Royalty

By Laura Ranger

Rayne Martin is a typical teen excited to go off to college. However, the school she chooses at random is anything but typical and she begins to doubt she will ever fit in at Brighton College.

Rayne grew up in the Bible belt and attended church whenever her parents wanted her to. She considered herself to be a good Christian. When she truly commits to being a believer, she embraces the fact that she is a daughter of the King and therefore, Royalty.

Now God is calling on her to wage war against the demons and Satanists threatening to overrun Brighton. Rayne is sure He is mistaken. How can someone who has never even been in a fight lead in battle? Where will she find others willing to risk their lives to stand with her against such evil?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Foundations Books Publishing Company
• Release date: May 8, 2017
• ISBN: 9781370057757

Laura Ranger

Laura Ranger is a natural storyteller. She has been turning all of life into stories since she was young. This mother of one, grandmother of three began writing her fictitious stories down to the delight of her family and friends. She’s been writing her tales for over twenty years. She became a published author when she put one of her short stories in a Christmas anthology in support of feeding children around the world. Once she saw one of her stories in print, she will tell you she can’t stop.In addition to Deception, she co-authored Rogue. Laura’s currently working on a novel called Lessons, which she envisions parents reading with their children. She discovered while writing the book, the lessons addressed throughout the story speak to both children and adults. Additionally, she has numerous ideas for additional novels and adding more all the time, it’s just a matter of completing each in turn.In February of 2016 she began a publishing company with her fiancé, Steve Soderquist. Her goal is to help other authors dreams to see their work in print, come true.Laura will tell you, “God blessed me with a natural gift of storytelling; it is up to me to use that gift to the best of my ability.”

Book preview

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty-One

Chapter Twenty-Two

Chapter Twenty-Three

Chapter Twenty-Four

Song Credits

Acknowledgements

Invitation

About the Author

Chapter One

That’s the last of it, her father said, as he closed the trunk of her car.

Her mother was still crying. I just don’t understand why you feel the need to go to college so far from home. It’s not too late to change your mind. You could be far enough away to be independent, but still close enough if you need us.

Rayne’s mother had spent months pleading this same mantra. What she knew for sure was she wanted to experience what another part of the country had to offer. All their family vacations had been somewhere in the southern states, the Caribbean or Europe. The United States had more to offer than what she’d been exposed to, she was certain. She was going to discover it starting right now.

Mom, I’ll be fine and you can imagine I’m just a couple hours away since we can talk on the phone all the time. Rayne tried to make her voice as upbeat as she could. What she felt was frustration with her mother. The same frustration which had led her to find a college far from home.

She’ll be fine, dear, her father said encircling her mother’s shoulders with one of his long arms. We’re going to let her go discover the world for herself. She’s just a plane ride away.

Thank you, Daddy. Rayne crushed herself into his large chest where he hugged her to him with his free arm.

Sure, princess. Anything for you.

Her mother then closed the circle wrapping her arm around Rayne. It’s just that I’ll miss you, darling.

I know, Mom but I’ll be fine and I’ll talk to you every day.

So, I can’t talk you out of this?

How many months have you tried? My answer is still the same. I’m going to Brighton College.

Her father turned her toward her car. Let’s get you on the road. I would feel better if you were at your first hotel stop before dark. Drive carefully and call when you get there, tonight. He placed a kiss on her forehead and gave her one last squeeze.

Her mother pulled her into a hard embrace and bawled. She was crying so hard Rayne couldn’t make out the words but guessed she was saying something about her being her baby, be safe, call, and she’d miss her. She kissed both her cheeks. Her father, poised for her departure, was holding the car door open. Gratefully, she turned from her sobbing parent and slid in, put the window down, buckled her seatbelt, and began backing from the driveway. She waved her arm out the window above the roof of the car, as she drove away to begin her life on her own.

When she was a couple blocks down the road, she screamed at the top of her lungs, "Woohoo! Freedom!"

She had such a sense of liberty at this moment. She heaved a huge cleansing breath of relief. She knew she was dearly loved. She also knew she was suffocating living under her mother’s control. She needed to be her own woman, make her own decisions, make her own mistakes. How else was she ever going to learn? She was so excited for all the wonderful things that lie ahead. All the new friends she would be making at college. She heard how these friends would be closer than siblings and their friendships would last the rest of her life. She was glad to be through with the two-faced, backstabbing children of high school. Oh, sure, she had a couple good friends that had always been there for her, but most just played childish games. She was through with all of that. She was now an adult going out into the adult world.

Rayne grew up in the suburbs in Georgia where life was as fast or as slow as a person wanted to take it. Pleasantries with strangers were the norm, manners were a given, and it was unheard of to not have a church family.

She was never going to be voted the most popular girl in school. She had plenty of friends, but usually had no idea who were loyal and who were fake. Therefore, she kept almost everyone at arms length. She went to all the school activities and parties, but never felt like she really fit in. She wasn’t a wall flower because she could fake her way through. She went through most activities holding her breath, afraid this time was going to be the time she was found out to be the fraud she felt herself to be.

Not anymore, she resigned. This was a new beginning where she would finally be able to be who she was meant to be.

When the time came for Rayne to start applying to colleges, her only requirement was it be far from the life she had always known. She had no idea which direction she wanted to go, so she opened a map of the United States, flattened it out across her bedroom floor, stood up, took a dime from the change cup on her dresser, and dropped it. It bounced a couple times and landed in the Plains. Well okay…, she thought. It seemed as good an area as any. Actually, even better. It didn’t have the humidity of the South, the snow and cold of the North, the rain of the Northwest, the scorching heat of the Southwest. She might have to deal with some tornados, but it wasn’t actually in Tornado Alley.

There was only one college in the area chosen by her coin, Brighton College. She had no idea what she wanted to make of her life. There were so many possibilities. Her high school guidance counselor suggested she pursue a Liberal Arts degree and make a decision from there. She could always change majors later, when she had more clarity and experience.

Rayne sent in the application and was relieved when she was accepted. She maintained Honor Roll status throughout her school years. Studies came easily to her. She enjoyed learning, she simply had no direction. The ones surprised were her parents. Until she was accepted to Brighton College, she chose not to tell her parents of her plans. She knew they would not be happy with her decision. They assumed she would attend the same college where they met, just an hour and a half away from where they currently lived.

That night at the dinner table, Rayne waited until everyone was almost through, to drop her bombshell. She knew if she started off with her announcement, no one would eat the meal her mother always lovingly prepared. Um… she began, I have something to tell you.

Her mother continued to eat, not looking up but said, Go ahead, darling. What is it?

I’ve been accepted to the college of my choice.

That’s wonderful news, her mother continued, still not looking at her. Her father on the other hand, set his fork down and studied his daughter. Rayne could tell he knew it would not be as her mother expected.

Which one is that, princess? he asked.

Before she could answer him, her mother spoke up and said, Our alma matter, of course.

She found herself speechless while trying to decide what to say, and how to break this news gently. Her father’s eyes never left her face.

Rayne? he questioned.

Her mother stopped with her fork halfway to her mouth and finally looked at her. She looked from her to her husband and back. "Yes, Rayne, tell us what college you have chosen."

I’ll be attending Brighton College.

I’ve never even heard of it. Where is that?

She looked at her father who showed no emotion. She wasn’t feeling as confident now, as when she submitted her application. This scene wasn’t playing out, as it had in her head the several different ways she spun it over the past few months. She decided to just go for it.

Kansas.

The hell you are! her father boomed.

Over my dead body, her mother added.

She sat silently looking at her lap. Her little brother eventually asked, Where’s Kansas?

Nowhere you’ll see, little man, her mother said with staunch resolve.

Please excuse me, Rayne said as she rose from the table. She took her dishes to the kitchen, put them in the dish washer, went to her room, locked her door, flopped face down on her bed, and sobbed into her pillows.

Chapter Two

Rayne was brimming with excitement. She hadn’t slept much the night before. She had been so anxious to start her new journey, she just tossed and turned all night. However, she didn’t feel the least bit tired. She was raring to go. She cranked her music and sang along to all her favorite songs. Rayne had made several playlists to get her through the twenty-four hours of driving she had ahead of her. She had different ones for different moods and experiences. She started the one she made for most excited. She was now not only singing along but dancing in her seat.

She passed several people she knew on her way out of town. She waved joyfully, like it was the last time she’d ever see them. With each passing mile, she found herself feeling more and more hopeful for her future. It wasn’t that she didn’t like most of the people in her town, but she wanted a new and better life. She was going to make sure she was the one who got out.

Rayne felt like everyone in Saint Marys, Georgia from several generations back, were born, raised, married, and died there. She just wanted a new way of being. This was her opportunity and she was taking it. You go, girl! her best friend, Tracy had told her. She begged her to come begin this new life with her but her bestie said she couldn’t leave her family behind. Her grandmother had been ill for the past year and she was afraid she’d never see her again if she went that far away. People always found, what Rayne believed, were excuses to stay. That was why no one left. She had seen some who she thought had escaped, come back and settle back in right where they left off. She was not going to be one of them. This was her ticket out. She had no intention of returning.

After four straight hours on the road, she had to take a break, get out of the car and stretch her legs. She stopped at a convenience store. There was a sweet looking older woman behind the counter. May I use your restroom? Rayne inquired. She wasn’t in need of gas but would most likely buy something before she left.

Oh course, dear. Through the door in the back, the ladies is on the right.

When she came back out, Rayne wandered around until she settled on a drink and a snack. I’m Rayne Martin. What’s your name?

The woman smiled and said, I’m Mrs. Beechum. Nice to meet you Rayne Martin.

As the elderly woman was checking her out, Rayne started running off at the mouth telling her where she was from, where she was going, where she would be stopping for the two nights along the way, and so much more.

Can I give you a piece of advice, dear?

Sure.

Have you ever heard the saying, ‘Not everyone who smiles at you is your friend?’

Yes, but it never made sense to me. Why?

Well, sweet girl, it’s a good thing for you I’m trustworthy. Not everyone who looks and acts as I do, is. They may even tell you they are, but then betray your trust. I can see you’re a good natured, trusting soul. I would hate to see you trust the wrong person and end up in a bad spot. Do me a favor and keep your business to yourself, for your own safety.

But…

I truly hate I have to tell you something like this. What I hate more than that, is this world has come to that point. Back when I was a girl we never thought twice of talking to strangers. As a matter of fact, my daddy used to say, ‘My Sarah, never met a stranger.’ I would talk to anyone who’d listen. As the years have gone by, I’ve watched the world become more and more corrupt to the point you never really know who you can and can’t trust. Just please be cautious and take care on your long journey. Will you, dear?

Rayne nodded her agreement. The woman gave her back her change and she numbly walked to her car churning Mrs. Beechum’s words over in her head. She felt so foolish. She felt all grown and had gone and done exactly what she had always been taught not to do, talk to strangers. She was so thankful it was someone trustworthy. How many times had she heard how children who had been taught not to talk to stangers, failed when tested. She always said she would never be that stupid. And here she was having actually done worse. She might as well have put a flashing neon sign on her car that proclaimed her to be the next serial killer’s target.

She drove in silence for the next three hours to the hotel she would stay in for the night. She kept mulling over what she had done and the sage advice she had been given. She thought of it now in context to her school years and realized how many times she had been tricked into believing some boy liked her or some girl was her friend when, in reality, they hadn’t done anything more than smile or be nice in a moment. Memories of hurts over the years flooded her mind. The more she considered it, the worse she felt. Before she knew it, her GPS was guiding her into her hotel.

Rayne walked into the hotel prepared to check in as she had seen her father do countless times. When she considered it previously, she saw herself walking in like a boss with her head held high. Mrs. Beechum had given her a large dose of reality, and it was all she could do to walk in with her head held up. She was so uncertain of herself now, and felt more like the child she really was.

Good evening, welcome to the Hampton Inn. How may I help you? came the jovial voice of a middle-aged man behind the counter.

Hi, was all she could muster.

Will you be staying with us tonight?

She nodded she would be.

Do you have a reservation or do you need one?

No, I have one.

What is your name?

She opened her mouth to answer and sharply closed it. She was trying to think what information she had heard her father give in the past.

Can you tell me the name the reservation is under?

She opened her cell phone to her email and read him off her confirmation number.

Very good, he said in his upbeat voice. Ms. Martin I presume?

Yes, that’s right.

And I see you’ll be staying with us for one night?

She quickly looked around to make sure no one was over hearing this conversation. She nodded quickly.

Ms. Martin, if you would, I need you to write your license plate number and state on this paper. He handed her a small clipboard with a piece of paper attached. She had seen her father give this information numerous times. She knew it was fine to give this to the hotel. It had something to do with making sure only the vehicles of guests were on the premises.

She returned from outside having copied her plate number on the sheet and passed the clipboard over the counter.

How many keys will you need during your stay with us?

Just one, it’s only m— She stopped short wondering if anyone had overheard her. One. We’ll make due with the one.

I have here on your reservation there is only one adult. Is that correct or do you have others with you?

Here she was trying to do as Mrs. Beechum had said and this man was blabbing her business for all the hotel to hear. She lowered her voice, as she whispered across the counter, No, it’s only me. She scanned the halls and lobby quickly.

Breakfast is here in the commons from six am until ten am. There is an ice machine on every floor at the east end of the hall. The exercise room and pool are both on the first floor down that hall. He said pointing to the hall over her left shoulder. "Please enjoy your stay with us, Ms. Martin and if there is ever anything I can do for you, please don’t hesitate to call on me. My name is Jacob."

Like Jacob and Isaac? she blurted out. Oh, she was such an idiot.

He chuckled, Exactly. Just like Jacob and Isaac. Promise you will call out my name when needed.

She thought those odd words but agreed she would.

Do you need help with your bags?

Oh no, I’ve got this. Thank you though, Jacob.

She parked her car and returned with her overnight bag. As she passed the front desk heading for the elevators, he called out to her, Please, Rayne, never forget my name.

She was starting to see what all the fuss, by the old woman at her stop, was about. Who said things like that to young girls? He seemed nice enough at first but what a wierdo.

When she got to her room, she did as she promised and called her parents. Her mother picked up on the first ring. Hey, my baby, are you at your hotel?

Yes, Mother and how old do I need to be before you stop calling me your baby?

Until the day I die. You will be my baby. You made good time. You’re not speeding, are you?

No, I’m not speeding. I just haven’t needed to stop for anything. I made one stop to stretch my legs and use the restroom.

Has the weather been good to you? The traffic been light? No jams?

No, everything has gone great. Is Daddy there?

One moment. Jim… she called out to her husband. It’s Rayne, she’s made it to the hotel, she said in a lower voice.

Hey, princess. How’s the drive treating you?

Good, Daddy. I just wanted to do as I promised and let you know when I got here safely. I’m going to go for a swim then order some pizza. I’ll watch a little TV then go to bed early, so I can be back on the road early.

Good plan. You sleep well. We love you and I’m proud of you.

Oh, thank you, Daddy. I love you too. Give Mom and Jeramy a big hug for me.

I sure will, princess. Have a good night, sweet dreams.

Her father’s vote of confidence in her, bolstered her sagging spirits. She had to stop second guessing everything. She had come so far in the past year. She knew she was growing up and would be an actual adult one day. Although her actions earlier were thoughtless, she had come out unharmed. A rigorous swim in the pool would do her a lot of good, and help her get a restful night’s sleep.

She was kicking off her slip-on shoes and removing her wrap, when she heard a whistle behind her. She turned to see a twenty-something eyeing her like she was a slab of meat in a deli. He was really hot and she was flattered. She walked to the edge of the pool and lowered herself into the water. Midway through her second lap, there was a huge splash, when the guy with the cat call jumped in. He easily paced with her and at each turn asked her questions. She tried to be as evasive as possible while still being polite. There was no question this guy was drop dead gorgeous and although she was enjoying the attention, she still had to order dinner and get to bed before too late. It was nice to meet you. I’m sorry. I don’t even know your name.

Dan. My name is Dan and what is yours, pretty thing?

She giggled. I’m Rayne.

I like it. You’re not leaving me, are you?

I have to. I have to get dinner and be to bed at a decent hour.

I haven’t eaten yet. What were you thinking? Care if I join you?

Oh! Um…I was just going to order a pizza.

Sounds great. Let’s share. I’ll buy.

Oh no, that’s not necessary. I don’t mind sharing but I’ll pay my half.

What kind do you like and I’ll get it ordered?

I like pepperoni. Do you?

Love it. I’ll be right back. Don’t go anywhere.

Dan was back in no time, saying it would be delivered in about thirty minutes. He suggested they race to work up an appetite before the pizza arrived. She had a competitve streak and took him on. She beat him by one stroke. She was proud of her athleticism. As they sat eating, and enjoying the light bantering they had moved on to over the evening, Dan said how surprised he was at what a strong swimmer she was. He hadn’t found many who could keep up with him in the water. Again, she was flattered by the words of this Greek god.

He suggested they relax in the hot tub. She agreed but reminded him she was going to have to go soon. She hated leaving him, but knew she’d never see him again. There was no use prolonging the inevitable, and messing up her travel plans. She was beginning to feel the effects of the lack of sleep from the night before on her body. With the exercise and a full belly, she recognized sleep coming on soon.

Once in the hot tub, he moved in to kiss her. He was a great kisser, but something in her intuition raised a red flag. She pushed back a bit, smiled sweetly at him and attempted to move to the side, away from him. He followed. He cupped her small face in his big hands and delved deeper. She again pulled back and said, It’s time for me to go. It was nice to meet you, Dan.

Don’t go, we were just getting started.

Just getting started? We’re never going to see each other again.

Don’t be like that. We have tonight.

What? No. We don’t have tonight or any other night. She was stepping from the hot tub when he quickly and easily pulled her back down to him, laid her in his lap and covered her mouth with his. She tried to struggle from his grip but he easily overpowered her.

Come on. Don’t be such a tease. I just bought you dinner. I thought we were having a good time.

We were and now I’m not! Let me go or I’ll scream.

And who do you think will hear you, little tease?

Stop calling me that. I don’t know who you think you are but you can’t force me to stay here.

I never have to force myself on any woman. I’m usually trying to beat them off me.

Well, you don’t have to worry about that with me, now let me go. She again tried to push against him to get away but she might as well be pushing against a brick wall. He crushed her mouth with his once more. This time was not enjoyable, it hurt. When she was able, she did the first thing that entered her mind and called out, Jacob!

A mere moment later the desk clerk was standing beside the hot tub asking if everything was alright.

No, it’s not. I want to go to my room, now.

He pulled a towel from the stack of clean linens against the wall, held it up for her to wrap up in. But when she again attempted to leave the water, Dan pulled her back down. Mind your own business and get out of here, servant. This is between the lady and me.

I’m sorry, sir but I must ask you to release the girl or I will be forced to have you removed from the property.

Do you have any idea who I am? I’ll have your job if you don’t get out of here, right now.

Yes, sir, I know perfectly well who you are. I also know you are holding this guest against her will. I will ask you one last time to let her go before I call the authorities.

Dan hesitated for what felt like an eternity. He shoved her at Jacob who caught