Touch of Death

By Talia Jager

Anika had been born into a supernatural family. She had grown up knowing one day she’d be a fully matured succubus—a demon who literally sucked the life from men—something she didn’t look forward to. And now the day had arrived and she had to accept her destiny. Not only did she have to learn what was expected of her, but she also had to join her family as part of The Siren—a paranormal law enforcement agency. Her future had always been clearly defined until suddenly she finds her life in disarray when she falls in love with a human, Zak. She struggles to be with him, but her powers are deadly to even the one she loves.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Talia Jager
• Release date: Jun 27, 2016
• ISBN: 9781944389017

Talia Jager

Creator of worlds and characters.

Book preview

Acknowledgements:

All my love to my husband who makes me feel like the luckiest woman in the world. And to my children who give me all the hugs I need.

I’d also like to thank all my friends and family who believed in me.

An enormous thank you to my team: Streetlight Graphics, Christine LePorte, and Montana Stockwell.

A huge thank you to my fans. I hope you love this NA book as much as you loved my YA books.

Chapter One

Anika

The door flew open, causing me to bolt upright in my bed. I looked around and finally focused on my mother, who stood in the doorway.

Happy birthday! Mom walked in, sat down on my bed, and rubbed my arm.

My heart slowed back down when I realized it wasn’t an emergency. My heavy eyes closed again and I started to drift back to sleep while sitting up.

Anika. You need to get up now.

I yawned and stretched my arms toward the ceiling. What is it? I asked, licking my lips.

I want you to come to the living room, she said in her smooth voice.

I forced my eyes open and glanced over at the clock. I still had an hour and a half until my alarm went off. Seriously?

Now, she said firmly and then stood up and walked to the door, where she waited for me.

I swung my legs around and sat on the edge of the bed for a minute, letting my body wake up. Even with my blinds and pink curtains closed, I could tell it was still dark out. What in the world did they need me up this early for? And on my birthday!

Mom cleared her throat, so I pushed myself off my queen-sized bed, placing my feet directly into my fuzzy, pink slippers. Shuffling my feet on the hardwood floor, I followed her to the living room. My sister—older by three minutes—already sat on the brown chenille couch. We were fraternal twins, meaning we weren’t identical, but we looked very similar. Strangers might not be able to tell us apart, but those who knew us could.

Aria and I shared heart-shaped faces, thin eyebrows, and full lips. Our bodies were perfectly sculpted, not skin and bones, but no fat anywhere. Our eyes were the same olive green, like our father’s. That’s where the similarities ended. Although our hair was the same dark chocolate, Aria had put in blonde highlights in an attempt to make us a little more different. I stood an inch taller than she did—and she hated me for it, especially because she was older.

I dropped down next to my sister and we exchanged a curious, yet worried, glance before facing our parents, who sat opposite us on the loveseat. They had serious looks on their faces, which made me uneasy. I was starting to wake up now and my mind was racing.

My father slid my mother a concerned glance before he looked back at us and began, Aria, Anika. First let me start by wishing you a happy birthday. You both have made your mother and me very happy and proud. We love you so much. His eyes met mine and he took a deep breath like he was about to tell us something that was going to change our world. Today is the day. The day we’ve talked about, the day we’ve prepared for. It’s now.

My mouth went dry and my eyes stung. I blinked a few times to keep the tears away. I didn’t want to cry about this. I had known this was coming my whole life—it wasn’t a surprise. My parents had woken me up before the sun rose to tell me today was the day. The day! Like it was going to be some special, awesome day for me. It was the opposite. I had been dreading this day since I knew it was coming. And now it was here. My worst nightmare. On my birthday! Ugh! Today was my eighteenth birthday, a day that was supposed to be full of fun and presents, maybe even stuffing my face full of chocolate cake.

How was I going to make it through school? What would happen if I couldn’t? We had talked about this plenty of times, but it always seemed so far away. My parents never told us when the day would come even though they knew exactly when it would happen. Why did they insist on keeping it a secret? They could have told us, warned us, prepared us that it was coming now. Maybe they didn’t want to burden us with a looming deadline of sorts. Although when I thought about it, having it happen on our eighteenth birthday seemed natural. I should have known.

Aria gathered my hand in hers, which helped to calm me down. She had always been perceptive of my feelings—maybe it was a twin thing? She and I had completely different personalities, but we loved each other, and were there for each other.

What happens now? Aria asked, tilting her head.

Dad continued, By tonight, your body will have completed its transformation. It’s not one you will feel or notice. The transformation is more like going through another puberty. You’re not different, but you are.

The clock on the wall ticked in silence for a minute, then Mom simply said, By midnight, you will both have full succubi powers.

I swallowed hard. My family wasn’t normal. We weren’t humans. We were actually demons—a word I despised. My father was called an incubus and my mother a succubus. They had always been honest with my sister and me. We had known as far back as I could remember that we were different. It didn’t bother me until I was a teenager and realized what being a succubus really meant. Succubi are famous for what happens when they sleep. It doesn’t happen exactly like folklore says, but we do go to people’s dreams. Draining life from men, playing out fantasies in their dreams, having an uncontrollable desire to have sex.

I knew about it and I hated it. I didn’t want anything to do with it. Today was the worst day of my life.

Anika? Are you okay? Mom asked, reaching over and placing her hand on my knee. She had amazing light brown eyes that could mesmerize a person if they weren’t careful.

I nodded, but said nothing.

Do you understand how things will be from now on? She looked from me to Aria.

Boys…men…any male will be throwing himself at us. They will be drawn to us. Our bodies will take over. Once the physical connection happens, the desire to have sex will be so overwhelming that we might not be able to stop it, Aria answered.

That’s right. Your body will give off pheromones, which will attract males. This happens because we need the energy from humans. It’s like food for us. If you don’t get this, you will become weak. Mom was reminding us of things we already knew. The most important thing to remember is under no circumstances should you be physical with a guy unless you’re in their dreams. That is the only place to feed.

How often will we have to do that? I asked, not sure I wanted to know the answer.

It’s a necessity every week, give or take. Once you begin, you will find that you like it and want to do it often, Mom replied. Do you remember what we taught you about physical touching?

Kissing and sex can take the life from someone. Touching is okay though. My voice was shaky.

Yes, but remember, even something as simple as a touch will ignite feelings you didn’t know you had. Mom raised an eyebrow. Your body will respond.

What do you do if you find yourself in a situation? Dad asked us.

In a situation meant what we should do if we hurt or kill someone. Call you immediately, Aria answered.

Do you call the police? Dad asked.

No, Aria responded.

Do you think they should stay home a few days? Mom asked Dad, biting down on her lip.

That might be a good idea—

No, I stated. I want to have an ordinary birthday.

I can handle it, Aria spoke up. I rolled my eyes. Of course she could. To my sister, being a succubus meant flirting and getting a lot of attention. She enjoyed it. She liked turning guys on. I, on the other hand, had dated and even flirted with guys, but on a much smaller scale than Aria. Unlike Aria, I didn’t enjoy when a guy couldn’t keep his hands off of me. Anika too. She glared at me and I knew if I didn’t agree, she’d let me have it later.

Yeah, we can handle it.

Mom mashed her lips together, but finally nodded. Okay, but if there’s any sign of trouble, I’m pulling you two out—for good.

Both Aria and I groaned at that one. I might not want to deal with guys being all over me, but I enjoyed school and had friends. I didn’t want to miss out on a normal life. This was our senior year!

We have something for the both of you, Mom said, jumping up and grabbing a bag off the end table. She reached in and handed us each a box.

Slowly, I opened mine. A silver chain with an oval purple stone and a ring to match sat in the box. Wow! These are beautiful.

They will also help with controlling your urges, Mom explained.

Really? I asked, not quite believing her.

Yes. This particular stone is an amethyst and will help you keep calm.

I hope it works, I mumbled.

We’ll have much to discuss, but the rest will wait until tonight.

I can’t wait.

The sun started peeking through the curtains. My mom crossed the room and threw them open. It’s going to be a beautiful day, girls. Enjoy it!

I grunted before pushing myself up and stalking off to the bathroom I shared with Aria. After showering, I clasped the necklace around my neck and slid the ring on my finger. Wrapped in my pink robe, I went to my bedroom. Although the walls were a medium brown, I had plenty of pink accents like my curtains, bedding, and wall decorations.

My closet was full of designer clothes. I enjoyed them, but they weren’t my first choice. I’d take a pair of flannel pants and a tank top over bedazzled jeans any day, but fitting in at school was always hard and wearing the designer clothes helped. I chose a pair of white jeans and a brown boho top with a studded V-neck.

Running a brush through my wet hair, I wondered what the day might bring. Changes were happening in my body right now and I couldn’t even tell. By midnight, I’d be a full succubus. One of the hardest things was not being able to talk to anyone about it. Sure I had my family, but I wished I could tell my best friends. I couldn’t imagine that conversation in my head. How do you tell someone you’re a demon?

As I blow-dried my hair, I thought about the guys at school. Many of them had already tried to date me. I went out with a few, but I hadn’t found one I liked enough to stay with. I always thought it was funny when they’d go to Aria after trying to be with me. Of course, she always flirted with them.

The only makeup I wore was eye shadow. I had long, thick lashes that didn’t need mascara and my lips were already the perfect shade of pink. My skin was clear. I’d never had a problem with acne—another plus of being a succubus. I chose a light shade of pink to brush on my eyelids.

Back in my room, I had to search all over for my phone. Darn thing was always getting lost. I swear it grew feet and walked away when I wasn’t looking. After finding it under my dresser, I shoved it in my pocket and hurried downstairs.

Aria! I yelled. I’m leaving! With my hand on the doorknob and backpack over my shoulder, I took a deep breath. I could do this. I could pretend like I was the same person as I was yesterday. I had to. Life as I knew it depended on it.

Chapter Two

Anika

Silence overtook the bus as I climbed the last stair, causing me to stop abruptly. Every single guy on the bus was looking at us like we were pieces of meat. Aria rammed into me. What the hell?

I shot her a look and whispered, They’re all staring at us.

She looked around and nodded almost proudly. So they are.

Are you girls gonna get on the bus or not? the bus driver growled.

I hurried to my seat and Aria surprised me by slipping in next to me. It had been a long time since she sat by me. Usually she sat with a boy. It reminded me of when we were kids. We were closer then, but drifted when she got interested in boys. If she wasn’t hanging on some guy, she was batting her eyes or whispering in their ears. I missed my sister. I wanted the sister I grew up with back.

The chatter started up around us again. I hate taking the bus, I muttered. I looked around and wondered where my friend Paisley was.

I know, me too. I wish a parking spot at school would open up so we could drive. She shook her head.

So, what do you make of that whole thing that just happened? If we can do that by just getting on a bus, can you imagine what will happen if we—

We’re not supposed to talk about it, she interrupted.

Right. No talking about the being a demon thing in public. Not even a whisper. Stupid really. Who’d believe us? Although there was no official demon law preventing us from telling others, it was in our best interests not to let it be known.

We arrived at school and the same thing happened when we got off the bus. People—guys—stopped and stared. This could be fun, Aria said with a laugh.

Don’t do anything stupid. I jumped in front of her.

Chill, Anika. I only want to have some fun. She walked off and immediately two guys flanked her.

I rolled my eyes. Along with being the one who liked attention, Aria was the boldest and bravest of the two of us. I was happy without the attention. For a brief second, I wondered if that might change. Would I really enjoy it? What if I started to like it too much?

The school was a large, two-story brick building with tall glass doors. As I walked in, everyone stopped and stared. It was only a few minutes into the day and already I was beyond annoyed. I realized the guys were the ones who took notice first; the girls just followed suit to see what the big deal was.

I saw my best friend, Kora, waving to me from down the hall. I held up my hand and hurried over to her. Kora paused for a moment and her dark eyes studied me. I panicked. What if she noticed something? What if she treated me differently? But then she smiled and proceeded to throw her arms around me.

Happy birthday! she said loudly.

Thanks. I stepped back.

That necklace is gorgeous! she blurted. Present from your parents?

Yeah. The ring too. I held up my hand. Aria got the same ones.

Figures.

It’s okay, I assured her. I don’t mind. Besides, we needed these gems. If they did what my parents said they did, I wouldn’t be taking mine off…ever.

You okay? Kora asked.

Yeah. Do I seem normal to you?

It took her a second to answer, almost like she was trying to figure out if there was something different. Yes. Is there a reason you shouldn’t be?

Nope.

Hey, Anika! Paisley came skipping over and handed me a pink carnation. Happy birthday, girl!

I took a deep whiff of my favorite flower. I loved carnations. Thanks! I can’t believe I’m eighteen. I also couldn’t believe today was the day I had to deal with this family crap. Talk about ruining a birthday.

The bell rang, signaling we had five minutes to get to first period. Kora, Paisley, and I started walking toward our class. Boys were watching as we walked by and I could tell my friends noticed. What’s up with them? Paisley asked.

I shrugged and blew it off. I dunno.

The minute I stepped through the classroom doorway, every guy already there immediately turned toward me. I could feel the heat rushing to my face and hurried to my seat before people realized it was me they were staring at. The guy I sat directly in back of turned toward me with his mouth hanging open. I actually thought he might start drooling.

Can I help you? I asked.

He shut his mouth and slowly turned back to the front of the room.

Paisley took her seat next to me. What’s his problem?

Beats me. I must have put on too much perfume this morning. I tried to joke.

She laughed.

The bell rang and the class quieted down. Mr. Briggs strolled in and stood in the back of his desk. He flipped open a folder on the desk and then turned on the smartboard. A confused look crossed his face and he looked up at us, his eyes searching for something. They landed on me and he stared for a minute before shaking his head and pointing at the smartboard.

He spoke about the notes we were taking as he walked around the room. He ended up near my desk and I shifted uncomfortably. It was one thing having someone my age stare at me, but someone that much older was just icky. In a low voice, he said, Miss Sonderen, if you need some extra time copying these notes, please see me after class.

My cheeks burned hot and I shook my head. I’m fine, thank you.

He moved on and finished up the notes. Take out the books you’re reading and start the next chapter.

My phone vibrated and I glanced at it. Paisley had texted: You must have bathed in that perfume. LOL!

I shot her a look and forced a smile like it was funny. I couldn’t wait to get out of there. I was so embarrassed. The kids in that class were definitely going to talk about how the teacher was acting.

The next thirty minutes were the most awkward of my life. Not only did Mr. Briggs keep staring at me, but the kid in front of me kept turning around. I slouched down in my chair wishing I could disappear. I wondered how Aria was handing the attention. Knowing her, she was soaking it up. For once, I wished I could be like her and not let it bother me. Why couldn’t I enjoy it like all the other succubi?

I couldn’t get out of the room fast enough when the bell rang. I headed straight to my locker, keeping my eyes down the whole time, but I still heard the catcalls and comments about how sexy I looked. I switched out a couple of notebooks for the next few classes. My head was swimming with ideas of what to do about the comments I was getting. Maybe I should have stayed home?

Can I help you with your books? an unfamiliar voice asked.

I sighed and peeked over my shoulder. A small-framed, redheaded boy stood there gazing at me with big, round eyes. He had to be a freshman. I imagined he normally would never have the courage to go up to a senior and ask to help her. I almost felt sorry for turning him down. No. Thank you. I appreciate it.

I could close your locker for you?

I contained my laughter on that one. I’ve got it. I shut my locker door quickly before he tried to do it himself.

Is there anything at all that you need?

No. I’m fine.

He looked sad, as if I had broken his heart. A little tremor went through my body and I knew I had to walk away. Even a fifteen-year-old kid could make my body react! I was disgusted with myself. Old men and young kids coming on to me was too much! Now I definitely thought I should have stayed home.

I passed the girls’ locker room and paused. Thinking about how things had gone the first hour of school, I decided that hiding out in there for a class period or two was the best decision. I slipped inside and found an empty shower stall. I walked in, locked the door behind me, and sat down on the bench.

I took a few deep breaths. Maybe I should go home? Pretend I’m sick and go to the nurse? I knew Mom would come get me, but then she’d probably want to get Aria too, which would make Aria mad. I took out my phone and played some stupid game to pass the time and keep my mind off things. When the bell rang, I mingled with the other kids in the locker room so I wouldn’t look suspicious. At least it was all girls, so no one was coming on to me.

Anika? What are you doing in here? my friend Nadia asked.

I forgot something, I lied.

She put on her sneakers. I gotta run. I’ll see you later.

Bye.

I spent one more class period hiding out. I had fourth period with Kora and she’d question me until I told her something if I didn’t show up.

Back in the hallway, boys literally tripped over themselves to get a look at me. One even fell face first on the floor. Using my hand, I covered my face and pushed by, making my way to French class. Because my parents insisted we know many languages, I was actually fluent in French, Spanish, and Dutch, but I didn’t let on. I would always get a few answers wrong on my tests so nobody knew. It was kind of nice because I didn’t have to pay attention much in the class.

Kora sat behind me and we talked until the teacher started class. Thankfully this teacher was a female and I didn’t have to worry about her flirting with me. I could feel the guys in back of me staring though. It felt like they were going to bore a hole in my head.

As I walked into the cafeteria, my gaze immediately landed on Aria’s regular table. I shouldn’t have been surprised to find her surrounded by guys. Was she serious? What did she think she was doing? If she kept this up, we’d be in trouble very quickly.

I marched over and tapped her on the shoulder. What are you doing?

Just having fun. Watch this. She leaned in close to—but didn’t touch—a dark-haired kid I didn’t know. I could really use a lemonade.

The boy slid out of his seat and went to the lunch line to get her a lemonade. He was back within a minute and handed the cup to her. All without saying a word.

See? They’ll do anything to please me. Aria smiled at me.

Through gritted teeth, I responded, That’s awesome for you, but this is what we’re supposed to be avoiding.

Why would I want to avoid this?

Oh, I don’t know. The secret of what we are? The good of all mankind? You are unbelievable. I threw my hands up and stormed off. Something was bound to happen if she was going to behave like this. I’d just let Mom and Dad take care of it. Maybe she’d even learn a lesson.

Kora walked up to me. What was that all about? she asked, staring at Aria.

Typical Aria stuff.

She’s getting a lot of attention too.

She likes it that way. I slid into the booth.

People are still talking about your party last weekend, Kora said as she sat down across from me. Got plans tonight? she asked.

Now it made sense why our parents had planned the birthday party a week before. They knew we’d be busy the night of our birthday.

Family stuff. I opened up my lunch bag and put the food in front of me. I started eating my ham and cheese sandwich and thought about the conversations that would probably take place later on. Instead of enjoying my eighteenth birthday, I was going to have to learn exactly what a succubus does. We had been told what happens, but until our transformation was complete, we wouldn’t be able to experience anything.

Paisley sat down next to Kora. The two were complete opposites of each other. Paisley looked like a California girl, with light blonde hair and blue eyes. Kora, on the other hand, had chestnut brown hair with eyes to match. They were like night and day.

Not to talk about my birthday party on your birthday, but do you think you guys could come early? Paisley asked.

Of course, I answered. Paisley turned eighteen a few days after I did. Kora’s eighteenth birthday had been a couple months ago.

Hey, Anika. A redheaded boy I recognized from last year’s math class walked up to me. You’re looking especially beautiful today. He reached out and placed his hand on my shoulder.

A shock surged through my body and I jerked my body back. Thanks, Allen.

Can I sit with you?

No. Sorry. I didn’t say anything else. He stood there for a few very awkward seconds and then reluctantly walked away. I turned back to Kora and Paisley. Both of their mouths were wide open. Don’t know what’s wrong with everyone today. I tried to shrug it off, but my body was still reeling from the shock that had run through it. So that’s what my mom meant when she said a simple touch would ignite feelings we didn’t even know we had.

We finished lunch and walked out of the cafeteria. Paisley sighed. I need to go see my teacher before class. Catch you guys later.

Bye. I headed into the girls’ bathroom to avoid more run-ins with boys. Kora followed me in.

Looking in the mirror, I saw an enormous difference between Kora and me. I was more radiant, blossoming in a way. I was sure it wasn’t something she could see, but I felt like