Caitlin II Masquerade Magic: Magical Cosmic Collection, #3

By Debbie Behan

The King of the Dwarf Planet, has had threats towards his newly formed Kingdom and struggles to maintain his combined duties.

 Unhappy the volatile nature of his worlds, the Congress of the Heavens threatens to revoke his title.  

Caitlin, the Goddess of Peace, is summoned by the King, but Axon refuses to let her go as Earth is dying.

The Goddess is called upon by a higher power and has made her decision.

 It's not something the team she rides with or the Lord of the Planets are going to be happy with?

What is Caitlin’s Secret?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Butterfly Kiss Books
• Release date: Apr 22, 2018
• ISBN: 9780995420595

Debbie Behan

Wrote my first book in 2009. Published it in 2012. Since then I have written 10 novels, and published 6. I started looking to the stars, found mythology and fell In love with the universe. Have I come back down to Earth, well, not any time soon. Try my new novel called SOULCASTERS. It will rock your world... literally. 

Book preview

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Chapter One

Earth’s Disarray

Caitlin looked deep into Melita’s eyes. She was Jett’s wife, and to their subjects, she was their queen. Melita was a proud woman and much loved by all, but today she was unsure, shaken and sad. Her weakened state was enough to grip the insides of Caitlin’s stomach with shame. She was aware Jett was having trouble, but Axon had led her to believe her friend was only missing her and was quite capable of handling the pressure of his new position as the King of the Dwarf Planets. She could now tell her unintentional abandonment for so long had caused both Melita and Jett unnecessary suffering.

Melita sat next to Caitlin on a bench seat and pleaded with her as a friend, to help her husband. Her eyes were red from tears, and her voice quivered with sadness as she spoke.

‘Since we saw you last, souls are escaping from the underworld and causing us some serious problems. Jett can’t be in two places at once so has had to put his royal duties to the Dwarf Planets aside. There are some who don’t believe he should have been given this title and have made it known. They threaten to go to war if he doesn’t stand down. Current rulers are not happy that he never has time for them, and some are talking about joining this rebellion, denouncing him as their King.’

‘Did he tell Axon this?’ Caitlin fidgeted, uncomfortable with this news.

‘Yes, several times. I was the instigator of many of the calls. I heard him ask for you. He even begged once or twice. But due to the difficulty of the mission you were on, his requests were denied. Now Jett is beginning to withdraw as he did before he met you. It’s not only from his family but from me too. The underworld is reclaiming him. The Jett you know and love has reverted to his former self, Hades. For centuries, he lived with a cold heart in a cold world, without feelings for humans, or life. Your Jett has gone and so has my wonderful life with my happy husband.’ Melita began to sob, pulled out a tissue and patted the tears. ‘He has all but given up on everything. I know you have a whole universe to look after, Glow. Our world is just a little dwarf planet. But you must understand that I had to come here today to beg, on my hands and knees if I must, and plead my case for the man I love.’ Melita cried in her arms for a long while.

Her hurt hit Caitlin hard. Melita sobbed, telling of her heartache, how Jett had retreated so far that she was unable to reach him. While Melita wiped her eyes and calmed, Caitlin was baffled why Axon hadn’t discussed this with her. For two years, she had worked relentlessly beside Jett and Calyx. She’d helped and supported Jett while he renovated the castle. She’d worked beside him as King of the Dwarf Planets, and together they joined many Home Worlds to his Kingdom. All the while she continued to perform her regular duties as a Cosmic Rider, so was mystified about Axon’s reluctance for her to be involved. To allow her two best friends to be left tormented and without support was ludicrous and unconscionable.

Melita’s voice brought her back from deeply anguished thoughts. ‘He sits all day in silence and rarely answers if spoken to.’ She continued to weep. Her soft lashes lay wet and clinging to her pale cheeks. Her short dark hair was messy from stressful hands moving nervously through the ends.

Caitlin finally found her voice and pulled out a clean hanky, which she handed to Melita. ‘I don’t understand. Jett knows he can come and see me anytime he wants. If he hasn’t come to me, maybe it’s not me he needs.’ Her soothing voice calmed Melita a little.

‘He didn’t want to go against Axon’s wishes to disturb you.’

‘Melita!’ Caitlin shook her head. ‘You should have come sooner. My work lately has drained me and I’d be no good to Jett the way I feel now. Axon was wrong keeping this from me, and I will deal with him later, but I just don’t know what I can do. The mission I’m on is worse than ever. Earth is dying, and I can’t put that right, so I can’t see how I could be of assistance to a friend, never mind a King in need. I feel just as helpless as your husband.’

Melita patted her hand. ‘Then maybe you both could do with some time out together. You know what a good team you make. Please, Glow – give it a crack for me. See what a visit can achieve.’ Melita stood up, her thin frame wobbling a little from stress, and stopped to steady her posture. ‘I won’t hold you up any longer, but please think about coming, even for just a couple of days. At this point, I would try anything to have my husband back. You’re my only hope, and you must know we love having you.’

Caitlin stood as well, putting her arms around Melita in a hug. She realised how much she did need time with her dearest friends. Maybe it would snap her out of the fog that left her drained and feeling the life was being sucked out of her. Pulling from the embrace, she felt it necessary not to give false hope. ‘Please keep in mind, Melita, that I’ve sworn allegiance to the Cosmic Riders. My leave time will have to be passed by not only Axon but our commander, Rory. I can’t make any promises, but since you’re unable to bring Jett to me, I’ll do everything possible to find a way to visit him.’

‘That’s all I ask.’ Melita’s eyes showed a spark of hope.

‘You shouldn’t have had to. Axon has some explaining to do.’

Melita smiled, and more tears rolled down her cheeks. ‘I should have known you’d still view us the same way. It’s our obligation towards the running of the underworld that can sometimes make things a bit muddled. Quite often it affects trust in others. Friendships can diminish if we allow it. Jett had almost convinced me you’d given us away as it’s been many moon cycles since you rang. I came today to see for myself, and am so glad to find you still care as you have always done. I’m sorry for allowing this to fester.’

‘I feel terrible to think you were both worried. This changes everything. You are family to me, not just friends, and I’ll set this right if I can. But as I said, Melita, I’m in bad condition too.’

‘I trust in the friendship you two have. It’s magical. Please bring Jett back to me, Glow.’

‘With luck, you can expect a visit in the next day or two.’

‘Glow, I’m leaving for the winter and staying at Mother’s. It breaks my heart to watch him every day. When he feels better, I know he will come for me.’ She hugged Caitlin once more. ‘I will never doubt you again,’ she said and left a confused Caitlin to work out what to do next.

Caitlin felt a rush of guilt for letting Jett and Melita down. She remembered the time she needed only Jett. He ended up being her shining saviour. How could she not have felt him withdraw so profoundly from them all? What had happened to her ability to foresee the future?

She went inside to talk to Axon and Rory. They had been just as surprised as she was when Melita turned up. Both would have guessed why the Queen had come to see her and most likely had planned their response. Caitlin wondered how they would stop her going, and was sure they’d have conjured up something to make her feel guilty about leaving. Whether they liked it or not, I intend to visit Jett.

Rory was waiting. He was her boss and best friend, yet while he observed her now, his usually gentle hazel eyes were frosty. He hated her leaving his side. She knew by his messy, sandy hair and the way his legs sprawled out in front of him that he was ticked off but trying to act calmly. Even the freckles around his nose seemed darker against his handsome face as it paled with uneasy tension.

Axon could hide his feelings better, and his dark curls fell softly against his forehead as he got up to greet her. ‘Hi, sweetheart.’ He put his arm around her.

By the look on his face, she could tell her husband already knew the problem. She felt his gaze on her while she pulled up a chair. Once seated, Caitlin discussed Melita’s visit with them, including what had been asked of her.

‘My mind seems just as foggy and disorientated as Jett’s,’ she said, as she tried to explain her unwellness. She figured this approach might allow her at least a couple of days’ break to rest up. ‘Maybe what I need is some time out as Melita suggested. I can’t think straight, and time is running out for all of us if I don’t clear my mind, get my head together and come up with something soon.’

Axon searched her face, with eyebrows furrowed. ‘You told me never to let you go again. Please don’t ask me to break my promise to you.’ His dark eyes danced with golden lights as he spoke, but not in a good way.

Caitlin had expected cunning but hadn’t thought he’d throw the words uttered on their wedding night back at her. ‘Axon, if there were another way… please, don’t be like this. I’m no good to you the way I’ve been working lately and no good to Rory and his team on this mission. If you allow me time to visit Pluto, I can do two things at once; see Jett and maybe mend the rift you have created by ignoring his requests, and also have a couple of days’ break. You are forgetting, Jett is my friend and is devastated I haven’t been to see him after so many requests. You must allow me to go and set this right.’ Caitlin’s face was tight with worry. Axon had… no… written in his eyes, and if that was his answer, it burned something bright inside her. Someone was going to get hurt here today, as suddenly her heart ached with the strong desire to go to Pluto. It pulled at the very fibre of her being.

Rory’s chair was shoved back as he stood up, irritated. ‘We need you here, Cait. I’m your friend too, and if you leave me at this stage of the negotiations it will devastate me... us! I’m telling you now, I will climb the walls without the calming influence you have on us all.’ He threw his hands up in frustration. ‘You don’t know how hard it is when you’re not here, Cait. Last time it was two blatzing years! Damn Jett and his frigging problems.’

‘Rory, can’t we talk about this a bit more civilly?’ Caitlin asked.

‘I hate to agree with him, Cait, but he’s right,’ Axon put in. ‘Your loyalty must be to us first, or Earth is a goner. May I add, you are also a team member of the Cosmic Riders and that role takes priority over spoilt gods who cry wolf to get attention. Jett can wait! After your work is done here, you can have as much time as you need with him. Today, it’s Rory and I that need you.’

Caitlin studied them. She couldn’t be in two places at once but had a growing need to follow her gut instinct. If it meant suffering the consequences later at the hands of these two, then so be it. They couldn’t understand the real issue. Not only had they kept the truth from her, but she was drained of energy, and even this argument was exhausting her. These two men, with all their love for her, couldn’t see she was in trouble physically and mentally. I am not the warrior they once knew!

She fisted her hands, her eyes dark as night when she looked up. ‘We both know I can’t go without you agreeing, Rory, so if it takes resigning as a Cosmic Rider, then that’s what I’ll do... then, the only permission needed will be my husband’s.’ Caitlin could see her words were a slap in the face to Rory. It was a low blow and she knew even to suggest this course of action might cause irreparable damage to their bond, and to the friendship with her team. It flashed in her thoughts… was Jett that important to her? But the words had been said and she couldn’t … no wouldn’t … take them back.

Rory went pale and flopped back in his chair, not quite believing what she just threatened. ‘You have to be frigging kidding me, girl!’ he snapped.

Axon moved and held her by the shoulders to make her look him directly in the eyes. ‘That was way below the belt, Caitlin. Even as a husband I would have a hard time agreeing with this bullshit. Are you kidding? Do you think I’d approve of you racing off with another man? Never mind the callous lack of responsibility shown towards the team!’

She pulled out of Axon’s grip and glared at him. ‘I do everything I’m ever told and never once complain; never. Rory says jump, and I say how high. And you, Axon, my bossy boss.’ She stabbed her finger at him. ‘You tell me where you need me and I’m there. Never mind that some days I would like a bit of me time for once! I’m tired, and I’m not thinking straight. Just maybe … if you stopped being selfish for a moment, you might see Jett could be the key to all this. He is linked to me. Is he feeling like this because of me? Well, I hope not. Because it would have been sorted out a long time ago if you had kept me in the loop. You have all lied to me. Who are you people? Do you care about me at all or just my abilities?’ She flung her arms in the air in frustration. She was so angry she couldn’t find the words to express how she felt.

Axon stood with a placating look.

Caitlin had not shown that side of her temper very often, and he thought this was one of her tantrums.

He doesn’t think I’ll go through with my threat.

She realised he’d blame the surprise visit from Melita for her ‘irrational’ behaviour.

Instead of fighting with her, Axon stared at his wife and kept quiet while he waited for her to calm down.

She glared at him. ‘Even now, you’re not taking me seriously.’

His eyes sparkled with menace. His wife sure knew how to push his buttons. ‘So tell me, Cait, are you also willing to give up the man you have promised to spend the rest of your life with to go to someone else?’ Axon spat the words out before thinking.

Caitlin put her hands on her hips, furious. Her red curls bounced around her shoulders, and her green eyes flashed. ‘Now you are being ridiculous. What I am telling you is that for all the good I’m doing here, on this mission, I might as well be back at home, lazing around all day. And, as for that comment, Axon, if you have such little faith in me around other men then we have an even bigger problem. That proves to me what a useless job I’ve been doing, not only as a workmate but as a wife. You could have prevented this by letting me know what was happening to Jett. A couple of days would have been enough in the early stages, but now it’s got this bad, who knows how long it will take! All that hard work I’ve put into the Dwarf Planets, and it didn’t occur to you this would upset me? Those Dwarf Planets are just as important to me as this one. Your thinking is just as bad as the rest of the Planets; if you’re not big, and perfectly round, you don’t frigging-well matter.’ Her face was red, and she was close to tears. ‘And need I remind you if he turns back into Hades and wants me, he may just try the kidnapping thing again. Next time I might not be so easy to find. He does run the god-damned underworld. Shit Axon.’

Axon made a grab for her. Caitlin shook out of his grasp, backing away. ‘You’re not the man I married. Leave me alone you … you bastard. The man I married would never have let one of our best mates suffer for the sake of stubbornness, and what looks to me like spiteful jealousy.’

She stormed from the room and into one of her team members. Nathen took one look at her and wrapped his arms around her as she sobbed, telling him she had just resigned. As always Nate was charming to her. Once he heard her side of the story, it was enough. ‘You want me to punch them both in the nose for you, Cait?’ He made her stop crying and handed her a hanky from his pocket. ‘My boy Zeke and I will take you to Jett. Be blowed with what they say. We know you need a break. If they can’t see it, they’re crazy. But no one is resigning, Cait. No more talking like that … please. You’re breaking my heart.’

Just as he finished speaking, Rory flung the door open, banging it loudly against the wall and getting their attention. Not expecting to find his second in command with Caitlin, he stopped and straightened, showing his authority. ‘That will be all, Nathen,’ he dismissed him.

‘As for you, Cait, I don’t know what the hell that was all about, but your resignation is not accepted. Look, if you needed a break that badly, you should have talked to me in private. Axon need not have been involved. Now you two are at loggerheads, he is going to be one big pain to work with while you’re gone if you don’t make amends with him before you leave.’

He looked up at Nathen. ‘Thought you were dismissed?’

‘Well, I’ve just told Cait that Zeke and I will take her.’ Nate stood up to him, annoyed they had upset Cait.

‘Nathen! Stand down. Axon will take his own wife to wherever she needs to go. He needs no help from subordinates.’

‘I’ll be okay Nate.’ Caitlin looked up at his windswept blond fringe that partly covered his loyal pale grey eyes. A soulful stare told her he would support her no matter how much trouble he got into.

‘Sure?’ He stood firm until he knew she was telling him the truth.

She nodded. ‘You’re a good friend Nate. Keep my horse happy for me while I’m gone.’

He wiped the tears from her cheek. ‘Only if you promise there will be no more of these.’

‘Promise,’ she replied as he let her go.

With a nod in Rory’s direction, he strode off back down the corridor.

Rory waited for Caitlin to look back at him. ‘Axon sends his apologies and said if you are ready, he will take you to Pluto now. He wants you to know you can take as much time as you need.’

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Chapter Two

Axon, the Boss or the Husband

As Axon waited for Caitlin to come back, he paced and felt like throwing up. How did all this just spiral out of control? Very rarely had he seen his wife so livid. She thinks I didn’t tell her about Jett because I was jealous. Why did I make such a stupid comment? He and Rory knew what was coming when Melita visited. Both guessed Caitlin’s reaction but thought they could win her over by using their status to muscle her into staying. It did not go as planned. They had totally backed her into a corner, and with nowhere else to go, she turned on them. What in the hell, did we expect?

What was worse was Axon knew Caitlin was right. For the first couple of years on the job, she’d run herself ragged helping Jett in between their demands of her. For the last two years, Caitlin had given Axon her all; not once did she consider herself. Most nights his wife fell to sleep on the top covers and fully dressed if he wasn’t there to change her. Yet next morning she’d get up with the sweetest of grins and soldier on. She had asked him before the wedding if she could give up the battle for a few years so they could start a family. He was the one who hadn’t wanted to lose her skills, kept pushing for more, knowing her potential and needing every ounce of her expertise.

He leant against the wall, his hands in his pockets. As a boss, he admired and respected everything she did. When he married Caitlin, it was because he loved and trusted her. Yet today, he suddenly felt jealous because she was choosing him! If I lose her, it will be entirely my fault.

Axon kicked off the wall in frustration and paced again. He remembered when they had married he promised he would show her the world. Not once, as a boss, had he even given them a weekend away to enjoy one another. Axon worked so many hours that life with her so far passed him by. It was so easy to think they had all the time in the world for each other. But what if it’s too late? What if all the time in the world ended now, today? She had very few sweet memories of their time together to even want to be with him. Not like the memories she shared with Jett. He paused and looked out the window. He hated knowing she was off to visit Pluto. There, Jett would spend every minute with her… Time Axon never seemed to find, because his job was too demanding, or was it? He put it first before everything else, even before her. I’ve been such a fool. If she gives me one more chance, I’ll change. He made a silent promise that from now on he would treat her the way she should be taken care of. Not like an employee or possession, but as his wife. God, don’t let it be too late.

Caitlin came in with Rory, flushed from crying. If she let him touch her, Axon would give her a hug and take her somewhere to cheer her up. But he knew it wasn’t his company his wife craved. It was Jett she would sooner be with… and I don’t blame her.

‘She’s ready to go now, Axon,’ Rory politely said and left the room.

‘I know you don’t want to talk to me, Caitlin and I don’t blame you. But before I take you to Pluto, please know it breaks my heart to think I’ve hurt you like this. I’ve been a terrible husband, and if given forgiveness, I promise when you come home to me, I’ll be the man you married, a proper husband and never again act like a dominating controlling, arrogant prick.’

She stayed silent, barely holding on to her nerves by a thread. In a crumbled emotional state, she had no energy to discuss the issue any further.

He spoke again. ‘I don’t need an answer, but please think about coming home to me.’ He moved over to her, close enough to transport them both to another world. If she had wanted contact, she’d have walked over and held his hand as always. For the moment he’d give her space.

The room faded from their sight, replaced by the outside entrance of Jett’s castle. The guards held steady as Axon and Caitlin shimmered into view, their guns aimed, cocked and ready to fire on the intruders. The warning alarms were the same on all planets, and would have picked them up moments before arriving unannounced. This being the reason for the welcoming party.

‘Oh, it’s you, Axon,’ Jett’s Royal Commanding Officer called out from the top of the stairs. ‘We didn’t have you down for a visit today.’

‘My wife is here on orders from Queen Persephone,’ Axon shouted to him over the racket of guns being raised and the bullets being readied in the chambers.

‘Come!’ The commander beckoned them to join him. ‘Her Majesty has gone on an extended holiday with her mother. However, did share with me she was visiting someone very special to her. I should have guessed it would be Caitlin. Let me dismiss my men, and I will take you into the den and announce you. I’m sure the King will be thrilled to see you both as he always looks forward to your visits.

Caitlin was bewildered. She had never been greeted with guns before, and it mystified her why his security was so extreme. There must have been fifty or more rifles still pointed towards them as they were ushered through the enormous hall entrance and left to wait inside the great walls.

The first thing she noticed was Jett had switched off the power. After he had domed the entire castle and grounds, the temperature had warmed the cold grey interior, giving it a bright and luxurious gleam. Today it was dim, dark and cold; a definite sign her Jett was once again trapped inside the monster, Hades.

Axon spoke quietly to her. ‘You look surprised to see Jett’s military, Cait. He has one of the largest armed forces in the heavens. Our latest data shows he has increased them recently. We assume it’s his new status as King that has called for so many.’

‘The King and his Kingdom are well protected then?’ She eyed him.

‘Yes. Hades is a powerful deity. He has always been careful to protect what is his by putting fear into others that dare call him an enemy. So, our concern is why the need for these extra forces. Maybe you could find out for us while you’re here?’

‘I have come to help, not spy. Can’t you step out of work mode for even a few minutes while you transport me here? That’s the trouble, husband of mine, you never knock off.’

‘Sorry Cait, an old habit. I promise to stop it if you just come home with me after a quick visit. There’s something not right here today, and I’d prefer you not to stay any longer than necessary.’ He looked around, worried. The castle had an unfriendly presence, and it was making him nervous to leave her.

‘Don’t concern yourself with me, or what is going on here. Go back to work. I’m okay to visit with Jett, alone.’

* * * *

Once the Commander returned, they followed him into the den in silence. He opened the door and in a big voice announced them. ‘Your Majesty, the Lord of the Planets, Axon Stanton, and the Goddess of Peace, Caitlin Stanton, are here to have an audience with you. Axon – Caitlin.’ He nodded, bowed to the King and left quickly, closing the door behind him.

Hades was in his chair, staring into the fireplace, transfixed by the red-hot embers that blew slightly with the wind that travelled down the chimney. He looked in their direction. His skin tone was grey with anguish, and his deathlike stare had Axon shiver.

Hades bellowed at Axon, ‘Why did you bring her here? Take her home! Now! I do not want or need... her! In fact, I do not want any of you here... ever again! Now, get the hell out of here!

The words thundered in his ears. Axon felt the strength of hatred and anger directed towards them. As Hades, Jett was a scary piece of work. This gave him an uneasy feeling about leaving Cait. Hades held the chair, his knuckles white. Gone was the friendship Cait had fought so hard to build. And gone was Jett. Hades was disturbingly irate, and Axon felt he was out of control. His first instinct was to run with his wife and offer her the world not to have to go through this again. She had confided what Hades was like when he first kidnapped her and now seeing it first hand, he understood the reason she had given him so much time. To turn this monster into Jett, his little charmer must have used every ounce of her energy and magic. Axon recalled how seethingly angry towards the god he became when she chose to stay with Jett for so long. It hurt she never seemed to miss him, or the Riders. His mouth dropped, and his gaze went to his wife. As if given the key, the penny dropped. Hades was her job. For a second time, he was her focus until she felt calm in him. The peace goddess, and to all who knew her up here, she was Glow Girl, a name Hades himself had given her. I should have seen it sooner, this is not my Cait. He was certain it was the Goddess Glow Girl who now stood beside him. The spirit in her had once again taken over, and he knew at that moment, he would not get his Caitlin back until peace in the universe was felt by her. He wondered what it would take this time to bring Hades back from hell’s doors. What have I done? Not only to my beautiful wife but to Jett, who once called me friend? All those times he stubbornly refused Jett access to her, he’d been jealous of what they had. She was part of his team, his Rider, his wife and not for Jett’s beck and call. Now they both hate me and rightfully so!

Cait walked over to Hades and dropped to her knees in front of him. When she placed her hand over his, only a jaw muscle quivered. Axon stood ready to transport her if he used his magic on her. Surely, he’ll do her no harm. The clenched knuckles were from a man in a lot of pain, and even though listening, Hades never spoke, just looked ahead and ignored her. With a stretch of her neck, she changed her approach, and Axon guessed she was talking to him telepathically. Still, he stayed motionless. Not giving up, Caitlin reached out and ran her hand over his wrinkled brow, as if trying to smooth away his pain. This action caused Hades to grip the arm of the chair tighter, and the sound of wooden fibres started to snap with the increased pressure to ignore the feel of her soft hands. Her delicate hands at any other time would calm the evilest of men. Has she lost her touch?

‘Caitlin,’ Axon said softly, ‘do you want me to stay? He isn’t responding, and I worry for you.’

She shook her head not even looking at him. ‘Go... please,’ she murmured.

Jett turned and glared at him with distaste. ‘Take her, I don’t want her here, I just told you I don’t want anyone here! Just – leave – me – alone!’ His voice had risen to a roar.

The angry vibration of his temper didn’t deter Caitlin. She looked up at Axon defiantly. ‘I’m staying whether he wants me here or not. Melita invited me here for a visit, and he – has no say in it.’ She got up and walked to the door. ‘I’m going to my room. I’m exhausted and need a break. You know where I am if you need me. I am perfectly safe here.’

Her usually bright sparkling green eyes were flat. The happy glow she often radiated was dull, and she looked gaunt. Axon wondered how long she’d been feeling like this. They’d been so busy, and now, viewing her in the light of the open fire, he saw what hadn’t been apparent until now. Cait is frail. And she would sooner stay with this tyrant rather than me. It said a lot about how he had disrespected her. Realising he hadn’t given her any quality time for so long made him uneasy; was it too late? What a treasure I’ve held, yet so carelessly let slip through my fingers.

Defeated, he said goodbye to them both before he blew her a kiss. ‘Forgive me,’ he whispered as she faded from his sight. The sadness he saw would haunt him always if he couldn’t find a way to make it up to her.

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Chapter Three

Moonjuice Spice

After Axon had left, Caitlin sighed. Her mind was numb and had nothing left to give to him, or to this man in front of her, that once called her a friend. He had reverted to Hades as Melita had said. He sounded so angry... so very upset with her. Why she had insisted on staying was a mystery. But even as Axon begged, she couldn’t leave. Yet now, she wondered what had held her here. Sad and at a loss as what to do next, she went over to Jett, kissed him on the cheek and touched his cold, hard hand. If his knuckles went any whiter, they would break. He had hold of the armchair so tightly it was a marvel with his powers how the chair arm didn’t shatter. But then, up here, who knew what furniture was made of? Darn strong stuff was her conclusion. Unable to get a response, she left the room, mindful of closing the door to keep him warm. Upstairs, the room she always stayed in was cold, dark and uninviting. If only she knew where the climate control was she would turn it on. Not willing to ask while he was so bad-tempered, she climbed under the bed covers, leaving the fancy thick quilt on to help warm her up. It was there she stayed for many hours. Cold and shivering, fatigue kept her on the edge of sleep and eventually, her mind lay dormant of worry, allowing her to slip into the first real sleep in some time.

Many hours later, thirst stirred Caitlin. Wrapped in the thick blanket from the bed, she slipped her boots back on and went downstairs to the kitchen. Here, she found coffee brewing. When her call for assistance went unanswered, she pulled out two mugs and poured coffees into them. She picked them up but put them back down when a bottle of coffee-Starliqueur, caught her eye. ‘Just what I need,’ she said. The splash was a bit more in each than planned, but the strong aroma smelt divine and, after sipping hers, she decided to add a dash more, filling both mugs to the brim. It warmed her instantly. Feeling a little better, she carried them into the den.

‘Oops!’ She giggled, spilling a dribble on the floor as she struggled to close the door behind her. When she’d arrived, it was mid-morning. The best she could tell by the quiet in the castle now, it must have been around midnight.

Had he moved? Caitlin stared at Jett who still sat in front of the fire where she had left him. He gazed blindly into embers that had almost gone out.

‘Here, this will loosen your tongue,’ she said, holding the mug to his hand. ‘Take it, or I’ll drop the hot coffee in your lap.’

His hand moved and took what she offered.

Usually, Jett would have looked up at her with dark, mysterious eyes lightened with an amused twinkle, but alas, there was not a flicker of acknowledgement.

‘My humour is wasted on a sulking god. I will wait for my King to return.’ She made herself comfortable on the couch, wrapped up like a mummy in the folds of a big blanket. They silently sat sipping their coffee. When hers was gone, she went over to the bar and selected a bottle of Moonjuice. She filled two goblets, and after successfully swapping the mug for the decorative cup in Jett’s hand, she studied him. ‘Are you ready to talk yet?’

His eyes stared directly ahead as he ignored all attempts of friendly banter.

She shrugged upon not seeing an expression in his creamy complexion. ‘Maybe one of these on top of what I just gave you will loosen your tongue, my friend.’

She planned to go back to bed after that drink if he continued to ignore her, but he surprised her and emptied his goblet.

‘Good.’ She drank hers down to join him in another and kept their cups replenished until the two bottles she had found, were empty.

It had been awhile since visiting Pluto and drinking the gods’ especially brewed elixir went straight to her head. With a sudden burst of energy, she threw the blanket aside. ‘This place is too quiet. It’s like a frigging morgue. Oh, that’s right, it is one!’ She giggled, lightheaded. ‘It’s the Land of the Living Dead.’ She cracked up laughing. In front of the NAVsound centre, she tapped at her chin. ‘Let me see what deadbeats like to boogie to.’ Again, she gave a silly laugh, finding her words amusing. With a stagger, she picked out a CD and once the music began, cranked up the sound and sang out loud. Her body moved to the rhythm, but she soon found herself stiff and tight. What’s wrong with me? The drink gave her a false sense of fun, but it was the first time in a long while that she had enjoyed anything, so she continued singing and eventually was so unsteady on her feet she fell into Jett’s lap. She gazed up at him. ‘It has been far too long my friend, and I’ve missed all that is familiar here. I’ve missed the historic but elegant furniture, lovingly cared for and kept looking immaculate. Not forgetting the massive, painted portraits encased in antique frames that decorate every wall, the warm rug beneath our feet and last, but especially—you.’

He didn’t return any warmth, but it did not deter her. ‘I don’t care if you hate me forever. I will never stop caring for you, Jett.’ She gave him a few light kisses on his forehead and cheeks, just mucking about.

Although meant as a friendly gesture it took Jett by surprise; he had not expected her to feel such affection towards him. This traitor dumped me. Never once came back to visit. His trust in their friendship had broken down, and it had left a sour taste. He hated her for not caring about him. Yet, while he reminded himself of this and stood firmly resisting her charm, his heart did a little flip as a sudden warm spark of hope seeped inside it. She still cares? His eyes glanced unwillingly to her. The shock of what he saw confused him and was enough to snap him out of his own worries and fears for his future. His gaze darted back to her. This woman looks nothing like my old friend.

Her skin was pale, the delicate thinness exposed impurities and fine veins beneath. Dark black rings circled dull emerald eyes that had lost all signs of health or lust for life. Her natural lush, silky red hair was matted and drab. It was such a shock it was as if an electric charge entered his mind and body. It felt as if he had just had a voltaic jump-start that took him back to her, back to where he had once been happy. What am I doing? Never again did he want to lose what friendship they had, and he swore in those minutes that followed, that Axon would never stand between them again. No matter how much he respected her husband, Glow Girl lit up his world. It woke him up to the fact that, yes, his other problems were real and needed handling, but he felt like this because he missed her. Darkness could never consume him while she was in his life.

Jett felt his internal strength to balance good and evil start to return, and after blinking a couple of times, he shook his head. Just to move his eyelids hurt at this stage, but he was determined to pull out of his depression. Glow needed him, and Jett hoped it wasn’t too late. He should have realised there was more behind the reason she hadn’t visited him. I should have ignored Axon as I’ve always done... just gone to her? But he had befriended Axon, become confused on where his loyalty should be and tried to do the right thing by him as Glow’s husband. He’d given Axon the same courtesy he would expect if in that position.

‘I can’t stay awake.’ Her voice so soft he barely heard her.

The time for self-analysing was cut short as Glow Girl’s lids suddenly dropped and her body slumped like a dead weight into his arms. Usually, she can drink as much as me. He doubted the alcohol had this effect on her. What’s happened to cause this exhaustion? Why didn’t she use her magic within to control her state of mind? Mulling over these questions drained him and, not able to think up any reasonable answers, he decided rest was all she needed. Axon must be working her too hard. In a mind blur from the mental state he had been in, Jett debated if he should leave her here on the couch or get her up to bed. He hadn’t been upstairs for many months, and couldn’t bear to walk past her room. He had missed her, was mad at her, but tonight, having her here had dampened his anger. As weak as she was, her presence still had a way of calming him. But he too was poorly. He’d become run down with the frustration and worry over his duties, not only as King but as a God to the Underworld. Have I the energy to transport her upstairs? He wobbled as he stood until he felt how lightweight she had become. I can do this. With his mind on her room he wished himself there and was pleased when the room they stood in faded. ‘At least one of us has some power left,’ he said to his sleeping friend.

Once in her room, he looked down into the prettiest face he had ever seen. ‘Unwell as you are, Glow, you still look beautiful to me.’ It was then he noticed her drenched lashes lying on wet cheeks. Before she fainted, she had shed tears. He didn’t know she’d been crying. She was laughing when she fell on him. These were tears for him and he melted at the visible emotion evoked to bring him around. ‘This showy singing and dancing was for me?’ He smiled down at her sweetness. His future he felt he now held in his hands and he shivered with bliss. They had been friends. Best friends. He placed Glow Girl on the bed and covered her, but it didn’t matter how he tucked in the blankets or how much bedding he piled on, she continued to shiver uncontrollably.

Over by the fire, Jett prodded the logs he put flame to until they crackled and burst into a blazing fire. On a chair away from so much heat he sat to wait, but still, she trembled. Finally, he threw his hands into the air. ‘Okay already, I give up.’ He had struggled to stay away from her but it was no use and with a sigh, he lay down beside her. As soon as he did that, she rolled immediately towards his warmth. While she hugged him, he wished to fight this comforting feeling and not allow his heart to care as much for her this time. What if Axon took her away again once she was well? He struggled with the thought and was in two minds. One side of him wanted to forgive her for staying away. The other side of him wanted to keep being mad at her, wanted to get up, go back downstairs and stay angry. Instead, he hugged her and as the shaking eased, he too slept … and slept.

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Chapter Four

The Rescuer is Rescued

Caitlin didn’t know how long she slept, but when she woke she was incredibly cosy and warm. Jett’s still here! Or was it Hades? Caitlin wiggled around to face him, pleased he had forgiven her enough to stay and keep her from freezing. This was something Hades would not do, but Jett would. His eyes, when they opened to look at her, were still very dark, but in them, she saw a glimmer of her friend. He needed time to forgive her, but this was a start and Caitlin would take whatever she could get. If she lost his friendship, it would devastate her. When she arrived, her magic had been depleted and she was unsure how to bring him out of the darkness he had slipped into. Being together again like this proved to her that their friendship was more than magic; it was real. The thrill of this knowledge gave her a sudden lifting of her own mood. He, however, looked exhausted.

‘Are you mad at me?’ she asked.

‘You know I didn’t want you here. I was so ticked off at you for not caring about me. But something about the magic of us just being together has, for now, dragged me back from hell’s doors.’

He went quiet, and she felt a but coming on…

‘But know this, Glow, I’m fine there, in hell, so if you don’t want me around anymore, I would prefer you to get up now and leave. And this time, never ever come back. Is that understood…? You’re killing me here, Glow; it’s been two blatzing years!’

He was still a little Hades, but she didn’t care. Her days had run into months and months to years. Her heart sank, and she blinked away tears that stung her eyes. ‘I swear I want what we had before. Honestly, I don’t know where the time went.’

He saw and heard trustworthiness loud and clear while her eyes held back tears and the quiver in her voice showed it saddened her too. ‘I know where… with that pathetic bunch you ride with. And that no-good husband that stole you from me.’ It was a shock to see her eyes go blank as he mentioned them. He saw Caitlin blinked twice before speaking. She had lost focus and he wondered what caused it.

‘But in my defence, it only seems like yesterday I was with you. This is the second time in two days I have been told this. Are you sure it’s two years?’

His brows furrowed together. ‘Yes! And if you do still want our friendship, this must change. That husband of yours must take off those chains from around you and let you live a little, see your friends and be man enough to apologise to me. He might have been a mate of mine once, but he has a lot of work to do to get back in my good graces again. Glow, you’re my best friend, and I knew after that display last night, I’m still yours. So, no one has the right to keep us apart.’

‘I’m so furious at him right now,’ Caitlin confided. Her lip quivered. ‘Did he really prevent us from seeing one another?’

‘He did, many times. And I can see by your reaction that if he doesn’t change he’ll lose us both.’

She gave him a slight lip curl as she tried to hold back tears. ‘I just want to be here with you for a while. I can’t think straight anymore. Don’t send me away.’

‘I’m not going to do that. Are you crazy as well, woman? I want you to stay for as long as you like. But I swear, this time I won’t be Mr Nice Guy. If Axon stops me seeing you in the future, he and I will have a problem. You’d better get ready to pick a side.’

‘I’m not sure we are even in love anymore. We never see one another and I barely remember our wedding day. I feel so terrible feeling like this at times, but I don’t seem to recall any holidays or fun to draw from… nothing memorable that inspires me to try and keep us together.’

She began to cry, and all Jett could do was hold her. What happened? They were so much in love.

When she calmed down, he told her he would speak to Axon later about his mistreatment of her. Jett touched her nose affectionately. ‘Your husband needn’t think he’ll be getting you back until I see that he truly loves you.’ He shook his head at the thought. At times he really did feel like a protective father towards her. Hell, he was old enough to be her great-grandfather and then some. He pulled a sudarium from his pocket and once again felt his age. Many used tissues now, but he still liked to use a sudarium, and it had to be ironed correctly. He patted dry her tears. ‘How about we order breakfast and go rug-up by the fire in the den and eat. Have a couch day together. Catch up on old times.’

‘Sounds perfect.’

* * * *

While they waited for breakfast, they kept the conversation light and less stressful. Caitlin rested her head on his shoulder, and he put an arm around her. Feeling how frail her frame had become, he hugged her with both arms. ‘There’s nothing to you without that big blanket around you, Glow. What’s been going on?’

‘Hang on, aren’t I here to help you? Are you asking if the rescuer needs rescuing?’ She dug her fingers into his ribs. ‘What about you, skinny?’

‘I think we both need rescuing.’ He sat back with just an arm around her. ‘The universe has linked us, Glow. That’s why I couldn’t give you up and why I’ve decided I’m not going to.’

‘Neither can I stop seeing you. Yesterday I was so cross! Axon and Rory refused my request to visit, so I resigned.’

‘Yesterday! Seriously! That was the first time you heard I needed your help?’

‘Axon had mentioned once that you were having some problems, but that you had it under control. I knew nothing of your true situation until Melita came to see me yesterday. Jett, she was so worried about you.’

‘Melita visited, did she? I told her not to, and she promised me. I didn’t want you here. Doesn’t that woman listen to anything I say?’

Caitlin gave a faint grin. ‘She’s your woman and knows exactly what you need, even when you don’t.’

‘I guess so. And now you’re here, I must admit I’m glad in this instance my wife dared to ignore me. But back to you, Glow; have you really resigned?’ He dropped his shoulder and his head slanted with an inquisitive stare.

‘Yes, but Axon and Rory are giving me time to rethink it.’ She threw her hands up. ‘I don’t get it, and they say I’m stubborn. They know I’m not the powerhouse I used to be, and yet they refuse to replace me.’

‘I can’t believe that.’ Jett eyed her.

‘I’m seriously no good as a Rider anymore. Geez, my horse has more magic than me and may I add, has done for quite some time. Rory is so, so Grrr…,’ she said and put her hands up to her cheeks in a frustrated gesture.

He pulled her hands away and held them. ‘What’s Axon doing about it? He must see what’s going on.’ He spoke in a gentle and caring tone.

‘Our relationship has been strained. We barely speak anymore. Let’s just say Axon’s not the man I married.’ She paused. Sadness filled her eyes as she turned to face him. ‘I think he sees me as a Rider first, wife second. This is causing a rift. You see, as a Rider, it’s my job to come up with solutions but nothing I think of works. Then he blames himself for my confusion and backs away to give me time to think. But I’ve lost my magic, Jett. I can’t see a clear picture of how to fix anything, never mind work out how to repair my marriage.’

He hugged her again when tears rolled down her cheeks. She had mentioned marriage problems upstairs, but he hadn’t realised it was this bad.

She sniffled into the hanky he gave her earlier. ‘As I told Melita yesterday, I didn’t know how to help you because I can’t help myself.’

‘What did she say to that?’ It surprised him she was still Glow, honest as the first day he met her, not keeping anything from him. It was one of her qualities he adored. It made him feel special that she chose him to confide in no matter how confidential the information. She trusted him with her heart.

‘Melita wasn’t taking no for an answer and suggested it was together we would find our answers.’

‘She said that?’

Caitlin nodded, ‘in her polite way.’ She shifted and placed a cushion behind her back. ‘Melita told me that to give us time to sort it out, she was going to her mother’s place and would stay with her for the winter. Said you’d go pick her up when you’re feeling better. She’s a good woman, your Melita.’

He smiled. ‘I love her with all my heart, Glow, but would never have expected such loyalty and support after treating her so poorly. Yes, she sure is one fine woman that I married.’

A knock on the door, followed by servants bustling in with trays, put an end to their conversation. The aroma was mouth-watering. Caitlin’s stomach rumbled and it left her to ponder how long it had been since she last ate. With the combination of a crisp cold morning, the crackling of the fire and good company, she felt hungry. They moved to the table set for two in the corner of the room and sipped fresh squeezed orange juice while percolated coffee was poured. To her delight, piping hot fluffy omelettes topped with crispy bacon were placed before her. ‘Mmm … Earth food, I will enjoy this,’ she said to the servant girl, who smiled brightly.

‘It is an honour to cook for the Goddess of Peace.’ The young server curtsied low, and her dark lashes lay gently on flushed cheeks.

Jett waved her and the others away. ‘I’m afraid you have become quite the celebrity around here. Your work as a Rider and peacekeeper has become legendary. The chef and his assistants trained hard for this day. I have had nothing but Earth food for