Touched by Chaos: The Men of Shadows Trilogy

By Lynn Branch

Eida Mae Edwards is a nobody; a demigoddess handmaiden to an unimportant princess who is still much more important than her. Simultaneously impulsive and indecisive, she only excels at making bad decisions and keeping her life in a constant state of chaos.

Eida believes that's all she'll ever be until a diplomat in a black suit arrives in Atlantis. The son of Death is fascinated by the darkness in her soul and how it dances with the shadows in his. 

But, war drums beat on the horizon, and destruction eclipses the world.

Eida finds herself at the center of prophecies that were uttered before she was born.

Apparently, everyone is waiting for a hero... but they got her instead.

As her world, and everything she loves, falls to pieces around her, Eida faces the ultimate choice:

Blossom or wither.

 

(TW: Attempted sexual assault ((NEVER between the female and male protagonists)). Reference to sexual assault. Gore; violence, war violence.)

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lynn Branch
• Release date: May 3, 2023
• ISBN: 9798215159156

Lynn Branch

Lynn has always been passionate about writing and all things supernatural. She is a curious author from the big-little state of Idaho, USA who loves exploring through books. Lynn enjoys everything from witches and werewolves to Greek Mythology. She spends her days in a tornado of crazy cats and kooky kids, finding time in between to write the stories she feels are worth telling.

Book preview

Prologue

I stared up at Mama. She was upset. A new word I’d learned that meant she was sad and mad.

She and Daddy were talking to the tall man in the black robe again. He scared me because I couldn’t see his face in his hood. I stood closer to Daddy’s leg.

She didn’t mean to, Mama said, looking at me.

Her face was like someone had erased all the color, and Daddy put his hand on her arm. "It’ll be okay, mianama."

He looked down to smile at me, and I felt better. Daddy never got upset like Mama did.

What happened? the tall man asked. His name was long and hard to say, so I couldn’t remember it.

Mama made her voice quiet even though we were in a big forest. The leaves were pretty, all yellow and orange.

"Eida was playing. We found this kitten in the street, and she wanted to keep it. I let her, but they were in the backyard, and... I don’t understand exactly what happened. She killed the cat, but the yard bloomed full of flowers. I mean full. Flowers covered everything... even the fence and the concrete."

I looked down at my nervous hands and twisted the edge of my jacket. Tears filled my eyes as I thought of the orange kitty. His name was Tiger, and I hadn’t meant to hurt him.

This may sound crazy, Mama said, her voice still quiet, but I think she drained that cat and used its energy to grow the flowers. You should have seen it... the body was shriveled. She absolutely didn’t mean to do it, right, Eida?

The tall man looked at me, and I shook my head as fast as I could. I tried to s-show him my g-garden in the back, but he didn’t want to go. I just grabbed him, a-and... Fat tears rolled down my cheeks, and I wiped them away.

It’s alright, the tall man said. I think whatever god-powers Eida possesses are awakening. Be wary of her touch.

I didn’t understand what wary was, and I didn’t want to talk about Tiger anymore, so I picked up a stick and started poking around in a mud puddle.

A voice I didn’t expect made my heart jump. Your ears are funny.

I looked up at the boy in the black suit, staring down at me with purple eyes. His hair was brown, not yellow like mine, and I wondered why he was dressed like he was going to a grownup party when he was only a little bigger than me.

Frowning at him, I sniffled and wiped my tears with my sleeve, hoping that was the last of them.

"My ears aren’t funny. I’m a fae."

I like them. Why are you crying, fae?

I stood, cleaning my muddy hands with my pink skirt. You heard. I hurt my kitty.

He tilted his head, just like his daddy had done. Why?

I didn’t mean to. The tears were back, making the words shaky, and my heart shivered like it was cold.

He frowned, stepping closer to me. Please don’t be sad. You said you wanted to show him a garden. Do you like roses?

I nodded, and he showed me his hand. Black shadow spotted with gold twirled in his fingers and a red rose bloomed there. I smiled, trying to grab it, but my fingers went through to touch his hand and the rose was gone.

Oh, no, I said, hoping he wouldn’t be upset.

"I’m sorry. I can’t make it more real. Yet. It’s just an illusion. His fingers wrapped around mine and he smiled. But look, I am lucky enough to hold your hand."

I furrowed my brow, not understanding. What’s an illusion?

I saw he had yellow in his eyes, too, like a sun shining around the black middle.

It’s like... pretend.

I nodded. Like when I played house with my dollies. I can pretend, too.

I am the best at pretending, he said, his smile getting bigger.

I was so happy with the rose I didn’t notice the tall man standing behind me with Mama and Daddy.

Eida Mae, Daddy said, kneeling. Thanatos brought you this. He held up a yellow ring with three blue stones and three black stones in a line across it. I tried to hide my smile and my warm cheeks. It was so pretty.

As long as you wear it, and the one you already have, you won’t hurt anyone else, okay? the tall man said. He was scary, but his voice was soft.

Okay, I whispered, and Daddy put it on my middle finger. I already wore a ring, a silver circle, but I had it on my thumb because it was big.

Zoiros, we must go, the tall man said.

The boy in the suit nodded and took his daddy’s outstretched hand.

Goodbye, he said to me, and I waved from behind Mama’s leg.

The tall man took his weapon and cut a hole in the air, and they both stepped through into the scary dark. They were just gone.

Okay, baby, Mama said, bending and picking me up. You never take those rings off, alright? Then nothing like what happened to Tiger will happen again.

I nodded and laid my head on her shoulder. She kissed my forehead and squeezed me tight.

Eida Mae, Daddy said, shaking his head, I put that skirt on you when we left and it’s already muddy?

I leaned to him, and he took me from Mama.

Throw me! As high as you can!

He smiled big and threw me so high I saw the colored hats of all the trees in the forest. I squealed, loving that feeling in my tummy. Mama said I was keeping butterflies there. I wasn’t ever scared because I knew Daddy would always catch me.

He did, and now Mama was smiling, too.

Guess what? she said.

What?

Thanatos finally found us our forever home.

I gasped, looking between them and clapping. Under the sea, like you said? Like a mermaid? Uncle Dex will come?

Yes, baby.

I hugged them both, and they held me tight. The good news made me so happy. I was sad when we moved. If I met a friend, I always had to leave them.

We love you so much, Eida, Mama whispered, but I felt sad because she was crying.

Chapter One

Eighteen Years Later

A knock on my door forced my eyes open, and a weak groan passed my lips. The poster above my bed came into view, a building in the mortal realm called the Eiffel Tower all lit up. It dominated the night skyline of Paris, a city that once existed in the old world.

Eida Mae, Dad’s voice called in singsong, do you know what time it is?

I turned my aching head to look at my bedside clock. Five minutes past six.

Too early, I croaked. Do you know what time I got home last night?

I do. You know the rule. You’re a grown woman and do what you want, but you don’t miss training. The world is at war. Five minutes. I’ll see you down there.

Stupid rule. Stupid training. Stupid war.

Shit, I hissed, and heard him snicker on the other side of the door. I’m going to kill Bexie. That girl was a bad influence. I pressed the heels of my hands into my eyes. Gods, I’m gonna barf.

As if saying it out loud manifested the action, I threw my blanket off and made a break for the bathroom. If I wasn’t so afraid to spew prematurely, I would’ve cursed violently when my baby toe took a critical hit against a stack of books.

They were detailed travel guides of the mortal world, left behind along with the Paris poster by whoever lived here before we did.

I may not have the attention span for most sitting hobbies, but the high-resolution pictures in the guides were incredible. Many lonely days of my childhood were spent up here, flipping the pages and pretending I was a voyager who embraced the excitement of world travel.

At the moment, the only thing in my embrace was the porcelain bowl, and as I gagged and retched like a long-haired cat, I regretted the cinnamon liquor. A lot.

I considered asking Dad if that vomit session could count as part of my workout as I rinsed my mouth. I was mid-sigh when I caught a look at myself in the mirror, and the sigh morphed into an audible cringe.

Apparently, I’d never gotten to pajamas. My sparkling bodycon party dress was a pretty aquamarine color, but it was wrinkled and disheveled.

Yikes.

My makeup, which had been on point last night, was a blurry mess, worsening the severe black pits that framed my eyes.

Searching the drawer, I found a hairbrush and braided my fine golden hair, tossing it where it rested in its familiar spot between my shoulder blades.

Mom was waiting when I opened the door, her arms crossed, and her hair a mane of untamed curls. Small house. One bathroom.

Thank you, Eida. I don’t know what I’d do if I was able to braid my hair without smelling your vomit. I’ve grown so fond of it these past months.

It’s cinnamon this morning, I mumbled, and slid by her.

"Wonderful."

Back in my room, I pulled on leggings and a sports bra while the room tilted obnoxiously.

Dad, I whined, walking out the back door, "you are killing me. I don’t think it would hurt to miss one day."

He was leaning on the weapons table, filled with training blades. Unsympathetic to my suffering, he tossed me a pair of sparring gloves. I made no attempt to catch them, glaring at him while they smacked into my chest and fell to my feet.

Turning and shuffling things on the table, he said, It’s not my fault you want to stay out until three in the morning.

I’m twenty-two. That’s what twenty-two-year-olds do.

"You’ll be fine, miagrhu. Quit complaining and get your gloves on."

I groaned in frustration and snatched them up.

When we’re done, I’ll fix breakfast, he teased.

I wrinkled my nose. I could throw up again just thinking about it.

Dad was one of those people who was naturally and annoyingly good at everything he tried, except cooking. He and my uncle Dex ate weird stuff because they were dark elves, or slia, born and raised in a city under a mountain in the mortal realm that they called the Underground. I’d seen Dex and my dad eat insects straight off the ground like they were candy.

I watched the small flex of his back, his muscles bunching, and the slight sway of his long, black braids. He was going to throw something at me.

Dad spun, flipping a wooden training dagger with a snap of his wrist. I caught it an inch in front of my face and said, Nice try.

He grinned, clapping his hands and rubbing them together. See, you’re sharp as a tack this morning. A grouchy little tack.

If I puke on you, it’s not my fault.

I am not concerned, for vomit does not frighten me.

An hour later, I’d sweated out all the booze. Reeking like happy hour, I was putting on a clinic on how to give a half-assed performance. Dad blocked my sword thrust, and I made a move. My fist found his jaw, but my wrist faltered. Rookie mistake, and one I’d made a habit of committing lately. The punch didn’t pack enough bite, and he clicked his tongue, tripping me.

My back crashed into the ground, and the cool grass tickled the back of my arms as I stared at the watery blue sky, wondering why I had to be part of this insane family.

Come on, Eida! he hissed, grabbing my arm and shaking my wrist so my hand flopped around. Wrist strong! You know that. Do you know what a weak wrist gets you?

I sighed. Dead?

Dead, he agreed. Now, again.

I groaned in frustration, letting him use my floppy wrist to pull me to my feet.

Are you being mean, babe?

I glanced over my shoulder and found Mom in the doorway. In training gear. She’d secured her blonde curls in her trademark braid, and her eyes, one green and one blue, regarded me with amusement.

Me? Dad asked, scoffing. "Mianama, she cries when you train her."

I am not fighting Mom this morning, I said, waving my hands in denial. No. No way. I can’t handle that right now.

She smirked and then jutted her lip out into a pouty face.

Dad sometimes took it easy on me, like when I was hungover. Mom was ruthless. I could have a sword sticking out of my chest and she still wouldn’t pull punches.

Well, you go too soft on her, Mom said. She won’t know how to really fight unless she’s in an actual fight.

I sighed at the familiar criticism. The funny thing was, I had been in a lot of actual fights, but she didn’t know that.

Eida is gentler than us. She didn’t grow up like we did, Lati.

They often did this. Argued about what to do with me, like I wasn’t standing right there.

All she does is party and play princess. She’s too soft, Mom muttered, her eyes bracketed with worried tension.

She’s just who she is and I’m sure that’s enough, he snapped.

My hero and greatest ally.

Dad was the only thing that kept Mom from suffocating me. I knew it was with love, but she acted like people were out to murder me every day or something. She would never let me out of the house, and training would last all day everyday if Dad didn’t advocate for me.

You guys should just fight, I said.

Mom crossed her arms over her chest. You always do this.

We’re not falling for it, Dad added.

You’re just saying that because Mom won the last two, I challenged, arching my brow and smirking at him.

I heard Mom chuckle and knew I had them.

She did not, Dad said, his mouth falling open like he couldn’t believe I dared even suggest it. I won the time before last.

Mom was walking toward us, shaking her head. No. I won the last two.

Impossible.

Smiling, I casually backed away and plopped down on the steps. They were too easy.

You calling me a liar, Kei?

He arched his brow, and his hand dropped to rest on the hilt of his ruby-encrusted practice sword. Maybe, Lati. Or maybe I’m suggesting you’re forgetful, because there’s no way I’ve lost two in a row to a sprite.

Mom was of short stature, considering fae were normally lean and lithe. Sprites were their cousins that measured no larger than a child.

I’d surpassed her height by the time I was thirteen, and I was four inches taller than her now. But she was incredibly strong, like a cutoff piece of dynamite, especially since she’d discovered deep breathing through yoga and learned how to channel her energy. I often watched her beat Dad, and he was way taller than me.

Her hand fell to the hilt of her own sword, the twin sister to Dad’s.

You’re about to lose number three.

Oh, Dad scoffed, laughing, "we both know I’d never lose if I didn’t go easy on you."

As the saying goes, them were fightin’ words, and he knew it.

Mom pulled her sword first, like always, and Dad blocked her explosive starting move with a grin. She punched him square across the jaw and the loud knock of bone on bone filled the air.

Then it was a fight. The swords sang their ringing song, while my parents fluctuated between having fun and their psychotic need to win.

You’ve been eating too many of those donuts, Mom said, breathing hard. You’re slowing down.

Is that why you’re gasping for air? he asked, kicking her in the side of the knee. She spun and elbowed him in the throat.

He shuffled back, holding his throat and choking. Grinning, he rasped, That was new.

Yeah, you like that? she gloated, spinning her sword in her hand.

He rubbed his throat, considering, and I knew he was mapping the move in his head. Yes, I did. You’ll have to show me that again.

Oh, gladly! she said, laughing, which, in Mom’s case, was more of an obnoxious cackle.

We weren’t a normal family, that was certain. Who else’s parents enjoyed a brawl before breakfast? I didn’t know anyone not enlisted who had to wake up at six every day to train. My parents were gardeners for fate’s sake; it’s not like we were ever really going to fight anyone.

I watched the flurry of blades, impressed as always at their confident skill, as if they’d been fighting since the day they were born. After several minutes of fierce sword play, they were tiring, both bleeding, and met in a block with their faces inches apart.

If they make out, I’m definitely going to barf again.

They were smiling and saying things to each other that I couldn’t hear, thank the gods, because it was probably graphic sexual innuendos. My parents weren’t shy with intimacy.

And there it was. Mom pressed up on her toes, and their lips collided.

You guys are gross! That’s my cue, I said, getting to my feet. Over my shoulder, I called, Don’t make me dinner. I’m going out again!

The training clothes were shed, and after my shower, it was a different routine. I left my hair natural since it was stick-straight like Dad’s, refusing to hold even a wave of curl no matter how hard I tried. My nails needed new polish, and finally it was makeup and choosing a dress. As indecisive as I was, the last step could take longer than expected.

By the time I finished showering and getting ready, I could smell the unidentifiable funk of whatever Dad was cooking downstairs.

My parents were both in the kitchen, and I stepped in to say bye. They seemed much more relaxed, with Mom standing behind Dad, her arms wrapped around his waist. They may argue, mostly about me, but I’d seen no one more in love than my mother and father. My parents were mianama, or my soul, the fae word for fated to one another.

Growing up with them had turned me into a hopeless, swooning romantic.

I hugged myself, leaning against the doorframe and fantasizing that someday Vilo and I could have something similar. Tilting my head, I imagined us standing in a kitchen together while I wrapped my arms around him. I couldn’t help but smile, even though it would never happen. He was a god prince, and I was sure he’d never even been in a kitchen, but a girl could dream.

Who won? I asked, unable to resist riling them up again.

Me, they both said, then gave each other the same look of exasperation.

I snickered. I’ll see you guys later.

Dad was at the stove, frying some kind of purple steak. I didn’t know the source of the meat and I was totally fine to keep it that way.

He didn’t turn around, but he said, Love you, at the same time Mom said, Be safe, Eida. Be aware.

Love you, and I will.

It wasn’t a surprise to find it was already humid as I jogged down the front steps. The weather could stifle those who preferred cool weather, like Dad. Aside from what we called rain days, it was hot like this all year round. I knew it could be suffocating for some, but having grown up in Poseidon’s realm under the sea, I loved it.

The golden city of Atlantis. One of the last places left unaffected by the plague and the war.

Green and lush with white sand walkways, all surrounded by sparkling blue ocean. Many days, I didn’t even wear shoes. Mom said it was like living in a beach vacation pamphlet.

My parents were driven here by the fall of the mortal realm when I was a kid. Our upside down fishbowl, that’s how I thought of it. The city was a bubble of air maintained by Poseidon’s power. Apollo gifted him a shred of sunlight, which set and rose around Atlantis in synchronization with the sun in the Earth realm.

Mom and Dad were royal gardeners, part of an expansive team that cared for the palace grounds. They were said to be the most beautiful gardens in any of the god realms, and Poseidon took great pride in them. Our sandstone brick house was part of the deal, tucked in the tree line just beyond the back gardens.

I walked twenty feet to the identical house next door and knocked twice before turning the knob.

Chapter Two

Is Kay awake? I asked, sitting at the kitchen table.

You keep her out too late, Eida Mae, Dex scolded me, shuffling pancakes onto a plate. He threw his thick black braid over his shoulder. She’s not old enough to be doing what I know you guys are doing.

He gave me a firm look, and I winced. She didn’t drink any, I swear.

Kay was two years younger. She hung out with Bexie and me, but sometimes I forgot our age difference because she was the most responsible of the three of us.

Eida Mae, he muttered, shaking his head.

She just wants to make sure we get home safe.

I know, but I don’t want her getting into trouble.

I know. Sorry. I caught the pancake he flipped me and took a bite. Uncle Dex, at least, had perfected the art of the pancake.

Kay appeared in the kitchen door, her voice light and cheery. After what you drank, I can’t believe you’re alive right now. I offered her a chipmunk smile and a thumbs up. And Mom says I can do whatever I want, Dad, she added, putting her hand on her hip.

Dex sighed and shook his head. I know she does.

Besides, my birthday is only a few months away now.

Kay was a full-blooded fae and took after her mother with bronze skin and wide brown eyes, full of gold flecks so they had a honey color. Her ears were pointed like mine, but her thick black curls often hid them.

When we first moved here, Dex met a wild-spirited fae named Plumeria. She was a biology professor, and already had Kay from a previous relationship, but Dex was the only father she ever knew. The two never married but had three more daughters together.

I knew Dex loved Plum, but she was a hands-off parent who believed the girls could make their own decisions, even eight-year-old Delilah. He often disagreed, but the girls had a lot of freedom to do as they wished.

Kay lived a life nearly absent of parental intervention, yet she was still somehow the most responsible person I’d ever met. I envied her every day. She had no idea what it was like to have overprotective parents breathing down her neck.

You ready? I asked.

She wore almost the same outfit as I did, our uniforms. As handmaidens to a princess, it was customary we wore sea-foam green dresses. Mine was two pieces, a flowy tulle skirt, and a fitted cropped top that showed my midriff. Kay always chose something more modest and wore a full dress. It was the same material as my skirt and decorated with silver sequins. Breathable, flowy, and comfortable to withstand the oppressive weather.

Be good, you two, Dex said, something between a plea and a request.

Kay grabbed two pancakes and nodded, cooing, I love you, Dad.

A small smile lifted one corner of his mouth. "I love you, too, miagrhu... both of you."

Awe, I called, grinning as the door shut.

Kay and I stuffed our faces, walking down the rose hedge toward the castle.

You guys are really going out again tonight? Kay asked through a bite of pancake.

"Well, yeah. It’s costume night at Jeffery’s. That’s the best night... it’s always packed. Bexie loves it."

Silly name, but it was the most exclusive club in the realm, and we got in for free. The benefits of being best friends with royalty. Bexie was a daughter of Triton, King of Atlantis, and a granddaughter of Poseidon, Olympian God-King of Seas, Storms and Horses.

Kay and I were paupers, riding for free on the skirt of an irresponsible princess. Parties, shopping, celebrities—it never stopped. You had to hang on tight if you wanted to keep up.

We broke out of the gardens and came into view of the rear courtyard. The palace was covered in solid gold, glinting its dazzling sparkle in the morning sun. Massive round domes topped by spires dominated the architecture, flowing down into golden lattice archways, and finishing with expansive gardens and sapphire pools.

Hi, Benji, we said in unison to the door guard in his blue and gold armor.

Good morning, ladies.

We swept by him and took the stairs immediately to our right. The walls and ceilings were carved of white marble, with the precious gems of aquamarine, sapphire, and blue topaz inlaid.

Our sandals padded in unison, a soft echo down the long hallway built to showcase the morning sun. The strip of wall composed of gems reflected the light, creating a kaleidoscope of varying shades of blue that danced on the floor and across the skirts of our dresses.

The glass elevator carried us to the fifth floor, and another long, bejeweled hallway with navy blue carpet greeted us. A housekeeper was up here dusting the extensive art that lined the walls, and we nodded at him as we passed.

Bexie’s door opened for us, and we found her massive bed was already empty, the pumpkin-colored sheets left in disarray. She was a minor Goddess of the Sea, so she loved the ocean, and her room reflected her passion. Enormous shells the size of my body were mounted for decoration, and the room was more window than wall, welcoming the salty air.

She’s in the bath, Kay said, and I followed her through the open archways into the spa.

Eida’s alive! Bexie cheered, cackling.

No thanks to you, Your Highness, I muttered, glaring. You know I have to be up early.

Let’s not act like you’re hard to convince when I offer you alcohol.

I wasn’t. Withstanding peer pressure was not a strength of mine.

Besides, you know how much I love it when you break the rules.

By rules, she meant my parents’ strict list of things I could not do. In the last two years, it turned into things I should not do as I battled their suffocating grip. Bexie was a big part of that. A rebellious daughter herself, she encouraged me to have as much fun as possible—consequences be damned.

Kay and I relaxed in the plush sitting area while Bexie lounged in her bath, which was actually a saltwater pool. She floated on her back, her orange sparkling fishtail rising out of the water and pushing her around in lazy circles. A variety of sea creatures swam with her, and a turtle pushed under her hand, begging to be petted. Close descendants of Poseidon were all merpeople, attuned to the oceans, seas, and all the creatures within.

"Well, it’s costume night at Jeffery’s!" she cheered, shimmying her shoulders.

I know! I shouted, whooping, so it echoed in the hollow room.

Kay was the voice of reason saying, Yeah, but... you’ve got to go to the war council meeting today or your dad is going to be really mad.

Bexie groaned and sat up against the edge of the pool. Same as any goddess, she was unrealistically beautiful. A perfect doll. She favored her mother, a lean water nymph with a glowing russet complexion. Bexie’s loose curls were coppery-orange, her color, with a chunky blonde streak that framed her face. The only part of her that took on her father were her eyes, a light cerulean blue that offset the rest of her features.

He’s got fifteen kids! she said, slapping the water. "Why do we all have to be there? I don’t give a shit about the war, and I’m only a minor goddess, after all."

Triton had fifteen children combined with his wife and all of his mistresses. Bexie was the youngest and since her mother was a water nymph, she would certainly never ascend to any position past a princess. I was confident that was fine with her.

Children produced with immortals that weren’t gods, like nymphs and dryads, were considered minor gods. Triton’s children with his wife would always be treated with more respect than their half-blood siblings, even if they were matched in terms of power or ability.

He’ll cut you off, Kay chimed, a teasing tone of warning in her voice.

I know he will, that prick, Bexie spat, and pulled herself out of the pool, or send me away to be married and used as breeding stock.

She rolled over the edge, and I got a towel and dried her off. As I did, the scales sloughed away, and the fleshy tail shifted back into long lean legs.

What time is this stupid meeting? Bexie asked Kay because she knew I wouldn’t know either. I wasn’t responsible enough to remember things like that.

Kay glanced at the giant seashell clock on the wall. In about twenty minutes.

Ugh. Just harpoon me and leave me here. I’d rather that than listen to a bunch of squares jabber for six hours about Zeus and his mess. I hate this stupid Wine War.

It was named for its instigator, the selfish, murderous God of Wine, Dionysus.

I’ll meet you there, I said quickly, spinning on my heel because I didn’t want to deal with the eye rolls.

I heard Kay mutter, Oh, geez, but I ignored it and headed back out into the hall.

I wanted to see Strovilos, or Vilo, to those familiar with him. God of Whirlwinds, Bexie’s older brother, and my current romantic interest. That was the best way to describe our relationship. I was madly in love with him—I had been since I was a preteen girl crushing on him whenever I saw him around the palace—but he made absolutely no attempts to take our relationship past, as Bexie liked to put it, fuck buddies.

We’d been seeing each other for nearly two years, and I clung to the hope that someday he would decide to be exclusive with me.

His room was down the hall around a corner, and my knock was quiet. Vilo opened the door, a flash of surprise in his eyes to find me standing on the other side. They were the same ocean color as Bexie’s and the only thing they had in common besides me.

Eida Mae, I wasn’t expecting you, he said with a smile, swinging the door shut behind him. Not before I saw the bare arm still in his bed, creamy skin with an emerald ring on her middle finger. I blinked, reminding myself it wasn’t unexpected.

Sorry, I know, I said, my cheeks warming as I tucked my hair behind my ears.

He was ridiculously handsome, as were all gods except poor Hephaestus, the scarred God of the Forge.

Vilo favored his father, tanned skin that loved the sun, and sandy hair tousled in waves. A day at the beach personified. He wore his usual knee-length robe in royal blue to match the color of the scales on his tail.

It’s okay, he said, rubbing my upper arms. I’m happy to see you, it’s just—

Council meeting, I interjected, and winced as soon as I did. He hated when I did that, usually scolding me for having no manners. I wished I didn’t have the habit, but I hadn’t often socialized outside of the family growing up and I tended to be awkward as fuck because of it.

Thanks, Mom.

Vilo nodded, letting the interruption go this time. I wouldn’t mind seeing you after, though. The flirtatious curl of his lips made my heart flutter.

I would love that, I said, pleased to be getting exactly what I wanted. Emboldened by my success, I asked, Do you want to walk down together? I mean, since we’re both heading to the meeting... I’ll sit with Bexie, of course.

He leaned down and pressed a kiss to my lips, the subtle scent of the sea growing stronger.

I would love to, but I need to visit my office first, so I have to rush.

Disappointment shot through me, but I nodded, asking, Did you show him?

He wrapped his arms around me, hugging me. Yes, he was very impressed.

I smiled into his chest, excitement spurring my already racing heart. Really?

With the influx of refugees from the mortal world, many gods’ realms needed expanding. A new grid was being prepared for housing by Triton, and they were looking to avoid the organization problems they’d had in the past.

Poseidon could clear the area and provide a spot, but he couldn’t materialize houses, and the bottom of the sea wasn’t an ideal place to build. Together, Vilo and I had drawn up comprehensive plans to optimize street organization using my knowledge of the now-fallen mortal cities from my travel guides.

He smiled down at me. It might even earn me my spot at the table.

Oh, I hope so. You deserve it, I said, grinning and squeezing the front of his robe.

He waved my hands away, his pleased smile dropping into a frown. You know I hate being wrinkled.

Right, sorry, I said, doing my best to smooth the material.

He pressed a swift kiss to my lips and then one into the curve of my neck, lingering at my pulse point. I knew what he wanted, and I turned my head, shifting my hair out of the way while I checked for bystanders. The hallway wasn’t the ideal place for a bite, but if he wanted to, I wanted him to be happy.

I better not, he said with a sigh, kissing my neck until I was giggling, or I’ll definitely be late. But there will be time afterwards.

He stepped away from me, winking before he disappeared in a flash. I thought it was weird when he winked. You had to be the right kind of person to pull it off, and if you weren’t, it looked forced and awkward. Only effortlessly cool people got to wink. But it didn’t bother me enough to be more than a brief put-off, and I practically skipped back down the hall, floating into Bexie’s room with a stupid smile on my face.

The princess had donned a gauzy tangerine gown, and Kay was helping her weave a circlet into her hair.

What? Bexie asked, her tone sharp.

Nothing, I said quickly, but negated my denial by blurting, I’m seeing him after the council meeting.

She clicked her tongue, and Kay pursed her lips, probably trying to hold in one of her lectures.

I thought you were better than that, Bexie said, and my brow furrowed, my heart sinking in my chest. She didn’t like me with Vilo, but she’d never said anything so cruel.

What’s that supposed to mean? I demanded, my hands clenched into fists.

She turned to me, her mouth half-open. "Wait. He still didn’t tell you?"

What are you talking about?

Bexie’s lips curled in a cruel smirk. "I told you, Eida, he’s playing you. Vilo is recently engaged to one of Hercules’ daughters. I don’t remember which one because I don’t give a shit."

My cheeks flamed, embarrassment and anger playing tug-of-war for possession of my cracking heart.

"Since when?"

Three days ago, she said, giving me a sad smile.

"Well, why didn’t you tell me? I look like an idiot!"

"First, Eida, don’t you dare get sassy with me! I shouldn’t have to be the one to tell you because if he gave a shit about you, he already would’ve. Second, he promised he would tell you when he found the right moment. I didn’t realize that meant days."

I’d been with him that night. We’d had sex the day he’d gotten engaged to someone else.

I see, I whispered, the pit of my gut churning.

I glanced at Kay, who watched me with sad eyes, the corner of her mouth tilted down. She hated Vilo. Bexie did, too, despite him being her brother.

You are like the hottest demigoddess I’ve ever seen, Eida. Why do you let him break your heart? Bexie used her hands a lot when she spoke, and she held them up, shaking them and shouting, He’s a piece of shit! Just find someone else. There are plenty of dicks in the sea, you know. Bigger and better ones, I’m sure.

Bexie was a blunt person. Not shy to tell you how she felt, and crass while she did.

Yeah, Kay said, it’s really hard to watch you go back over and over, you know?

"I love him," I whispered, trying to wipe the tears so my makeup didn’t smudge.

Are you sure? Kay asked, and took my hand, squeezing my fingers. Maybe you just let him get away with awful things because you’re in love with the idea of being in love.

Bexie crossed her arms. Listen to your cousin, Eida.

I didn’t have an answer, so I smoothed my skirt and said, We better get going. We don’t want to be late again.

In an overly dramatic display of how stupid she thought I was, Bexie rolled her eyes hard enough to lose them in the back of her head.

Kay and I flanked our princess in the hall, the only handmaidens in the palace who didn’t stay behind our charge. Bexie could’ve flashed us there instantaneously, but we always walked across the palace to the meeting chamber, knowing we’d be sitting most of the day.

It was a massive room, poised to hold not only the war council, but the entire royal family and dozens of other advisors.

A wooden table carved in the shape of a horse’s head sat in the center of the room. Poseidon was at the head, flanked by his four children with his wife, Amphitrite, including Triton. Diplomats from other realms and some of Bexie’s older siblings occupied the other ten chairs at the table.

The rest of us were seated in luxurious booths that rose in a theater style arrangement. Bexie always took a booth close to the top so she could nap the entire time.

My stupid eyes scanned the crowd and found Vilo close to the floor. Unlike Bexie, he was ambitious. He pined for a seat at the table and was obsessed with earning his father’s favor.

My heart curled into a ball and sobbed. I was hoping those plans I helped him with would be enough to get him his spot, and then maybe I would be enough, too.

Poseidon called the room to attention, his booming voice easily rising above the rest. He looked no older than Vilo with his sandy brown hair and smooth golden skin, but the strength of his aura asserted his dominance as the most powerful man in the room. Like the ocean, beautiful, but it could kill you on a whim. He sat, and a general droned off a list, giving an itinerary for what they would discuss today.

Vilo felt my eyes and turned to find whoever was burning holes in his back. His gaze softened when he saw me, and his fingers moved in a subtle wave. I frowned and slammed my back into my chair, so the curtain of our booth concealed most of my face.

Through my peripheral I saw his eyes flash with anger and search for Bexie, who flipped him off, curling her lip in disgust. He tried to catch my attention again, but I pulled the curtain so I couldn’t see him.

The shock of the engagement was wearing off, and my heart was sticky with that tight sickness. There was no way I was about to cry during a meeting, though. Later, in the shower, I could weep all my sorrow down the drain.

Our most pressing news today, the general said, is that Demeter has officially declared in favor of Dionysus. Since their realms are side by side, it is a devastating blow.

Devastating, but not surprising. She always had a soft spot for him, Poseidon muttered.

There were several stunned murmurs around the room, and Kay glanced over at me in shock. The Goddess of Harvest allied with the enemy? How unsettling.

The war had been at a low boil for over two decades, but recently things seemed to heat up, lines being drawn. A month ago, Dionysus had refused any more offers or talk of peace, saying a world where Zeus was king was not one he was going to continue living in. The God of Wine wanted to cause trouble for no reason by upsetting the millennia-long ruling hierarchy.

Vilo often complained that Atlantis wouldn’t see any of the action from the bottom of the ocean, hoping for an opportunity to prove himself in battle. I sympathized, but secretly, I was glad to be safe in our little bubble.

Bexie hadn’t heard the dramatic news because she was reclined, having brought an eye cover and ear plugs. Things settled when the subject turned to more trivial matters, and I didn’t pay attention to the discussion either, bored to tears most of the time. Kay sat with her hands clasped in her lap, soaking it all in like a sponge for information.

The meeting dragged on for hours, as Bexie expected, and I stewed until I nodded off. I needed a nap after my late night, and sleeping was better than thinking about Vilo. As the meeting ended, people started shifting. The subtle commotion woke me, and I sat up with a start, wiping the drool from my cheek.

Also, as a last reminder, the diplomats from the Underworld arrive tomorrow, Poseidon said. Treat them with respect.

Several murmurs of distrust rippled around the room, and they adjourned the meeting.

Get up, Bexie, I hissed, shaking her.

I did not want to see Vilo right now, and he’d be looking for me.

She lifted her eye cover and sighed. It’s over?

Yes. I want to get back to your room.

Why? she drawled, knowing exactly why.

Bexie.

Fine.

We made it out to the hall, but King Triton stopped us. Kay and I stepped back in respect. Kay, a low-ranking mortal, was especially affected by his powerful aura. I found it pleasant. His magic hummed against my skin, making me feel energized, and as always, he smelled like an ocean breeze.

Kay glanced over at me with a subtle roll of her eyes. Whenever Bexie talked with her father, it ended in a fight.

My youngest daughter, it was a pleasant surprise to see you here today, he rumbled, hugging her.

Bexie was not fond of her father, and halfheartedly returned his embrace.

I can always use a nap, Father.

He frowned in disapproval and asked, What else do you plan to do with your day? How are you forwarding the good of our realm?

"Well, Father, I’m probably going to go swim in my pool. Then I’ll find the sluttiest outfit in my closet, go to Jeffery’s, drink too much, and fuck some guy’s brains out in my VIP booth. Or girl’s brains. I haven’t decided yet. Maybe both."

Beatrice, he hissed, scolding her, someday you will have to grow up.

Oh, yeah?

Or I will just marry you off and send you somewhere else. How does a son of Ares sound?

Ares’ realm was notoriously awful. The God of War was said to be cruel and vicious to his subjects, unpredictable when he’d erupt. Some even whispered he was insane, driven crazy by his lust for violence.

Bexie crossed her arms over her chest and shook her head. I won’t go.

You will, he gritted through clenched teeth. Triton looked around, trying to contain his temper in public. "Because you do as I say, girl. You, of all my children, forget your place too often. Spoiled brat."

Great talk, Pops. Can I go?

Only because I tire of looking at you.

She huffed, and he stepped around her, not paying any attention to Kay and me. Which was fine.

Okay, let’s go, I whispered, but a warm hand on my arm told me it was too late.

Bexie was already pissed when she turned to face us. When she saw Vilo, she rolled her eyes.

I’ll help you back to your room, My Lady, Kay said to Bexie, keeping her gaze away from Vilo. A mortal woman glaring at a god was frowned upon.

I swallowed and turned to face him. He scrutinized me, probably trying to discern where I was on a scale of irritated to homicidal.

My heart felt like it was being crushed by lead weight, heavy with love for him, and cracking with sorrow. Normally, I would be thrilled to have him acknowledge me in public, but heat clawed up my chest into my face, and I thought I might vomit again.

Eida Mae, I wish to see you in private, he said, smiling and pulling me with him.

I looked back over my shoulder, and my friends watched us go. Bexie grabbed Kay by the shoulders and mouthed, "Knee him in the balls," while demonstrating on Kay in slow motion. Kay gave me a thumbs up, indicating she liked the idea.

I whipped around and pushed out a deep breath. Vilo had his hand on my lower back, guiding me to his office down the hall. All the siblings had an office, but I was sure Bexie’s had never been used.

Taking a deep breath, I promised I was going to be strong this time. This was it. I was done, and I was going to break it off and move on from this dead-end relationship.

Who cares that he always made me feel wonderful and beautiful when we were together? He didn’t publicly show his affection, but he could be very romantic when we were alone. I loved him.

He said he loved me, too.

The door clicked behind us, and he wasted no time pulling me into him and trying to kiss me.

I turned to give him my cheek, and he sighed against it.

What’s wrong, Eida?

I’m sure you know the answer to that already.

I’m sure my baby sister can’t hold her tongue.

So it’s true? You’re engaged? I asked, turning my face up to meet his eyes. My bottom lip quivered, and I cursed its weak resolve.

Yes, he said flatly, no apology in his tone, but that doesn’t mean things have to change with us. You know I only love you.

I scoffed, my mouth falling open. Why didn’t you tell me when I saw you that night?

A bit of a mood spoiler, isn’t it? he asked with a smirk and a chuckle that made me want to heed Bexie’s advice and knee him in the balls.

My vision blurred with tears, and I put my hands on his chest to push him away, but he held me tighter. A demigoddess didn’t really have a chance to overpower a God, and definitely not the grandson of an Olympian.

You said you didn’t want a committed relationship! I cried, tears breaking free and rolling down my cheeks. "You’ve said that for two years! And then I have to find out from Bexie that you’re engaged? You couldn’t even tell me this morning?"

Eida, please. I didn’t tell you because it doesn’t matter. It’s a political thing. To be connected like this to Hercules could earn me a spot at the table! That’s what you want, right? You’re always saying I deserve it, and I do. Nothing will stop me from getting it. He tucked my hair behind my ear and ran his thumb across my cheekbone. But I can’t lose you.

My mouth fell open at the suggestion. So I’m supposed to, what? Be your mistress for my entire life?

"You never actually expected me to marry you, right? he asked, his brows furrowing, but not with confusion. It was pity, which was worse. You’re a demigoddess, Eida... a handmaiden."

My heart dropped to my toes, and I pushed at him again. Let me go.

Don’t be this way, he muttered, but relaxed his grip enough I could rip myself free. "You know you’re always my number one girl. More beautiful than any goddess. Sweeter. And my father wants me to continue drawing the plans. I need you, but I just can’t marry you."

I sniffled, shaking my head. By sweeter, he meant my blood. His enjoyment of it bordered on obsession, but Bexie said that was normal for some couples. She also told me it was the only reason he gave me any time of day.

Can’t or won’t? I asked, staring up at him.

Why does that matter?

It was an answer without really being one, and I walked toward the window, crossing my arms over my aching chest to hide a sob. Everything was ruined. All my silly hopes that one day he would recognize our relationship and take me as his official consort were no longer valid.

"We are still together, and I’ll give you anything you want, Eida Mae. Children someday if you desire, and your own beautiful house close to the palace where I can visit you... anything. You’ll live better than a queen."

My heart was thundering, fiery anger erupting in my chest. I can’t believe you’re actually serious.

Please be reasonable, he said, and I felt he was right behind me. His hands rested on my upper arms and rubbed them to comfort me. This changes nothing.

Are you kidding? I spat, crying harder. It changes everything!

Only if you let it! he hissed, growing angry. His hands tightened on my arms, and I ripped away from his grasp again, turning to face him.

My temper snapped, and I shoved him in the chest, his eyes flashing with shock as I shrieked, I am not your whore, Vilo!

I knew he had other girls, even when I didn’t seek the companionship of other men. It was what it was. He made no promises of commitment to me.

But having him married to someone else, stashing me away like some dirty little secret while he showcased his new wife for his father? The thought made me feel sick.

He took a step forward, infuriated, and a sudden swirling wind whipped the curtains and my skirt. I don’t know what you’re trying to say, but you are not leaving me, Eida.

I sneered up at him. How can I leave you? We’re not even together. We stared at each other, both furious, and I finally said, I’m done, Vilo.

He scoffed a dry laugh. Like I haven’t heard that before.

It was true. I’d said it many times, but I always found my way back into his arms and his bed.

I thought of my mom, and what she would think if I let a man degrade me in the way he wanted to—the way he already had. I knew she would never allow it to happen to her. She’d probably kill him for even suggesting it. Those thoughts gave me strength to find the next words and mean them.

This time I’m serious, I said, and it felt different. It felt real. I’m done with you. I’m not living my life as your dirty little secret.

The wind whistled, whipping my hair, and his eyes swirled, but he took a deep breath to calm himself. You need a couple of days to process this, Eida. I understand.

His tone, and how sure he was that I’d come back to him, made my blood boil. Hot rage set my resolve, and I said, Don’t call on me, Vilo. Don’t send your stupid flowers. I’m done. Enjoy your new life with your important goddess wife and leave me alone.

I brushed by him, but he grabbed my arm, yanking me back. It was the most forceful he’d ever been with me, and I gasped, a spike of cold fear turning the rage to slush in my veins.

"We