Seven's End (Book 3 in Cole's Series)

By Lori Meyer

Cole's issue with control is always just lurking under his skin where he can't seem to completely escape it. So when the enemy draws closer, Cole's control grows dangerously close to unmanageable. And when he and Tenna head out to find her sister, a new kind of control issue surfaces - his temper fueled by jealously. Even though Cole and Tenna love each other, there may be someone who is better for her. So when that gets thrown into the mix, along with Cole's anxiety about her involvement with putting an end to that immense power once and for all, it may not be just Seven's End.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lori Meyer
• Release date: Aug 15, 2015
• ISBN: 9781311499738

Lori Meyer

My name is Lori Meyer. I am a mother of two and an elementary teacher. During the 2008 – 2009 school year, through the enthusiastic encouragement of my classroom full of fourth graders and my own two daughters, I decided to create a story from a dream I had had one night. And from that dream a series grew and then a spin off.From the day I started on that journey of creating a story from a dream, I found I couldn’t help but become hooked. They say once you are bitten by the writing bug it becomes a part of you. I found that to be true and have been writing ever since.I have always been an avid reader, with my favorite stories involving sexy vampires and fierce shape-shifters. But now I find even more enjoyment in creating my own characters and stories.I currently have three short stories and nine novels available as e-books and at amazon you can get them in paperback as well.The novels in Cedar's Series are entitled DISCOVERING CEDAR, BREAKING CEDAR, BEYOND CEDAR, and RESCUING CEDAR. My spin off series (Cole's series) has three novels entitled SOUL OF SEVEN, SEVEN DEGREES STRONGER, and SEVEN'S END . The Worth Duet has two novels, WORTH THE RISK, which is currently available, and WORTH THE SACRIFICE will be published in August.

Book preview

Seven’s End

Seven’s End

By

Lori Meyer

Seven’s End

Lori Meyer

Copyright © 2015 Lori Meyer

Front Cover Design by KNM

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are the product of the author’s imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form, including electronic or mechanical, without written permission from the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embedded in reviews. Please do not participate in or encourage piracy of copyrighted materials in violation of the author’s rights.

For those who continue to chase dreams even when they fear they are unreachable.

preface

My entire body shook as if a violent tremor ripped through it. Then something clamped down firmly onto my arm, digging its fingers in deeply.

Oh shit! The power from that cave! It came for me!

But I couldn’t let it claim me. No, I had fought so hard and for so long. While I grasped at ways to break its hold, its grip tightened and my hand started tingling.

It was crawling through my veins. I had to find a way to stop it.

A second later, a scream tore through the air. So close, my ears rang from its shrillness. I immediately recognized the scream; it was Tenna.

Finally able to pull myself from a deep sleep, I wrapped my arms around her and pulled her closer. It’s okay, Tenna. I’m here, Love. I breathed in her ear and then kissed her cheek.

She opened her mouth to scream again.

I cupped my hands around her face and ran my thumbs across her bottom lip. Tenna, open your eyes and look at me. Wake up, Love. You’re okay. It’s me. It’s Cole.

After leaning into my hands, she blinked her eyes open and stared at me for a few seconds. Then the tears spilled down her cheeks like the dam had burst open.

It had been the same chain of events every night for the last week and a half – a fierce tremor, blood curdling screaming, and then heart wrenching tears. Lately, I had managed to comfort her before the screaming started but tonight exhaustion had gotten the best of me and it took me too long to realize what was going on.

Three days after the confrontation where Tenna had destroyed her father and Brad had learned she had a twin out there somewhere; we had to purchase a sofa bed for the living room. This purchase was a necessity because I now had to sleep with Tenna. Since that upsetting altercation, utter horror haunted her dreams. And those night terrors disturbed everyone’s sleep. While I was the only one who could soothe her when those terrors struck, my parents didn’t think it was appropriate for her to sleep in my room with me so they decided on this arrangement. I could hardly argue their decision.

As I looked down at the beautiful girl sobbing into my chest, I agonized over the possibility that this would be the event to finally shatter her into a million pieces and my heart broke. She deserved so much better; and so much better than me. Even though I earnestly tried to resist the temptation the power in that cave emanated, at times, the overwhelming desire to finish it all and protect the ones I loved almost trumped my common sense. But history had demonstrated to us on many occasions just how crucial it was to avoid that uncontrollable power.

Tenna raised her head and met my gaze. I can’t take the sleepless nights anymore, Cole. Her words whispered from her trembling lips. And what if I don’t get to her in time?

I wiped her sweaty hair from her face and kissed her forehead. Brad doesn’t even know where to begin looking for her. Don’t worry, we’ll find her first and he won’t follow us. I’ve been talking with Gram about ways to guarantee that. I leaned down and kissed her gently on her lips. It’s only two in the morning; see if you can fall back to sleep.

Her lips began to tremble again as she pulled in a long shuddering gulp of air.

Remember I’m here with you. And I always will be. I love you, Tenna.

Chapter One

The next morning, Lily poked her head into the living room, just as she did every morning since Tenna and I started sleeping in there. Tenna, Cole, are you guys awake yet?

Yes, Lily. We’re moving. I mumbled.

Her feet padded into the room. It doesn’t look like it. You’re not moving and you’re mumbling.

I forced one of my eyes half way open and chuckled.

Lily was examining Tenna as if she were a scientific specimen, one in which she had never seen the likes of before. And Tenna hasn’t moved a muscle.

My chuckling instantly ceased. She didn’t sleep well last night.

I heard her scream last night. Lily frowned at me. You’re supposed to keep her from having nightmares, Cole.

It’s not that simple, Lily.

Yes, it is. She fixed both of her eyes on my one open one. You’re her prince and she’s your princess. Princes do everything for their princesses. They even chase away the nightmares.

I wrenched my other eye open. I wish that were the case, Lily. I wish I could do more for her. Looking down at the center of my universe – currently snuggled into my embrace – I lightly ran my fingers through her tangle of curls.

Tenna released a content sigh and wiggled further into my arms. You already do enough for me. Then she lifted her gaze to Lily. Good morning, Lily. Sorry I woke you last night but it wasn’t your brother’s fault. I just caught him off guard.

Twisting slightly, I kissed Tenna on her forehead. I do wish I could do more for you. I don’t like seeing you miserable.

It will be alright. We’ll just work through this together. She gave me a quick kiss on my cheek and then rolled out of my arms. Let’s go get some breakfast so we’re not late for school.

After releasing a huge stretch, I followed Tenna and Lily into the kitchen.

My mom stood at the bar, busily setting out everyone’s fixings for breakfast.

Lily walked around the bar, sat on a stool, and then poured herself a bowl of cereal.

After pulling out a stool for Tenna to sit on, I perched on the one beside her.

Tenna, why don’t you and Cole stay home from school today and try to catch up on some rest? My mom pushed two bowls our way.

Thanks, Mrs. Turner, but I’ll be okay. I don’t like to miss school and then have to catch up on assignments. Maybe I’ll take a nap when we get home. Tenna grabbed the box of Smorz – our favorite cereal – and filled her bowl. Then she passed the box to me.

Copying Tenna, I loaded up my own bowl.

My mom slid the gallon of milk in Tenna’s direction. I don’t know why I didn’t think of it before but maybe you should try drinking a cup of chamomile tea before bed. It’s supposed to help you relax.

Tenna shrugged. Sure, why not? It can’t hurt; so I‘ll give it a try. Do you have some here? I don’t want you making a special trip to the store just to get some. She poured some milk on her cereal and took a bite.

I snatched the milk and drowned my cereal before shoveling in a mouthful.

We have some here but it would have been no bother. I usually have to stop at the store every other day because it seems we always need one thing or another. After my mom finished her bagel and last sip of tea, she placed the dishes into the dishwasher and then turned to Lily. Finish up in here and then get ready for school. With those final words, she hurried out of the kitchen.

Lily finished her cereal, slid off of her stool, and then set her dishes in the sink. After coming around the bar, she stopped at Tenna’s stool and gave her a hug. See you after school. As she passed by me, she punched me in the arm.

I chuckled. Hey, where’s my hug?

Lily glanced over her shoulder at me, stuck out her tongue, and then walked away.

Laughing, I shook my head. We should probably get a move on. I wolfed the last of my cereal, chugged my glass of milk, and then fired off a huge belch. Sorry.

Tenna giggled. That’s okay, but don’t expect me to do that too. She finished her cereal with much more etiquette and without unappealing sounds erupting from her throat.

Then the two of us made our way to our bedrooms to finish getting ready.

Since Jade was already gone, I assumed she had headed into school early to help set up for the Interact Club’s annual blood drive. I had a huge favor I needed to ask of Rand. But since he always picked up Jade for school, I missed a perfect opportunity. But hopefully I could catch up with him privately before first period.

Once we were dressed and presentable, Tenna and I headed out to school.

After we parked in the lot and made our way into the building, we rushed to our lockers in the hopes of catching Rand before class. It wasn’t that dire of a question but it was one I needed an answer to first so I could then continue with my plan.

Luck was on my side – for a change – and Rand was still at his locker with Jade. She busily swapped items in her hands for books for class.

I wrapped my arm around Tenna’s shoulder as we neared the two of them.

Hey Jade, hey Rand. How did things go with setting up for the blood drive?

Jade twisted to face me, shifting her books to her left arm so she could close the door. Great. Everything is ready, tables and chairs, resting areas, and snacks. We are just waiting on the Red Cross volunteers.

Lucky you, you get out of class for most of the day. I glanced over at Rand. Are you donating this year? Last year he had been recovering from pneumonia when the blood drive was scheduled, so he couldn’t donate. I wouldn’t even consider it; too afraid of what they might discover in my blood.

Yep. I’m healthy this year. Plus I think I’m going to go during chemistry. There’s a sub in there today and it’s the mean one. He screams if you just breathe wrong.

Great. I shook my head.

Tenna, are you going to give blood? Jade asked.

Tenna shrugged. I don’t know. It might not be a really good idea. I might have the same problem as Cole. Also, I have been so tired lately.

That’s true. I didn’t think of that. Jade thought for a second. Hey, you should try some chamomile tea before bed. That might help you sleep better.

Tenna laughed. Your mom said the same exact thing to me this morning.

I tapped Rand on his arm. I gotta question for you. I lowered my voice to a whisper. Could Tenna and I borrow your vehicle over Christmas break to make a trip?

That was all I needed to say.

Rand put two and two together so I didn’t need to divulge any details. Absolutely. Just let me know.

Well, this conversation will have to wait because I have to get going. Jade tugged on Rand’s arm.

Rand laughed. The boss has spoken.

No problem, that’s all I can say about it right now anyways.

After Rand and Jade left, Tenna and I relocated to our lockers so we could collect our things for class.

Tenna smiled up at me and then leaned toward my ear. I think I know what your plan is and it’s brilliant. She kissed my cheek and then grabbed her books.

"Well, under this handsome face is a brilliant mind." I kissed her nose before grabbing my stuff.

When we turned to leave, Brad stood in our way.

A huge cruel smile spread across his face. You may know my secret now but the secret I know of yours is much more significant. And wow, if she’s an identical twin, I wouldn’t mind hooking up with that.

My anger lit like a fuse and I was a split second away from slamming Brad right up against the lockers.

Tenna sensed it and placed her hand on my arm.

I don’t know what you’re talking about. I’m an only child. She stared at Brad, daring him to dispute her claim.

He let out a short chuckle. Whatever. I’ve been studying things about that power for a long time. I know it all. There’s no way you could have done what you did unless you are half and half. And the only way you can be that is if there is a twin.

Tenna jutted her chin at him in defiance. Maybe I’ve been working with someone just like Tracker was.

I’ve never seen anything like that before. And speaking of your dad. It’s a shame he won’t get to know his other daughter. His expression feigned sadness. I mean, I know he was up to no good, but for you to destroy him like you did. Wow. You’re as bad as he was.

Tenna stiffened beside me for a moment. Not even close. She hissed.

We’re done here, Brad. I shoved him out of our way.

However, before we could move past him, he twisted around and threw up his hands, electricity charging the surrounding air.

I wouldn’t if I were you. I warned. I can more than match you and I have been masking this as something else for a long time. I don’t have to be as careful. I sneered at him. You wouldn’t want to blow your cover, now would you?

His eyes blazed in anger. Don’t toy with me, Cole. When this is all finished, we’ll see who has the last laugh. With that, he stalked away.

I curled Tenna into my arms. Are you okay, Love? Don’t listen to a word he says. You know you are nothing like Tracker.

I’m okay. But I don’t want to talk about it right now. Let’s just go to class. She wiggled out of my embrace and grasped my hand instead.

The fumes from that nasty encounter with Brad trailed the two of us for the rest of the day. And Tenna remained quiet and distant, which darkened my already somber mood. I hated to see her hurting.

Lucky for us, we didn’t stumble upon Brad again but Tenna never fully recovered from his earlier words.

At the end of the day, the two of us dropped off our things at our lockers and walked out to the car.

I couldn’t handle Tenna’s silence any longer.

Once we were safely tucked in my car and out of earshot of any nosy eavesdroppers, I gently pulled Tenna’s face to meet mine. Talk to me, Love. Don’t hold it inside again. I kissed her lips lightly.

Tears fell from her eyes and slipped down her cheeks. Tell me one good thing about my father.

Momentarily stunned, I blinked my eyes. I had assumed her silence was about her believing she was a terrible person. After pondering her request for a moment, I gave her my boyish grin. He helped create the beautiful girl I fell in love with.

See, I shouldn’t have destroyed him. He had some good in him. Her eyes dropped down to the console between the two front seats.

Her response hit me like a punch to the gut and then the reasoning behind her plea sunk in.

I gently tilted her chin up so her eyes met mine. "You had no choice, Tenna. The same as when I had thought I killed Tracker. Don’t get me wrong. I understand the difference; he was your father. But you did what you had to; he gave you no other choice. He wouldn’t have hesitated to kill either one of us or both of us." I begged her with my eyes to believe me.

She closed her eyes for a moment and shook her head. I know but I should have stopped him in another way. He had some good in him and deserved that chance.

Tenna, you gave him plenty of chances. And you are new to your wizard abilities. You did what you had to in order to protect us both.

Tears continued to spill down her cheeks. It still doesn’t excuse what I did. You told me yourself, he had some good in him.

Using my thumb, I wiped the tears from her cheek. I withdraw my first response about there being something good about him. He was only necessary for his sperm. Your mother gave you your beauty, loving kindness, compassion, and intelligence that make up you. Any other man could have provided the sperm and you would have turned out exactly the same. Perfect.

She shook her head at me again. I can’t forgive myself for what I did. And I don’t know how to move on.

I cupped her face in between my hands. We can find someone you can talk to. People pretty much assume he’s gone from the first time. Or you can just keep talking to me. My family will help you too.

I can’t talk to a therapist. I would only be able to say so much and they need complete honesty in order to help someone.

After slipping my phone out of my back pocket, I tapped my favorites to find my mom’s cell. When it went directly to voicemail – the elementary school day hadn’t ended yet – I decided to leave her a message. Tenna and I are heading to the creek for awhile. If Lily needs picked up or anything, call me. I tapped end and then returned it to my pocket. I touched Tenna’s cheek. Let’s head to the creek, okay?

She gave me a half smile. Okay. Thank you for trying to help.

I love you. I kissed her lips quickly before starting the car.

Tenna slumped back into her seat, so I took her hand and steered the car out of the