The Heart of Hades

By Iris Blossom

Lilia doesn't know she is descended from the Gods & her Father wants to keep it that way, until an unexpected incident puts her in range of all 12 Gods.

Medusa wants her power.

Titans wants 

• Language: English
• Publisher: IngramSpark
• Release date: May 18, 2023
• ISBN: 9785125513567

Book preview

I

Mr. Waters

No, no, no, nothing is working! She sighed, glaring at her closet.

Lilia stood in front of her closet, staring at her blouses. She pulled out one after another, checking them against her pale pink pencil skirt. Each one she rejected and tossed onto her queen-sized bed with a sigh. She wanted to look her absolute best on her first day as secretary for the CEO of Olympus Law, Mr Waters. So it shocked her when her supervisor announced they promoted her from a general secretary to a personal one. She’d been at Olympus Law for three years, working through college. She was in her last semester, finishing her degree in event planning. Life had finally started to look up after an abysmal few months.

Feeling confident, she picked up a light blue silk blouse with pink cherry blossoms that matched her skirt. She always

She enjoyed what she termed happy patterns on her clothes. Her brother Ian laughed when she brought it up. He was filming a new superhero movie for the next six months. The two of them shared a brownstone in Manhattan. Ian insisted she stays with him while completing school after her disastrous breakup.

What use is all my money if I can’t help my family? he’d asked her when she hesitated on accepting his offer.

Ack! she yelled when she glanced at her alarm clock. If she didn’t leave now, she would be late for work. Rushing downstairs, she ran into the kitchen, grabbed her overnight oatmeal from the refrigerator, tossed her nude pumps into her bag, and slipped on flats to run to the subway. Putting on her blue wool coat, she buttoned it as she went out the door, locking it before running to the station. She slipped into a subway car seconds before the doors closed on her. She would have been late if she’d missed the train and wanted to make an excellent first impression.

She walked into the office and deeply breathed to settle her nerves. The office was spacious with an inner room Mr Waters used as his office. Her desk, polished cherry wood with a state-of-the-art monitor and CPU in one corner, sat outside the inner office. She noticed four comfortable chairs against the wall by the outer door and a water cooler with disposable cups. A shining silver coffee and tea service sat to the left of the door. She remembered talking to the previous secretary about Mr Waters’ expectations when he had high-profile clients. She was to ask if the clients wanted coffee or tea and then bring it within five minutes. She put her things away, slipped on her nude pumps, and got Mr Waters his morning cup of coffee.

Good morning, Mr Waters. I’ve brought you your coffee,

Lilia announced, walking into his office. She set the coffee out of the way and handed him a printed schedule of his day.

Thank you, Ms Heart. Take a seat, and we will go over your daily duties, Mr Waters replied, motioning to a leather back chair in front of his massive mahogany desk.

Yes, sir. She settled herself on the edge of the chair, pen poised to take notes.

First, when alone, call me Don. Second, we will go over my daily schedule every morning at eight. This means no scheduling any appointments until nine. Next, have all files about my meetings pulled and on my desk. I dislike looking disorganized in front of a client. Third, answer your phone by the third ring and remember client privacy is paramount. More unique clients will be through my doors than you may have seen with the other lawyers. I ask you to remember that when you greet any of them. Lastly, I allow my brothers Harry and Zach into my office any time, even with a client. Do you have questions about the information I have given you? Don asked. Watching her pen fly across her notepad, he took this time to observe her.

She was a beautiful young lady with blond hair and amaretto eyes. By human standards, they would consider her petite with an attractive figure. Her little outfit hid much but fit her perfectly, to leave any man wondering what she hid beneath. He could tell she took care of herself, her arms defined with svelte muscles, along with dancers’ legs. He might have asked her for a fancy dinner if she weren’t his employee and discovered her secrets. Her skirt reached her knees, and her blouse billowed around her arms, cuffed at the wrists. Even in her pumps, she barely got his shoulder. She had a calming aura. Just being around her relaxed him. He felt an untapped potential just.

Waiting to get out. He felt that same potential several months ago. It took him those months to figure out whose aura was radiating from. As soon as he found Lilia, he had her transferred and promoted to his secretary.

Before she arrived, he’d looked at her personnel file, and he found she turned twenty-three this past November. She was a hospitality major at the local university and worked for his company for three years. Her father, Matthew Burton, was a famous photographer, and her brother Ian Burton was a rising movie star. She had a lot of talent in her family and went into hospitality. He was curious why she’d chosen that for her major. He would let her warm up to him and then ask her why.

No sir, no questions, she replied after reviewing all the notes she had taken.

If any arise, please ask, don’t figure it out alone. I’d like you to contact my accountant James Carter to set up a meeting. His information is in the address book left by my last secretary. Surprised, he watched her eyes flare with unchecked rage at the mention of James Carter’s name. The room around them went frigid.

Do you know James Carter? he inquired, intrigued by the anger he glimpsed.

We are cousins. Her clipped voice revealed her annoyance. Do you not get along?

Just a minor family matter, don’t worry. It will not interfere with my work, Lilia assured him with a nod.

Good, now off you go. He shooed her out of his office and again settled behind his desk.

Closing the door, she sat down at her desk and groaned, putting her head in her hands. Of all the accountants in New York City, he had to have James. He was the last person, besides her ex-fiancé Phillip, she wanted to see or talk to again. Taking a deep breath, she picked up the receiver on her phone and called his accounting firm.

Good morning, Mr Carter’s office at Killian and Drake. This is Annabeth speaking, she heard a female voice answer the phone.

Good morning, this is Lilia from Mr Don Waters’ office at Olympus Law. I am calling to schedule a meeting with Mr James Carter. If possible, he would like Mr Carter to come to his office later this week, Lilia explained, pulling up Mr Water’s schedule on her computer.

Mr Carter has Wednesday at eleven open, the secretary offered.

Mr Waters already has a scheduled appointment. Could we do Wednesday at two?

Mr Carter is booked.

The conversation continued until they settled on Thursday at one pm.

We will see Mr Carter Thursday at one. Thank you, and have a wonderful day. Lilia hung up the phone, realizing two gorgeous men had been patiently waiting for her to get off the phone. She looked up and up until she caught the eye of the taller of the two. He had olive skin, chestnut hair, and the most bottomless violet eyes she had ever seen. She felt he saw right through to her soul. He wore khaki pants and a white polo shirt with the Olympus Sky Gym logo above his heart. The logo looked like a laurel wreath, which a winner from the Olympic games used to receive. His bangs were pulled back from his forehead with his sunglasses to finish the look. She could tell he was at least a good foot taller than her; he was broad through.

His shoulders had narrow hips. He must be an athlete. She would stake her point shoes on it. He looked stunning, and her insides melted when he pierced her with his gaze.

***

Good morning, gentlemen. I apologize for the wait. What can I do for you? she asked, trying to mask her reaction to the taller gentleman.

We are here to see Don. I am Zach, and this silent brooding male is Harry, the other gentleman explained, jerking a thumb at the man she’d been drooling over. Zach was two inches shorter than Harry, with the same olive skin but blond hair and bright blue eyes. He wore a three-piece suit of light grey, with a crisp white shirt and red tie. She cocked her head to the side and said,

Of course, but have we met before? You feel familiar to me.

Probably not. I look a lot like the actor Ian Burton. So many people mistake me for him, Zach answered.

No, Ian is my half-brother, so that can’t be it. Oh well, just a feeling I have. I’ll let Mr Waters know you and Mr Undervold are here.

How do you know my last name? Harry asked, finally speaking to her. His voice was a deep rumble she could feel in her bones.

Mr Waters’ last secretary left me important information, and your last names were on it. I don’t want to call you by the wrong name, Lilia replied, her eyes shining with her smile.

Harry sucked in a sharp breath. Her smile was like a siren’s call. He felt a pull and immediately wanted to get to know her. He watched in fascination as she picked up the phone and dialled Don’s office.

Mr Waters, your brothers are here to see you. Yes, I’ll show them in. Will you want coffee? she asked into the receiver and hung up once she had received an answer.

You may go in, would either of you like coffee or tea? She asked, looking up at the two gentlemen. Harry stared at her, lost in thought. He didn’t realize she was talking to him again. Zach elbowed him in the ribs and nodded toward Lilia.

She asked if you wanted coffee or tea, Harry.

Oh sure, black coffee, please, he replied, shaking his head. It had been almost a century since a woman distracted him enough to lose track of a conversation.

Of course, you may go in, and I’ll be in, in a moment with your coffees. Lilia motioned to the office door as she stood. She smoothed her skirt, stepped out from behind her desk, and headed toward the small kitchen area to make coffee. Harry couldn’t stop watching her walk away, taking in her trim waist and petite frame. When she’d walked past, he’d caught a whiff of vanilla and cherry. He also noted that the top of her head barely reached his shoulder in four-inch pumps. Once safely in the office, Zach burst into laughter, clutching his stomach.

Hades, if I didn’t know any better, I’d say Poseidon’s new secretary has piqued your interest, Zeus joked.

Is that so, Zeus? Poseidon asked, lifting an eyebrow and staring at his younger brother.

You are insane, Zeus. What would I do with a mortal woman?

Hades inquired, unable to keep the irritation out of his voice. When had they gotten so good at being able to read him, or was he just that bad at hiding his attraction to Lilia?

Knock, knock.

Here is your coffee. Please call me should you need anything else, Lilia said, placing the coffee on the table and leaving quickly to avoid disturbing their meeting. The three men watched the door close, and Poseidon remarked,

I don’t think she is all mortal, Hades. Did you feel immediately at ease when you entered my office?

Yes, and I felt a tug of familiarity toward her. She did too. She asked me if we had met before, Zeus explained, and Hades nodded in agreement.

She mentioned her half-brother is Ian Burton, and he is of your line, Zeus. His father is the son of one of your children, Hades remarked, looking thoughtful.

Lilia and Ian have the same father but different mothers. I think she is of Aphrodite’s lineage, and with the power I sense in her, Aphrodite might be her birth mother. I don’t know if she is of your line, Zeus. The power feels familiar but not the same as yours. I did not intend to ask her to call Mr James Carter. Still, after her reaction toward him and telling me he is her cousin, I want to see what information I can gather from him about her. She has no idea of her power. It is one reason I had her promoted, so I could monitor her, Poseidon explained, sipping his coffee.

How long have you felt her power? Zeus asked.

Three months ago, I felt a surge in the building. It took me a while to pinpoint which secretary the power was coming from. She has been here for three years, gives or take a month or two.

Why are you just feeling her power now? Hades asked, sipping his coffee, appreciating the smooth, rich flavour.

I don’t know, I’ve never felt a combination of her power before. Usually, I can pinpoint the god or goddess, a demigod descended from without effort. It is almost as if Lilia is subconsciously hiding her power. I don’t recall having a demigod with that ability, do you? He put it to his brothers.

I don’t either, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t any. Have you asked Aphrodite if Lilia is her daughter? Zeus wanted to know.

She won’t speak to me. We had a terrible falling out over her, loving a human who was destructive to her. He was a photographer who barely had time for her, and she pined away for him. It kept her from doing her duty as the goddess of love, Poseidon revealed.

I’ll talk to her. She is on Olympus for a break from the human world, Zeus offered. Poseidon nodded his thanks.

What mix of power are you getting at Poseidon? You mentioned it was a mix, Hades pointed out.

I think the mix of being a direct descendant of Aphrodite and her alleged father, Matthew Burton, being distantly related to Zeus makes for a unique combination of power. He may not be her father, and Aphrodite pawned Lilia off on him because she knew her actual father would not want Lilia. As I said, I don’t know if she is a descendant of your Zeus or if she has similar power. I don’t know any god besides Hephaestus and Apollo who have fire or lightning power. Earlier in conversation, I mentioned her cousin James, and I could have sworn lightning or fire flared in her eyes.

What happened between them? Zeus wanted to know. She said it was a family matter and didn’t elaborate, Poseidon explained with a shrug. He would not pressure her if Lilia didn’t want to discuss it.

We came here to talk about Medusa and her sisters starting to become more active in New York City, Hades announced. The three switched gears to talk about their plans to deal with Medusa.

II

Lineage

A few days later, Lilia went for her regular morning jog and listened to one of her textbooks on her phone. She ran a five-mile

the route, but today she had some extra nervous energy to burn. Last

night her professor announced their senior project. They were to plan either a wedding, a sweet sixteen, or an anniversary party with

a different budget for each. He would assign them a project based on their concept proposals the following week. She did not want

the wedding project. She'd called off her own six months ago. She

I still remember that terrible day. It had been a Wednesday, and her classes usually went late. That day her professor had cancelled her late style, and she had come home early. She walked into the apartment she shared with Phillip and heard strange noises from the bedroom. Opening the door, she found Phillip in bed with her cousin James. Screaming in shock, she threw her engagement ring at Phillip, told him it was over and left. She then ran to Ian and told him everything she'd seen. He hired movers, and she moved out and into his place the next day. He even helped her cancel all the wedding plans and let their family know it was off. He was the best older brother she could have asked for.

On her run, she realized she had started crying. Angrily she brushed away her tears and felt heat run down her hand and bounce off her fingers. Glancing at her hand, she could have sworn she'd seen a light flare on her fingers. She shook her head, said she needed more sleep and finished her run. Unknown to her, an ominous shadow had followed on her run, keeping a pace just behind. He slipped into the alley beside her house and watched her unlock her door. Not a care in the world.

Soon he would take her and force her to use her power to overthrow the gods and goddesses on Olympus. It would be his time with Medusa to control the human world. No more hiding in the shadows and covering up for human mistakes. He would force the world to accept monsters among everyone. Lilia readied herself for work like always, putting on a cream-coloured fitted dress and tucking hot pink pumps into her bag for work. Pink always made her feel the most powerful. She added a bit of colour to her makeup than usual and picked her favourite pink lipstick to wear. Today she would need all the confidence she could muster as James would come in for his meeting with Don. Maybe she could pretend to run an errand and not have to see him at all.

Lilia left for the subway; she walked the three blocks and down, passing through the pay station. Her neck prickled with awareness.

She turned around, feeling someone's eyes on her. When no one made eye contact, she returned to wait for her train to show. Get a grip, Lilia. You are just worked up over James. She scolded herself and stepped onto her train.

Her unease did not stop until she entered her office building, settled behind her desk and changed into nice shoes.

Good morning, Mr Waters. Did you have a good night? she asked, settling into her customary chair, for their morning meeting after placing his cup of coffee on his desk.

Good morning, Lilia. Yes, I did. You look lovely today, he greeted, taking in her outfit.

Thank you, Mr Waters. I always try to make outfits that give me confidence, she explained. Rough morning? he asked, curious if she would open up. He had yet to get her to talk about herself more than just the basics of where she went to school and who her family was. Other

than that, he knew nothing about her.

Nothing I can't handle. Here is your schedule for today. She handed him the printed schedule. Don nodded and allowed her to

continue. "Today you have a meeting with Mr Chimera at ten, a lunch with Melissa Harp at Gregorio's, and a one o'clock meeting

with… James Carter. Her hands shook as she said his name and the room temperature tanked. Don watched, curious to see if she would realize she had dropped the room's temperature if his measurements were correct by about twenty degrees. Did the air conditioner kick on?" she asked, her attention snapping away from James' name.

No, Don replied.

Oh, must be me then. I must start bringing a sweater with me, she answered with a shrug of her dainty shoulders. Is there anything more you need from me? She stood up and looked at him while clutching her notebook. I'm expecting Harry this afternoon. Can you make sure you are here to greet him? Don asked, watching her try to hide her feelings about being expected to be in the office

that afternoon. Did she not want to see James that badly? He would have Hades stay in the main office area, observe her, and protect James from accidental power surges. He wanted to tell Lilia said everything but needed more information before explaining.

Yes, Mr Waters. She gave a tense nod.

Don, please, he corrected.

Don, she whispered and closed the door behind her. The entire morning Lilia was a bundle of nerves. She spilled her coffee, dropped several files, and cut her finger before ten o'clock.

Ring Ring.

Mr Don Waters's office, Lilia speaking.

Lilia, it's Penny. Want to go to Bert's for lunch? Penny asked in her sweet perky voice. She and Lilia had been working as general

secretaries together before they promoted Lilia.

Meet me at the entrance at twelve. I still get an hour for lunch. Lilia agreed, feeling her first genuine smile of the day appear.

Good morning. My name is Roger Chimera, and I am here to see Mr Waters, A young man said, wringing his hands before Lilia. He had deep brown eyes and blond hair. His eyes were darting around, taking everything in as he waited for her to respond. He reminded

her of a lost, scared puppy dog.

Please have a seat, and I will let Mr Waters know you are here, she replied calmly and watched as the visibly nervous youthful man nodded and sat down, back ramrod straight as he waited. She wished she could make him feel calmer. She knew all about nerves when she danced from her time in elementary school through this past year. She dialled Don's extension and let him know his appointment had arrived. She didn't notice a small pink heart float from her to Chimera's chest. As it touched him, Chimera instantly relaxed and felt calmer, as if someone had given him an enormous hug.

Mr Chimera, you may go in now. I know everything will be fine. Mr Waters is an amazing lawyer, Lilia assured him.

Thank you, you've made me feel better, Chimera replied, smiling at her and entering the office. An hour later, Chimera left, and Poseidon walked to stand in his doorway, leaning against the door jamb; he then asked.

Did you tell Mr Chimera anything before he entered my office?

I told him everything would be fine, and you are the best at what you do, she replied with a soft smile. Don watched as part of her aura escaped as a light pink heart and floated toward him. He let it settle against his chest, where his heartbeat felt relaxed and content. Thank you, he was much easier to talk to this time.

I did nothing special, just told him the truth, she answered with a shrug of her slim shoulders.

You helped, and after I meet with James, I would like to talk about your amazing effect on the surrounding people, Poseidon

told her, walking back into his office. Lilia stared after him momentarily, puzzling over what exactly he meant. She was still disoriented

when her alarm went off for her to go to lunch with Penny.

Lilia, are you all right? Penny wanted to know once they had ordered their drinks. Why?

You seem on edge ever since we met up outside the elevators. Is everything okay with your new job?

"I am not sure Mr Waters wants to talk to me this afternoon about my effect on people. James, my cousin, is coming in for a

meeting at one today, and I am not ready to see his face," Lilia explained. When everything happened with James and Phillip, Penny had been the first friend she went to tell her they had broken the engagement off, and she had moved out of her apartment into

Ian's home. Well, just be civil with James to keep it professional. No one is asking you to have a conversation with him. So announce his

presence to Mr Waters and then ignore him," Penny suggested.

I will. I don't plan on ever speaking to him or Phillip again. I am so angry and embarrassed that my gay cousin stole my fiancé from me. I had to lie to our families about why we broke up. Phillip wasn't ready for his family to know. Thankfully, James is open about his sexuality, but why my fiancé? Lilia demanded, slamming her fist on the table and emitting sparks. Both women jumped back.

What are these utensils made of flint? Penny jokes, coaxing a smile out of Lilia.

Haha, maybe, but enough about my boring past. Tell me about your new boyfriend, Kevin, Lilia asked, steering the conversation away from a painful and sensitive topic. Penny was too happy to let the subject change and gushed about her wonderful boyfriend for

the rest of the lunch. Say, Lilia, how would you feel about a double date with one of Kevin's friends? Penny asked as they made their

way back to the office.

"I'm not ready to date again. I want to focus on school and my huge senior project due. When I am ready, you'll be the first

to know."

You've been out of the dating game for a long time. So you don't want to get rusty, Penny warned, hitting the elevator button.

I went on dates with Phillip, Lilia shot back, crossing her arms and giving her best friend an unamused look.

But those weren't first dates and new love, Penny responded, her voice trailing off as she remembered her first few dates

with Kevin.

I will let you know when I am ready to date again. She pushed Penny out of the elevator and stepped back to her floor. Penny sighed and nodded her agreement. Lilia took the elevator to the top floor and began the second half of what was sure to be a very trying day.

* * *

Good afternoon, she called without looking away from her computer when she heard the suite door open several minutes after she'd settled down at her desk from lunch.

Lilia? She heard the shocked whisper from the visitor. Her head snapped up, and her cousin James stood before her. He was a tall, lanky man with brunette hair and the same amaretto eyes as Lilia. He took pride in his appearance. Today he wore a black three-piece suit with his signature blue silk tie and handkerchief poking from his breast pocket.

Mr Carter, she greeted him coldly and turned away to call Don to let him know James had arrived for their meeting. James shivered as the temperature in the office plummeted. Mr Waters, Mr Carter is here for your one o'clock appointment. Yes, I'll tell him. She hung up and looked at James, her eyes snapping with unchecked rage.

Mr Waters will be there in a few minutes. Please sit over there and wait until he is ready. She pointed to the waiting area across

from her desk.

I didn't know you worked directly with Mr Waters, James remarked, not moving away from her desk. Instead, he fidgeted, his heart rate speeding up and a cold sweat breaking down his back.

They promoted me. Please have a seat away from my desk, she replied, refusing to look at him. Then, without either of them noticing, Hades walked into the office and stopped short upon seeing their exchange and feeling the temperature in the room.

Lil, you need to talk to me, James begged, placing his hands on her desk and leaning over to speak in a whisper. No, I don't. I think you said the last time, plenty, and don't call me Lil. Only people who are my friends or genuine family may use my nickname, as you are now neither; please stop using it, she snapped, finally looking up at her cousin. James flinched at the anger blazing in her eyes.

Mr Carter, I am ready for you now. Ms Heart, please check if our heater is on the fritz. This office feels like an icebox, Poseidon

asked, noticing his windows had frosted.

Yes sir, she replied, and James entered Don's office. As soon as the door shut, Lilia relaxed, and the temperature returned to normal. Hades watched in fascination as she controlled her emotions, and so did her aura. While watching their exchange, he saw dark pink hearts and another undefined shape swirling around her. The combination gave her control over the temperature in the room and made those in the room feel the way she was feeling. Before Hades could get his aura up to protect himself, he had felt panicked and angry. Once his aura formed a protective bubble around him, he returned to normal. Settling in one chair by the door, he watched Lilia go about her daily business as if nothing had happened.

What did you need me for, Poseidon? James asked once the door firmly closed. He noticed a considerable change in the air temperature once he was away from Lilia.

Originally, I wanted an update on the new tax code laws. Now, I want to talk about your cousin Lilia. She seems to have awoken some potent powers recently. I am curious how she kept them hidden and under control for twenty-three years. I also want to know if a major emotional event may have shaken her control of said powers, Poseidon explained, settling in a chair across from

James stared him down with sea-green eyes. James fidgeted, clasping his fingers so hard his knuckles went

white.

Lilia doesn't know she is descended from a god. Her father wanted her to have a normal childhood because she didn't know who her mother was. I know we are descended from Zeus, he, and my mother. I assume he knew Lilia would have some innate abilities that needed minor maintenance, such as meditation. They taught her to meditate with the rest of us and put her in dance classes until she showed an aptitude for ballet. I think Uncle Matthew wanted her to go into dancing as a profession. I am sure you know he is a famous nature photographer. The dance classes taught her discipline. My mother would argue with him that Lilia had a right to know who she descended from, but he was very stubborn about keeping the secret. Because of Uncle Matthew's job, as soon as Lilia became old enough, he sent her to one of the best ballet boarding schools in the world. I think she was around six. No one knows who her mother is. He kept tight-lipped about her identity. We always assumed it was a woman he met while travelling, James explained, trying to steady his panicking heart. He knew he would not want to answer the next set of questions.

That doesn't explain why her power is making its appearance now. If she had all the discipline of dance, especially ballet, her power wouldn't be surging. Do you know why her power is slipping now? Poseidon put to James, watching him blanch at answering.

Uh, ah, I think you need to ask Lilia. I'm not sure she wants our family problems aired to her boss, James warned. He does not want to discuss what he'd done to his best friend and cousin.

Do you know why my office keeps going below zero every time we mention your name? Poseidon posed the question, hoping to get something out of James. Usually, he could be counted on as a fount of knowledge, but today he was being suspiciously evasive.

Again, I think you need Lilia in here for this. It is a rather delicate situation, James suggested, looking at the office door as a knock sounded.

Mr Waters, your brother Harry is here. Would you like me to send him in? Lilia's voice called through the door.

Yes, and can you come in here, Lilia? Poseidon asked. Yes sir, she replied, and a moment later, the door opened, revealing a towering Hades standing behind Lilia, her face set carefully blank to hide all emotion.

Please have a seat. Poseidon motioned to a chair next to James. Lilia ignored his offer and took the seat furthest away. All three gentlemen noted the temperature drops again.

Lilia, I am going to ask you something personal, and I need you to be honest and open with me, Don started, giving her a nervous look. He didn't quite know how to ask.

Sir? She looked up at him with confusion shining in her bright eyes.

I need to know what happened between you and your cousin.

Why? she asked, again looking over at James for clarification. He nodded at her and reached for her but stopped when she shot him a harsh glare.

I'd like to understand what happened to help you two return to speaking terms. I work rather closely with James, and it would be best for us if you two could get along without shooting daggers at him every time he came into my office, Poseidon explained, leaning over to take her hands in his. Her attention whipped back to him at the contact of his hands on hers. Our family issues will not affect my work, and I promise to be polite to James, Lilia argued, not wanting to reveal her biggest embarrassment.

Lil, just tell him, James whispered. Her head turned to look at him when he said his nickname for her, and she glared again.

I asked you not to call me that anymore, and are you sure it does not paint you in a very flattering light? She said, crossing her arms over her chest. Yes, James whispered, staring at the floor.

"Fine. Six months ago, I was engaged to Phillip Hudson, and two nights a week, I had late classes. They had cancelled one night, my second class of the night. I came home to the apartment Phillip and I shared. I hadn't texted Phillip because I wanted to surprise him. I'd noticed Phillip seemed distant from me lately, and I thought this could be a good chance for us to go out on a date and reconnect. I figured it was my fault for being so busy. When I got home, I saw two wine glasses half full of red wine on the coffee table. That was when I heard noises from the bedroom. Fearing the worst, I opened the door, and low and behold, James was having

sex with Phillip. I remember screaming and throwing my engagement ring at Phillip's head. I fled to my brother's home, told him what happened, and he hired movers to move me out the next day. Until today I haven't spoken to either of them, they are both blocked on my phones, and Ian's bodyguard kept them away from me when everything first happened," Lilia explained. A fresh set of tears streamed down her face forcing her to relive that awful day again.

Here, came a gruff voice. Hades pushed a handkerchief into her hands. Lilia smiled at the grim little reaper embroidered on the corner and nodded her thanks. She wiped away her tears, taking off her eyeliner.

Whoa, that was not what I was expecting when you said it was a minor family issue, Ms Heart, Poseidon replied in bewilderment. He stood up and hugged her gently, patting her back.

James, I want to let you know I will not drop my account because, as Ms Heart has stated, we should keep business and personal separate. That said, we will conduct all meetings from now on at your office. I do not want to inflict more pain on my secretary when it can easily be avoided.

I understand, James replied, not looking Poseidon in the eyes. He hadn't realized how awful things had been for Lilia.

Ms Heart, would you excuse us? I have a few more things to discuss with James.

Yes, sir. Lilia stood up and turned to look at Hades.

Mr Undervold, I will wash your handkerchief and return it to you as soon as possible.

Please keep it. I have plenty, he assured her with a soft smile and a pat. Lilia blushed and nodded. She turned to James and gave him one last frosty look before leaving the office, closing the door behind her. Both men rounded on James, and Hades demanded,

Do you have any way to defend your actions?

No, Phillip and I fell in love over a year ago. He won't come out as gay to his family. He thought dating and marrying Lilia would be the way to cover it up. I feel wrong about the way she found out, but I won't apologize for my feelings,

James defended himself, clenching his hands. This explains why her powers have become out of control. That is a traumatic event to go through. I'm surprised she even spoke to you. The things her father put in place have helped her subconsciously control her powers, but now her emotions are all over the place. She can't control them anymore. Poseidon revealed, pacing back and forth across the office.

Just how strong are her powers? I can't do anything with mine. But I know I have characteristics like Zeus, James asked, becoming concerned for his cousin.

That is a good question, Hades agreed, looking up at Poseidon for the answer.

If her mother is who we think she is, powerful.

Is Lilia in danger? I know she hates me and will probably never speak to me again, but she is special to me, almost like a little sister, James asked, panicking.

We will protect and teach her how to use her powers to protect herself. Does she do anything that could expose her to danger? Hades asked.

She runs in the morning—every day for a five or six-mile run. Ian and Uncle Matthew made her take self-defence classes to keep her safe after graduating high school. She used to have Phillip run with her, but well… you know. She was part of a ballet troupe, but after her father pressured her to become a professional dancer, she quit.

James explained, racking his brain for anything else to help them protect his cousin.

"Thank you for sharing about Ms Heart. I know it couldn't have

been easy to hear what happened from her perspective and being aired in front of a client, no less," Poseidon said, shaking his hand and opening his office door.

Meanwhile,

Don Waters office, Lilia Heart speaking, how may I help you?

Lilia, it's Phillip. Did James speak with you? Phillip demanded, practically yelling at her through the phone. Lilia held the receiver away from her ear, wincing.

How did you get this number? She ground out.

"I called at your normal desk, and Penny transferred me here.

Did James talk to you? He asked again. About what?" She wondered how her day had turned into talking to the two people she

hated the most.

Your ring. I want it back, Phillip growled. Lilia could see the

frustration passing through his blue eyes as he spoke with her. He would run a hand through his blond hair, messing it up.

My what? She hissed, trying not to disturb anyone around her.

Your engagement ring. I spent a fortune on it, and I want it back. You know, a two-karat diamond with petite sapphires all around it in a platinum setting, Phillip explained, annoyance dripping through his tone.

I know what it looked like. I threw it at your head while you were hip-deep in James, she whispered curtly.

Didn't your movers pack it up when they entered the apartment?

Phillip asked, calming down. It didn't surface when I unpacked; if I had it, I would have sold it months ago! She ground out, gripping the receiver hard enough that her knuckles were turning white with energy sparking along her arms. Then you owe me five thousand dollars for that ring! Phillip yelled, losing all composure.

Like hell I do! She finally yelled, losing control, slamming

the receiver back down, then screaming when her phone exploded, sending plastic shrapnel flying all over the office. Throwing her arms

up instinctively to block the pieces of her phone, several caught her face, cutting her cheek. She hissed from the pain and stared in shock at the remains of her office phone.

III

Titan or Goddess

Lilia!" Hades yelled, flying out of the office when he heard the explosion. He immediately pulled her into his arms, examining her head to toe. He cradled her face in his hands, grimacing, touching the cut on her cheek.

What happened? Poseidon asked, surveying the outer office, taking in the exploded phone and how his brother gently held her to his chest.

I was on the phone with Phillip, and he wanted to know if James had asked for my engagement ring back. We got into an argument, and I hung up on him. The phone exploded from something sparking down my arm, she explained, slightly hysterical. She was staring at her own hands in horror until James spoke up.

He knew I was coming here and wanted me to ask. So I think I will leave, James said, heading straight to the door without looking back. He didn't want what happened to the phone to be directed at him next.

Are you all right, Ms Heart? Poseidon asked, watching James escape.

Yes, just a minor cut on my cheek, nothing major, she replied. Then, slowly stepping out of Hades' arms, she suddenly realized he'd been holding her close to his hot body.

Good, now I need you to come here and talk about what happened. You too, Hades. Poseidon purposefully used his given name, and Lilia looked at him in confusion. Hades smiled and ushered her

into the office, closing the door behind them and locking it so they would not be disturbed.

Lilia, what we tell you will sound impossible, but hear us out. My name is not Don but Poseidon, the God of Water. Harry is Hades, the God of the Underworld. We are what you learned in school as Greek gods, he explained, snapping his fingers, and gone was his suit. In place, he wore a sea-green tunic and brown sandals. His

hair became wavy as if an ocean breeze had swept through it. He also glowed around him, the same colour as the sea. Turning to look

at Hades, too, had changed. His tunic was midnight black, and his glow black edged in silver.

So, this means what for me? She asked, too overwhelmed from seeing their original forms to freak out.

Your father is a descendant of Zeus. Your great-grandfather was a son of Zeus who married a mortal woman. So the sparking that exploded the phone could be the power you inherited, Poseidon shared, walking over to sit opposite where she sat.

Your mother we believe to be Aphrodite. Zeus is on Olympus trying to talk with her, he continued.

So, you're telling me that the Goddess of Love is my mother? The woman who abandoned me to live with my father, who wanted nothing to do with me? The second I was old enough, he shipped me off to boarding school, so he could go off on his adventures and not be pinned down by a six-year-old, Lilia stated in disbelief. How could this be her life?

Well, she isn't known for sticking with one lover for terribly long. She isn't Hera, the Goddess of Family, Hades commented, gently taking her sparking hands in his to help her calm down.

Why are my powers showing now? Does Ian have the same powers? She asked, taking a deep breath to calm down and make the sparking disappear.

"No, Ian does not. You have different mothers. He has Zeus-like characteristics like your cousin James. You are unique because we believe two different godly types of blood flow through your veins. As for why now? James explained that you knew meditation and were a dancer. We think until the events with James and Phillip, you have been able to keep your powers from slipping out uncontrolled. Now that you are still trying to come to terms with everything that happened, your body has less control. Your Aphrodite power has been slipping out while here at the office. You helped Chimera

calm down before he spoke to me, and I saw it with my own eyes," Poseidon shared, leaning against his polished mahogany desk.

How do I keep this from happening? She asked a robust and determined gaze replacing the scared deer look in her eyes.

"That is where I come in. I train demigods and mythical monsters at my gym. When you do not have night class, you will come to my gym and learn how to harness and use your powers. Your meditation and dance skills will enormously benefit you, so I think you

won't have much trouble getting the hang of your aura," Hades explained, still holding her hand and giving her a comforting smile.

What will I learn to do with my aura? she asked.

First, we will teach you how to control it so it doesn't slip. Second, I can teach you to defend yourself or if you want to go on the offensive to see what Aphrodite and possibly Zeus' powers combined can do, Hades answered, watching her reaction.

I don't know what I want. An hour ago, I had no idea gods and goddesses existed. Now you are telling me I am related to two, and I have a dangerous power? I will need some time to process everything. Then, if it is alright with you, Mr Waters, I will go home. Lilia slipped her hands out of Hades' grasp and stood.

I'll see you in the morning, Lilia. Poseidon nodded worriedly, watching her walk away. She looked lost and overwhelmed by everything.

Should one of us go check on her tomorrow morning? Hades asked as he watched as she gathered her things without blinking and headed for the elevators.

"Yes, James said she runs in the mornings. Why don't you go to her home and meet her for a morning run? This will help build your relationship with her while also keeping her safe. I'm sure I don't have to say this, but Hades, she has been hurt badly by James and

Phillip, proceed cautiously," Poseidon warned, giving his brother a pointed look letting him know he had missed none of the times Hades had touched Lilia.

"I am just going to train her. I am not looking for a date. I'll run

with her in the morning. We don't want others to discover her abilities and try to capture her," Hades replied regarding his brother.

Poseidon knew he meant Medusa and her gang.

* * *

As soon as Lilia walked through her front door, she locked it and slumped to the floor, still carrying her bags. She pulled out her phone to call her dad. Her head spun with everything she'd been

told earlier. How did James know all about being descended from Zeus, but her father didn't see fit to tell her? Did Ian know?

Ring, ring, ring, ring.

Hello, sweetheart. What makes you call me today? Her father's

warm, deep voice sounded through the phone. "Dad, something weird happened today, and I want you to tell me the truth. Are

we related to Zeus, and is my mother Aphrodite?" She knew if she didn't get it out in the open, she would chicken out on asking him.

What happened, and where did you get that idea?

I blew up a phone with an energy of some sort at work today after I lost my temper with Phillip. My boss told me his name is Poseidon, not Don Waters, and his brothers are Hades and Zeus. Care to explain?

I didn't know your mother was Aphrodite until I read the note left with you when I found you on my doorstep, her father sighed.

How could you not tell me!? I am dangerous! She demanded, getting up from the floor and pacing the foyer.

It isn't something I am proud of. I'm not allowed to tell anyone I am a descendant of Zeus because the gods want to keep their existence a secret from the human world. I assumed you would be like Ian, with a little meditation and self-control. You would be fine because I don't have any powers, just the ability to influence decisions.

Is that why you put me in dance classes?

At first, yes, but then you showed an aptitude for dancing, and your teachers were all amazed at your skill. I still don't know why you didn't go into dancing as a profession when you were offered the top spot in the Gregory McNair Ballet Company, her father said, starting an age-old argument the two had every time they spoke.

Dad, not now. What did the note say from my mother? Just you were a product of our romantic liaison, and your name would be Lilia Hope Heart. She did not explain why you weren't to have my last name, but I did as the note said. I knew she was powerful and would be angry if I didn't do as she asked.

Tell me what happened with your slimeball ex Phillip," her father instructed, letting the argument drop. He could hear the desperation in her voice. She told him everything that had happened with Phillip. He was one of the few who knew what had happened between her, Phillip, and James.

"Sounds like it was an excellent thing they promoted you to Poseidon. Imagine what would have happened if your phone had

blown up in the general secretary's wing?" Her father stated once she had finished telling him what had happened.

Did you and my mom keep in touch after you found me on your doorstep? she asked, fairly sure she knew the answer before he told her. "No, she didn't want me to get in touch, and after I found you on my doorstep, I tried to contact her at the number she had when we dated. They disconnected her number. I used that as my clue

she wanted nothing to do with you or me. That is another reason I didn't tell you about your godly heritage. I was angry with your mother. You look exactly like her too. That may have been the reason I sent you to board school. I couldn't look at you without getting angry with her, and I was afraid I would take that out on you, which is one thing I never wanted." he explained, sadness lacing his voice.

Do you still love her?

No, I recently met another photographer from my magazine. We've been seeing each other for several months now.

What! Why didn't you tell me sooner? she demanded, walking into the kitchen and hopping onto the counter, digging through the cabinets to decide what to make for dinner. You'd just broken up with Phillip and had a falling out with James. I didn't want to make you feel worse by shoving my happiness into your face.

Thanks, Dad. Bring her over for dinner when you two are back in the States again.

Thank you, sweetheart. I will tell Gina.

Wonderful, all right, Dad, I need to make dinner. Call me more often. I miss you.

Will do, sweetheart, have a good night and tell Ian hello for me. Bye. Lilia hung up her phone, setting it on the counter. She wasn't in the mood for dinner and was still trying to process everything they had told her that day. Sitting hard in a kitchen chair, she knew what had happened today was really in her head, but her heart had difficulty believing it. Instead of making dinner, she changed into workout clothes and grabbed her pointe shoes. She entered the dance studio Ian had installed to practice and keep her skills from getting rusty. Even though she had decided not to pursue a career as a ballet dancer, she couldn't bring herself to give up dancing altogether. She set her phone into the stereo and worked through warm-up exercises. Once warm, she performed one of her favourite dances by Gregory McNair. Her brother Ian came into the house several hours later, looking for his little sister. He heard her music from the basement and went to check on her. Dad is right. You really should have become a dancer. Party planning is wasted on you. You could still be a principal dancer anywhere you wanted,

Ian called from the doorway. Lilia stopped in shock and turned to look at her brother. He was six foot three with shortcut white-blond

hair and cornflower blue eyes. He had a stocky build with plenty of muscle from years of training for movies.

Ian! What are you doing here? I thought you were shooting your superhero movie? she asked, running over to give him a tight hug.

He wrapped his arms around her, patting her head.

James called me while I was mid-shoot. He said you blew up your work phone with your power. He figured you needed someone to comfort you since you won't talk to him. It looks like he was right, judging from how sweaty you are. How long have you been down here dancing? he asked, handing her a towel to dry off. Um… She looked at her watch, eyes opening wide at nine o'clock at night. She'd left work at around three. About five hours.

I take it you haven't eaten dinner? he asked. Looking at her sunken eyes, she shook her head no. All right, shower and I will order dinner. You can tell me everything while we eat, Ian ordered, pushing her toward the stairs.

Fine, she reluctantly agreed, letting him push her up the stairs. After a long, scalding shower, she threw on a comfortable t-shirt and leggings, her hair in a messy bun and her make-up long gone. She saw Indian food on the kitchen table and a glass of sparkling water waiting for her. Now tell your big brother everything before I have to leave tomorrow, Ian instructed, handing her a plate of butter chicken. All right, but it will take a while, She warned, spearing a piece of chicken. I'm all ears, Ian replied, getting comfortable in his chair and waiting for her to speak. Lilia took a deep breath and

explained everything that had led up to her stress dancing for five hours in the studio. Ian listened, asking a clarifying question now and then to get all the facts straight. In the end, Lilia said,

And now I must learn to control my powers with Hades of all people.

"That is a lot to take in an all-in-one day. So dad knew who your mother was and said nothing? I knew he didn't enjoy talking about our connection to Zeus, but honestly, someone could have gotten

seriously hurt, Ian complained, finishing his third beer. I don't think he thought my powers would be strong. After all, you don't have any powers," Lilia offered, in the way of an explanation of their father's blunder.

"True, he wasn't particularly good at thinking about anything besides work. That's why you were sent off to boarding school, and I

left with my mom, Ian agreed. So, what do I do about all of this? she asked, laying her head on the table and looking up at him. You get training and go about your life. Finish school, get a job as a party planner, and live. No one asks you to give up anything because you have these powers. You are just being taught to control them, so you blow nothing up when you lose your temper." Ian laid out his suggested plan, and Lilia smiled.

When you put it that way, you make it sound easy.

"It is. Oh, change of subject. My director saw a video on the internet of you dancing one of your hip-hop routines from your

troupe last year. So he wants you to do a dance scene in my movie," Ian said, knowing changing the subject would throw her off a little.

What? Why me? she asked, giving him a suspicious look.

"Because when he showed me the video and asked what I thought, I mentioned you were a better ballet dancer. He then wanted to

know our connection. He has been looking for you for a while. Your troupe wouldn't give him your personal information because you had left to focus on your studies. So it is one reason he let me fly back home to see you," Ian explained, looking a little ashamed of trying

to convince her to do the job.

So essentially, I owe your director for letting you come to my aid? she asked, crossing her arms over her chest and giving him a

sceptical look. You could look at it that way. Ian shrugged, popping open another beer. "Did he tell you what he needed me to do?

Also, I can only work weekends because I have work and school, and I refuse to let either suffer," Lilia explained.

"I'll let him know it is a tentative yes then. You can work out the details with his secretary. As for what he wants, he gave me a USB

with the routine for you to learn." Ian fished the USB out of his pocket and gave it to her.

Look at it tomorrow or… he looked at his phone, Later today after work. I'm off to bed and will fly out around lunchtime, Ian informed her, getting up and stretching the knots out of his

broad back.

Thank you for coming out here to see me. You were immensely helpful in giving a fresh perspective. I love you, Ian. She hugged

him and kissed him on the cheek.

Love you too, baby sister, Ian replied, ruffling her hair.

Have a safe trip back. Goodnight, she told him, heading to her room to sleep. She spent most of the night tossing and turning, thinking over everything she'd been told.

IV

Morning Run

Lilia!" Hades yelled, flying out of the office when he heard the explosion. He immediately pulled her into his arms, examining her head to toe. He cradled her face in his hands, grimacing, touching the cut on her cheek.

What happened? Poseidon asked, surveying the outer office, taking in the exploded phone and how his brother gently held her to his chest.

I was on the phone with Phillip, and he wanted to know if James had asked for my engagement ring back. We got into an argument, and I hung up on him. The phone exploded from something sparking down my arm, she explained, slightly hysterical. She was staring at her own hands in horror until James spoke up.

He knew I was coming here and wanted me to ask. So I think I will leave, James said, heading straight to the door without looking back. He didn't want what happened to the phone to be directed at him next.

Are you all right, Ms Heart? Poseidon asked, watching James escape.

Yes, just a minor cut on my cheek, nothing major, she replied. Then, slowly stepping out of Hades' arms, she suddenly realized he'd been holding her close to his hot body.

"Good, now I