Iron Defiance

By Kelly L Lee

Amelee, a princess of the Seelie Court, is engaged to one man out of duty, but desperately loves another. She's accepted her fate, willing to deny the deepest longings of her heart in service to her queen.

Arganos has secretly loved Amelee since the beginning of time, but she is Fey royalty and he is a hardened warrior, reviled by her kind for the sins committed by the God of War he serves. Though Arganos is prepared to sacrifice his own happiness to ensure Amelee's, he refuses to intervene even though he knows her fiancé isn't what he seems.

But when tragedy strikes, Amelee turns to Arganos, the forbidden war captain, instead of her fiancé for help. Fueled by Faery Court politics and a treacherous Queen's rule, will the secrets they discover drive Amelee and Arganos apart forever, or will they defy everything for love?

• Language: English
• Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
• Release date: Nov 4, 2015
• ISBN: 9781509203918

Kelly L Lee

Kelly Lee is an award-winning author who lives in Dallas, Texas with her husband, two daughters, and three dogs. Kelly’s first book, Murdering Eve, won the 2011 Readers Favorite award for best Fantasy Romance, and was a finalist in the Golden Quill awards for Best First Book. She is a proud member of the Romance Writers of America, and Dallas Area Romance Authors. Kelly holds an MBA, and when her alter ego is not toiling away at a full time corporate gig, reading, or writing – she travels as much as humanly possible, drinks copious amounts of wine with incredibly supportive girlfriends, and eats as much sushi as she can realistically endure.

Book preview

me.

Chapter One

The sword sliced down, barely missing his ear. The displaced air from the momentum of the thrust whistled as loudly as the female’s scream. Muscles burning with effort, Arganos pivoted and ducked the onslaught of blade thrusts, narrowly escaping getting his skin flayed in wide strips.

Ares would never let him hear the end of this. Getting his ass kicked was bad enough, but having his boss’ wife doing the kicking…Well, a man couldn’t easily live something like that down.

Normally, Arganos would be first to boast about Holly’s fighting abilities. A serious badass in the arena, she was one of only a handful of people Arganos would gladly have at his back in battle. She handled herself better than most of his most seasoned soldiers. Born a Titan, she fought like a wild banshee, but Arganos attributed her skills to more than breeding. She’d also been trained by one hell of a warrior, even if he was Fey. Xanther, Holly’s best buddy and the bane of Arganos’ existence, had been training Holly in the combative arts for years. Between her innate ability, being married to the Olympus God of War, and Xanther’s rigorous training program, Holly was soundly kicking his ass.

It’s my own fault. I’m distracted.

A dreamlike image of Amelee flitted through his mind, her white-blonde hair fanned out across a pillow. The unbidden vision caught him by surprise, slowing his reflexes.

Holly seized her advantage, embedding the dagger into his shoulder all the way to the hilt. Pain exploded and sizzled down his arm.

You dumbass. Holly laughed. You practically begged for that.

Arganos reached for the hilt of the dagger and tugged, surprised when it didn’t slide out. He released the breath he didn’t know he was holding, and became mortified when a strangled sound of pain escaped.

Holly leaned down, inspecting him more closely. Well shit, ’Ganos. I’m sorry. I thought sure you would evade that one.

She reached forward and yanked out the blade. A fresh wave of agony washed over him and his stomach threatened to empty itself all over the gravel floor of the pit, but he refused to lose his breakfast in front of Ares. Or Holly. And especially not in front of Xanther, the piss-ant little faery standing off to the side with a satisfied smirk on his arrogant face.

Holly tossed the dagger she’d not-so-gently removed to the ground. Arganos frowned. The half-inch, narrow blade looked like it should have made a clean, easily healed cut, but his wound pumped blood as though the blade had been three inches wide and serrated. Suddenly light-headed, Arganos dropped to one knee to prevent falling on his face.

What the hell is going on? Ares’ voice boomed from the far side of the arena. ‘Ganos, if you’re playing possum to lower Holly’s guard, I’ll rip off your arm and beat you over the head with it until you’re unconscious. Get up and fight like the warrior you claim to be.

Though the God of War said the words with a modicum of humor, Arganos harbored no illusions about the seriousness of his comment. No one screwed with Holly. No one. But Arganos had no intention of luring Holly closer to him. She towered over his kneeling body, her 6 foot 2 inch frame casting a long shadow with her arms crossed and a flat, curious expression on her face.

Ares, you’d better get over here. Something isn’t right.

Arganos glanced up and regretted it, dizzy from lifting his head. No shit, something’s not right. You stabbed me.

Holly stuck out her tongue and winked.

Planting his hands on the ground, Arganos steadied himself. Blood spread in a bright, red pool around his knee, gushing down his injured arm into the sand of Ares’ arena. A familiar steel-toed boot came into view.

Hurts like a son of a bitch, doesn’t it? Ares crouched low, as close to eye to eye with Arganos as the seven foot tall God of War could be. I remember the first time Holly stabbed me in the shoulder. She can be such a wicked thing.

Arganos tried for a flippant response, but his rapidly swelling tongue grew thick in his mouth. He swallowed hard, realizing his throat was closing up fast. Stars twinkled in his peripheral vision. He blinked them back, focusing on the hard, pinched lines of Ares’ face.

Dammit, woman. Ares twisted around to look at Holly. Where did you find this?

What? Holly tossed her crimson colored hair, her gesture simultaneously the picture of innocence and devious as Hades himself. The dagger? I saw it on your desk the other day.

So you just took it?

Well, yeah. It’s pretty. The emerald inset in the hilt matches my eyes. Besides, the shape and size fit great at the small of my back.

You can’t just take stuff off my desk, Hols.

Sure I can. I’m your wife now. What’s yours is mine, remember?

Ares slumped his shoulders in a gesture which screamed, pained husband. That’s purely an expression. You don’t have free license just to take my shit. Do you know what kind of magic coated the blade?

Holly shot back a retort, but Arganos lost focus. Their argument faded to white noise. Each grain of sand lining Ares’ pit seemed to be moving, vibrating so fast the ground blurred into a miasma of camel colored fog.

Xanther, we’re gonna need you. Come over here. Holly shouted her command, cutting through the haze in Arganos’ brain.

Uh-uh. No way. I do not want him touching me.

Arganos took a shallow breath and pushed off the ground, intending to stand. The world spun around, then a sledgehammer hit him right between the shoulder blades. He blinked, watching stars dance across the wooden slats of the ceiling, finally realizing the sledgehammer had actually been the ground as his back slammed into it.

Xanther’s face crowded Arganos’ narrow line of vision. The violet hue of the Fey’s eyes, the same shade as Amelee’s, set off a firework explosion of irritation in Arganos’ belly. Arganos winced, caused by the pain or the reminder how frigging perfect the two were for each other, he didn’t know.

Are you sure? Xanther shot Holly a questioning glance. Because I’d really prefer not to save his cranky ass.

I’m sure. Ares replied so quietly, Arganos barely heard the muted response. I wouldn’t ask unless we really needed your help. ’Ganos will probably hold this against me until the end of time.

Well, if he’ll hate my healing him that much, then I suppose I can take a little pleasure in it.

Warm hands touched Arganos’ injured shoulder. The pain receded instantaneously. His throat opened a fraction, allowing Arganos to draw in a deep breath and speak.

No. Arganos shoved Xanther’s hands aside, forcing out two more croaked words before his throat closed again. Rather die.

Don’t be such a stubborn ass. Ares stood and brushed the arena dust off his leather pants. Get healed, then be pissed. If you fight while Xan does his thing, I’ll hold you down myself, and I won’t be gentle.

Nine hells. He doesn’t even need to hold me down. I can’t move anyway.

Paralysis wound through him, infecting his muscles like venom. Within seconds, Arganos felt his eyes roll back into his head. Good. If he lapsed into unconsciousness, then he wouldn’t have to think about Xanther. And whether he admitted the truth or not, he didn’t want to die. He had no intention of leaving Zoey, or Amelee, simply because the only person who could snatch him back from the brink of death happened to be betrothed to the woman he loved.

Xanther’s power washed over him, cleansing his blood of the dark magic attacking his organs. Little by little, paralysis abated and breathing grew easier. The irritating little Fey was, in fact, saving his life.

What a shitty way to start the day.

Chapter Two

Don’t worry, Molly Ann, you’ll be just fine in a minute.

The sweet delivery of Zoey’s five-year-old voice caused a twinge in Amelee’s chest. She watched as the little girl carefully wrapped a bandage around the doll’s arm. Amelee dutifully handed over a piece of tape, playing nurse to Zoey’s doctor. Once Zoey secured and double-checked the bandage, she placed the doll in a bright pink stroller and buckled her in tight, continuously clucking and comforting Molly Ann.

Are you taking her for a walk?

Yes. Zoey smiled and shyly tucked her inky black hair behind her ears. I think the fresh air will do her good.

Okay. Just stay where I can see you. Have fun. Amelee reached down to give the doll a pat on the head, prompting a huge grin from Zoey. As the little girl set off across the lush, green lawn of Hordendock Meadow, Amelee settled back against the bench, lifted her gaze to the light dusting of purple clouds, and inhaled deeply in contentment. The vast yellow sky of the Faery Realm hugged the distant outline of the west mound. The largest of all the faery mounds, most of the common Fey lived in the West. The royal Seelie and its nobility inhabited the East, with Amelee’s small but beautiful cottage built into the heart of the east mound.

A bird squawked to her left, and she turned her head to watch it dip and fly in a circular pattern, delighting in the aerial show. After a few seconds, the bird disappeared behind a large tree, and her gaze narrowed upon the ominous silhouette of the north mound.

Lush trees and plants blanketed the eastern and western mounds, but barren landscapes covered the North and South. UnSeelie Fey nobility lived in the North, as did the UnSeelie Queen. Xanther lived in a grand, albeit stark, estate. Both the size and the grandeur of Obelon Castle embodied the complete opposite of her cozy cottage. Amelee tried and failed to tear her gaze away, then suppressed a shiver thinking one day she might be forced to live on the north mound.

Though the North and East were segregated, largely due to the royal and noble status of their inhabitants, the West and South boasted far more integrated populations, though still very different. Families and mostly upstanding Fey citizenry lived in the west mound, while the South was called home by the rougher Fey element, and even rougher terrain.

An excited squeal drew Amelee’s attention back to Zoey, who hung upside down from a massive tree branch.

Look at me! Look at me!

Be careful, you daredevil.

Amelee grinned and waved, marveling at the little girl’s transformation. She shook her head in amazement, vividly remembering the night Arganos had shown up her doorstep, holding Zoey’s hand, exactly one year ago. Covered in the blood of the Scarabs who attacked and slaughtered Zoey’s parents, the Olympus captain had squatted down so he could be eye to eye with the frightened child.

Zoey, he’d said, with a softer voice than she thought possible. You’re going to stay with Amelee for a while. She’ll take good care of you, I promise. You’re safe now.

Tears cascaded down Zoey’s dirty cheeks, the dust from being chased down like a dog still clinging to her skin. Gently, Arganos used his thumb to wipe away the tears, and Zoey leaned into him. He’d picked her up and nestled her against his chest as he carried her into Amelee’s cottage.

If she hadn’t been in love with Arganos before, Amelee knew at that moment she would be for the rest of her life.

Pity.

As Seelie nobility, the court had certain expectations of their royals—first and foremost—to marry another of a noble line. The necessity for her mate to be Fey, a foregone conclusion. Arganos was about as far from a faery male than anyone she’d ever met.

Of Olympian descent, he stood six and a half feet tall with broad shoulders and lean, hard muscle, carved from combat and sparring with the God of War himself. Luscious, caramel colored skin highlighted a thin, white scar from the bottom of his left ear down the length of his jawbone. Instead of detracting from his handsomeness, the scar gave his otherwise beautiful facial features an edge of battle-honed confidence. Long, blond dreadlocks rained down his back, appearing soft, sun-kissed spirals. Amelee smiled inwardly, imagining them as ropes she wanted to use to lash herself to him, preferably naked.

She shook her head, wondering how she’d gone from watching innocent little Zoey to lascivious, albeit completely fantastical, thoughts of Arganos.

It’s the date. Today is the one-year anniversary of when he brought her to me. The day his actions changed them both forever, creating a bond she hoped would never be broken. Arganos promised Zoey he would watch over and protect her as he’d entrusted Zoey to Amelee’s care. Unfortunately, Zoey represented the only link between them.

From across the park, Amelee caught a flash of darkness sliding between the trees, disappearing as quickly as she’d seen it. Arganos. She tried to track him, but the Olympus captain moved like a shadow.

Amelee allowed herself a small grin as she dropped her eyes from the tree line and checked on Zoey. Her ward once again tended to her doll, pushing it on a swing hanging from a tree branch, all thoughts of Molly Ann’s injury apparently forgotten.

Mind if I sit?

The deep, sultry voice caused an involuntary shiver as Amelee glanced up to find a pair of familiar yellow-gold eyes staring down at her.

Arganos, what a lovely surprise. Of course you may sit. She scooted over and patted the bench.

He perched himself on the far edge, as far away as possible, in spite of her invitation to sit beside her. She’d expected it, but the distance between them stung. He’d told her long ago he only wanted to be friends. But knowing it—and her heart accepting it—were two wildly different things.

A whole year ago, Amelee. Can you believe it’s been so long?

Yes. Being in unrequited love with you has sucked every single day.

No, I can’t. Seems like yesterday you showed up on my doorstep with a traumatized, frightened little girl.

Well, she doesn’t seem scared anymore. She looks…amazing.

She does, doesn’t she? Amelee couldn’t hide the pride in her voice. She astounds me every day with her strength.

Arganos looked at her, and Amelee felt his gaze like a touch.

Is she still having nightmares? Concern resonated in his voice, reminding Amelee of the tenderness Arganos showed only for Zoey.

Rarely. When she does have bad dreams, she’s usually willing to talk about them. She misses her mother.

Arganos winced, and she couldn’t blame him. After all, he’d been there, racing to get to the Scarab in time before the monster murdered Zoey’s mother as she held her child in her arms. Arganos hadn’t been able to save the woman, but he’d rescued Zoey.

Did you receive the money I sent?

Amelee blinked. Yes, Xanther brings me a too-generous bag of drakma every month. I wish you’d stop sending so much. I don’t need the extra funds to take care of her.

I know you don’t need it, but… Arganos clenched and unclenched his fists. I want to help her, and that’s the only way I know how.

You can come see her anytime, Arganos. I’ve told you before. She’d be thrilled to see you, to get to know you better—

Arganos shook his head, interrupting her. Trust me. Getting to know me better isn’t what Zoey needs. She needs consistency, security, and someone a lot gentler than I am to be a decent father figure.

You mean someone like Xanther.

A strange expression passed across Arganos’ face, one she couldn’t define. For some reason, she wished she hadn’t made the last comment, though she assumed he’d meant Xanther.

Sure. His voice sounded flat and hollow. Someone like Xanther. Arganos stood quickly, pushing back two thick dreads that had fallen forward. I have to go. I just wanted to check on Zoe.

Wait, Arganos. Don’t go yet. I want to—

‘Ganos! Zoey squealed from the swings and sprinted toward Arganos, a wide grin splitting her face. You’re heeeeere!

Arganos dropped to one knee. Zoey threw herself into his chest so hard the massive Olympian wobbled. She wrapped her chubby little arms around his neck and squeezed. He hugged her in return then leaned back.

Look at you, little one. You’re all grown up.

No, I’m not. I’ve decided. No more birthdays for me. I’m going to stay five forever.

Why?

Because when I turn six, I have to go to school. I don’t wanna. I want to be with Mommy every day, just like I do now.

Arganos turned to Amelee and arched an eyebrow, then turned back to Zoey.

Mommy?

Zoey swallowed hard and a guilty expression passed over her eyes.

Do you think it’s okay if I call her that?

I think it’s better than okay. Arganos reached up and smoothed down a tousled lock of Zoey’s hair, drawing out the movement as though it were something he wanted to savor. Your mother loved you very much, but she’s gone now. Amelee loves you too, and she takes care of you, just like your Mommy would if she were still here.

A lump formed in Amelee’s throat listening to Arganos speak such kind, thoughtful, and wise words to reassure Zoey. The man was born to be a father, he just didn’t know it yet. The lump in Amelee’s throat hardened into a stone as she realized she would never be the one to bear his children.

Zoey beamed at Arganos and playfully tugged on a dreadlock.

There you are. Xanther rounded the corner with a wave. Dressed in his usual formal attire, he strode toward them with a casual, easy smile on his face. The ruby medallion around his neck glistened in the sun, marking him as a nobleman of the UnSeelie Court. Another royal, like Amelee. Her fiancé.

Amelee felt the corners of her mouth pull down at his untimely intrusion, then quickly forced her lips into what she hoped formed a placid smile, and prayed Xanther didn’t notice. Her displeasure wasn’t his fault.

The problem with Xanther was that he was just so damn likeable. She wanted to find a reason to hate him, and frequently found herself daydreaming he’d do something despicable, so she could find a reason to break off their engagement. But he wouldn’t. Because he was Xanther. He was a genuinely good person. And Amelee hated herself for not wanting him.

I went to your house to find you. When you weren’t there, I figured you’d probably be here playing. He leaned over and gave Amelee a chaste kiss on the cheek. Xanther never overstepped his bounds. He never acted inappropriately. And never pressured her for any affection in return for his own. I’m glad I guessed accurately.

Xanther pinky-waved to Zoey. The little girl squeezed Arganos one last time, and then walked over to give Xanther their customary high-five, palms smacking together in a practiced up top-down low circular pattern.

Hiya, Xanther. Wanna see what I can do? Without waiting for a response, Zoey took off across the playground and proceeded to do three cartwheels in a row.

Wow, you’re awesome Zoe. Xanther clapped his hands, prompting another wide grin from Zoey, who darted to the tall, gnarled climbing tree.

Arganos stood. I should go.

Xanther nodded. Okay, but first, how are you feeling?

Fire snapped in Arganos’ eyes. I’m fine.

Amelee watched the interplay between the two men. Arganos held himself stiff and rigid while Xanther looked so relaxed he appeared almost teasing.

I have to go, Zoey. Arganos shouted with a wave. But I’ll come see you again soon, all right?

You promise? Hanging upside down on a dangerously high tree limb, Zoey couldn’t jump down to stop him. My birthday is next week. Can you come? Promise you’ll come, ’Ganos? Promise?

I promise, Cupcake. See you next week.

After one last, lingering glance at Zoey, Arganos swung his amber gaze to Amelee. She swallowed hard, willing herself not to sprint at him the same way Zoey had. The same fantasy replayed itself over and over—running into his waiting embrace, being crushed with the force of his arms wrapped tightly around her. Such a thing would never happen in her lifetime.

Amelee, take care of yourself. Please send word through Xanther if you or Zoey need anything.

Then he turned on his heels, and was gone.

Xanther wound a casual arm around her shoulders, the same way he had a hundred times. The gesture never bothered Amelee before, but today, claustrophobia compressed her lungs. She couldn’t breathe. She had the overwhelming urge to lash out, throw off her fiancé’s arm, and chase down Arganos. But she fought it. She always fought it.

Chapter Three

Arganos surveyed the purple streaks crisscrossing the yellow Faery sky, stalling as he listened to the bubbling laughter from the other side of the door. His heart picked up its normally steady beat as he listened to the raucous sounds of a party in full swing. He palmed Zoey’s birthday gift in one hand and raised the other to knock.

The joyful noise from inside settled around him uncomfortably. The only happiness he knew was born of victory and celebration of wars well fought. The sounds of pure, childlike glee provoked an unwelcome pang of wistfulness. He pivoted, heading straight back to Olympus, his home realm, where he belonged.

Are you sure Arganos is coming? A familiar, high-pitched young voice filtered through the open window, and a muted response followed.

Arganos halted mid-step. The only thing worse than being trapped in a cottage full of Fey who feared him, accompanied by the pain-filled pleasure of Amelee’s presence, was disappointing Zoey. He turned around and stared at the closed door, debating whether or not to leave.

Amelee’s cottage rested at the base of the east mound, built half-in and half-out of the lush, green surroundings. Sheer curtains rustled softly as they drifted in the breeze of the open windows. A simple thatched roof belied the strength Arganos knew the cottage held. He knew the innocuous-looking stone walkway alone could stop an intruder in their tracks. The whole place appeared to be carved out of the natural landscape, and yet Fey magic infused the surroundings, giving off a barely perceptible hum as it cocooned the faery princess in protection. Strangely, the thought comforted him.

Nine hells.

He marched back to the door and muttered under his breath, shifting his weight from foot to foot. I really shouldn’t be here.

Why not?

Arganos whirled to find the last person he wanted to see. Xanther sauntered up the walkway behind him, the faery’s footsteps silent on the stone pavers.

How do you do that? Arganos never let anyone sneak up him, and Xanther had succeeded in doing exactly that—and not for the first time.

Do what? Xanther readjusted a bag almost as large as his entire frame, moving it from one arm to the other.

How do you approach so quietly? I’d have heard anyone else a mile away.

Xanther smiled; his expression open and guileless. At least, it would seem so to anyone other than Arganos.

No idea what you mean.

Uh-huh.

So, why don’t you think you should be here?

Arganos sniffed and casually lifted one shoulder. My presence complicates things for Amelee.

Then why did you come?

Bristling under the simple question, Arganos flexed his fist. It’s Zoey’s birthday. I promised her I’d show up.

Xanther shrugged. So then you answered your own question. Listen, can you knock? I don’t exactly have a free hand.

I’ll knock when I’m damn good and ready. And it’s not quite so simple.

Xanther shifted the large bag again and sighed. The only person who really doesn’t want you here is me, and my opinion doesn’t matter today. Like you said, it’s Zoey’s birthday, and she loves you. Even if I think you’re an asshole.

You don’t mince words, do you? Arganos turned and rapped on the door a little too hard.

Neither do you.

Actually, Xanther, you’d be surprised at the things I don’t say.

I doubt I’d be surprised at all.

The door swung open. Dressed in an ice blue, form-fitting gossamer dress guaranteed to bring any man to his knees, Amelee beamed as she regarded the two men. Ignoring the familiar tightening in his chest her beauty always inspired, he focused on squelching the stupid grin threatening to break on his face.

Come in. Zoey has been asking after both of you. She stepped to the side so they could enter.

Arganos and Xanther took a step forward at the same time, crowding the doorway. Decisions, decisions. Should I be a gentleman, or shoulder the irritating Fey off to the side?

Amelee narrowed her eyes at him, watching as though she could read his thoughts. Arganos felt the annoyed crease of his brow and consciously tried for a pleasant, serene expression to match the one on Xanther’s face. The faery hung back politely, and gestured Arganos ahead of him, earning him an approving glance from Amelee.

Nine hells.

Striding through the door, Arganos scanned the room for Zoey. He found her across the room, shoveling cake into her mouth. Bright pink icing smudged her lips and the end of her nose. He knelt down on one knee, ready for her to launch herself at him the way she always did.

Hey, Cupcake.

At the sound of his voice, Zoey snapped her head around and grinned showcasing bright pink teeth. She hopped off her chair. You came!

She ran at him, as expected, and her eagerness to be in his arms felt like a gift.

The little girl threw her cake-encrusted hands around Arganos’ neck, no doubt getting hot pink icing in his dreadlocks.

That should be fun to wash out.

Of course I came. Don’t sound so surprised. I told you I would.

I know. But I’m so excited to see you. She pulled back and looked into his eyes. Did you get me a present?

Zoey, look what you’ve done. You got icing in Arganos’ hair. Torin, Amelee’s brother, chastised the little girl with a voice as sharp as the blade Arganos wore on his hip.

Arganos had met Amelee’s brother once before, leaving a less than favorable impression. Torin had called Arganos Rambo, the Titan Killer and refused to leave Amelee alone with him, as though Arganos’ mere presence sullied his sister.

The little girl jerked away like she’d been stung, a shame-filled expression darkening her deep blue eyes as she hung her head. I’m sorry, ’Ganos.

As she moved away from him, Arganos watched a satisfied smile stretch across Torin’s face. Amelee’s brother couldn’t care less about his hair. Far more likely, Torin simply didn’t want Zoey hugging him.

A spear of pity tore through Arganos, and he reached out to smooth Zoey’s raven-black hair. No worries, little one. You could dump your whole birthday cake on my head and I wouldn’t mind. I’m just glad you wanted to give me a hug.

The edge of her lip curled up mischievously. The whole cake?

Don’t even think about it, Tweedledee. Xanther held out the massive pink bag he’d carried into the house, festooned with dozens of ribbons and bows.

Hi, Tweedledum. Her eyes grew wide. Is that for me?

Yes, unless you know any other girls turning six years old today. Happy Birthday.

Arganos stepped back to let Xanther greet Zoey. Out of earshot of the little girl, he muttered under his breath. What the hell are Tweedledee and Tweedledum?

Amelee whispered behind him. References from an Earth Realm film. Xan brought some movies to Zoey and she loved the characters.

He managed a nod, suppressing a groan. Arganos hated Earth Realm, but all Fey loved everything about the gods-forsaken realm. Yet one more way he and Amelee couldn’t be more wrong for each other.

Zoey squealed in the way only six year olds can as she ripped open Xanther’s gift bag. Frilly dresses made from all the colors of little girl’s dreams spilled out—rose, mauve, fuchsia, lavender, and plum—with shoes to match. Zoey danced around, babbling about which one