chested and rather tanned man. He had removed his shirt and his pants sat low on his hips just covering what it needed to. His hair was a little longer and flicked wildly about and had a nutty brown colour to it.

What are you doing? Annie almost screamed as she gathered bubbles closer to her to try and cover herself.

The man shot around in surprise, his hands frozen as they clutched the front of his unclasped pants. Though his face was startled it was still lovely in its features.

His face was just as tan as his body, with a wide set jaw and thin but nicely shaped lips. His brow was strong and his eyes were a dark, rich green. His lashes were dark and long and he looked a little ruffled as if he had been travelling. Stubble grew on his face and gave him an appealing, un-kept look. The most obvious thing was his ridiculously wide, defined chest, with just a hint of hair in all the right places. It was all Annie could do not to stare at it. She had never seen a man with his shirt off before, not in plain sight like this anyway. She had seen Eli shirtless but it was dark and his skin had been covered in blood, and it had looked nothing like this man’s chest.

I was told the bath was this way, he said in wide eyed shock. His voice was smooth and deep.

They both froze where they were, not knowing what to do. His eyes travelled from her face down to the bubbles then quickly back up again. He swallowed noticeably, trying to make it subtle but failing.

Who are you? Annie asked not trying to be rude but sounding short. Considering her vulnerable state she thought he would understand.

Oh. My name is Jory Manning, he said stepping forward and holding out his hand. She looked at the offered gesture as if it were something deadly. Sorry, he apologised taking back his hand.

My name is… she started to say.

Annie, Martha said coming through the door. She stopped abruptly when she saw she was not alone. Jory, what on earth are you doing in here? Martha asked in shock, hand to her chest.

You told me to take a bath, he said in his defence.

I meant in the downstairs bathroom, she clarified as if it were obvious, which it was now.

You gestured in this general direction, he countered, flicking his hand around to indicate that particular bathroom.

He seemed a little embarrassed as he moved to try and stand in a more comfortable position, as if he wasn’t standing there half naked in front of two women. His noticeable muscles moved subtly under his skin with every small motion but when he waved his arm to demonstrate Martha’s directions his muscles tensed into hard, defined slopes without difficulty. Annie couldn’t help but notice the well-defined lines that seemed to be an arrow straight to his groin and the hair that was just peeking over his trousers.

All of a sudden Annie remembered she was naked and regained her sense of urgency to not have a male in the room. She cleared her throat in the most subtle manner she could manage and it brought both Martha and Jory’s attention back to her. Both remembering the situation at hand, they started in a rush to get Jory’s clothes. He grabbed his shirt as Martha shooed him out the door.

Sorry, Annie, he yelled back as the door was being closed by Martha. She latched it shut and turned to walk over to Annie.

Well that was quite an introduction, Martha said a little flustered as she stood next to the tub.

Who was that? Annie asked looking back at the door before relaxing into the water.

That was Jory, Everard’s brother, Martha explained with a smile.

Everard is here? Annie asked with hope for the sake of her friend and Martha just nodded contentedly.

As soon as… Martha paused not wanting to bring up what had happened with Micah again. Everything was over I sent for him, she explained. He was held up a little longer than expected and it took him more time to arrive here because he was travelling slowly for Jory’s sake… She stopped awkwardly for a moment. Him being human and all. In her distraction, she completely missed Martha’s strange tone.

Do you think he will be back? Annie asked not wanting to say Micah’s name. She felt a little fearful after being reminded of what happened with him. Martha bent down next to the tub and took Annie’s hand in hers.

I do not think he would dare. He cannot deceive you out of your soul so there is no reason for him to return, she assured. Ever since she had been liberated from Micah’s tyranny, Martha had moved into the confidence she once knew. Besides, if he returned he would have to face the trackers, she added for good measure. It was awkward having to bring up the subject of Eli but Martha was running out of options.

Yes, I suppose, Annie said quietly. Martha knew that no matter what she said it would not take away Annie’s fear, only time would.

Let us get you out of this tub before you are too ripe, Martha suggested as she stood up. She moved to grab a fluffy, white towel. Though it was so big it was more like a blanket than a towel. Annie stood up and the water gushed off her down into the tub. She stepped out and took the towel being offered, wrapping it around her. Would you like help with your dress? Martha asked in her motherly way.

Could you braid my hair like Rosemary used to? Annie asked quietly after pausing for a moment, trying to block out the pain from the loss of her friend. Martha just nodded and they headed over to the dressing table.

After Annie’s hair was done Martha gave her some time to be alone, she knew Annie wasn’t coping well.

After just staring at her garment, Annie reluctantly dressed in the simple, sun yellow, day dress. She wasn’t too thrilled with Martha’s choice of colour but didn’t have much time to consider it as there was a knock at the door.

Come in, she called from next to the partition, retying the bottom of her braid. To her surprise Jory peeked his head through the door.

Is it safe to come in? He asked cheekily and Annie couldn’t help but smile. She looked down to her fully clothed self then back to him.

I think is it safe, she said playfully.

He smiled as he came through the door. His hair was still wet from his own bath and it sat slick against his head. Though he had cleaned off the dirt from travelling and he was closely shaven, he still had that rugged look about him that didn’t seem to be able to be washed away. He was wearing just an undershirt and it stuck to him where he hadn’t dried himself properly. His pants were black and loose fitting, very casual and unlike the dress pants most men wore. They sat low on his hips but this time he was covered by his shirt. Annie was starting to think it was his own style. He walked over to her and stopped when he was closer than most people would stand.

I do apologise for the intrusion earlier, he said shyly but he made sure he kept his eyes locked on hers.

For some reason his intensity made her feel awkward. She opened her mouth to talk but it took a few seconds before anything came out.

That is perfectly fine. An innocent mistake, she assured, feeling shy herself.

Annie, he said her name quietly. She waited for him to say something else but he didn’t. When she looked at him expectantly it startled him into speaking. I was just testing your name. That is your name? He asked doubting himself.

Yes, it is. She thought he was silly and unlike most of the other uninteresting people she had met. How do you find it?

He placed his thumb and finger along his jaw in a thoughtful pose, glancing out the window and acting as if he was sloshing water around in his mouth. She expected him to stop after a reasonable time but when he continued far beyond her expectations she laughed at his antics. He stopped and looked at her, his pert smile showing his dimples on both cheeks.

Well, he said thinking for a moment. I think it is beautiful. His tender words surprised her and just like that the atmosphere became tense.

She blinked as if coming out of a trance and it broke the moment, which she was grateful for. She felt it was all rather awkward? Yes, that was it; awkward. That word kept coming to mind.

He leaned towards her and she stepped back thinking he was going to try and kiss her. He reached his strong arm around her and after a moment he pulled it back, openly displaying the answer as to why he was leaning towards her. He had been reaching for his belt.

Your belt, she said softly. He had grabbed it from where it was hanging on the partition.

I will let you finish up in here, he offered. After a moment of just looking at her he turned and walked out the door, closing it behind him.

Jory, she said his name to test it out for herself. It was unusual but she found that she liked it.

It was nice to have the company of another human since most of the people she knew were something else altogether. Not that she thought any less of them or loved them any less because of it. But to have another human, another friend just like her, it felt…normal. This brought a small smile to her unsuspecting lips.

Just as she was about to feel like her old self Baden came to mind and her enjoyment was soon stolen away from her. She stood wondering what he was doing right then. Giving up she went to find Martha and finally meet Everard. If he was anything like Jory she thought he would be more fun than most.

CHAPTER 2:

Baden sat in the room that he had claimed as his own. It was a simple library with a small collection of old books previously brought to the house by visitors. Some were from the original occupant but most were not. The room had a small fireplace, two reading chairs, a desk and a dusty old bookshelf housing some very old books.

The cottage had four rooms altogether, not including the kitchen and the library. The entire thing was made of wood; the floors, the walls and the roof. The furniture was well kept, and again made from wood but cushioned at least. Each room had a fireplace and the curtains and rugs, once brilliant with colour, were now rather dusty and faded from the sun. It was obvious only a man had lived there for centuries. However, it would be a rather nice place to live, all tucked away from society amongst a beautiful forest…that’s if it wasn’t a prison that made it feel like hell on earth.

Baden spent most of his days thinking of Annie but when it hurt too much he read. He had no idea what was going to happen but he knew there probably wasn’t much hope. Stewart came in and took a seat in front of him. He sat looking at him for a moment.

Yes? Baden asked brusquely without looking up from his book.

You are sulking, Stewart said, stating the obvious. The two had now been stuck together for weeks and Stewart was not one easily offended. In fact, he quite liked Baden. He wasn’t that bad once you got past all the anger.

Baden closed the book he had open in his lap and rolled his eyes. He and Stewart had gotten along well enough but Baden was someone who liked to keep everything to himself, Stewart however liked to share everything. He looked up to his new friend feeling free to show his irritation.

For someone who has been in solitude for decades you would think you may have learnt the art of silence, Baden said as he stood to put his book away.

Correction, I have not been completely alone as I do have visitors on the odd occasion. And does it not make sense that the reality would be contrary to your deduction? Stewart countered. After having no other to talk to I would need to release everything. Baden grunted as he placed the book back on the shelf.

Well as you have come to know I am not one who needs such a release, Baden said and moved to leave the room.

I had a love once, Stewart confessed before Baden could make it out the door. He was used to Baden’s abruptness. It didn’t bother him in the slightest, he quite liked Baden. Baden stopped and turned to him in question. I was trapped in here and she was still out there, somewhere. Baden hesitated before he took a seat where he had been sitting.

So… Baden prompted. Stewart looked around the room as if remembering his story then eventually looked back to his audience of one.

Before I was changed I was betrothed, Stewart said with the softest tone Baden had heard from him. She was the loveliest creature I had laid eyes upon and she was mine.

Baden had to swallow hard. He knew how this story would end but what made it difficult to hear was the fact this would be the end of his own story.

When I was trapped in this place she was my only pursuit, though I could never obtain her. My visitors could not track her down for a long time and it was all I could do not to fall apart. The idea was, as soon as she was found I would have them bring her to me, Stewart said.

Did you find her? Baden asked feeling anxious.

So they found her, Stewart said simply. Baden waited for what was to come and it felt like a lifetime before he answered. They told me of her and her life. She had been trying to find me, she had searched many places and had ended in defeat when she could not.

Baden hoped that all had ended well but the fact that Stewart was now in the house alone did not instil him with confidence.

I asked them to bring her to me. As I waited for her to come I had time to consider what the options would be when she arrived. Would we live out forever trapped in this house together? Stewart sighed and took a moment before he started talking again. Would she stay even though she could leave...could I ask her to stay here with me? By the time she arrived I had made my decision, Stewart said, regret obvious in his voice.

And you pushed her away, Baden guessed. Stewart paused for a long moment as he took a moment to think back and Baden could see the pain in his soul.

There was no other choice, Stewart explained. When she came inside I was cold and unwelcoming. She pleaded with tears and pain and I almost gave in. But looking into her face I knew I had to do that for her. I knew I had to let her go.

Silence filled the room and it echoed the hurt in both of their souls.

What became of her life? Baden asked quietly, trying to fend off the ache inside of him.

I was told that she mourned. After time her soul mended and she found a love that could give her everything she deserved. He gave her a life, a family, a home. He gave her everything I could not. Stewart’s face was covered in grief and his husky voice was filled with looming tears but he went on. And she died when she became old and had lived her happy life, with her love by her side.

Baden could not stand to be near Stewart any longer. His misery was too overwhelming and Baden left the room feeling suffocated from the emotion. But there was nowhere he could go. He was stuck in the house and he could not run away from any of it. He could not escape the horrible reality that was facing him; a lifetime without Annie.

Suddenly there was a knock at the door and it distracted Baden from his hurt. Stewart was at the door before Baden moved and it was opened to a young man. He was shorter than both men but still would have been taller than the average man, comparing him to their height was unfair because both of them were far taller than…everyone really. He had a strong build none the less. He had teal eyes, dark blonde hair to his shoulders and a flawless, youthful face. Eternally youthful fit him perfectly.

Adam, Stewart greeted with a smile and the young man came inside. When he saw Baden he froze with a look of shock on his face.

Is this… Adam said breathlessly without finishing.

This is Baden, Stewart introduced as he closed the door. This was the first visitor they had since Baden had been trapped and he came across as rather enthusiastic.

Baden Brighton! Adam exclaimed with an excited smile. Baden was confused and tried to recall if he had ever met the young man before.

This is Adam Pennington, Stewart introduced to Baden. He was changed not long ago and has been more than willing to continue visiting ever since.

The explanation was given without any hint of sarcasm and Baden was surprised by how genuinely Stewart enjoyed Adam’s company. Baden already almost couldn’t stand the young man, his soul was so bright with all different colours that it almost hurt to look at. Baden had to use energy just to push it from his sight so he wouldn’t throw Adam out. Not to mention the exhausting zeal, which most people would find endearing but Baden wasn’t most people.

I was changed by an unknown snatcher, Adam took over the story eagerly. Stewart smiled and let him take over. I did not even see them when I was changed. Woke up on Stewart’s doorstep, like an orphan, Adam rambled.

Baden didn’t bother to try and hide his dislike of Adam’s loquacious nature. Great, another talker.

How old were you? Baden asked.

Eighteen, Adam said proudly. Though, truly I should be twenty one.

That is simply marvellous, Baden said showing his impatience about a story he didn’t really care about. With a strained smile Baden started to walk away back to his library.

Where is Annie? Adam asked curiously as he glanced around the room, not realising what it would do to Baden. He stopped his exit immediately and turned back to the visitor.

Excuse me? Baden asked feeling completely lost.

Annie, why is she not here? Adam asked again looking around as if to spot her. Baden was in front of him in an instant and grabbed his shoulder to make him concentrate.

What do you know of Annie? Baden’s need to know consumed him.

Baden, Stewart said flicking Baden’s hand off Adam’s shoulder. He took charge and calmly looked at Adam, not speaking until he had his attention. Why are you asking?

Well, Adam hesitated looking between the two men. Everyone knows, he said as if it was obvious.

What do they know? Stewart asked quickly before Baden could say anything.

The beast has been tamed, Adam said trying to hide a smile as he looked at Baden.

Me? Baden asked with his hand to his chest and his brow furrowed.

It was supposed that the stories were potentially dubious but as everything eventuated they turned from apocryphal to fact, Adam explained.

What stories? Baden asked.

"The stories about you and Annie being in love," Adam made a joke of the word.

Who are the stories circulating to? Baden demanded.

Every snatcher with ears, Adam said excitedly as if he envied the fame.

Do they know where I am? Baden asked feeling increasingly concerned about Annie.

Yes. They all assumed she was here with you, Adam explained.

She is with Eli, at his manor, Baden insisted feeling as if he was missing something.

No, she is not. She has been missing from there since you have been in here. A look of dread came across Baden’s face as he realised that Annie was missing and every creature out there knew who she was.

Adam, do not tell anyone that Annie is not here and hinder all who attempt to come here, Stewart said thinking quickly. It is imperative that this is kept secret. Adam nodded frantically seeing how serious Stewart’s face was.

Can he be trusted? Baden asked Stewart, he simply nodded.

Good, find her, Baden demanded of Adam.

What? Adam and Stewart chorused, looking to him for an explanation.

Find her, Baden repeated looking only at Adam. Find her before any other. When you do ensure she is safe. If she is, do not speak with her and report back to us.

How will I find someone when I do not even know what they look like? Adam asked feeling uneasy about being given the responsibility.

Baden, Stewart said with warning.

I just need to know she is safe, Baden explained and when he could see Stewart give in he turned back to Adam.

She has long, dark hair. Her eyes are hazel and she reaches up to here, Baden used his hand to measure her height on his chest. She has creamy skin, a stunning smile and you will think she is rather beautiful. Adam’s face became shy at the words. Touch her and die, Baden threatened not really believing that Adam would hurt her.

Where should I start looking? Adam asked feeling overwhelmed.

Eli’s manor, Baden directed. Ask the help, do not go to him directly. Find out what you can from other snatchers ensuring they do not become suspicious of you. Adam nodded trying to remember everything.

Adam, Stewart said interrupting Baden’s demands. Come back to us in two days and let us know what you have found, even if it is nothing. Now go, Stewart instructed and Adam backed up a few steps before he ran out the door.

Baden stood there watching long after he was gone.

What if someone has her? Baden asked. It felt as if his stomach wrapped itself around his heart.

Do not fret, Adam is good at being inquisitive. He is a good boy, he will find her, Stewart tried to comfort him.

That is my hope, Baden said and thought that it could also be his fear. What if Adam found her and it was too late? Or what if he found her and she had another? Or what if he couldn’t find her?

With a new worry taking over Baden thought all of it might be the end of him. And if she was hurt in any way, he hoped it would be.

CHAPTER 3:

When Annie was introduced to Everard she instantly liked him. With his salt and pepper hair, the