Fire's Love: Revised Edition

By Alex E. Carey

Kira thought she was leaving her demons behind when she left for college. She quickly discovers demons are everywhere, and can be good or evil. Not only are they real, but they’re protecting her; that is, except for the ones who want her dead. Kira's parents want to reveal things about who she is, but a strange phenomenon prevents them from explaining. Before they can try again, her mother and brother die and her father disappears. Afterward, Kira finds a mysterious book in her parents‘ belongings. Although the book confuses her, it comforts her too. She's sure it holds the answers she seeks. One of Kira’s new friends, Lowell Hew, is also an earth demon named Ulric the Wolf Thief. Lowell tries to help Kira solve the mysteries involving the book, her parents, and the elements they wanted her to know. Although Lowell has a crush on Kira, he’s not looking for a relationship, or so he keeps telling himself. Meanwhile, Lowell introduces Kira to his best friend, Pyre, a fire demon with a fiery temperament and a troubled past. Pyre closed off his heart years ago, while deep inside he yearned to belong. For Pyre, learning to love again comes with tremendous risk, especially when the girl he loves is human, and his best friend has thoughts of his own. Things go well until an eerie presence threatens Kira and her new friends, and they can only speculate as to who it may be. While her friends protect her and try to uncover the enemy’s identity, Kira must adjust to the challenges of being human with demon friends. Will she bask in the warmth, or be consumed by the flames of Fire’s Love?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Alex E. Carey
• Release date: Oct 10, 2016
• ISBN: 9780996839631

Book preview

Fire’s Love

An Elemental Series Novel

Revised Edition

Alex E. Carey

Published by Alex E. Carey at Smashwords

Copyright 2016 by Alex E. Carey

Smashwords Edition

Discover other titles by

Alex E. Carey at Smashwords.com

Earth’s Embrace, Book 2 of the Elemental Series

Water’s Reflection, Book 3 of the Elemental Series

FIRE’S LOVE is a work of fiction. All of the characters and events in this book are fictitious, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.

All rights reserved. This ebook is the copyrighted property of the author, and may not be reproduced, copied and distributed for commercial or non-commercial purposes. If you enjoyed this book, please encourage your friends to purchase their own copy from their favorite authorized retailer. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

Photo Credits:

License purchased for the following image at Adobe Stock Photos

Fire Card Suits, photo by Ornitozavr

Alex E. Carey - Smashwords ebook edition/October 2016

Second Edition

Ebook edition ISBN: 978-0-9968396-3-1

This book is available in print at most online retailers and certain bookstores near you.

Paperback edition ISBN: 978-0-9968396-1-7

Hardcover edition ISBN: 978-0-9968396-2-4

Cover Design by Alex E. Carey and Dee Ferris

Author Contact - [e-mail] or [e-mail]

Table of Contents

Title Page

Acknowledgements

Chapter 1 - A New Beginning

Chapter 2 - Getting to Know Each Other

Chapter 3 - First Get Together

Chapter 4 - Getting Answers and Proving One’s Self

Chapter 5 - Thorny Encounters

Chapter 6 - An Interesting Twist

Chapter 7 - Something Unexpected

Chapter 8 - Stressful Week

Chapter 9 - A Better Week

Chapter 10 - Big Shopping Day

Chapter 11 - Past and Future Problems

Chapter 12 - First Official Date and Second Tests

Chapter 13 - The Never Ending Questions

Chapter 14 - Nightmares

Chapter 15 - Preparations

Chapter 16 - The Plan

Chapter 17 - Another Dream Comes True

Chapter 18 - Attempt at Mind Blocking

Chapter 19 - Birthday Surprise

These Elements of Us

Find Me Online

Earth’s Embrace

Water’s Reflection

Watch for Book 4 - Coming Soon

About the Author

Acknowledgements

For Dee Ferris, my mother, without whom I would not have had the support and confidence to write Kira’s story and the opportunity to share it with the world. She has helped me through all the hard times in my life. She has helped me with editing, publishing, and promoting my books. For Randy Ferris, who has been a wonderful father and has always been there for me whenever I needed someone to talk to. For my brother, Wil, who is always there to cheer me up when I’m down, and worries about me when I’m sick.

Bill and Margaret Walker, past owners of the Moose Cafe in Colfax, NC, gave me the opportunity to work at the Moose Cafe and the support to write my book. For that reason, I based the restaurant in my book on the Moose Cafe.

Bryan Coyle and Will Walker, the managers at the Moose Cafe, have been supportive in my education, employment at the restaurant, and my writing. They have encouraged me when I have had writer’s blocks. Will reminds me to work hard, keep moving, and that persistence is key. Bryan reminds me to stay honest, ask for help when I need it, and that bad days happen to the best of us. Oh, and to never make messes you don’t want to clean up.

To my family and friends who I didn’t mention specifically, and to the fans of the Elemental Series, please know I love you and am thankful for all of you.

Chapter 1

A New Beginning

The breeze blew strands of hair to tickle my cheek as I admired the cozy two-story blue house with white windows that had been my home the past year. The porch swing swayed to the symphony of the wind chimes. A bird chirped a warning from a branch in the tree. The neighbor’s small dog yapped nonstop, even though she saw me come and go many times. Despite the charming scene’s air of peace, butterflies twirled an agitated dance inside my belly. I will miss this little old house. The home belonged to Juniper Bay, mother of my childhood friend and a second mother to me. Crystal Bay and I had been friends since the age of five until we drifted apart. They took me into their home after the car accident killed my mother and brother. My father accepted a job that required frequent travel and never returned.

Mrs. Bay helped me pack my things as I prepared to leave for college in Russellville, Arkansas. I had lived in Nashville, Tennessee all my life, so I wavered between anxiety and excitement about the new adventures coming my way.

Now, Kira, you be careful, Mrs. Bay said. Russellville is smaller than Nashville but isn’t completely safe either.

I’m always careful, Mrs. Bay.

Kira Phoenix, how many times must I tell you to call me Juniper?

Only a few hundred. We laughed, until I glimpsed the sky and cringed.

Are you still scared to fly? Juniper asked.

Scared? No. Terrified!

You’ll be fine. The flight won’t last long. She grinned reassuringly and patted my shoulder. You’re wearing your favorite outfit for the trip.

My gaze dropped to my black t-shirt with a silver dragon on the front, faded blue jeans and black ankle boots. I wore my brown hair half up, pinned in back with the dragon hairpin my mother gave me for my thirteenth birthday for luck and protection.

You bet. I faced Mrs. Bay’s house again and lifted my blue eyes to the upper window where Crystal stood glaring down at me. I stared back with pangs of remorse for the distance between us and regret for leaving my childhood friend. Perhaps I should say goodbye.

Are you sure? It might be better if you don’t.

No, I should. She’s been my friend a long time.

I approached the house and inhaled a deep breath as I stepped through the door. I hesitated by the living room and reminisced on fun times. My vision landed on the stain on the couch where I spilled a full cup of coffee. Juniper’s eyes bulged, and her body shook as she yelled. She bought the couch the previous week. My hands turned red and ached for days after all the scrubbing, but I cleaned most of the coffee from the upholstery. I shook off the recollection but paused again at the base of the stairs. I imagined the laughter of two young girls chasing each other down the stairs still echoed through the space, along with Juniper’s reprimand to, ‘Stop running in this house this instant!’ A sentimental smile appeared but faded into a reluctant frown. My heartbeat sped up, and my fingers twitched in my tight grip on the banister. My line of sight skipped up each step to the landing above, but my feet refused to follow. I should’ve listened to Juniper. No, if I don’t say goodbye, Crystal will hate me more than she already does. Crystal and I both changed over time, but I didn’t understand why she hated me. I crept up the steps toward the room I usually avoided, sucked in a deep breath for courage, and knocked on the door.

Crystal? When she didn’t answer, I eased the door open and peeked into the room. She remained at the window with her back to me, dressed all in black. I came to say goodbye. Her back stiffened, and her head tilted to one side, but she stayed silent. I’ll miss you.

Kira Phoenix comes to bid farewell to her old friend? She plans to leave me here to rot while she runs away to achieve fame and glory.

When she pivoted toward me, cold eyes locked on mine. I shivered as my blood turned frigid and flowed like icy slush in my veins.

What are you talking about? I’m simply going to college, and I’m not at all interested in fame and glory.

You want to be as far away from me as possible, don’t you? She picked up a knife and twirled it in her hands. One corner of her mouth lifted as she admired the shiny metal blade.

You’re wrong. I’ll see you again when I come home for breaks.

YOU DARE TO LIE TO ME?

She lunged at me and slashed my upper arm. The skin separated, followed by stinging and burning, and tremendous pain radiating into my elbow. I screamed and backed away from her. Blood oozed down my arm, but I focused on Crystal and the blood-tipped knife. A wicked leer thinned her lips. Wild eyes fixated on me with an evil gleam as she took another step toward me. I matched her advance with my retreat and held up my hands.

CRYSTAL, STOP! Juniper dashed into the room and restrained Crystal’s wrists straightjacket style. Crystal fought and grunted, and Juniper’s hold began to slip. Kira, the taxi’s waiting. Get to the airport!

But—

JUST GO! She yelled, so I sprinted out of the house and dove into the taxi.

Nashville Airport, please. The driver frowned at my arm. Drive!

He punched the gas pedal and sped away from the curb. The scene through the car’s rear window enthralled me while I floundered for footing in the muddied waters of my mind. The house, so warm and inviting before, filled me with fright and concern for Juniper. Once the house disappeared from view, I retrieved my first aid kit and tended to the gash. My whole body trembled as the horror sank in and made bandaging my arm with one hand difficult. My lungs gasped for air, and dizziness made me nauseous. I closed my eyes and focused on breathing, so I wouldn’t hyperventilate.

Do you want to stop by a hospital? The driver asked.

No, the cut isn’t as bad as it looks, and I don’t want to miss my flight.

I uttered silent thanks for the short trip. The cab reeked of old diapers, vomit, and skunks which the driver attempted to cover with several pine trees hanging from his mirror. The floor mat stuck to the soles of my shoes, and wads of gum decorated the seats. Once he parked, I rushed out of the cab and reached for my luggage.

Let me get those for you.

Thank you.

Take care of yourself and good luck. He set my luggage on the curb beside me and moved to the driver’s side of the cab. Remember, worse things exist than the person who did that to you, so be wary of other dangers.

His eyes flashed a different color and back again. I flinched but assumed I imagined it.

Thank you. I waved to him as he darted in front of another car and drove down the road. Weirdo cab driver.

I checked my luggage and rushed to my flight’s gate. Boarding hadn’t opened, so I found a restroom and cleaned my arm. After I bandaged it again, I returned to the waiting area and wrote in my diary. The wait provided plenty time to obsess about the flight, starting college, and moving to a new town where I knew no one. Part of me welcomed the changes and looked forward to new possibilities, but another part wanted to run out of the airport to my old life. My feet tapped, and I fidgeted in my seat. I chewed my lip as a bead of sweat trickled down my forehead. I glanced over my shoulder toward the exit and back to the boarding gate. Even if I convinced myself to give in to my fears, Crystal’s attack slammed shut the door to my old life. Tears trailed down my cheeks. I wiped them away and decided to buy a cold drink a second before the attendant cleared the gate for boarding.

The flight bored me with nothing to do but watch a stupid movie. I kicked myself for forgetting to bring a book to read. The nuts tasted nasty, and kids ran screaming down the aisle. A woman sat next to me with her knitting and chattered about her grandkids, not to me specifically, but to the void in general. I leaned back in my seat, but sleeplessness popped my eyes open every few seconds, which gave me time to brood about Crystal’s attack.

Why does she hate me so much? Why does she still blame me?

The pilot eventually instructed us to prepare for descent. The rough landing jolted me from my reflections. When I left the plane, an incredibly cute guy held up a sign with my name written in large letters. A plaid button-up shirt and denim jeans packaged well-shaped arms and legs. He had shoulder-length red hair, green eyes, beautiful skin, and... tall.

Why must they all be so tall?

Are you Kira Phoenix? He asked as I approached him.

Yes, I am.

Hello, my name is Lowell Hew. I’m your ride to campus. He took my bags.

I can carry my own bags.

He gave a slight shake of his head. How did an eleven year old like you get into college? When I stopped dead in my tracks and laughed, he asked, What?

I hoped this place would be different.

What do you mean?

I’m sixteen. Since I’m starting college, I imagined I appeared older now, but I guess not.

His eyes widened in surprise. Okay. How did a sixteen year old like you get into college?

Good grades.

Then you’re like me.

How so?

I’m sixteen too. I’m also starting college this fall.

Wait a minute. The school said they were sending a sophomore to come and—

He got sick. We’ve been friends a couple of years, so I offered to come.

Once we claimed my other luggage and reached his car, he loaded my bags into the trunk and opened the car door for me. After I settled in my seat, he jogged around to the driver’s side.

What’s your major? He asked once he pulled away from the airport.

I’m considering art, but I’m not sure yet.

You should take classes to figure out what you like best.

That’s the plan.

I’m also an undecided, so I’ll be taking classes to choose what I want to do. At least we have time to decide.

True.

On the way to the campus, we talked and asked each other questions, so the time passed fast until we arrived.

What do you think? He asked.

The school is beautiful. The brochures didn’t show how beautiful. I can hardly wait to see inside the buildings.

Most of the buildings were built in a reddish brick with white trim in the Colonial Revival style. The newer buildings closely resembled the same architecture as the older ones. They complemented each other in a pleasing view and enhanced the sense of the campus’s history.

Which dorm are you staying in this semester?

The Wilson Residence Hall.

Interesting.

How so?

I’m staying in the Nutt Residence Hall, not far from Wilson Hall.

"That is interesting. Any particular reason you’re in the Nutt hall?"

No, the college— Wait a minute! Are you saying I belong in the Nutt dormitory?

Hey, we just met. I don’t know how crazy you are.

You’ll find out if we hang out sometime.

If we find each other again. It’s a big campus after all.

He ran around to open my door and helped me out of the car. A mischievous glint twinkled in his eyes as he gazed into my own.

You forget, Miss Kira, I’m aware which dorm is yours. I’ll make sure we run into each other again.

Lowell retrieved my luggage and escorted me to my dorm room. A small table and a desk stood next to each bed against plain off-white walls. Once he left, I called Juniper to tell her I arrived, and to check on her. She remained safe and told me to call again with more news about the school. I sat on the bed and scanned the room, alone in my new place. The solitude didn’t last long.

Hi, you must be the new girl from Nashville. The girl who entered the room wore a white knee-length skirt with a purple flower print and a matching purple top.

I cringed inside as I nodded. Please tell me my roommate isn’t a girly girl.

I’m Melissa Perks. I’m your roommate this semester. It’s so nice to meet you. Welcome to Arkansas Tech University or ATU as we like to call it.

My name is Kira Phoenix. Nice to meet you too. Perks, huh? Appropriate name. I miss Crystal now.

Come with me, and I’ll show you around campus. She dragged me out of the room.

Let me keep my arm. Are all Arkansas girls as strong as you or only the girly ones?

You’re funny. We’ll be great friends.

Melissa escorted me around campus and showed me everything. She named off the buildings and the main classes scheduled in each one. The vast size and sights overwhelmed me. I doubted my ability to remember it all.

Ooh, I’m glad the baseball field is near our dorm. I love to ogle the players. Most of the time, though, you’ll find me in an auditorium where they host all kinds of performances.

Are you a theater major?

Yep, even as a kid, people told me I was the best actor in town, but mainly because I pulled the puppy dog eyes to avoid trouble.

That’s easy to believe.

Melissa switched from narrating the campus tour to bragging about herself and the times she dodged punishment.

Theater classes are so much fun. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve used the skills to my advantage. My professors tell me I’m a sensational actress and to continue building my talent.

Bored now. I scanned the area and wondered where Lowell was.

What do you plan to major in?

I’m not sure yet. I’m interested in so many subjects, choosing one is difficult.

Well, you should take a variety of classes to decide what holds your interest. You might even be a theater major too.

Maybe. Not in a million years.

Once we returned to the dorm, I spied Lowell talking to a few people. I raised my hand to wave, but he seemed busy with his friends.

Look at him. He is the cutest freshman I’ve ever seen, even if he is only sixteen. Don’t you think so? Melissa elbowed me and drooled all over herself.

How do you know he’s sixteen?

The news is buzzing around campus that two new students got in at age sixteen. He and I have mutual friends here. They mentioned their sixteen year old friend was joining them this semester. So I ask again. Don’t you think he’s a cutie?

I suppose. I rolled my eyes.

What? Not cute enough for you?

No, he is cute, but I don’t see the point in drooling over a boy.

She gawked in disbelief before saying, Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t realize you’re gay.

No, I’m not gay. I just don’t drool.

What kind of girl doesn’t drool over a boy? It’s unnatural! Didn’t anyone ever teach you how to be a woman?

Do you listen to yourself? I attempted to walk away, but she tugged me back.

I need to teach you about boys.

No, you don’t. I froze in complete panic.

She ignored me and rambled on and on about boys. When I glanced at Lowell again, he waved and jogged toward us.

Either he thinks you’re cute or you know him. I leaned down to admire a flower and shrugged. You know him?! Her jaw hung open, and I couldn’t resist closing it for her.

He gave me a ride from the airport.

A full day hasn’t passed, and I’ve already found you again. Enjoying the campus?

Yes, but I still haven’t been inside the other buildings. I gestured to Melissa. Melissa, this is Lowell. Lowell, this is Melissa, my roommate.

Hello, he said. She was so shocked to meet him, she lost her voice.

She’s showing me around campus and telling me about herself, I said.

Cool! Like what? Lowell asked, but she didn’t utter a sound.

For one, she’s a theater major. I nudged her with my elbow, but she didn’t react.

Sounds fun. What do you plan to do with your major? Still no response. Do you want to work in movies or theater production? Perhaps become a teacher? Lowell glanced at me, shrugged, and shifted his feet as Melissa continued to stare. Well, I need to go now. See you later.

See ya. I squeezed Melissa’s arm. Melissa, are you in there? People rubbernecked as they ambled past us. Can I help you? I put my fists on my hips, and they rushed away from us. Melissa, do you remember what I said about drooling over a boy?

She snapped out of her trance and wiped her chin. On the way to our room, she instructed me about boys, including a speech about why I should date Lowell. She also said she knew a few unattached guys if Lowell didn’t spark my interest.

I hope she won’t entangle me with some strange guy. Really don’t want to deal with it. Relax. Orientation begins tomorrow, and hopefully by then, she’ll forget all about it. I stared at her as she continued nonstop. Emphasis on hope.

Orientation lasted two days. I signed up for classes and attended a variety of meetings. They gave loads of important information, so I paid close attention and took lots of notes.

Classes began the next week. I wore blue jeans, a red t-shirt for confidence, and my black boots. My day began with poetry. I grew bored waiting for class to begin, so I drew on my notebook. I became engrossed and didn’t notice when someone approached my desk.

Are those demons? A familiar voice asked.

Are you following me, Lowell Hew? I put my chin in my hand and my elbow on my desk as my eyes rose to meet his.

I was about to ask you the same question. He chuckled.

"They’re supposed to be demons, but I’m not much of an artist."

You’re being modest. He seized the notebook.

Hey! I reached for it, but he put his palm on my forehead and pushed me back in my seat. So not fair. It’s bad enough I’m short. You don’t need to use it against me.

He smirked and examined the notebook.

These are the best demon drawings I’ve ever seen. You should be in demonology class. He sat in the seat next to mine, and I snatched the notebook from him.

I am. It’s actually—

My next class. We finished in unison.

So two classes so far. Do you suppose we’re taking any more together? I asked.

Let me check your schedule. He laughed after I handed it to him.

What?

Here’s proof you’re smart. All our classes are the same. He showed me his schedule.

I’m smart because I chose the same classes you did? He grinned big and nodded, and I shook my head. What are the chances we’d select all the same classes? I took my schedule and stored it in my bag.

Apparently good or fate chose for us. I’m happy either way.

Or did you hack the computers, find my schedule, and sign up for the same classes?

You’re making me sound like a stalker.

Wouldn’t you if the guy you met a week ago had the same schedule as you?

He considered a minute. You make a fair point, but I promise I’m not a stalker or a hacker. I’m terrible with computers, so hacking one would be impossible for me. Before you ask, I also don’t know any hackers.

I guess I’ll take your word for it.

The professor’s entrance terminated our conversation. He began his introduction the second he entered the room, confident in his expectation for immediate silence. None of the students disappointed him.

"Welcome to the first day of class. My name is Professor Craft. I do not tolerate tardiness, talking in class or hiding cell phones under desks. If you do not show up, you will not pass. I’m