What the Heart Wants: A Psychic-Elemental Romance: Soulmate, #1

By Kelli McCracken

A reoccurring dream. A fated encounter. A destiny neither can deny.

 

Heaven Lewis needed a break—from college, relationships, and her life. After arriving in L.A., her vacation plans are thwarted by chaos. Encountering a celebrity wasn't on her to-do list. Neither was dating him. Yet one glance into rock star Dylan McBride's eyes and his soul speaks to hers.

 

If Dylan told Heaven he had been dreaming of her for years, she would probably think he was nuts. Still, something about her awakens a desire in him he never knew existed. As much as he craves her, he can't deny the mysterious connection between them that somehow allows him to sense her emotions.

 

As the bond between them deepens, Dylan uncovers a shocking secret that threatens everything he thought he knew. Can he find the courage to tell Heaven the truth? Or will looming threats and hidden dangers tear the two apart?

 

Slow-burn chemistry leads to an epic soulmate romance! Mystery surrounds psychics and elementals in What the Heart Wants, the first book in the Soulmate series, an original masterpiece by USA Today Best-selling Author, Kelli McCracken.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Kelli McCracken
• Release date: Oct 31, 2022
• ISBN: 9798215241691

Kelli McCracken

Kelli McCracken is a USA Today Bestselling Author of paranormal romance and rock star theme contemporary romance. She loves penning sexy stories that stir emotions and tantalize the senses. Most days you'll find Kelli knee-deep in chocolate bars, coffee, and kooky characters. She's a connoisseur of chocolate, a professional percolator, and a master in the art of procrastination. When she's not writing, chatting with readers, or plotting her next story, Kelli loves to read, listen to music, and most of all, spend time with her family. She lives in Northeast Kentucky, is the mother of four, and is happily married to her husband, James.

Book preview

Prologue

Armageddon would soon begin in a fiery blaze of wrath and fury. The wicked thunderstorm flashing around Dylan McBride forewarned him of the imminent event. His lungs stalled as lightning spread across a steel-blue sky. Wind whipped around him, blowing his hair about his face. He brushed it aside and peered through the willow branches, questioning his decision to stand under a tree. The rain hadn’t begun, but the approaching storm raged on as if hell had been unleashed on earth.

Maybe it had.

The panic flooding his body left him anxious and desperate. If the apocalypse had begun, he wouldn’t know. One thing kept him glued to this spot—the beautiful angel standing before him. Nothing, not even the devil himself, could deter him from his fascination with her.

He examined her delicate features. Chestnut curls fell past her shoulders. High cheekbones flushed with color. Full, voluptuous lips tempted him.

The longer Dylan stared at her, the harder he sought an answer. Did she sense the same magnetic force drawing them together? The urge was so powerful it was irrefutable. Even the chaos unfolding around them couldn’t tear him away.

When she closed the distance between them, he waited for her to speak. Her fiery gaze met his, burning him to his soul. So did her touch. The moment her fingers caressed his arm, his muscles flinched. Electric currents shot from his fingers.

Fear paralyzed him as her lips parted. Had he shocked her? The thought of hurting her twisted his gut. She was a treasure, one he wanted to claim, not harm.

Instead of crying out in pain, she sighed. Her subtle reaction increased his pulse. It wasn’t what he’d expected, but it filled him with desire nonetheless.

Dylan knew women, how to please them, how to make them shout his name. The unfortunate part was that none of those women knew him, not the real him. They witnessed a performance. They never found the secret chamber that held his heart. No one had even come close to touching it, except the magnificent angel in front of him. She discovered his soul and brought it to life.

We can’t stay here, she warned him. It’s not safe.

He pulled her into his arms, but her questioning gaze tugged his heartstrings. He whispered, I can’t leave until I know.

Know what?

He swept his thumb over her cheek, staring at the electric currents arcing against her skin. They lit up a faint tattoo underneath her eye. As soon as he eased his hand away, it disappeared.

Something exists between us, he said. Tell me what your heart wants. I need you to say it.

Instead of speaking, she stood on her toes and brushed her mouth against his.

Before Dylan deepened the kiss, the ecstasy enveloping them ended. A gut-wrenching sensation overcame him as she pulled back. The heat of her body—of the passion consuming him—left his soul cold.

What is it? He already knew the answer but remained desperate for her to prove him wrong.

We have to stop. You need to wake up. Her tone grew urgent.

I’m not asleep.

She backed into the dangling tree branches. None of this is real.

I don’t care. Just stay with me. His voice betrayed him when nothing but a whisper passed over his lips. This time, when he touched her, the warmth of her skin disappeared. No!

The sky darkened further and lightning struck again. Dylan’s nerve endings sizzled as he absorbed a bolt before it hit the ground. It should have killed him, or anyone else it touched, but fate kept his heart beating just so it could break. When he reached forward, his fingers brushed through the beautiful angel’s transparent image.

God, no…

She stretched her hand toward his face as if to stroke it. All he felt was the wind blowing his hair. The moment she disappeared, her voice carried to him once more.

Open your eyes…

The scenery before him vanished, leaving Dylan to tumble in an abyss of darkness. Despite how hard he searched for an object to stop his descent, he found nothing. It was pointless to try. The farther he plummeted toward the ground, the less he resisted. Any second, he’d collide with something and all of his suffering would end.

Within seconds, his body jerked into a sitting position. Lightning reflected off the walls. He gazed around the room in desperation, hoping to find a clue to what had happened.

His angel…had she…?

Violent heartbeats left him breathless. As much as he wanted to scream and beg her to return, it was impossible. He didn’t know her name. Even if he did, it wouldn’t change anything.

Thunder crashed outside. Dylan gazed at his hands, half expecting to see currents shooting from his fingertips. All he saw was a crisp, white bed sheet clutched in his palms.

Everything spun. He released the sheet and grabbed his head, holding it with both hands. After a few deep breaths, the fragrant scent of sandalwood tickled his nose.

What the hell…?

He searched the room, taking in beige-colored walls, an oak chest, and clothes strewn across the floor. When his gaze settled on a pair of black snakeskin boots, his heart ached. He was home, in his bedroom, alone.

Falling back onto the mattress, realization burned Dylan’s stomach. There was no beautiful angel, and no electricity shot from his fingers. It was just another dream. All that remained was a wicked headache. He’d like to cover his head and never leave the bed, but the aspirin in the bathroom called to him.

A beer can crunched under his foot when he stood. He winced at the sharp edges digging into his skin and hobbled to the chest of drawers. As soon as he gripped the edge, he held on long enough to peel away the can.

Before he could chuck it into the trash, he spotted an empty vodka bottle across the room on its side. It finally made sense why his temples pounded. Hangovers sucked.

Laughter escaped him as he remembered why he’d gotten drunk in the first place—to forget her—the angel from his dreams. What a joke. All the liquor in the world wouldn’t erase her image from his mind.

His soul grew restless.

She would never be his salvation, only his tormentor.

Chapter 1

Darkness ejected Heaven from its icy grasp as her eyes fluttered. The last fragments of her dream faded with each passing second, but a voice called to her. Its pleading tone stung her heart.

Stay…

She struggled to recall the man’s face. It was impossible, but it felt like he haunted her dreams every night. This sure as hell wasn’t the first time it had happened, and each time it did, she couldn’t shake the pit of despair in her stomach.

No matter how much she wanted to linger inside her subconscious and find answers, she couldn’t.

A nudge at her side ripped away the last dark fragments.

An elbow met her ribs once more. Ouch!

Get off me, her sister, Faith, grumbled as she pushed her away. It’s hot enough without you lying on me.

Dazed by the dream, Heaven glanced at her surroundings. The plane seats were uncomfortable, but at least Faith’s was next to the aisle. She should try sitting in the middle.

How much longer until they arrived in Los Angeles, anyway?

Heaven leaned to her other side to give Faith her space but invaded her other sister’s space instead.

I’m cramped over here too, Hope said. Faith can deal. Just ignore her. Trust me. It’s easy.

It feels like we’re six again.

The thoughts tumbling in Heaven’s mind reminded her she was every bit of twenty-one. The dream man’s chocolate eyes, square jaw, and warm lips captivated her. And yet, something deep within her said this was wrong. Even if he were real, it didn’t mean she should fantasize about him. His presence, no matter how much it drew her to him, held something dark

Why didn’t Chelsea fork out a little extra for first-class seats? Faith’s leg shook ninety miles a minute. She’s marrying a celebrity, for Christ’s sake. Is it too much to—

Shut it, Faith, Hope cut in.

On the verge of exploding, Faith gripped the armrest. Heaven didn’t want to play referee, but someone would have to before this disagreement turned into a full-blown fight.

Despite reaching adulthood and going to college, the rivalry between her siblings hadn’t changed. Perhaps it was a triplet thing. They’d never had much time apart.

A bony finger poked her shoulder. Then again. Her muscles burned from the assault. She glanced at Faith, teeth sinking into her bottom lip. What?

Faith smirked. If you’re too worried about offending your best friend, I’ll ask Chelsea why she skimped on the seats.

Hope leaned forward. Do it! Please, give me a reason to help Chelsea toss your ungrateful ass on the street. Stop being such a—

Whoa! Heaven raised her hands, separating her siblings. Her face heated when the man sitting in front of them turned around and glowered. Listen, you two. This may be our last trip together. I want it to be exciting, something we’ll tell our kids someday. Can you two get along?

Sure. Hope brushed back her hair as she reclined against her seat. "Once Faith gets out of bitch mode."

Says the kettle to the pot, Faith retorted while fanning herself with an airplane safety manual. The air stirred as her lavender perfume rushed through Heaven’s nose.

And they say lavender relaxes you. Pfft. A field of it couldn’t reduce my frustrations with Faith. But that guy’s lips…

Her skin tingled. If she concentrated enough, maybe she’d remember the rest of the dream. Not that it mattered when he wasn’t real.

He must be hot. Faith teased.

Who? Heaven didn’t need to ask. Her gut warned her to tread with caution.

Faith exaggerated a sigh. Don’t play stupid.

Her sister’s badgering forced Heaven to face the window. She stared at the fluffy clouds lining the cerulean sky. Perhaps if she ignored Faith, her sister would leave her alone. She didn’t want to talk about the dream guy, how his face held both passion and pain, how a simple touch had sent tiny jolts throughout her body.

Well? Faith’s voice had the same effect as a bucket of ice water. I’m not asking you to solve Fermat’s Last Theorem. You had the dream again, right?

Yeah, Heaven whispered. When she met her sister’s gaze, she thinned her lips. I mean no.

Bullshit. You just confessed. Besides, I heard you talking in your sleep.

Leave Heaven alone.

Faith glared in Hope’s direction. "Keep your nose buried in Truth Newspaper. Catch up on the latest celebrity catfight. Just stay out of this. I’m trying to help our sister."

You’re majoring in fashion, not psychology, Hope grumbled. Worry about your portfolio and your upcoming internship in New York. Heaven’s dreams should be the least of your concerns.

There you go again, trying to coordinate my life. Faith faced the seat in front of her. You need to find a project to manage that doesn’t involve me.

God, where’s a muzzle?

Heaven massaged her thumping temples, blocking out the voices, except the one calling to her soul.

Stay.

A shiver ran up her spine.

Faith tapped her fingers against the armrest. If we don’t get off this plane soon, I’ll lose it. Chelsea better have a stiff drink or a straitjacket waiting at the gate.

Can we be so lucky? Hope snickered. She licked her fingertip before turning another page in the tabloid she read. Why did she have to stir the proverbial pot?

Keep it up, Faith warned while pointing a finger at Hope. You’ll have a gurney waiting for your exit.

With some hot EMT to help ease my pain. Hope’s body shook from a stifled laugh.

As Faith angled herself in her seat, she kicked the one in front of her. Even the man in the chair turning and glaring didn’t faze Faith.

Heaven said a silent prayer when the intercom buzzed to life.

Good morning, ladies and gentlemen, this is your captain speaking. We have arrived at LAX airport in sunny California. The time is now nine forty-five a.m., and the temperature is pleasant at seventy-four degrees. We hope you enjoy your stay in the Golden State. Thank you for flying with us on American Airways.

As if someone had shut off the faucet, the flowing anger ceased. Frowns turned to grins, even for Faith.

Excitement raced through Heaven’s veins. Despite her sisters’ bickering, she planned to make the most of their vacation. She was here to support Chelsea during the biggest event of her life.

Yet she couldn’t shake the nagging feeling that fate had led her to L.A.

Adrenaline coursed through Heaven as she stepped through the glass-paned doors and into the boutique. Sequins and silk danced before her eyes. She moved farther into the room and peered into another section, just off the main entrance. Wedding gowns in different styles hung from the racks, and every single one was breathtaking.

Maybe one day she’d be lucky enough to wear one.

Yeah. Right.

She pushed those thoughts aside and smiled at Chelsea, who pulled her into another hug. I still can’t believe you’re here. It’s been too long, Heaven.

I agree.

Come on. Chelsea tugged her arm. Let’s go find Ms. Cheryl. She owns the boutique and she’s assisting us today.

Heaven nodded before following Chelsea and her sister, Brooke, through the building. Their platinum blond ponytails swayed with each step they took. From behind, they looked like identical twins. Both walked in sync as they approached an older woman standing near a rack of flower girl dresses.

Good morning, ladies, the woman said with a kind smile. Gray streaks blended with her strawberry blond hair. Laugh lines outlined her thin lips. Those same lips stretched wider when she noticed Heaven staring.

Good morning, Ms. Cheryl, Chelsea said. I’m sorry we’re late. I had to pick up my friends from the airport.

It’s okay, dear. You can’t do a fitting without your bridesmaids. She motioned them to follow her.

Heaven glanced at the diamond sparkling on Chelsea’s finger, envious of what it signified. Her friend would be married soon. Not only was their bond changing, but Chelsea was also getting something Heaven desired—a soulmate.

Before Heaven’s thoughts got away from her, Ms. Cheryl led them to a different section of the boutique. It reminded Heaven of a dressing room, except it wasn’t partitioned walls on either side of the hallway. Doors lined the path as far as she could see.

The moment the shop owner opened one, they entered another area. Inside were two changing rooms, three chairs, a sofa, and a wall of mirrors. Hope claimed a chair and placed her purse by her feet while Faith and Brooke sat on the sofa. Heaven remained at Chelsea’s side, two feet from the entrance.

Everyone watched Ms. Cheryl drag a large garment bag into the room. She hung it on a hook next to one of the changing rooms, then pinched the zipper. It growled on its journey to the floor. Ivory lace peeked from within, grabbing Heaven’s attention, and she sucked in a breath.

The tulle fabric caused her heart to throb harder. Though the dress wasn’t the classic style she envisioned for her own wedding, it would look fabulous on Chelsea. The corseted empire waist would hug her friend’s body.

Chelsea clapped her hands together as she looked at her dress. Like a blushing bride-to-be, her smile lit up the room. It’s perfect.

You will look amazing. Heaven assured her.

I can’t wait to wear it. Chelsea surveyed every inch of the gown. Will you help me get into it?

Heaven nodded and exhaled. It wasn’t the best reaction. Chelsea noticed.

Are you okay? she asked.

I’m fine, Heaven lied. Just struggling with reality.

You and me both. It all seems surreal, yet seeing this, Chelsea touched her gown, makes it more real.

Knock, knock. a male voice sounded through the room.

Heaven glanced at the intruder. A sudden coldness hit her core.

You’ve got to be kidding me.

Kyle Winters, the devilishly good-looking lead singer from Long Cold Winter, closed the door and glanced at everyone in the room.

What are you doing here? Chelsea asked. She motioned Heaven to block the dress from his sight.

When she advanced toward him, Brooke joined her. You are so lucky my sister isn’t wearing her dress.

I swear I am not here to sneak a peek. He raised his arm and shook an oversized shopping bag. I came by to drop off this. It’s the gifts.

Oh, that’s right. Thank you. Chelsea accepted the bag from Kyle and escorted him into the room. They walked toward Heaven first. Guess it’s time I introduce you. The one with the dumbfounded expression is my best friend.

Heaven’s heartbeat swished in her ears. This was the first celebrity she’d met. She didn’t know whether to scream or pass out.

Hi, Kyle.

He grasped her hand. Hey. It’s Heaven, isn’t it? He waited until she nodded before he hugged her. It’s great to meet you. I feel as though I already know you. Chelsea talks about you a lot.

Heat rose in Heaven’s cheeks. As if meeting her best friend’s fiancé wasn’t awkward enough, now he was hugging her.

When Kyle released her, his smile faded. Sorry for my over-exuberance. It’s just that I know how excited Chelsea is to have you here. When she’s happy, I am too.

Heaven watched the space between Kyle and Chelsea disappear. The tender kiss they shared reminded her of the void in her heart.

Save it for the wedding, Brooke interjected. My bestie is here, too. This is Faith Lewis.

Whoa. Kyle’s attention shifted from Heaven to Faith. Chelsea told me you’re fraternal triplets, but you and Heaven could pass for identical twins.

Faith snickered. Yeah, but I’m the hottest of the two.

And the mouthiest.

Kyle chuckled and turned to Heaven’s remaining sister. I guess this means you’re Hope.

Yes, she answered as they shook hands. It’s nice to meet you, Kyle.

Likewise. Okay, I have to go. I have a few errands to run before I meet up with the guys. He turned to Chelsea, cradling her face in his hands. I will see you this evening, at the church.

I’ll be there. She winked, giving him one more