Last Rites: Women of the Willow Wood, #3

By Lorraine Carey

Author Lorraine Carey pushes the boundaries in this Epic Tale with her Blockbuster final book in The Women of the Willow Wood Trilogy!
In the themes of The Da Vinci Code and The Witcher Series, Last Rites is a powerhouse of ancient goddess magic, coupled with steamy love scenes, deceit and forgiveness.
We find our fearless Guardian of Souls, Daniella Reyes reunited with her beloved Sisters along with her Ex-FBI boyfriend as together they face off one of the last standing demonic cults in the country.
A final showdown is coming and it will take more than the Sisterhood to face this epic battle between good and evil.
Who will be the victor in this battle between two powerful and diverse secret societies that will change the course of history?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lorraine Carey
• Release date: Jan 11, 2022
• ISBN: 9798201078706

Book preview

Prologue

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Behind the Door

BRANDT NO SOONER BOLTED the door to the cottage deep in the countryside of Cortland, Ohio, when he grabbed me, pulling me into a tight embrace. It felt good to be in his strong arms again. I guessed he was sensing my uneasiness by the way he held me. Hell—I was damn freaked out! My legs were shaking, and I was exhausted from being on the road. I was now in a stranger’s home with an ex-FBI man whom I’d only met a few weeks ago. And I was in, what my Sisters called, unprotected territory, a place where lower entities try to sneak in when borders are not properly set.

A YEAR AGO, I HAD NO clue exactly what that meant. There are entities out there who try to destroy what endless soul work the Women of the Willow Wood have been doing for hundreds of years.

This secret society of some of the most powerful women on the planet had chosen me, as they claimed I’d been a Guardian since birth. How could I resist their offer to leave my home and family to embark on highly dangerous missions to save a few innocent souls? It wasn’t easy. I went in kicking and screaming.

My childhood was one of abuse that later led to my taking to the streets in my teens and holing up with a dangerous pimp in New Mexico. I also had internal scars from the years of verbal abuse I’d received from my father during my childhood. Even after his death he continued to haunt me. Those were some of my darkest days during my journey down the rabbit hole in high school. Yes, I was quite a fuckup, as they say. If not for my aunt Miranda, I’d most likely still be there, or possibly dead for that matter.

I’d later come to find out my own family had some dark secrets of their own, with Aunt Miranda being involved in the same secret society of shamanic women which I had been inducted to. New Mexico, being the Land of Enchantment, had taken on a whole new meaning for me. I’d been introduced to the higher members of the Sisterhood and learned exactly what the role of being a guardian meant. Josephina Deluna was the first High Priestess to teach me the ropes and how to develop my hidden powers.

Yes—I had powers! The magic was not coming from me, but through me. I was simply a conduit. It wasn’t until my college years that I realized I was a high empath and a sensitive. I always knew there was something a bit strange about me, but those labels had just begun to surface around the late eighties.

During my teaching career at Mesa Luna Elementary, I had to save a few of my abused students, which resulted in the death of one of my own abusers who happened to be a parent of one of the students. I survived his attempted rape with the help of a mysterious flock of crows that seemed to be in just the right place at the right time.

I had broken up with my boyfriend, Luke, when he sided with his mother in agreeing that I was, indeed, damaged goods. He accused me of being a witch and wanted no part of the dark side.

I was somehow tricked by Latrice Burke, a jealous Sister who had cast a spell with bad intentions, and things went to hell in a hand basket from there on. And Hell wasn’t out of reach as far as my father’s soul was concerned. His salvation and mine depended on my forgiveness and service to the Willow Wood Sisterhood.  My new mission was to rescue other abused souls.

Meeting the high Curendera, Nina Santos, in New Mexico, was probably a life changer for me. She was the one who guided me during my ultimate life makeover and transition to a real Guardian. I had astral traveled to the Temple of Apollo where I met two of the high priestesses of the Oracle of Delphi. Talk about a road trip! I’m posting no review on Trip Advisor here, for sure. I’d been introduced to the method of ‘Imbas Forosnai’, an ancient magic of journeying through a trance-like state, and I witnessed Sisters who could spin time.  A bit of overload for a twenty-seven-year-old, I’d say. It was there that I was later stripped of my vows. Guess I was Livin’ La Vida Loca a bit too much for my new role. However, my second mission was a success, and I was relieved of my duties with honor.

I began a different journey—one I willingly signed up for. There would be no more ancient magic, no help from my Sisters, or the Roman Goddess Vesta along with her high priestess friends, as I was told.

I was divested from the Sisterhood. I had broken my vow of chastity and became a fallen sister, banished from a most spiritual realm. I’d been left to fend for myself with simply my natural gifts of being a high empath and my so-called power of persuasion. That was one perk I had used on many occasions. I had wondered if that gift would also be gone; I’d have to test that one out later. I was in survival mode for a while.

Brandt Meade had managed to save my life, break down my barriers, and steal my heart, at the same time. Together we managed to destroy one of the evilest cults in Sherman, Texas, along with rescuing a pregnant young woman, and myself, from becoming sacrificial offerings to another one of their demonic rituals.

Three of the headmasters of Heaven’s Passage were dead, along with the destruction of one of their main chapters in Texas. Brandt and I both knew it wouldn’t take long for another one of their head honchos to seek us out. The sect had temples spread across the country.

I was still some six hundred miles from my home in New Mexico­— the one I longed for. I had planned to return when I could, and it would be a place I’d stay forever.

I had already rescued three souls, and since Audrina Campbell was with child, it amounted to four. Not to mention my father’s soul; that’s why I’d been inducted to my prestigious role in the Sisterhood last year—a role I unwillingly took. I had no choice in the matter. It was the only way to save my father’s soul without him being damned to the Badlands.

It seemed my teaching career was over just as soon as it got started. I never had a chance to rescue abused children. Not that I minded, for I’ve been a victim myself. I knew in the back of my mind that Karma had paid me several visits, and each time the visit was a bit more intense.

And there I was, on the run with Brandt Meade. He had to pull a few strings to get his FBI record expunged and hide out for a while until he figured out what the next plan was—one that was good for both of us. I was counting on him; without my powers, I needed to be damn sure he’d protect me.

I FINALLY PULLED BACK from our long embrace, staring into his deep turquoise eyes—eyes that went straight through to my soul. I could sense those eyes held a secret. I figured I’d find out soon enough. But for now, I needed assurance that all would be okay. I needed to feel safe. I needed to see my family. It would get me through whatever would come my way this time around.

My body chemistry kicked in as I succumbed to this man’s desires­­—ones that led me to my downfall to begin with. There was a connective heat here—I felt it. It paralyzed me in a way no other man could ever do. Was it worth it? My body had already answered that for me. I felt that familiar heat coursing through my loins. This time I needn’t ask forgiveness from the high priestesses. I was no longer a born again virgin; Brandt Meade had taken care of that issue.

Chapter 1

Dani

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DAMN, I WANTED THIS man. Even after a long road trip and feeling worn out, my body felt that familiar desire. I wasn’t going to fight it—I couldn’t. It had betrayed me before when I held the status of ‘High Guardian.’

Brandt raised my hands above my head, holding them firmly against the wall in the foyer. He pressed his body against mine. I could feel his hardness through his jeans. His tongue darted up and down along my neck.  I felt his breath as he whispered in my ear, I want you, now!

I hooked one leg around him as his hands roamed under my blouse and cupped my breast. My nipples hardened as his rough fingers caressed and squeezed them. Your body responds well to me, Dani.

Yes, it does.  And in all the right places.

We made it over to the large overstuffed sofa. I positioned myself against the back end of the winged arm. Brandt removed my jeans, throwing them on the floor. He spread my legs apart planting little kisses along my inner thighs, inching up to my core. His light beard scratched my skin. It prickled and only added to my arousal. I could feel my breasts burning and my juices flowing.

He began kissing me through my lacy thongs. Mmm, Brandt. You drive me crazy! I was ready to have this man inside me—NOW. He moved my panties to the side and slipped two fingers into me. I edged deeper into the sofa.

I see you’re wet and ready. Brandt slid off his jeans. The bulge in his jocks was all I needed to see. I had to get my hands on him. I slid his black jocks down to reveal his well-engorged member. He’s just beautiful. And I want him inside me. I gently took his manhood in my hands, wrapping one hand tightly around it, feeling every pulsating vein and ripple.

My body was vibrating. He continued to finger me, working his magic. I was ready to explode. You know I’m gonna scream when I come. I warned.

I want you to scream so even the aliens hear you, he mumbled in a husky voice.

Well, we may wake up a few goddesses.

Go right ahead, my love. Brandt’s fingers continued with his handiwork, which was bringing me closer to the brink.

I need it now. I’m too close!

He spread my legs further apart. He entered me slowly, letting me absorb every inch of him. He pulled out slowly then entered again, each time with deeper and harder thrusts. I wrapped both legs around his back allowing me to take in all of him. Our breathing synced.

I can’t hold back, Dani. I’m going to come!

ME TOO. It was good to hear him call my real name again. Yes, I was no longer Rachel Torres, my alias I was forced to use in Texas. Hearing this made me tingle all throughout my body. I dug my nails into his back, feeling his warm liquid fill me up. It was like ambrosia from the gods. My inner walls welcomed it as a feast. I felt feverish.  It was as if someone had given me an injection—a most powerful one.

He held me in a tight embrace. Feel safer?

As long as I’m in your arms, I am.

A beep went off. What’s that? I asked, popping my head up to glance around.

It’s my new phone. I gotta take this call, Dani.

But . . . who knows? How did—

Brandt reached for his phone in his jean’s pocket walking into the kitchen naked. He spoke in a low voice. I watched him, admiring his toned physique.

I sat up, pulling my panties and jeans on as he clicked off his phone. What’s going on?

Calm down, Dani. It was Drake Larson, an old buddy. He’s the one who owns this cottage we’re staying in.

And he’s aware I’m here?

Yes, I’ve told you. Brandt slipped into his jeans. Since you’re cloaked by your sisters, I had to have help in getting my old FBI record expunged. I didn’t have help from a supernatural source as you did.

I take it that means you’ll have to look for a new job?

Yes, but my buddy’s got something brewing. He’s got connections—big ones. The man had a long history with the FBI as well as other organizations. He’s retired now—living in Florida with his wife.

Hmm, this man seems mysterious. Who has a cottage ready for anyone at his or her disposal? I was leery of him. How could I not be when I was lied to by so many in my life?

Well, it seems like we both need to start a new chapter in our lives. I scanned the living area, taking in the décor of this quaint cottage. It was decked out in Country French all the way. I had too many questions. I take it he keeps this cottage as a second home?

Somewhat. He wouldn’t look me in the eye. It’s available to any of his close friends who need a place to stay for a while.

That just confirmed my uneasiness. I’d have to check this guy out soon.

What else did he say? I watched Brandt’s facial movements closely.

He came and took my hand gently, leading me back to the sofa. "Look, I’m not going to lie to you—there are a few who do know we’re here. Somehow information got leaked out."

No! Talk to me about this. How did—?

Not sure. But one thing I am sure of is the fact that we need to be on our guard every minute.

I’ve spent the past year looking over my shoulder. I don’t know how much more I can take. I thought this was going to be a safe haven for us. I walked away, exploring the rest of the cottage. I didn’t feel like talking. Brandt was on my heels.

He put his arm on my shoulder, turning me to face him. I’m sorry. I feel sorry for everything you’ve been through this past year and for all you’ve dealt with in your childhood. I’m honored that you’ve divulged everything to me. I’m still trying to let this all sink in.

And you believe everything I’ve told you? I locked eyes with him. This was a good time to test my ‘power of persuasion’ magic.

Yes, I do. It is what it is, Dani. He smoothed his sleek black hair back. I’ve seen a lot of shit in the ten years I’ve worked for the FBI. There are things I couldn’t comprehend—things I promised not to reveal. Now’s not the time to get into this. I think we need to unpack. I’ll bring the suitcases in from the car. Go check this place out.  Drake’s got this place fully furnished. If there’s something you need, we can get it later.

I’d begun to despise that saying of his. It should be, It isn’t what it should be. Well, I know he didn’t own it, I’ve heard it from a few others. I needed to call my family. My old phone was gone, but I did have my laptop. I’d have to find out if this place had Wi-Fi, then I could Skype them.

Brandt was able to unload with just two trips. I didn’t have much, only my clothes and makeup. He threw my suitcase on the bed. Go for it. After we’re unpacked, we can check out one of these restaurants in Cortland.

You mean all two of them? I sassed.

Guess we’ll explore this place together. It’s a small town, but Drake has left me information in a folder with recommendations for our needs.

Oh, by the way, is this place wired for Internet?

It is. Did you want to call your family?

Yes, I’d like that. Also, I need to get a phone as well. Maybe tomorrow we can go to the nearest phone store and get me one.

Can’t do that, Dani.

What? No phone? I threw my laptop on the bed.

Calm down. Drake is sending one over early tomorrow. It will be encrypted just for you.

Oh, I’ve been down that road before—and it wasn’t a pretty one. Please tell me, he’s a tech guru or something! Or maybe a government spy? I waited for his response. In some way, this scenario seemed all too familiar.

It’s all good; I promise—only temporary. Trust Drake. Trust me.  Once I find a job, we’ll be moving and have our own place.

Things were moving a little too fast for me. I had to sit down on the bed for a bit and stared at my suitcase with no motivation to unpack.

Brandt sat beside me. Tell ya what, let’s go down to that small café we passed on the way in. I think it was called Homegrown? We’ll both feel better with something in our stomachs.

I snapped out of my daze. Do we need to wear disguises?

I don’t think so, Dani. It’s good to see you’ve kept up your sense of humor.

Yes, I’ve been told that. It’s what got me through some very dark times. They say, ‘If you don’t laugh, you’ll cry.’  I’ve gotten through the roughest times and my gut tells me we’d get through whatever comes our way. I liked the thought of we. I also knew there’d be a few surprises—I expected it.

Chapter 2

Dani

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IT WAS A GOOD IDEA to sit for a bit and get a homecooked meal in my stomach. Homegrown was exactly how I expected it to be, being a locally owned, small café. The ruffled curtains and photos of family on the walls reminded me of my grandmother’s kitchen. I wanted a salad, but Brandt insisted I order something a bit heartier. I had to admit the meatloaf and mashed potatoes did sound good.

I watched an older couple sitting in a booth at the far end. It was apparent they knew the owner as they chatted with her for quite a while. Brandt had told me Cortland was the number one place to retire in Ohio. I reasoned I would be living among the elderly for some time. I looked away when the woman noticed I was staring at her.

It didn’t take long for Brandt to notice I was preoccupied with something. What’s up, Dani?

I’m tired. I’ve got a lot of questions.

Tell you what. Finish your dinner. Tomorrow we’ll make plans together. It’ll be a new day—a new start. He signaled for the waitress to bring the check.

You two just passing through? I haven’t seen you in here before, the young waitress asked while smoothing her apron with her hands.

My heart leapt. I was on guard again. Who knew if she was a spy, someone from Heaven’s Passage, or the FBI? Everyone was a suspect lately. Luckily for me, Brandt was quick to reply. Actually, Robin, we’re staying at a friend’s place for a while.

I was too tired to notice her nametag when she seated us.

Lovely. I hope we’ll see you again. Enjoy your stay. She picked up the black check presenter and thanked us.

Brandt’s quick response to her had impressed me.  Guess he had lots of experience, being in his profession.

It was good to crawl into bed and have Brandt to curl up to. My head was spinning with all that I had to do, but I finally managed to nod off.

THE SMELL OF FRESH coffee woke me. Brandt had already started coffee. I sauntered into the kitchen in my robe and slippers. My nose followed the freshly brewed scent. Damn, you’re good.

Don’t get too excited. I rummaged through the cupboards and found a box of muffin mix. Hope you like blueberry. He poured me a cup of coffee.

Guess that means we need to go get groceries or eat out every night at Homegrown. I really could have put up with the latter. I didn’t want to go out of this house today. I was still groggy from the long road trip.

Just make a list, Dani. I’ll go to the store. You can stay here and call your family. You need your privacy too. Your phone should be here in an hour or so. Drake had promised it would come.

This Drake person was becoming more mysterious every minute. I’d have to investigate him further. I doubted any Ex-FBI men had profiles searchable on Google.

I took my cup and went to exploring the little cottage in the daylight. It had a well-furnished guest bedroom. I opened the closet to find a couple of guest robes and extra blankets. It was tastefully decorated in blues and beige, which coordinated with the rest of the cottage. I actually liked the farmhouse décor as well. I finally made it out to the screened patio. I took in the surroundings of a nicely mowed green lawn surrounded by a white picket fence. One large white gazebo graced the middle of the yard. The cold February morning had me back inside in no time. I never imagined Ohio would be this cold. I shivered, pulling my robe tightly around me.  Brandt had just pulled the muffins out of the oven. Guess we need to get you warmer clothes, although I’d prefer you walk around naked.

That can be arranged. You might want to start a fire in the living room fireplace first.

My stomach rumbled. I was quick to inhale two muffins and down another cup of coffee. The doorbell rang. Brandt instructed me to sit tight. He walked into the foyer, grabbing his Glock from the hall table. He peered out the peephole. Relax, it’s just the delivery boy, Dani.

Who the hell was he expecting that he needed his gun? I was slightly unnerved, yet excited to have a new phone.

Brandt tore into the box, eager to retrieve my new phone. It’s all programmed for you. Drake had that taken care of before it was shipped. The numbers you need are already in there. If you need to add more, you can. He handed me my new smartphone. Go ahead and call your family. I’ll go to the store and get us groceries for the next few days. He grabbed the keys from the counter and raked his fingers through his hair a few times. What is it with him and his hair?

Can’t you just call this magical Drake person and have him deliver?

Very funny, Dani. I told you he’s in Florida.

I trailed him into the bedroom. The gun—why?  Just who did you think was out there?

Look Dani, we both know there are a few Grand Masters from Heaven’s Passage still out there, and I’ve left the FBI. It’s only a matter of time before one or both of these factions rear its ugly head. We need to stay under the radar for a bit. Now go call your family. I’m off to the store.

Through the front bay window, I watched Brandt drive off in the rental.  I needed a car of my own, a job—a life. I felt trapped. How long would we be guests in this place? We definitely needed to make some plans. I changed into my skinny jeans and a sweater, sat on the bed and called my family. I needed to hear something familiar, being in a place where everything was unfamiliar. I held my breath as I punched in Mother’s number.

As usual, Aunt Miranda answered. "My dear niece. It’s so good to hear from you. Everything all right? What time did you get into