Awakening: A Timeless Series Novel, Book Four

By Lisa L Wiedmeier

Cheyenne has done the unthinkable and fulfilled her mother's destiny through marrying Marcus.

Although she believes it's the key to his defeat, her family does not. Shunned and abandoned by everyone, even Callon, she must come to grips with her choice and push forward for a new, brighter future.

Yet the fight ha

• Language: English
• Publisher: Integrity Financial Services, LLC
• Release date: Apr 22, 2014
• ISBN: 9780983905288

Lisa L Wiedmeier

Taming the wilderness of my imagination, one story at a time. I love hiking, camping, watching my boys fish, and taking long walks with my yellow labs, Taylor and Mandi. I enjoy cooking when the mood hits, and not only have I published novels, but I'm the master of redesigning just about anything. I'm the DIY author who has made Idaho her home for 28 years, and I can't wait to spend another 28 years here.

Book preview

Chapter 1

Alone …

The word rattled around in my mind as I glanced around the Canadian forest. We’d escaped to the wilderness, but it would never hold my freedom. It was as my birth mother Sahara had said; I’d be fighting this battle alone. But that’s what I’d been created for. I was a weapon with the sole purpose of defeating the one who wanted to destroy us all…Marcus.

I’d been right from the beginning, had told my family all along that I was nothing more than this. But they worked hard to sway me otherwise; they had given me their love and trust, and almost convinced me, until now. We’d all been so wrong.

It would’ve been easier to stay with Marcus in that dreary gray compound. I wouldn’t have had to see the despair and hurt, as all those closest to me accused me of betrayal. Now my rescue had changed all our fates.

Changed them forever.

What hurt worst of all was that Callon thought I’d betrayed him—but I hadn’t meant for it to be like this. By uniting in marriage to Marcus, I’d inadvertently given him the Consilador clan’s powers, instead of restoring them to Callon. Marcus had lied to me— and I had believed every word. But there had to be a way to restore the powers to their rightful owners. I was united with Marcus, after all; I’d have the Consilador’s powers as well. And if I had their powers, I should be able to return them to the clan…but finding out how was the least of my worries at the moment.

I couldn’t stop the tears streaming down my cheeks. Colt drew me closer, as I watched Callon walk away into the wilderness. Nakari tagged along behind him, till he pushed her away. Even she couldn’t comfort him now. I’d wounded him deeply, too deeply for forgiveness. The one promise I’d made—not to break his heart—and I had.

Nakari’s parting words stung, and I let out a shaky breath. Maybe Marcus was all I ever deserved. My mother’s journal pages had told me the truth. My parents had given me up to protect me, but not for my own sake. In reality it was to protect their weapon. Despite the fact that Colt’s cruelty while I was Marcus’s captive had been an act, his words hit home. I had never been loved by my parents, or they would never have condemned to me to this fate.

I pushed away from Colt, but he caught my arm as I tried to walk away.

Cheyenne?

He didn’t want me too far away, not after he’d risked his life to get me back. I looked down at the forest floor, avoiding eye contact, and pulled away. I found a fallen tree to perch on while Maes, Brogan, and Koda talked out their escape plan. They needed to escape, and I needed to wait till Marcus came after me again. It was never going to be over as long as I was with them. I was sure I’d have to watch them die, one by one…

A dark shadow loomed above me.

We need to leave, Maes said. We need to get as much ground between you and Marcus before he regains his powers. He’s going to be coming for you, and it won’t be like before. He won’t stop till he has you.

Leave me here, I replied. He only wants me.

No, Maes said, his French accent thickening with irritation. I may not understand what’s taken place, but right now you’re a danger to us, and you can’t be left alone.

I swallowed hard. I should have seen it coming, should have known Maes would see me as a threat, not that I could blame him. I had realized I had to marry Marcus, but I was still unsure how this would help me defeat him. And keeping this fact to myself was in my best interests right now. The others already thought I’d made a huge mistake—telling them I wasn’t sure where to go from here would make it even worse. I stood and followed Maes to Midnight, Koda’s enormous black horse.

Of course, I wouldn’t be allowed to ride alone or with Colt. Both Colt and I were a threat, an unknown factor, rogues who had betrayed the family’s trust. Koda’s harsh expression softened, and sympathetic icy blue eyes met mine. He didn’t like the situation any more than I did. I sighed.

The sunlight trickled through the trees as we rode. The familiar ache in my head was growing. I closed my eyes, willing it to disappear, but as time passed, it remained. It was only a matter of time till it took over, and I’d go through another transformation, one that would forever unite my powers with Marcus.

I rubbed my temple. The reaction had happened to a degree while I was with Marcus, after almost uniting my powers with Callon. Marcus had said I’d be disoriented, and I’d slept for three days. Marcus was considerably stronger than Callon. How long would this go on? I didn’t have three days to waste in recovery.

You okay? Colt rode closer, reaching out to touch my arm.

I avoided his eyes.

What’s wrong, Cheyenne? Koda asked, leaning forward so his breath warmed my neck.

Are you feeling ill? Daniel chimed in as he too closed the distance between us.

Brogan gave a disgusted snort.

I’m fine. I brushed Colt away and drew Koda’s cloak around me. I didn’t need their sympathy.

They didn’t push the matter. For that I was grateful, but Daniel and Colt rode close and Koda’s hold had changed. He pulled me closer against his chest, his muscles tense. Obviously he thought I might keel over in a faint or something.

We continued through the forest, morning turning into late afternoon. It was odd, for though Maes had said we needed to keep our distance from Marcus, we didn’t seem to be riding that fast.

Where were the Trackers, the Tresezes? I knew the Ghosters weren’t a threat anymore; they typically only tracked Timeless children before they transformed. But I’d have thought Raina would make an appearance.

I leaned forward and glanced around us. It had been a quiet ride, everyone lost in their own thoughts, their faces still glum. It was as if they’d paired up into two groups—the ones who supported me and the ones who didn’t.

Daniel and Colt flanked our right side, while Brogan, Maes, and Nakari were on our left. Andre, Bree, Clayton, and Skylar seemed to be right down the middle. The rest, well, they’d choose sides when we caught up with them.

My eyes wandered back to Nakari. She looked the worst by far. Her auburn hair hung limply over her slouched shoulders, and her head hung low. A shiver escaped her, and she pulled her jacket tighter. Her head turned slightly to the right as a deer stopped grazing and watched us pass, but her expression didn’t change.

She didn’t understand, and no matter how much I tried to tell her I had done this for her, she’d always blame me. As if on cue, she looked up, and her green eyes glowed with hatred. I turned away. Even if I had my mother’s journals and allowed her to read them, chances were she’d interpret them differently—chances were they all would.

I knew the message in them, and I hadn’t come to my decision lightly. Even now, parts of the journal rambled through my thoughts.

They will be strong, and they will know what needs to be done when the time comes. They will see, like I did, that there is only one way to defeat…they will be stronger than I ever was.

I had to be strong where my mother never was, she’d told me.

I was never strong enough…but you will have your father’s powers. You will be stronger… You will understand what needs to be done.

It’s your strength, your love, and your determination…that will defeat him. You will be hurt… You will be judged... You will face this burden alone. It’s only you—it’s only your powers—.

Keep your allies close, and your enemies closer.

This is your destiny, your destiny alone.

It had always been my destiny, my powers, my enemy. It couldn’t be shared.

A black streak darted into the forest, and I stared hard after it. Maes had seen something, but what? Had our pace been too slow? Had Maes misjudged Marcus? Was his army already upon us? We stopped and Koda drew me further into the cloak, hiding me from view. My heart began to race. What if Marcus’s army was here? How would I protect my family? Would he be content to take me and leave them be? I’d married him, after all; he didn’t need anyone else but me. I was hidden for the moment, but I knew we couldn’t disappear because of the daylight. I wouldn’t let them die for me!

Midnight gave a loud snort, and Sam joined him. Colt’s leg rubbed up against me as Sam pushed him into Midnight, and my jaw tightened. I couldn’t see a thing. How would I even know if Marcus was coming?

Whoa, boy, Colt cooed.

Koda tensed for a moment, then drew the cloak open. Hoof beats sounded in the trees. He would have kept me hidden unless…

I think Dex and Lilly caught up with us, Koda said.

I lowered my head, my shoulders sagging. Dex and Lilly. I knew I’d have to face them, but I was hoping to have more time. I wasn’t ready to see the disappointment in their eyes.

Colt dismounted and plucked me from Midnight. I stayed beside the horse, trying to stay hidden from their view. What would they say? I wondered how much they knew. Colt’s hand came to rest on my shoulder, drawing me closer. His breathing had quickened. He was nervous for me too.

The galloping hooves came to an abrupt stop.

Where is she? I heard Dex’s panicked voice.

Cowering behind Koda, Brogan sneered.

Cheyenne? The desperation in Lilly’s voice nearly drove me to tears before I even saw them.

I took a step back before Colt encouraged me forward. Lilly and Dex crushed me in their arms.

Oh, Cheyenne, Lilly sobbed, her cheek pressing against mine, her heart racing.

You’re safe now, Dex said soothingly, stroking my head. We’ll find the braid and…

They didn’t know. My throat grew tight, and I pushed them away with shaking hands.

What? Lilly’s brow puckered and she reached out to pull me back, her long black braid falling forward.

Go ahead and tell them, Cheyenne, Brogan growled, and I flinched. Tell them how you sold us out to Marcus!

She didn’t sell us out, Brogan! Colt shot back, his chest heaving. She did what she thought was right at the time. We all make mistakes…

My breath caught. Colt thought I’d made a mistake? Even after all he’d said, he didn’t understand…

Like you? Maes chimed in, stepping closer. You brought her to his doorstep!

I moved back, distancing myself from all of them. I blinked back my tears, and my lower lip trembled. Dex and Lilly stared at me.

Stop it! Koda boomed and leapt down from Midnight, stalking closer. There’s always a reason! Give her a chance to explain!

That’s right, Cheyenne. Here’s your chance right now to explain to Dex and Lilly why you married Marcus! Brogan snapped.

You…you married him? Dex repeated in utter shock, his face paling.

My foot caught on a stump as I stepped back, but Daniel caught me before I fell. He drew his arm around me, trying to show his support, but it was too late.

Just tell them like you told us, Cheyenne, Daniel said near my ear.

I—It was my destiny, I said softly. I knew I had done the right thing, but having Dex and Lilly doubt me would be devastating.

Lilly stepped closer, her blue eyes searching, then narrowing.

Why? she said.

My mother’s journals.

Bits and pieces of her mother’s journals, Brogan added.

Dex glanced back, frowning at him, and then focused his attention on me again.

I don’t understand, Cheyenne, Dex moved forward, rubbing the back of his neck. What was in your mother’s journals that convinced you to marry Marcus?

I closed my eyes, knowing Dex wouldn’t like what I was going to reveal. This was getting harder by the moment.

It—it told me why she left. She was weak. She found my father with the sole purpose of creating me—a weapon.

Lilly gasped.

My mother knew that by uniting powers with my father, they stood a chance. But there was a catch. I’d have to marry Marcus…

To unite with his powers… Dex whispered, shaking his head. Wisps of his brown hair fell in his eyes.

Did he understand? If any of them might, he would. He knew my parents, knew what they were up against. Surely he’d understand their train of thought. He looked back up, but his hazel eyes grew distant.

Do you realize what you’ve done, Cheyenne? You’ve also given Marcus the Consilador’s powers.

I swallowed. He was my last hope, the one I thought might side with me, but he didn’t. Nakari moved stood beside Lilly, placing her arm around the older woman’s shoulder. Tears streamed down Lilly’s cheeks. I’d disappointed her, again. Another new arrival approached to stand beside Lilly. Layla was here too. She wouldn’t look at me, not that she needed to for me to know what she was thinking. I’d caught a small glimpse of the shock and dismay she tried to hide, but couldn’t.

But… I tried to say.

Brogan cut me off, pushing Layla, Lilly, and Nakari behind him and towering over me. But what, princess? You’ve said enough already. There are no more words for your betrayal.

I wanted to say so many things, tell them how sorry I was, that I’d work to gain the Consilador’s powers back, but I knew it didn’t matter. I’d already apologized to the group, and it didn’t change a thing. I was in this alone. I was the one who had betrayed their trust. I was the one who’d most likely destroy them all. I was no better than Marcus.

Dex turned and walked away, shaking his head in disbelief.

It was too much, and I pinched my eyes closed for a moment. I shoved Daniel off and ran towards the forest. The best thing I could do was leave them, for their own safety.

Stop her! Brogan yelled.

Colt caught me by the arm and pressed me into his chest, holding me close. My fingers knotted into his shirt. His hand began stroking my back as my tears continued to fall. It was bad enough being a failure to everyone, but I couldn’t bear the complete and utter despair Dex and Lilly had shown me. It hurt too deeply.

Give Dex time, Cheyenne, Colt said. They both need time to understand it.

Even you don’t understand it, Colt! I snapped and shoved him back. You think it was a mistake. You just said so.

He didn’t reply, but instead pressed me close again, resting his chin on my head.

Leave me here. Let Marcus find me, I whispered in defeat. It’ll be safer for everyone...

No! Colt’s hold grew tight. I just got you back. I’m not letting go again. We’ll find a way around this, I promise.

The only way I saw around this resulted in death, their deaths.

We need to leave, Daniel reminded us.

Colt released me, but instead of leading me to Koda, he helped me mount Sam.

She rides with Koda, Colt, Brogan said stalking closer.

Colt ignored him and mounted behind me.

We’re not being followed, and she’s not going anywhere. She’s riding with me, Colt said.

Brogan’s jaw firmed, and his brown eyes darkened. We’re not being followed because Marcus already has what he wants—her powers! He’ll come for her, mark my words. He’ll want to remove the weak link.

Let it go, Brogan, Koda said, moving between us.

Brogan was right. I was the weak link…

Maes’s jade-rimmed eyes narrowed for a moment, and then he shifted into his Tresez form before leading us off into the forest again. Layla rode beside Brogan and touched his arm. He softened, but not before he gave me a sidelong glance. I was back to being lower than pond scum with him.

I’d worked hard, gained ground with him in Ireland, but everything had changed. Everything had been wiped away when I married Marcus, because he didn’t understand, and chances were he wouldn’t understand until it was too late.

Colt kept me close as we rode, his chin leaning against my head. His familiar woodsy scent drifted around me, and I couldn’t help but inhale. Regardless of all that had transpired, I’d missed him, but I was married now and everyone around me was in danger…especially Colt and Callon. They would be Marcus’s first targets, unless I kept my distance. But Marcus wasn’t here right now, and Callon was gone. He’d deserted me, us.

I’d thought he’d merely gone for a walk, to cool off, but he still hadn’t returned to our group. Even if he did, it wouldn’t change a thing. I knew he’d refuse to make eye contact with me. He was angry, hurt, and powerless, all because of me. I’d handed over not only his powers, but the entire Consilador clan’s powers. Even though it hadn’t been intentional, the fact remained. I’d left them unprotected, unable to defend themselves—trapped, just like me.

But surely I could change their fate, unlike mine, and get their powers back…I just had to figure out how, and Callon was my best shot at figuring out the how.

Afternoon transitioned to evening, and the forest grew darker. We didn’t stop, and neither had the pain in my skull. I could feel myself growing weaker. I glanced around, searching for Callon. Will he come back, Colt? I asked.

I don’t know, he replied, and I can’t ask him, either.

I pressed my eyes closed for a moment. He’d lost his telepathy because of me.

I’m sorry, I murmured.

It’s going to take time, sweetheart, time for everyone to come to grips with this new situation.

Situation, he said, but I knew it was their death sentence.

He sighed and kissed my head.

You’re exhausted. I know how long it took you to recover from the failed bonding with Callon. I also know the joining of powers is going to be worse for you. We’re not going to stop, so close your eyes and rest. Marcus isn’t coming.

Marcus wasn’t coming…at least not now, but he would. It was only a matter of time.

I didn’t want to listen to Colt’s advice, but as each hour passed, it was becoming harder and harder to keep my eyes open. Charlie snorted beside us and Daniel stretched out his arm, handing me a small blanket.

This will help keep you warm, Cheyenne. The moonlight shone through the trees, letting me see his sad eyes. I didn’t know how we’d find you. I—I wanted to bring you something that reminded you of home.

Thank you, I whispered, close to tears once again. Daniel, my brother, was always thinking of me. He didn’t care what the others would say.

Colt helped drape the blanket over me, and I huddled into his chest. The rhythmic sounds of his breathing, bringing back memories of how it used to be before my life had been turned upside down, helped lull me to sleep.

My hands drifted over the soft grass of the valley, which tickled my palms. A mountain lake lay ahead. The clear skies caused the sun’s rays to dance over the water as if it were glass. Not a ripple distorted the surface; it was perfect, just like this moment.

A tall figure moved in the distance, but I wasn’t concerned. I knew who was coming toward me, Callon. His brown wavy hair framed his face perfectly. His white shirt was unbuttoned, exposing his brawny tanned chest. His khaki pants hugged his frame well. A smile emerged from his rugged features, his hazel eyes lit up as he neared, and he stretched out a hand for me to join him.

I had no fears here. For once, my heart felt light and carefree. For once, my heart was singing with happiness. A small breeze drifted over us, and I inhaled the scent of wildflowers. I closed my eyes, wanting to lock this moment away, this perfect moment, this perfect place.

Thunder suddenly rolled across the sky, and my eyes shot open to see lightning illuminating black clouds. A howling wind swept over the valley, knocking me to the ground. I fought to stand.

I struggled to my feet as lightning-laden clouds dropped from the skies. The earth shook from the thunderous blasts, and Callon tumbled to the valley floor.

No! I screamed as I ran towards him.

A lightning bolt sizzled beside me, tossing me to the side. I crawled to my feet again as the raging storm heightened. A crack of lightning whipped its way across the sky and smacked into Callon. I lost my breath as I watched his body fly through the air. Another strip of lightning snapped at his chest, and then another and another.

No, Callon! No! A gut-wrenching bellow came from within.

I threw my hands out, summoning the winds and light, but nothing happened. I gritted my teeth and fought to pull out that crimson-eyed creature, but it remained dormant. Nothing came to life.

Hands grabbed at me, strong hands that wanted to force me down, force me to submit.

You have nothing, my angel, a voice whispered near my ear. What you have will be taken from you…they’ll die. You no longer have control, I do.

That voice…Marcus!

I struggled to turn and face him, to claw at his eyes, but with each movement I made, I was knocked back down to the valley floor.

Cheyenne! a deep voice roared. Cheyenne! Wake up!

No! I fought the arms that held me down. I’ll kill you!

Cheyenne. A soft hand touched my cheek, stroking it. Cheyenne, it’s okay. It was just a dream.

I blinked, my eyes focusing in on the faces around me, and my lower lip began to tremble. Lilly held my cheek, her blue eyes filled with tears. The hands that had me pinned down began to loosen. Koda and Brogan stood, their shoulders tense, ready to leap again if needed. Maes released my legs, his eyes narrowing as he studied me. Daniel and Colt knelt by my head, their eyes wide. Colt opened his mouth to speak and then closed it.

I turned away and rolled to my side. What had I done? What had happened?

Callon, I whispered. I’d witnessed Callon’s death—a horrid death, and Marcus, he’d been there. He’d spoken to me.

I couldn’t hide the terror in my eyes; they’d all seen it. But it was a dream; it wasn’t real…or was it? Was this a vision of what was to come?

Cheyenne? Dex gently tugged on my arm to roll me over. Cheyenne, let me take a look at you.

I sat up and pushed him away, panting for air. Callon, I needed Callon right now. I needed to know he was still alive, that what I’d seen wasn’t real. I needed to tell him I’d fix everything. I’d make it right in his eyes again…he just had to give me time.

Callon, I need to see Callon.

He’s not here, Cheyenne, Colt replied.

I pulled my legs to my chest and began to rock.

Where was he? Shouldn’t he have come back by now? I looked up and took in my surroundings. We weren’t in the forest anymore. We were in a small meadow and a large stone building lay ahead. The sun’s rays were peaking over the mountaintop that sat behind it.

How long had I been out? How many days did I lose? And how many days had Callon been gone?

I rose only to stumble. Colt quickly caught my arm, and I fought to push him away. He released me, but stayed nearby. I pushed past the group and made my way towards the abandoned building.

My hand shook as I brushed blond wisps of hair back. I couldn’t handle the stares, the fear they expressed. I needed something concrete to focus on, and the new landscape was the only available option. Colt didn’t speak. He and Daniel walked beside me, scared I’d break, just as scared as I was.

The old stonework was beginning to crumble; the many large windows facing us were covered in years of dirt and decay. A large stone stairway led to two enormous steel doors. Several smaller outbuildings stood nearby, and what looked like a corral and stables.

I stepped towards the building, which appeared to be an old mine, and stopped at a small creek’s edge.

Wherever here was, I was sure we were going to stay awhile, but why?

Maes stepped in front of me, but I kept my gaze on the water.

I need you to wait here. We need to clear the building first, Maes said.

I didn’t reply as Maes and Brogan moved past me. I’d stand here and wait like I’d been told. I didn’t need to give them any more reasons not to trust me, especially after that nightmare.

My eyes misted. It had all amounted to nothing in the end. The fact was that even though I was Timeless, after all the secrets that had been kept from me, after all the time I’d spent in hiding, nothing had changed. I was still trapped in a destiny I couldn’t control, and the ones I loved most were going to suffer for it.

Chapter 2

Iwatched Brogan and Maes cautiously climb the stairs to the old building. The creak of the metal doors caused me to cringe. Maes glanced back as Brogan entered the dark building. He hesitated for a moment, as if unsure he wanted me out of his sight, but then turned and entered.

My mind wandered back to our first meeting, when he dragged me out of the rushing water and saved my life. He wasn’t who I thought he was. He was dark and mysterious, menacing and challenging. He was larger than life, like Colt, but in a medieval way with his black hair, broad chest, and his jade-rimmed eyes that continually searched. At times, I felt like they could see into my soul.

He’d called me mon espoir, his hope. He sought me out to help him break the curse over the Quaysaar clan, the curse that made him shift into a Tresez. Tresez were horrid creatures that resembled hideous mythical dogs, grotesquely large, and with fangs that could rip you apart in seconds. It was a curse cast over him by my grandfather because his father chose the wrong side.

The curse was weakening, though. The stronger Tresezes could shift into their human form, but Maes had been without his clan ring for generations, until I found it on the bottom of the lake in Ireland. He’d waited for such a moment for so long, only for it to be destroyed the moment I married Marcus.

In his eyes, I’d failed him, and the once strong connection we had was severed forever. His anger, his despair—he didn’t need to say anything more. His actions told me everything. He’d sided with Brogan, Callon, and the others. They all saw me as worthless—a failure—and a new threat. But I’d show them they were wrong. I’d get the Consilador’s powers back, and Callon would return.

Mandi’s muzzle nudged my back, followed by a whinny. I knew she was with us. I’d heard her several times. I didn’t turn around, but instead stepped back and leaned into her neck. She’d missed me as I’d missed her, but any joy in our reunion was whisked away by my current situation.

We’ll find him, Colt said near my ear. I’ll find him and bring him back, I promise.

I should’ve felt warmth from his words, from his knowing exactly what I’d been thinking about, but I didn’t. It was obvious Callon didn’t want to return.

I felt Colt’s stare upon me, knew his uncertainty and that he was full of questions. The heat from his chest heated my arm. He was there waiting in case I fell. Waiting to pick me up, dust me off, and put me back up on my feet…the same feet that had trampled over my family’s hearts.

I heard my family in the background, whispering, murmuring to each other. They all stayed back, wary of what I might say or do. After all, they’d just witness a breakdown of sorts, a nightmare that was more than alarming. A nightmare they were sure was only the beginning.

Even Koda, who’d defended me, had doubts. He couldn’t quite put his faith in me yet. He needed proof that the decision I had made was in the best interest of the clans, and he couldn’t see it. His trust was wavering, weakening as each day passed.

Cheyenne, Colt said pointing to the mine, they’re ready.

I looked up to see the others already heading towards the building. I’d been too wrapped up in my own thoughts to realize they were walking away from me, not that they wanted me here.

Come on. Colt lightly gripped my arm, tugging me forward. Daniel trailed alongside me as well, his eyes downcast. His powers were gone. No more jumping, no more private conversations with his brothers; the things he loved so much. I watched his footsteps out of the corner of my eye. From time to time he’d come closer, then awkwardly move away. Was it because he’d lost his powers? Did it make his steps unsteady? Or was it because of me? Was he fearful of getting too close?

We came to the stairs, and I looked up at the steel doors. The metal had seen better days. The rusted hinges bled orange near the edges, which only made me think of the bloodshed yet to come.

I glanced back at the meadow. Mandi and the other horses were grazing lazily. Thoughts of running to Mandi and riding off tempted me. But where would I run? To search for Callon and then have him reject me again? I probably wouldn’t even make it to Callon before Marcus found me again. My only choices were between staying here, or running back to Marcus…not really much of a choice at all.

I took a step forward as the faint sunlight began to illuminate the dark entry. A chill ran over my skin as I passed over the threshold. Marcus had been here. I inhaled a shaky breath and a fine mist trickled from my mouth. The chill was real.

Maes held a kerosene lantern, lighting the way as he walked ahead of us. He stopped in the center of what looked like a large open space.

What do we need to do, Maes? Dex asked, hidden in the shadows of a darkened corner.

The old mine has a generator. No doubt it will take work to get it running again. Maes glanced towards Colt. I’m going to need your help.

Colt nodded.

Daniel inched closer to me, fiddling with his sleeve.

As for the rest of you, once the generator is running, we’ll have some light. There are rooms upstairs that need to be gone through. Brogan and Koda, I need you to work on the well pump outside.

Colt squeezed my arm. Daniel will stay with you.

I watched Colt and Maes head down the dark hall, and with them went the small amount of light. I followed Daniel and the rest toward the sunlight streaming through the entry. Koda and Brogan brushed past us, searching for the well pump.

Lilly glanced at me as Nakari and Layla led her down the stairs. Her mouth opened as if she wanted to speak, but she didn’t. Instead she disappeared around the corner of the stone building.

I sat down on the wide stairs, Daniel beside me. Why were we playing house here? Why weren’t we searching for Callon? I twisted and leaned my back against the cold wall, waiting for what I knew was to come. Dark blue eyes met mine. He sighed.

I examined his features, all that I’d missed about him. His skin was darker than I remembered, most likely from his constant vigil over the last three months. And his black hair hadn’t been cut since before the almost wedding with Callon.

He reached out to grasp my hand, but pulled back. It was as if he was afraid to even touch me now. Bree moved to sit in front of him. She tried to force a faint smile, but gave up. Instead she leaned on his leg, resting her head there. Her long brown hair tumbled over his jeans, and he cupped her head tenderly as he moved his gaze down, avoiding mine.

Clayton and Skylar gave me a sidelong glance before moving down further into the valley. Even they were unsure of me now.

They’re going to take care of the horses, Andre explained, taking a seat on the ledge behind me. Apparently she hadn’t deserted me yet. She played with a stray black strand of hair. Her blue eyes met mine for a moment and then she looked away.

It’s not going to be easy around here, Cheyenne, she said quietly. What you did…

Changed everything. I finished her sentence.

I just wish…

Wishing gets you nowhere, Andre. Reality is what brought me to my decision. I rubbed the frayed denim on my knee. I knew what reality I was now in—it was going to be hell.

Her blue eyes met mine in frustration. You’re the one who jumped the gun.

Jumped the gun? Seriously? I snorted.

Her jaw firmed, and she crossed her arms. I just wish we could have talked it out.

And what would that have done? I shook my head and stood. It wouldn’t have changed a thing. It just would’ve cause more problems. Callon would never have seen it my way. He’d have sent an army in and caused more deaths—more pain—needless loss! As it is, you’ve changed everything! Marcus may not be chasing us, but he’s coming for me, and the biggest fear I have now is losing everyone I love!

Andre blinked.

I took the steps two at a time as hot tears scorched my face. The dry grass crunched under my feet, and I stopped beside an old metal and wood outbuilding, leaning against its side.

I’d never felt so lost, alone, and trapped all at the same time. I picked a piece of stray grass and played with it. My thoughts wandered to my parents, Qaysean and Sahara.

I couldn’t completely blame them for what they’d done; they had acted out of desperation, out of fear. I knew from my mom’s journals she felt trapped and alone. Just as trapped and alone as I felt now.

Timeless, I snorted. I could still hear Callon telling me I was different, and I still remembered the numbness I felt when I found out I’d age one year for every one hundred years. And the fact that I’d have to transform first. I snapped the grass stem in half. The transformation hadn’t been easy, either. It was misery ridden, all but unbearable, and almost ended in death.

Not to mention that when my transformation was complete, I was to marry my betrothed, Callon. Who would have imagined it turning out like this? Who would have known Marcus would fight so hard for me, would seemingly kill Colt only to have him bring me to his doorstep. Every step I thought I’d taken myself had always been guided by someone else…

Warm fingers brushed hair from my neck as a bulky arm snaked around my waist, pulling me closer. Colt leaned his head on mine. I closed my eyes. His touch was different now. It was as if he was afraid of me.

Will you tell me what happened earlier? Why you were screaming?

I exhaled a shaky breath, as flashbacks of the nightmare appeared. Callon, lightning, death. A shiver raked me, and I stared out into the field. I didn’t want to talk about it.

You can’t always keep everything bottled up. I just want to help.

There’s nothing you can help me with, Colt. I made this bed, and I’ll lie in it.

He turned me around, lifting my chin and forcing me to look into his icy blue eyes.

No, we’ve been through too much for you to push me away. I won’t allow it. We’ll make it through this together, no matter the outcome.

Tears beaded at the back of my eyes, and I fought to control them. "But the