 
# Before Magic

### The Hybrid Trilogy Prequel Novella

## G.K. De Rosa
Copyright © 2018 by GK De Rosa

All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means, including information storage and retrieval systems, without written permission from the author, except for the use of brief quotations in a book review.

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### Contents

Prologue

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Sneak Peek of Magic Bound

Also by G.K. De Rosa

Acknowledgments

About the Author

# Prologue

I was not a cheater. I didn't have a single unfaithful bone in my body. I was certain of that. And yet... One night and one terrible mistake changed my life in ways I could never have imagined.

# Chapter 1

New York City, 1981

* * *

_Pop_!

_Pop_!

_Pop_!

The crack of gunshots reverberated across the vacant room. Even with the ear protection, the sound vibrated across my eardrums. I'd been here for too long. I holstered my weapon and pushed my safety glasses up, resting them on top of my head. Yanking the earmuffs off, I reeled in the training target. The black and white silhouette was splattered with bullet holes. I scrutinized my work. Not too bad. Most were clean kill shots to the head.

I shook out my shoulders, the tension centered on my neck and shoulder blades. I glanced at my watch; I'd been shooting for over an hour. No wonder I was sore.

The hair on my nape bristled. I spun around, my fingers itching to unholster my gun. "Who's there?" I scanned the empty shooting range with every nerve on edge. There was a reason I was a good police officer; I had impeccable instincts, and every cell in my body was telling me I wasn't alone.

I pulled my gun out and crept to the next shooting station. I peered over the divider, my finger steady on the trigger. Nothing. I released a breath and lowered the weapon. Maybe Sofia was right. I had been working too much. I turned toward the exit, and a black blur sped out the door.

_What the hell_?

I sprinted after the shadow, but by the time I reached the doorway, whatever it was, was gone. Or had never been there in the first place. I shook my head out. I'm definitely losing it. No wonder the older guys messed with the recruits telling them this place was haunted. Luckily, I wasn't new, and I certainly didn't believe in ghosts.

I turned back to my station to retrieve my backpack. I still had an hour until my shift started, which meant I had plenty of time to grab a bagel and another coffee. I was training a rookie today so I was definitely going to need the caffeine.

A door slammed and I jumped, whirling toward the entry. My hand was halfway to my holster when a big guy in fatigues walked in, his lips pressed in a tight line.

My eyes must have been bugging out because he shot me an apologetic smile. "You cops from the 9th precinct are wound too tight."

I chuckled. It was true. My eyes scanned over the stranger. He was a big blonde guy with a chest the size of a bull and arms to match. I had to look up to meet his clear blue eyes, and I wasn't short at six feet. "How'd you know I was from the 9th?"

He pointed at my backpack. I slung it off my shoulder; my badge was peeking out of the side pocket. This guy had eyes like a hawk to be able to read that from across the room. "Are you a sniper or something?"

Now he laughed. "No, I was just gifted with incredible vision." He stepped forward and held his hand out. "I'm Bradley."

"Damian. Nice to meet you." His hand clamped down on mine, and I had to grit my teeth to keep from wincing. "So are you a cop?"

"Yeah. I used to be in Manhattan but I'm upstate now. It's much less stressful. I'm here for a few weeks on leave visiting friends."

I nodded.

"What had you so freaked out when I walked in?" He cleared his throat. "I couldn't help but notice."

"Oh, it was nothing." I stared at my feet as heat seeped up my neck and into my cheeks.

"It didn't seem like nothing." His eyes peered into mine as if trying to pry the truth out of me.

"I thought I heard someone in here. But I was wrong."

"You know this place is haunted, right?" A sly grin crept across his lips.

"Funny." I adjusted my backpack and shoved my hands in my pockets. "You know, I may look young, but I've been on the force for over two years now."

His bright eyes widened. "Wow, they're really taking them young now." He glanced around the room, years of training evident in his stance. "I'll let you in on a little secret..."

"What's that?"

"I do believe in ghosts—and other things."

For a moment I was sure he was joking, but then my eyes met his and there was nothing funny in his gaze. Electric blue pulsed in his irises. It was almost unnatural.

Okay, it was definitely time for me to get out of here. "Right. So Bradley, I have to get going, but it was _interesting_ meeting you."

He stuck his hand in his pocket and pulled out a stack of cards. He handed me one before I could refuse. "I do some PI work on the side if you ever find yourself in an unusual situation."

Unusual? The only thing unusual was this guy. "Sure." I grabbed it and shoved it in my backpack. I raced out of there as fast as I could.

I pulled the cruiser up to 42nd and Lexington. I'd told the kid to wait for me by the hot dog stand at 8:00am on the dot. A lanky young guy with a spanking new cadet uniform waved as he stuffed the last bite of a pretzel in his mouth. He hurried over to the car and jumped in.

"Officer Spiros?"

I gave him a grim nod, trying to look as intimidating as possible. I didn't have anything against the kid; it was just the way of the world. My T.O. had done the exact same thing to me, and this guy would do it to his recruit a few years from now.

He stuck out his hand, a big cheesy grin stretched across his face. Dark blonde curls spilled out from underneath his cap. "I'm Theodore Grant, but you can call me Ted."

"How about I just call you Rookie?"

His smile faded. "Okay."

"You ready for your first day?"

He stared at the radio on the dash, his fingers twitching to press the buttons. "Yes, sir."

Traffic outside of Grand Central Station was chaotic, as usual. I glanced over at my new partner, his eyes lit up with excitement, and a pang jabbed me in the chest. I'd been in his shoes only two years ago. A lot had changed in that short time. Being a police officer in New York City hardened you, and for a second I wanted to remember the young boy I was only a few years ago.

I flipped on the siren, and the blue and red lights flickered to life. I pushed my foot down on the gas, and the Chevy's engine roared.

"Hold on Rookie, we're getting out of this traffic jam."

His lips split into a big toothy grin.

That's the way I liked to remember Ted. Not the way I saw him last.

# Chapter 2

It had been a hell of a day. I jammed the key into the door of our Lower East Side apartment, hoping the super had fixed the water heater. All I wanted was a hot shower and to fall in the arms of my fiancée.

I stepped into the dark apartment, and my heart sank. I could see the entire 300 square foot studio from the doorway. Sofia wasn't home. I threw my stuff down on the floor and went into the kitchen. Turning on the light, a pink post-it note on the refrigerator caught my attention.

* * *

_Hey babe,_

_I'm at the hospital for another twenty-four hour shift. One of the ER nurses called out. I'll miss you tonight!_

_Love, Sofia_

_P.S. One month until the big day!_

* * *

I grunted and grabbed a beer out of the fridge. I popped the cap and took a chug as I checked the faucet. Ice cold. _Damn it_! I sniffed at my undershirt and grimaced. A mixture of sweat and smoke lingered in my nostrils. Maybe it was a good thing Sofia wasn't coming home tonight.

I slumped down on the couch and flipped to my favorite late night TV show. It was just what I needed to forget about the day. Of course our first call of the morning would have been for an apartment fire. And of course my rookie would have tried to play the hero. Ted had landed himself in the hospital on his first day out and landed me on a one-week unpaid suspension.

It was just a little smoke inhalation, but I was responsible for him. I'd failed.

I tilted my head back and chugged down half the bottle of beer. This was the last thing I needed with the wedding right around the corner. How was I going to pay off that credit card with one week less pay? I raked my hands through my hair and groaned. Even Johnny Carson wasn't going to be able to cheer me up tonight. I sucked down the last of my beverage and headed back to the kitchen.

I passed by the calendar hung on the wall with a big red circle around the date, June 15th. Nausea clawed up my throat. My heart started pounding, and I could feel the beads of sweat accumulating on my forehead. I leaned up against the refrigerator and took a deep breath.

This must be what the guys were talking about. Cold feet. It was starting.

I splashed some water on my face, cupping it in my hands and dousing my head and neck in it. I had nothing to be worried about. I loved Sofia more than anything. I had proposed, and she had accepted. We were in love, and I wanted her to be my wife. So why was I freaking out right now?

Sure, we were young and maybe the proposal had been spur of the moment, but I knew I wanted to be with her forever. It wasn't just because I'd been shot, and scared I'd die. I remembered it like it was yesterday. I'd finally woken up from the surgery, and her face was the first thing I saw. Big green eyes bored into mine as the haziness of anesthesia wore off. I was so happy to be alive and to see her again that I'd proposed on the spot.

There had been tears and laughter, and I'd felt like the luckiest guy in the world. So why did I feel like I was suffocating now?

I reached for another beer from the fridge, then stopped midway. I needed to get out and clear my head. I grabbed my jacket instead and rushed out the door.

The cool crisp spring air raced through my lungs, and the tightness in my chest subsided. This was exactly what I needed—a nice long walk. I walked up Delancey Street without a clear destination in mind. I just needed to think and with the adrenaline coursing through my veins, I couldn't be sitting still.

I passed block after block of graffitied buildings and dimly lit trash-littered sidewalks until I found myself in the East Village. The dark streets gave way to trendy bars and raging nightlife. I wasn't really in the mood for partying, but another beer sounded pretty good. I turned down a quieter side street.

At the corner, stood a guy with a cigarette clenched between his lips and a mug in his hand. He leaned against the door of a small pub. I walked up to the establishment and stared up at the old wrought iron sign – The Vampire and The Werewolf. _Seriously_?

I peered inside, and it looked decent enough. A few people littered the bar, but it wasn't overcrowded. It didn't seem trendy enough to be expensive, so I walked in.

"What can I get you, darlin'?" A young girl with porcelain skin and jet-black hair leaned over the bar. She would have been beautiful if not for her almost sickly pale skin. A sign behind her read "$5 Long Island Iced Teas on Tuesdays." It must have been my lucky day.

"I'll take a Long Island."

"Comin' right up."

I pulled up a bar stool and got comfortable. A few minutes later, a tall glass appeared in front of me. The bartender gave me a big smile.

"Do you want to open a tab?"

"No, thanks. I'm just having the one." I reached into my wallet to pull out some cash, but a hand flashing a credit card appeared over my shoulder.

"I've got this," a deep voice said.

I spun around. Clear blue eyes met mine, and every nerve in my body tingled. I swallowed, clearing my throat. "Bradley?"

"Yeah, Damian, right?"

I nodded. "You didn't have to do that."

"After the day you had, I think I did."

My eyebrows drew together. "How did you know?"

"You know how cops talk. You and the rookie are the talk of the town."

I grumbled and buried my nose in my drink.

Bradley pulled up a stool next to mine. "Would you mind some company?"

There was something about this guy that sent goose bumps all over my skin, but if I was being honest with myself, having someone to talk to might not be the worst thing in the world. It was either that or drowning my sorrows in Long Islands. Eighteen was the official drinking age so I wasn't exactly what you'd call a pro—I'd only been legal for a short time. Between Police Academy and working so much overtime, I hadn't had time to indulge. Anyway, Sofia would kill me if I were drunk when she got home. "Sure, have a seat," I finally answered.

He lowered his hulking frame down onto the bar stool and ordered a beer. "What brings you to this place?"

I was about to ask him the same thing. "You know, crappy day and all." I shrugged. "I just kind of found myself walking here. It's my first time. You?"

He winked at the young bartender as she placed the tall frosty mug in front of him. "Thanks, Bea. Put it on my tab." He turned back to me with a sly grin. "No, I used to be a regular." He lowered his voice and leaned in. "Lots of unusual stuff goes on in this place."

Again with the weird. "Right." I swallowed a big mouthful of Long Island, the mix of alcohol burning my throat and sloshing around in my stomach.

"You better take it easy on those. They pack a mean bite."

I took another sip and set it down. "Are you married, Bradley?" The words tumbled out of my mouth before I could stop them.

"No, sir."

My expression must have fallen because he looked at me with the biggest sad puppy dog eyes I'd ever seen.

"Why, you having girl trouble?"

"No, not at all. Sofia's amazing, and we're getting married a month from today."

He clucked his teeth. "Ah. Gotcha. Someone's got cold feet?"

"Not exactly. Maybe more lukewarm." I took another sip.

"I wish I could help you, man, but I haven't had a lady in awhile."

I stared down at the ice cubes floating around the caramel colored liquid. "No problem. I just thought I'd ask." Heat flushed my cheeks. What was I doing, asking some stranger for love advice?

The old bell hanging over the door jingled, drawing my attention to the entrance. A tall brunette strutted in, her wavy hair cascading over her shoulders. My jaw dropped. Her low cut top left nothing to the imagination, the tight black leather mini skirt hugging every dangerous curve. Dark sultry eyes bored into mine, her scarlet lips puckering into a sensual pout.

"Stay far away from that," Bradley whispered, leaning in.

"Huh?" I turned back to him, my mouth dry.

"That's Isa, and she's not someone you need to get anywhere near."

I swallowed hard. "No. Of course not. I'm engaged anyway." I swung back around on the barstool to face the shelf of liquor bottles. And still, I could almost feel the woman's gaze drilling into the back of my head. I sipped on my drink and tried to slow my racing heart. What was wrong with me? I never checked out other women.

"So the reason I'm in town is to enlist."

Bradley's words yanked me out of my troubled thoughts. "Oh yeah? Which branch?"

"Army. It's something I've wanted to do for awhile now, and I think the timing is finally right."

Out of the corner of my eye, I glanced at the door. The woman was gone. I exhaled a long breath and tried to focus on the conversation. "Good for you. I'd considered it for some time too, but then I met Sofia."

"Yeah, it's a tough gig if you've got a girl."

The barstool on the other side of me scraped against the wooden floor. "Excuse me, is this seat taken?" a woman's voice purred.

Onyx eyes peered up at me.

"N-no," I stammered.

She sidled the barstool right up beside mine and slid on. "Which one of you boys wants to buy me a drink?"

Bradley frowned. "I'm sure there are plenty of men in here more than willing to buy you a drink, Isa. My friend and I are in the middle of something."

She ran her finger across my arm and electricity sparked where her skin touched mine. My breath hitched.

"Oh, so you brought the tasty human?" Her eyes danced mischievously.

My brows scrunched together. _Human_? I guzzled down the rest of my drink.

Bradley's eyes shot daggers at the stunning brunette. "Don't do this, Isa."

"Do what?" She batted her long lashes. "I just came in here looking for a good time." She held out her hand. "I'm Isa, and who might you be, cutie?"

I cleared my throat, willing my tongue to work. "Damian Spiros."

"Police officer Damian Spiros," echoed Bradley.

Isa giggled. "Oh, I love a man in uniform." She ran her fingers over my chest.

I gasped and nearly fell off the barstool.

A Bon Jovi song blared through the speaker, and a huge grin flashed across her lips. She began to sway her hips to the music. "Forget the drink; let's dance." She grabbed my hand and pulled me off my seat. She was much stronger than her slim figure would have suggested.

Isa dragged me onto the dance floor as I searched Bradley's eyes for help. He shook his head with a sigh.

My head was already spinning. What the heck was in that Long Island? Isa leaned up against me, pushing her backside into me and swaying to the beat. She took my hand and spun herself in a circle. My heart hammered against my ribs.

"Come on, Damian. Are you going to dance or just stand there?"

She danced toward me, seductively swinging her hips as she moved. Her short skirt hiked up her long legs. She wrapped her arms around my neck and pulled me into her. Her chest bounced against mine, and I squeezed my eyes shut. What the hell was I doing?

I opened them, and her dark eyes were inches from mine. Her black pupils swirled with crimson. I gasped.

"Don't be scared. We're going to have fun tonight," her words flowed as smooth as honey.

The panic building in my chest relented. My shoulders relaxed, and I began to dance like I never had before. It was like I'd lost all control of my body. In a good way.

Isa rest her head on my chest then slowly moved up, leaving a hot trail up to my neck. Something felt wrong, but I couldn't stop her. Her lips skimmed over my skin, sending tingles over every inch.

A sharp prick on my neck, sent my nerves over the edge. "Ow!"

"Don't scream." Her eyes were inches away from me again.

I nodded. It was the only thing I could do. I wanted to scream, to run, but I'd lost all control.

A thick arm wrapped around Isa and hauled her backward. Bradley's crystal clear eyes were a raging storm. He spun on her and growled, "Not him, Isa. Come on!"

She narrowed her eyes at him, and for a moment, I feared for his life. Why? I couldn't tell you. A petite woman against a big guy like Bradley; it should have been Bradley's win hands down.

The entire bar had gone silent.

"Back away now shifter. Or I'll end you right here. Then I'll go after every single person you've ever known."

_Shifter_? An icy chill crept up my spine.

Bradley glanced over at me. He patted me on the back and slipped something in my back pocket. "I'm sorry, man." He walked out of the bar, his fists clenched. He never looked back.

"Now where were we?" Isa shimmied back to my side.

Something warm dripped down my chest. I put my hand up to my neck, and it felt sticky. I pulled it back and dark red blood cover my palm. Before I could react, Isa was in my face again.

"Everything's fine, Damian. Just relax and enjoy yourself," she crooned.

I wiped my hand against my jeans and kept dancing.

That was the last thing I remembered of the night.

# Chapter 3

Sunlight flooded into the room, and my eyelids fluttered open. Peeking through narrow slits, a woman's figure materialized in front of floor to ceiling windows.

"Good morning, lover."

Silky sheets caressed my bare chest, and I yanked them up to my chin. My head throbbed. How many drinks did I have? "Isa?" I croaked. I scanned the unfamiliar room and sweeping views of Central Park behind her. "What happened last night?"

She sauntered over to the bed and sat beside me. The woman moved like a tiger. She was all style and grace. Her dark eyes flitted over me. Why did I feel like I was her prey?

"We just had some fun." She stroked my bicep, setting off a sensation of spiders crawling up my arm.

I shook my head as the haze began to clear. "No! I can't be here with you." I shot up from the bed. "I need to get out of here."

She flashed me a wicked smile. "As you wish." She tossed me my clothes and disappeared into what I assumed was the bathroom.

I threw my shirt over my head and stepped into my jeans as I rushed out of the bedroom. My chest tightened as nausea swirled in my gut. What had I done? I made my way through the maze of corridors that was Isa's condo. Somehow I made it to the front door. I whipped it open and jabbed my finger at the elevator call button.

Glancing at my watch, my stomach roiled. Sofia should be back from work by now. She must have freaked out when she got home, and I wasn't there. The sleek elevator doors slid open, and I rushed in. Leaning against the cool metal siding, I raked my hands through my hair. I tried to piece together the events of last night, but everything was a blur.

Bradley! I needed to talk to him. Maybe he'd know what had happened. I rifled through my pockets and fished out his business card. Thank goodness he'd slipped it to me at the bar.

Speeding out of the swanky building, I exhaled a long breath as the sounds of the city drowned out the turmoil in my head. I stood on the corner of Central Park West and W. 62nd Street. This was not a part of town I frequented often, but there had to be a payphone nearby. A few blocks down, the statue of Christopher Columbus rose over the traffic. I headed toward it; certain there was a payphone by the subway stop at Columbus Circle.

Finally finding one, I stared at the phone number on the business card as numbness spread over me. I couldn't go home and face Sofia. Not yet. I slipped the dime into the coin slot and dialed the number.

"This is Bradley," the deep voice carried through the receiver.

"Hi, Bradley. This is Damian from the, uh, shooting range and bar last night."

"It's good to hear from you, Damian. Is everything all right?"

"No, not really. Do you think we could talk in person?"

He cleared his throat. "Yes. Tell me where to meet you."

I glanced around the hectic circle as cars whizzed by, pedestrians hurried across crosswalks, tourists milled around and bikers wound through traffic. Not here. "How about the coffee shop on the corner of Delancey and Allen? It's called Two Brothers."

"Sure. I'll see you there in thirty minutes."

I slammed the receiver down and shoved the card back in my pocket. How did I get myself into this mess? I sped down the subway stairs, keeping my head down. I tried to convince myself that once I talked to Bradley, he'd explain everything, and it would all be okay.

The tangle of nerves in the pit of my stomach said something different entirely.

My fingers clenched the coffee mug as my foot tapped an incessant beat on the table leg. I raised the cup to my lips and inhaled the sharp scent of roasted beans. This was my favorite coffee place, but today even the hot beverage couldn't chase away the growing chill inside me.

I sat directly across from the entrance door. The moment Bradley's large form appeared in the doorway, I waved him over.

His clear blue eyes scanned over me as he sat. "You okay?"

I put the cup down and clasped my hands together. "Not really." I sucked in a breath. "I don't remember much about last night. I was hoping you could shed some light?"

His light brows furrowed, and his jaw clenched. "What do you remember?"

"Meeting you at the bar, having a drink, and that woman, Isa, coming in."

"Anything else?"

I shook my head, my lips pressed together.

"You never made it home last night?" He eyed my clothes, which he obviously recognized from yesterday evening.

I gulped. If I said the words aloud, it would make them real. I wasn't sure I was ready for that.

He held his hands in the air. "Listen, Damian, you don't have to tell me anything you don't want to. I'm just trying to figure out how I can help you."

My shoulders sagged, and I leaned back in the booth. "I woke up at Isa's place."

A low growl reverberated in Bradley's throat and he cursed. "I tried to stop her. This is my fault. I should've gotten you out of there as soon as she showed interest in you."

"Do you know her?"

"Everyone knows of Isa in my circle. She's a real man-eater."

"So I left with her? How much did I have to drink?" I didn't think there was enough alcohol on the planet to make me cheat on Sofia.

His hand reached out for my shoulder and gave it a squeeze. "This wasn't your fault, Damian. She can manipulate people. You had no control over what you did."

I raked my hands over my face. I don't know what I was expecting Bradley to say. That this whole thing had been some big mistake? That she had slipped me a mickey? There was no denying the truth. I'd slept with that woman. I'd cheated on my fiancée—the girl I loved most in this world. The person that was supposed to be my wife, the mother of my children. How could I have done such a thing?

Bile clawed up my esophagus. I needed to get out of there.

I jumped out of my seat. "I'm sorry, but I have to go. I need to see Sofia and tell her everything."

Bradley stood, his eyes matching pools of regret. "I'm so sorry, Damian. I'm in town for a few more weeks if you need anything."

I nodded and tried to get around him, but he stopped me.

"Stay away from Isa at all costs."

"You don't have to worry about that. I don't plan on ever seeing that woman again."

# Chapter 4

I slid the key in the lock, my heart pounding so loudly it roared through my eardrums. _Get it together, Damian_. _You have to man up and tell Sofia the truth_. She deserved to know, and I deserved whatever happened next.

The door slowly opened, my feet weighed down by guilt as I stepped across the threshold. The apartment was empty. The blinking red light on the answering machine caught my attention. I pressed the play button, my breath caught in my throat.

* * *

" _Hey babe,_

_Where are you? I called a few times, but I guess I've missed you again. Twenty-four hour shift has turned into forty-eight. I'm really sorry, and I guess I'll see you tomorrow. You can try me at the hospital, but I may not be able to talk. I love you!"_

* * *

Pangs of guilt sliced through my chest. I was officially the worst person alive. I sunk into the couch, and the stench of booze and cigarette smoke wafted up to my nose. I needed a shower bad.

Forcing myself off the couch, I went to the bathroom. It didn't matter if the super hadn't fixed the hot water. A cold one would do at this point. I twisted open the faucet and lukewarm water dribbled out. Better than nothing. I hopped in, eager to drown my sorrows in the warm spray.

* * *

I did feel better after the shower. Not great, but better. Because really there was no amount of hot water that could wash away my sins. I wrapped the towel around my waist and opened the door into the living room.

My jaw dropped. "What are you doing in my house?"

Isa's long legs draped over the side of the couch. Her black leather pants were like second skin. She leaned back, her dark curls tossed to the side as she played with an open button on her top. "Hello, Damian."

Heat rushed through my body—my half naked body, and I crossed my arms over my chest. "How did you get in?"

Her eyes narrowed, a wicked smile tugging at her lips. "There aren't many doors that can keep me out."

"Well, I need you out. You can't just show up at my place like this."

"Tsk, tsk." She waggled her perfectly manicured finger at me. "No need to be rude, lover." She rose and sauntered over to me.

I stepped back and hit the wall. A giggle tumbled out of her crimson lips as she approached like a cat on the prowl.

Her fingers reached for me, but I darted out of her grasp. "Look, Isa, I'm sorry if I was unclear, but what happened last night was a mistake—one that I never plan on repeating again."

"That's not what you said last night." She batted her long lashes.

"I don't know what happened; I must've been out of my mind. I can't remember anything after the bar." I pulled the towel tighter around my waist, wishing I had clothes on.

"You really have no idea what I am, do you?"

I cocked my head. " _What_ you are?"

She nodded, her teeth grazing her lower lip.

I wanted to say, "a whacked out home wrecker". But insulting a woman wasn't my style—no matter how much trouble she'd caused. "I don't understand your question," I hissed. I needed to get her out of my apartment ASAP.

"I'm the Vampire Queen."

I had to clap my hand over my mouth to contain the hysterical fit of laughter brewing in my chest. "Excuse me?" Man, did I know how to pick them.

She stepped closer and ran her finger down my chest. I yanked it off about halfway down my stomach. She growled and crimson flashed in her pupils. "You stupid human! You have no idea the power I have over you. I could do whatever I wanted, and you'd have no way to fight me."

I gulped. This woman was insane. She thought she was a vampire! I put my hands up, trying to appease her. "I'm sorry if I led you on last night, but I'm engaged. Whatever you are or aren't makes no difference. I'm never going to be with you."

I blinked, and her eyes were inches from mine. Deep red swirled in her dark irises. My head spun, the room going topsy-turvy. I leaned back against the wall to steady myself. She backed away, and the spinning stopped. "What the hell?"

Her dark gaze bored into me. "Kneel." Her voice was soft and smooth, but laced with power.

My knees buckled, and before I knew what was happening I was on the floor.

"Kiss my feet," she crooned.

_Are you freaking kidding me right now_? My head bowed, and the scent of expensive leather filled my nostrils. My lips touched the stilettos, and acid churned in my stomach.

I glanced up. A smug smile curled Isa's lips. "Why are you doing this to me?"

"Because I can." She took my hand and lifted me up to my feet. "I want you to be mine."

For a moment, the fog in my mind cleared. "No. I told you; I'm engaged. I'm in love with Sofia. And I don't know what the hell you are, or how you're doing this, but I want nothing to do with you."

Her expression darkened. "Sofia?"

"Yes. Now please, you must leave." I took her arm and turned her toward the door. Surprisingly, she actually moved. I whipped the door open and ushered her out.

Before she crossed the threshold, she turned back. "Just know that what happens next will fall squarely on your shoulders."

Ice chilled my veins. I swallowed hard and slammed the door. What the hell had just happened?

# Chapter 5

The hospital was the last place I wanted to be. I'd called the Captain, hoping he could get me out of my suspension early. I couldn't be home right now. I needed to be doing something, anything, so that I'd stop thinking about her. Isa. He said he'd try, but couldn't make any promises. He was the one that suggested I visit Ted at Bellevue Hospital. Captain Esposito was a good cop and a great man, so I did as I was told.

Luckily, Ted hadn't ended up at the same hospital where Sofia worked. There would've been no way I could've faced her yet. Not in public. My face would have given me away in an instant. And that was not a conversation you could have in front of an audience.

I marched through the sterile hallways to the trauma center. The Captain had said Ted was doing well and should be released by tomorrow. It was a huge relief. I couldn't ruin two lives in one day.

The kid's face lit up when I peered through the doorway. Pangs of guilt attacked my gut. It was my fault he was in there. I should've never let him out of the squad car.

"Officer Spiros!"

I strolled in and took a seat at the chair along the wall. "How are you doing?"

He sat up and coughed. "Much better."

"It doesn't sound like it."

He cleared his throat. "Aw, it's nothing. My oxygen levels are almost back to normal so they said I can leave tonight or tomorrow by the latest."

"I'm glad to hear that."

He squirmed in the bed, repositioning the covers. "I want to apologize for what I did. I know now that it was reckless, and I promise I won't ever do it again."

"Good." His over eager attitude reminded me of my own a few years ago. "You have good instincts, Ted, but you have to know when you can make a difference and when you can't. We can't save everyone."

He lowered his gaze and fiddled with the IV taped on his hand. "Did she make it? That woman on the fifth floor?"

The one he had run in a burning building to try to save. I shook my head, pressing my lips together. "The fire spread too quickly. The firemen didn't make it in time."

His lips turned down, and his green eyes became glossy. _Oh please don't cry_. I averted my gaze to the window and gave him a moment.

"I'm sorry I got you suspended," he finally said.

"Yeah, me too."

"Maybe I can talk to the Captain and explain."

"Don't waste your breath; I already tried." And I'm going to try again as soon as I leave here.

His brows pinched together like he was trying to solve a really tough math problem. "Are you still going to be my T.O.?"

I didn't really have a choice. I was appointed his training officer, and I'd see it through until the end. "Of course."

A small smile lit up his pale face. "Good. I'd really hate to screw this up. I want to be a police officer for the NYPD more than anything."

It was like staring at my reflection from the past. Only our physical features were the complete opposite. He was light, and I was dark. I didn't know how dark until a few days later.

My mind was made up, I was going to headquarters and doing whatever it took to get reinstated. I wasn't below begging. I marched down 1st Avenue toward the 9th precinct, the warm spring air a reminder that summer was approaching. The red circle on the calendar flashed in my mind. Would there even be a June wedding?

I clenched and unclenched my fists as I walked. How could I tell her? How could she forgive me? I tried to put myself in her shoes. Pain tore at my insides. I don't think I'd ever be able to get over a betrayal like that. I cracked my knuckles and pushed the guilty thoughts to the back of my mind. Right now I had to focus on my job. I needed to be on the streets, doing something good.

The hair on the back of my nape stood on end. I spun around. A guy in an expensive business suit almost barreled into me.

"Watch it!"

I mumbled an apology and scanned the street behind him. I had the weirdest feeling. It was like someone was watching me.

I turned around and continued down 1st Avenue. I neared the subway, but kept walking past it. A long walk would clear my head. Maybe by the time I reached the station, I'd have a killer speech ready for the Captain.

A gust of wind whipped by me, sending a chill down my spine. Where did that come from? I glanced up at a sapling, its bare branches unmoving. The air was still. I had to hand it to the city public works division. Even in this concrete jungle, they attempted to plant at least one tree on every block.

I walked for what felt like hours. My thoughts churned, anxiety growing with every step I took. So much for a relaxing stroll. I finally stopped in front of a luxury high-rise. My eyes widened. This wasn't my precinct. I stared up at the colossal modern building. What the hell was I doing here?

A doorman appeared, his white gloves and gray suit impeccable. He opened the door and gave me a smile. "Mr. Spiros?"

"Yes..."

"Please, come right this way. Ms. Dimir is expecting you."

He ushered me to the elevator and pressed the penthouse button. The doors slid close, and the elevator whisked me up thirty floors. There was a battle raging between my brain and my body. I knew I shouldn't be here and yet I couldn't force myself to move.

The sleek doors glided open into an expansive living room. Floor to ceiling windows made up the far wall of the luxurious space.

"I'll be right down, lover." A sultry voice carried down the hallway.

_No_. I willed my feet to run. They were stuck, firmly planted to the floorboards like a hundred year old oak. Nausea uncoiled in my gut. How did this keep happening?

Heels clicked down the corridor, and my heart slammed against my ribs. Isa sauntered toward me, her hips swaying to a silent tune. A black spandex dress hugged every sharp curve of her body.

"So nice of you to come visit." She puckered her red lips as she inched closer.

I put out my hand to stop her. "What am I doing here?"

She shot me a coy grin. "I don't know, Damian. You're the one that came to me."

I shook my head madly, convinced I was going insane. "No. I was heading to the station. I was going to talk to the Captain."

She glanced around the elegant living room. "I'm afraid you must be mistaken. As you can see, this is not the 9th precinct."

"How do you know where I work?"

She clucked her teeth. "Oh, Damian, when are you going to understand? I know everything about you and your precious little Sofia. She and I had a very interesting chat this morning."

Ice rippled through my veins. "You did what?"

She batted her long lashes. "Don't worry, darling. I didn't tell her _that_. I merely wanted to meet the woman that stood in my way. You see, I always get what I want."

"And I'm what you want?"

A twisted smile curled her lips. "Yes."

"But why?"

"Because you're a challenge. There's nothing I love more."

I set my jaw, willing my brain to obey me and not her. "But I'm not. You will _never_ get me."

"Silly, boy. I already have you."

I blinked and her lips were on my neck. Her tongue grazed my skin, sending tingles all over my body. "No!" My hands shot out, and it was like ramming against a steel door. How the hell was she so strong? Her hands clamped down on my shoulders, and I was trapped. Two sharp needles pierced my flesh, and a scream tore out of my throat. Black blanketed my vision, and I allowed the darkness to consume me.

# Chapter 6

I opened my eyes, and crimson-hued black pupils stared back at me. I started and jolted straight up. Silky sheets caressed my skin, and I immediately knew where I was. I groaned. Not again.

"What the hell did you do to me?"

"I fed from you, Damian." She smiled, and a pair of gleaming white fangs protruded from her upper lip.

An icy chill swept over my body sending my heart racing. I shook my head back and forth. This couldn't be real. I must still be asleep.

"Don't be afraid." Deep red swirled in her dark pupils, her voice laced with power.

I wanted to look away, but I couldn't. Her eyes were absolutely mesmerizing. "I'm not afraid," I mumbled.

"Good." She sat back, giving me some space. "As I told you before, I'm the Vampire Queen. I am offering you a chance at eternal life—to be a king by my side. You'd rule over the most powerful supernaturals in existence."

"Vampires, supernaturals? None of that is real."

A wicked gleam in her eye sent another wave of chills crashing over my body.

"Believe me; it is all very real."

This woman was controlling my mind—she made me do things, forget things. She _bit_ me. As much as I didn't want to believe her, what other explanation was there? "Fine. Let's say I do believe you. I still want no part in it."

She huffed. "That's because you don't understand what I'm offering you. Vampires are the world's most powerful creatures. We are practically unkillable, can live forever, and do whatever we want. Humans are weak. They can easily be manipulated." She stood and walked around the room. "Do you see this penthouse? I have twenty others just like it all over the world. I am wealthy beyond your wildest dreams. I can take whatever I want."

I couldn't imagine never having to worry about money again. It was always on the forefront of my mind. No. I'd never want to be a monster like the woman standing in front of me. I straightened and folded my arms against my chest. "I'm not interested."

She marched to the side of the bed and glared down at me. "Damian, this is the last time I'm making you this offer."

I stood hesitatingly. I half expected her to push me back down on the bed. "I told you, Isa, I have a fiancée, a life. I'm not throwing that all away." To be with a monster.

"Fine. Have it your way." Dark brown curls whizzed by me as she sped out of the room.

Again I made my way through the maze of corridors to find the entrance door. A condo like this in the upper west side had to be worth millions. I couldn't wrap my mind around that kind of money let alone the fact that Isa was a vampire. And she mentioned other supernaturals – what else could be out there?

Bradley's unnaturally clear blue irises flashed in my mind's eye. I had to talk to him. Was this what he had been talking about when he said he dealt with unusual matters?

I finally found the door. My shoulders sagged in relief. I pulled it open, but a silky voice stopped me.

"Twice you've turned me down. Twice you had the chance to save her."

I spun around, but the foyer was empty.

Bradley's hulking figure was easy to spot on the bench in Central Park. The pond at the Conservatory was Sofia's favorite place. We'd spent many a Sunday afternoon watching the model boats float around the peaceful pond. There was nothing peaceful in my mind today.

"Hey, thanks for coming." I extended my hand.

Bradley's meaty paw squeezed mine, and I suppressed the urge to wince. "What's up? I didn't think I'd hear from you again after last time."

I sat beside him, my jaw twitching. How do you ask someone if they believe vampires are real? I blew out a breath and braced my hands on my knees. "When we met, you said you dealt in unusual matters. Could you expand on that?"

His expression turned pensive. I could almost see the gears grinding in his head. "Have you seen Isa again?"

I nodded.

"Did she tell you what she was?"

My eyes widened. "You knew all along?"

His lips pressed together, a low growl reverberating in his throat. "I'm so sorry, man. I couldn't tell you. Humans aren't supposed to know about the supernatural world."

I held my head in my hands to keep it from exploding. "So it's true then? Everything she said—she's a vampire queen?"

"Unfortunately so."

"Does she have some sort of freaky mind control powers?"

"It's called compulsion. She can force humans to do her will—including making them forget."

"So she made me cheat on Sofia?" For a second, my heart lightened. But it didn't matter really. I'd still done it no matter the circumstances.

"I'd imagine so. I wish I could have stopped her, but no one crosses Isa and lives to tell about it. She's beyond powerful."

"So what do I do now?" I raked my hand through my hair, tugging at the short dark strands. "She wants to turn me into a vampire. I thought she was crazy."

He blew out a long breath. "She is crazy, but she's also serious. Isa has a long line of progeny, and trust me, you do not want to be one of them."

"What do I do?"

His broad shoulders sagged. "How attached are you to Manhattan?"

"Are you serious?"

"That woman won't stop until she gets what she wants. Or she gets bored of you."

"I'm getting married in a month—if my fiancée forgives me. How can I tell her a vampire queen compelled me to sleep with her? She'll think I'm the one that belongs in a mental institution."

"Don't tell her, Damian. That wasn't you. You had no control over what happened. You really want my advice?"

I slowly nodded.

"Get the hell out of here and elope."

I couldn't do that. I had family and a career here. I wasn't going to give all of that up because of some terrible night. I buried my head in my hands, and Bradley squeezed my shoulder. "I'm so screwed."

"Just do it, Damian. Get the woman you love out of here and cut your losses."

I turned to him. "How did you get into this supernatural stuff?"

His bright eyes sparkled. "Let's just say it runs in the family."

It seemed like Bradley didn't want to talk about it so I didn't pry any further. Everyone's got their own secrets. I still couldn't get Isa's words out of my mind. "She said if I became a vampire I'd be stronger than any other supernatural creatures. What others are there—zombies, werewolves, gremlins?"

He chuckled, his big shoulders bouncing up and down. "No zombies or gremlins, but werewolves are very real."

"You're kidding me?"

He shook his head. "And not just wolves. There are many species of shifters. Then there are the fae, witches, warlocks, hunters—"

I put my hand up cutting him off. "I'm going to stop you there before I completely lose it." I'd heard more than enough for one day. I stood up and dug my hands into my pockets. "Thanks for coming out to meet me again; I really appreciate it. I didn't know who else to call."

"Anytime, Damian. I hope I won't hear from you again because you'll be long gone. But if you ever need me, don't hesitate."

I gave him an appreciative smile and headed for the subway, my mind racing. How could an entire supernatural world exist without humans knowing? If there were as many as Bradley had said how could they go unnoticed? The craziest part was how well I was taking it all. Then again it was easier to focus on that than on what I had to do next. Sofia should've gotten home by now, and it was time to face her.

# Chapter 7

My heart rammed against my ribcage as I climbed the last step. I'd gone over my speech a million times on the twenty-minute subway ride. No matter what I said, it never sounded right. There was just no way to explain the unforgiveable.

I trudged to the door, my heart weighing me down. Every step was harder than the last. I fished my keys out of my pocket and inserted it into the lock. The door creaked open before I turned the key.

A chill crept up my spine, every single hair on my body standing on end. I pushed the door all the way open. "Sofia? Are you home?"

I reached for the light and flicked it on.

My heart lodged in my throat.

Deep red blood painted the walls. The sofa sleeper was pulled out and a figure was splayed across it. No. No. No. Darkness seeped into my vision as bile crawled up my throat. I moved toward the bed, my feet barely touching the ground. I felt like I was floating. Everything was hazy.

The pink Hello Kitty scrubs were unmistakable. They were Sofia's favorite. I sank down next to her on the mattress. A bright red bow was wrapped across her torso. My stomach heaved, and I clapped my hand over my mouth. I took a breath, and the sharp metallic scent of blood filled my nostrils. I squeezed my eyes shut and battled through the stench.

_I will not pass out. I will not pass out_.

I brushed aside a lock of blonde hair and tucked it behind her ear. That was how Sofia always wore it. Tears blurred my vision as I stared into vacant green eyes. I passed my hand over her lids, closing them. My gaze traveled down to her neck. Two puncture wounds marred her perfect white skin. My breath hitched.

I pulled her into my lap and pressed her against my chest. What had I done? Tears flowed down my cheeks, mixing with the blood staining my shirt. The cop part of me said I shouldn't have disturbed the crime scene, but the boy in love with this girl told him to shut up. I held onto her for hours, maybe even days. I really couldn't be sure; it was all a terrible blur of pain.

My eyes jolted open; the first rays of the sun seeped into the studio. I rolled my neck to release the tension. Sofia still lay in my arms, her expression peaceful. Even in death she was beautiful. I gently lowered her to the mattress. My hands came away sticky and stained in crimson. Nausea roiled in my gut. I needed to do something. But what could I do? Call the police and tell them the vampire queen had murdered my fiancée? They'd think I'd gone insane. A part of me thought I had.

I had to call the police. I was a cop for god's sake. This had been a crime, and its perpetrator would have to be punished. I clenched my fists and got to my feet. I'd do this the legal way, just as soon as I took care of something first.

My feet moved without my brain guiding them. It was like they were on autopilot. They probably were, after Isa screwed with my mind so many times. The subway ride passed by in a blur. I was numb; a vague buzzing hummed in my head. I think it was the sound of my world collapsing.

The doorman recognized me and held the door open as soon as I approached.

"Mr. Spiros, hello again."

I nodded and bit down the urge to snarl at him. None of this was his fault. He'd probably been compelled by her too.

I cracked my knuckles as the elevator whizzed up thirty floors. I patted the wooden stake in my back pocket. I hoped the sharpened chunk of wood I pulled out of the fireplace would do. That's how you killed vampires in the movies, right? I should've called Bradley. He would've known how... but he would have tried to stop me. And I couldn't let that happen.

The shiny elevator doors slid open, and I marched into the enormous living room. Isa sat on the couch, her long legs crossed, with a glass of champagne at her lips.

Heat surged through my body, fury consuming every inch of me. My skin prickled as if a live wire ran across it. "Celebrating something?" I growled.

Bottomless obsidian eyes drilled into mine. "A victory." She lifted her flute in the air.

I clamped my jaw tight, holding back the string of expletives poised to explode from my mouth. A tornado twisted in my stomach, shredding my insides. I took a deep breath and pulled my shoulders back. I couldn't let the pain in, not yet. I took a few deliberate steps toward her, every muscle in my body coiled in tension.

"Damian, do you realize this is the first time you've come to see me of your own accord?"

"No, I didn't. I was kind of out of it the other times." I was beyond gone this time.

"And what brings you here today?"

My lips twisted. I wasn't sure if I was going to vomit, cry or scream. Everything was deathly still around us, except for the constant whirring in my head. I ran my hand down to my back pocket. My fingers grasped onto the solid wood. I yanked the stake out and drove it down toward Isa's chest.

An arm shot out, completely stopping my forward momentum. Isa's forearm was against mine, like an impenetrable wall. She looked up at me, her dark eyes wide and expressionless. Twin black holes of oblivion threatened to swallow me whole.

A high-pitched cackle burst from her scarlet lips. "That was very brave and yet very stupid of you, lover." She jerked the stake out of my hand. It clattered to the floor and with it any shred of hope left in me.

I sunk to the couch, my legs heavier than lead. My mind was blank; a dense fog blanketed every corner.

"I take it you found my gift." Isa sat beside me, still sipping that damn champagne.

My stomach heaved, and I puked all over her fancy oriental carpet. I spat, my head between my legs, wiping at the saliva dribbling down my chin. I turned, and I was nose to nose with vomit splattered black stilettos. I hoped they were ruined along with her expensive rug.

A strong hand gripped me by the back of the collar and hauled me up. I blinked, and we were no longer in the living room. Towering bookshelves surrounded us as we sat in front of a massive stone fireplace. The room would've been quaint if only I'd had the brainpower to care.

Isa reached for my hand, and I wrenched it out of her grasp, moving to the far side of the leather couch. "Don't ever touch me." I tried to lace as much venom into my voice as my dulled emotions could manage.

"Oh Damian, when are you going to understand that I did this for your own good?"

My stomach roiled, and I was certain I was going to be sick again. I swallowed hard, pushing the bile back down. "For my own good?" I croaked.

"Yes." She twirled a thick strand of raven hair. "You are meant for so much more in life. To live a mediocre life as a police officer and mere husband to a nurse is beneath you."

My fists curled into tight little balls. "Don't talk about her! And don't pretend to know anything about me or my life."

"I know this one wasn't worth living. You'll thank me when you've lived multiple far better lifetimes."

"I'll never forgive you," I roared. "I hate you with every single cell in my being."

She cocked her head and batted her lashes as if that would fix everything. I squeezed my eyes shut. The last thing I needed was her compelling me again. I buried my head in my hands and leaned forward. I rocked back and forth as I made up my mind.

Reaching down my leg, I stuck two fingers inside my pant leg. The cold metal against my fingertips brought a sense of calm. I knew what I was going to do. It was the only thing I could do. It was what I deserved after all the pain I'd caused.

I tucked the pocketknife in my sleeve and straightened. Isa's onyx eyes danced over me as I squirmed under her penetrating gaze. I ticked my head toward the fireplace. "Can you turn it on? I'm freezing." I rubbed my hands over my arms, teeth chattering and all. I wasn't exactly lying; a chill had come over my body that I was powerless to overcome.

"Of course." She stood and swaggered to the mantle. The moment her eyes were off me, I flicked the blade open and dragged it across both of my wrists.

# Chapter 8

I gasped, and my eyes snapped open. I jolted up, clenching the plush rug under me as I scanned the room. The library. A sharp metallic taste coated my tongue. _Bleh_. I swallowed, attempting to rid myself of the nasty flavor.

"Welcome back, lover," a sultry voice carried from behind a bookshelf.

I must be in hell.

I stared at my wrists as images of what I'd done flashed through my mind like an old movie projector. I turned my hands around examining them. There wasn't a mark on either one. How was it possible?

"How am I alive?" The voice that came out of my mouth sounded foreign to my own ears.

Isa sauntered over, her black top covered in dark splotches. "I saved you with my blood."

My head spun. I should've asked Bradley more details about this vampire stuff. She must have noticed my blank expression because she continued to explain.

"Vampire blood heals humans from pretty much any life threatening injury."

My jaw went slack. My mind raced as I thought about all the lives that I could've saved over the past two years as a cop. Not to mention the countless ones Sofia encountered in the hospital. My chest tightened, my lungs contracting. Sofia. She'd never save anyone again because I hadn't been able to save her. I should have died.

Anger pulsed in my veins. "Why did you bring me back?"

"I already told you, Damian. You are destined for greater things. I wasn't going to stand by and let you die."

I got to my feet and glared at the monster who ruined my life. "I _was_ destined for something, but you stole it away from me the moment you murdered my fiancée."

She rolled her eyes dramatically. "Oh Damian, you need to get over that. One day you'll see I did you a favor."

I gritted my teeth together, sure my head was about to explode. "I will never get over it, Isa. I'll hate you for the rest of my life. I will _never_ become a vampire."

She waggled her finger at me. "Never is a very long time when you're immortal."

This woman was insane. If I couldn't kill her, maybe Bradley knew someone who could. I'd make it my life's mission to put an end to her reign of terror. Trying to kill myself had been a coward's move. It had been a moment of weakness that I'd never repeat. Ending her life would be much more satisfying.

"Can I leave now, or are you keeping me prisoner here?"

She turned to me, crimson flashing in her onyx eyes. "I don't want to compel you, Damian. I want you to choose to stay with me of your own free will."

"Well that's never going to happen," I spat.

The buzz of the intercom put an end to our standoff. Isa sped to the door. She moved so fast she was nothing but a black blur. It had been the first time she'd used her abilities in front of me. I rushed behind her, hoping whoever was at the door could provide enough of a distraction that I could get out of there.

By the time I reached the entrance, she'd already let the visitor up. She leaned on the wall lazily as the elevator zoomed up the thirty floors.

"Who's here?"

"You'll see in a moment."

The elevator dinged, and the doors slid open. A hulking giant of a man lumbered out. He was in all black from the tip of his jet-black hair to the end of his black boots. He was what I'd imagined the grim reaper to look like. The only thing missing was a sickle.

Crimson-rimmed pupils locked onto mine. My mind swam. It was like I'd just gotten off the tilt-a-whirl at the carnival.

"Klaus..." Isa warned.

He lowered his gaze, and my world stopped spinning.

"This is the human?" he growled.

Isa moved toward me and ran a red-tipped fingernail over my arm. I was too dazed to object. I leaned against the wall, willing my legs not to crumble.

Klaus's dark gaze ran over me sending goose bumps over every inch of my flesh. He towered over me, his lips curled. "How do you know he's so special?"

"Call it a gut feeling, brother."

Oh great. Isa had a brother? By the looks of him, he seemed just as psychotic as she was.

"I still think you should have Asher read him to be sure."

"I would, but who knows when he'll return from gallivanting across Europe." She pouted her pretty red lips. "I want him now, Klaus."

I ignored the fact that they were talking about me like I wasn't even there. Their inane babble was giving me time to plan my next move. When Klaus tried to leave, I had to be the one on that elevator.

"Besides if I'm wrong," continued Isa, "he'll just be another play thing."

Klaus grunted. "I think you have plenty of those."

She shrugged and pinched my cheek. "But do you see how cute he is?"

My body recoiled at her touch. She pretended not to notice and continued speaking to her brother.

"I haven't sired a new vampire in months. Tarq and Adir aren't fun anymore. I want new progeny."

Klaus shook his big melon head. "Fine. Do as you will, sister."

"Thank you." She clapped her hands together as a devious grin split her lips.

That wasn't good. If only I'd asked Bradley how a vampire was created. I searched my brain for memories from old Dracula movies. I'd never really been into those.

He lumbered over to the elevator and adrenaline shot through my veins. I had to make my move now.

"I take it you won't be joining me at the Inner Circle meeting?"

She gazed at me then back at her brother. "No."

"I'll report back when it's over then." He dipped his head to his sister and moved toward the elevator.

"Thank you for seeing to that."

He pressed the elevator call button, and I inched toward him. An expensive and heavy looking vase sat on a table next to the entryway. If I could just get close enough. The door slid open, and I lunged for it. I raised it over my head and smashed it down on top of Klaus. Shards of ceramic rained down all over the hardwood floor.

The burly vampire didn't even flinch.

He turned to me glaring, his obsidian eyes blazing. His hand shot out, and his thick fingers curled around my throat. He lifted me into the air like a ragdoll. I gasped as my mouth opened and closed trying to suck in air.

"Klaus!" Isa's high-pitched scream echoed across the open space.

He snarled, but the pressure around my neck relented. I thrashed my legs back and forth and eventually touched the floor. He released me, and my whole body went slack. I gulped in mouthfuls of oxygen, leaning against the wall.

Dark brows furrowed as they scanned over me. He turned to his sister, a sinister smile shadowed across his lips. "You're right. He could be something."

The elevator doors slid closed behind him, and my heart sank. I slunk down to the floor, my legs giving up the futile fight.

Isa strutted over to the couch and patted the spot next to her. "Come, Damian."

I clenched my jaw, but my legs betrayed me. They carried me over to her side with a mind of their own.

She took hold of my chin and forced me to face her. "I'm going to ask you one more time. I'm giving you the opportunity of a lifetime—to sit at my side and rule over a powerful species, to have everything you've ever desired in life and more, and to live forever."

She spoke forcefully, but my mind was clear. She wasn't compelling me. She really wanted me to make this decision on my own. How deluded was she?

"Do you really think I would choose you? After everything you've done to me?"

Her lips pressed together, her nostrils flaring. A small blue vein pulsed in her forehead.

"I'd rather die a million times over than live one more day in your presence."

"Fine. Have it your way." Her hands wrapped around my neck. She twisted, and my world went black.

# Chapter 9

Red-hot flames ignited in my chest. I sucked in a breath, my lungs aching. A raging inferno coursed through every cell in my body.

What the hell happened?

Opening my eyes, I winced as I scanned the unfamiliar surroundings. My temples throbbed. I could feel each and every frayed nerve-ending twitch.

I jolted straight up and peered at the dark room. There were no windows and one steel door. Navy walls closed around me. I swallowed, my tongue sticking to the roof of my mouth. It felt like the Sahara.

I needed water now.

I stood and made my way to the steel door. I rolled my neck, trying to ease the stiffness. My entire body felt like I had a severe case of whiplash. I jiggled the doorknob, but it was locked. I yanked at the handle and metal hinges snapped, sending me staggering backward. I stared at the silver lever clutched in my hand. I needed to lay off all the working out.

I jerked the door open. A long dark hallway stretched out before me. I focused my eyes and could just make out a dim light seeping through a door at the end of the corridor.

I swallowed again, the saliva in my mouth dissipating at an alarming rate. Why was I so thirsty? I sped through the passageway, hoping to find water at the end of the tunnel.

I rubbed at my temples trying to stop the relentless pounding. I squeezed my eyes shut, and gruesome images flashed through my mind. Sofia. My knees nearly buckled as visions of her blood-covered body were unearthed. I held onto the wall to keep from collapsing.

Isa.

I'd come to her condo for revenge. I'd failed. Memories of our last encounter flooded my mind, choking me. Isa had snapped my neck.

The door at the end of the passageway opened, and a young girl stepped into the darkness. For a moment, light shone around her, bathing her in an ethereal glow. Her blonde hair flowed down her shoulders, a halo encircling her beautiful face.

The heat that had been surging through my body suddenly turned to ice. Was I dead? Was this heaven?

A sweet giggle tumbled out of the girl's mouth as her bright hazel eyes met mine. She raised a hand, and a gleaming blade flickered in her palm. In one quick movement, she slashed it across her throat.

My jaw dropped as my eyes widened in horror. "No! What are you doing?" I reached for her, covering the gaping hole in her neck with my hand. A pungent metallic scent filled the air. My gums began to ache. It was ten times worse than when my wisdom teeth came in. Sharp teeth bored through the soft flesh and burst out from under my top lip. Panic bubbled up in my chest, squeezing my lungs. _No, this can't be happening_. I withdrew my hand from the girl's neck, and it came back red and sticky. My eyes fixed on the crimson substance covering my palm. Saliva filled my mouth.

I had to have it.

My tongue shot out and trailed from the tip of my finger to the bottom of my hand where the blood trickled down my wrist. I groaned in pleasure. I wanted to lick each and every one of my fingers.

"You can have some more," the pretty blonde whispered faintly and motioned to the wound on her neck.

I shook my head and clenched my teeth. My new fangs slipped out between my lips. I couldn't do it. I wouldn't.

"Come on, Damian, just have a taste." She ran a finger down her neck.

My nostrils flared. The hunger burning inside of me was more intense than I could've ever imagined. The sound of the blood pumping through her veins called out to me. It roared through my eardrums taunting me.

I licked my fangs, her salty lifeblood lingering on my lips.

The girl tilted her head, angling her neck toward me. I inched closer, my legs moving of their own accord. If I could just have a _little_ more...

My fangs lengthened, and I closed the distance between us in an instant. My jaw clamped down on her neck, her warm blood filling my mouth, finally quenching the ravenous thirst.

Her body trembled under mine as I drank and drank. The world around me was nothing but a blur. All that mattered was the blood. The flow slowed to a trickle, and her head went slack. I unclenched my teeth from her flesh and met wide vacant hazel eyes.

No.

I released the girl, and her body crumpled to the floor. I stared at her in horror.

The door opened, and Isa walked through, a smug grin on her lips. "Bravo, Damian." She clapped as she stood over the girl's still form. "How did it feel to drain her life away?"

The acid in my stomach churned. It climbed up my esophagus desperate to break free. I took a long breath and swallowed it down. Isa peered up at me with big doe eyes.

"How could you do this to me?" I growled.

She shrugged, tilting her head to the side. "I gave you every opportunity to join me willingly, but you were just too stubborn to see the gift I was offering. I decided to take matters into my own hands."

The nausea in my gut was replaced by white-hot fury. It surged in my chest, pumping adrenaline through my veins. I lunged at her, wrapping my fingers around her throat. I'd snap it just like she snapped mine.

A dark blur sped by me and strong hands clamped down on my shoulders. The next thing I knew, I was flying through the air. I hit the wall with a whack, my head bouncing off the wall like a ping-pong ball. A slew of curses erupted from my mouth.

Rubbing my head, I glanced up. Klaus stood by Isa's side, his thick arms crossed against his chest.

"You do remember my brother, don't you Damian?" She patted his shoulder and turned to me. "We're family now. I expect you all to play nice."

My fangs extended, nicking my lower lip. The metallic taste ignited my unquenchable thirst. I groaned as I licked my lips, savoring the flavor. I needed more.

Isa's eyes raked over me knowingly. "I can give you what you want, Damian. All you have to do is ask."

I clenched my teeth together. "I don't want anything from you. And I won't feed on another human."

She laughed. "Of course you will. We all do. The hunger you're feeling now is nothing to what you'll experience in the next few days. Your senses and emotions will be heightened. You won't be able to control yourself without my help."

Klaus opened the door, holding it for his sister to pass. "She's right. A vampire needs to be with others of his kind. Your human life is over now; you belong with us."

Isa held out her hand. The thirst was like nothing I'd ever felt in my life. Fire blazed in my throat, and the only way to stop it was human blood. But I couldn't. I wouldn't let her make me a monster.

I slowly stood, averting my eyes to avoid the vacant-eyed corpse. I couldn't deal with that right now. As it was my emotions were teetering on the edge. One wrong move, and I'd go hurtling over.

"I just want to go home," I muttered.

Isa lowered her hand and walked through the door. I followed, ignoring the scent of blood still in the air. I needed to get out of there.

As we walked into the light, I recognized the maze of corridors. We were still in Isa's penthouse. That dungeon-like room was just for creating vampires. A chill slithered over my flesh. How many others had she turned just for fun?

Klaus and Isa murmured as we navigated the twists and turns of the enormous condo. I could hear every word they said if I concentrated. My hearing had always been good, but now it was superhuman. I tuned them out, more concerned with finding a way out of there.

We finally reached the palatial living room, and Isa motioned for me to sit on the couch. She and her brother were discussing the Inner Circle vampires—whatever that was.

Dishes clattering pulled my attention across the room to the kitchen. I sniffed the air as a tantalizing scent wafted into the living room. Before I could stop myself, my legs were moving toward the tormenting aroma.

I pushed through the swinging door, and a middle-aged woman jumped. She had her dishwater brown hair held up in a tight bun. She stood by the sink, running water over her hand. A briny pungent scent filled the kitchen, sending my heart racing. My gaze zoned in on her thumb. Deep red trickled from a small cut.

"I-I'm sorry," she sputtered. "The glass was sharp; it was an accident."

My gums throbbed, my fangs itching to burst free. I squeezed my hands into tight balls as I fought the undeniable urge to rip into her throat.

I spun around and darted back into the living room. My throat was on fire. I panted as terror constricted my lungs. How was I going to survive this?

A balcony caught my eye across the vast room. I raced toward it, whipping open the sliding glass door. I didn't stop until I reached the railing.

I sucked in the fresh air, willing my heart rate back to normal. I took long deep breaths as I leaned over the barrier. Cars cluttered the streets of Central Park West below.

"Everything all right, lover?" Isa's sultry voice carried in the air.

"I'm fine," I hissed without turning to face her.

"I forgot to tell you about Grace. She's our housekeeper. Try not to eat her, please."

I cracked my knuckles, every muscle tense in my body.

"There are others of course. I'd be happy to bring you a snack if you'd like."

I whirled around, heat rising from my chest. "How many times do I have to tell you, I'm not doing this. I don't want to be your vampire king!"

"It's a little late for that."

"No, it's not." I spun around and leapt over the railing.

# Chapter 10

I couldn't even keep track of how many times I'd died since the day I met Isa. Luckily, it had been a quiet night on Central Park West when I jumped off the balcony, and no one had seen my fall. I rolled my shoulders out as I marched toward the subway. I'd been dead and then a few minutes later I wasn't. A thirty-floor fall had to have broken every bone in my body. And yet here I was, strolling along like nothing. The cool evening air tingled over my skin. The dim streetlights seemed more like high beams. Isa hadn't been lying. Everything was a hundred times more intense.

I descended the subway steps, and the stench of urine and garbage drifted into my nostrils. My nose twitched, and I held my breath until the subway came. Again, I lucked out because the car I'd chosen was nearly empty. An old man sat at the opposite end, his coat reeking of booze and sweat. It was so sharp it completely masked the faint scent of blood rushing through his veins.

I squeezed my eyes shut for the rest of the ride, hoping to still my racing thoughts. It didn't really work.

_I was a vampire_.

How does one wrap their mind around that? Then there was Sofia. I'd have to call the police when I got back to the apartment and report her murder. I cursed myself for not doing it before I was turned into a monster.

* * *

I sped up the four flights of stairs to our apartment, not feeling the slightest bit winded. Maybe there were a few perks to this vampire thing. I stopped at the door, my chest tightening. I didn't want to go in there. Sofia's blood splattered our apartment, and I was afraid of what that would do to me. My fangs pricked my gums at the thought. I was disgusting.

I held my breath and pushed the door open.

"What the hell?"

The studio was spotless. No Sofia. No bloodied walls or carpeting. In fact, it was the cleanest I'd ever seen the place. I raced around the tiny space searching for any remnant of what had happened, but there was nothing. Even with my sharpened vampire senses, I couldn't smell a thing. Sofia had vanished.

I slunk down on the couch and braced my head between my knees. Isa must have done this. She sent someone to clean up after her mess. As much as I hated to admit it, a part of me was relieved. I didn't want to see Sofia like that or deal with the police's questions. I was a coward.

And I was hungry.

Fire burned in my throat, and only one thing could satiate it. My fangs descended as I envisioned the warm crimson liquid filling my mouth. A growl reverberated in my throat, and I clenched my jaw tight. I had to learn to control this. I leaned my head back, and a small card on the side table caught my attention. Bradley's busines card. I reached for it and passed my finger over the black letters. I hated calling him again, but he was the only one that knew about all of this supernatural stuff.

I grabbed the phone off the table and dialed the number.

"This is Bradley."

"It's Damian. I'm sorry to call you so late, but something's happened. I need your help."

"So you didn't take my advice, huh?"

I groaned. I was such an idiot. "No," I muttered. I glanced at my watch; it was nearly midnight. "Can you meet me tonight?" It had suddenly occurred to me that in the movies vampires couldn't go out in daylight. Would I be trapped in my apartment come morning?

Bradley cleared his throat. "Yeah, I can come if it's important."

"It is, and I appreciate it. I'll text you my address. I'm sorry; I have to go. There's another call coming in."

"I'll see you in an hour."

I stared at the unknown number flashing across the screen. Who was calling me at this hour?

"Hello?"

"Hey sir, it's Ted. Sorry to call so late, but I wanted to check in on you."

I suppressed a groan. My over-eager trainee was the last person I wanted to talk to right now. "Check in on me?"

"Yeah. The captain told us what happened to your fiancée. I'm really sorry."

I paused, my mouth hanging open. What the hell was he talking about?

"Um, I'm actually right outside your apartment. I thought maybe you could use some company."

No, no, no. Thirst clawed up my throat. My mouth was so dry it felt like I'd been gargling cotton balls. "Now's not a good time, Ted."

"Oh okay. My mom baked you some cookies. I guess I could just leave them at your door."

I could almost picture Ted standing out there, his big green eyes looking like a lost puppy. Ugh. "Hold on a sec. I'm coming, but you can't stay. I need to be alone right now."

"Sure, I get it."

I pushed myself off the couch and marched to the door. Clenching my teeth together and holding my breath, I opened it a crack.

Curious green eyes peered through the opening. He must have run all the way up the stairs. He held out the tray of cookies, and I was forced to open the door further.

"Thanks," I muttered, scared to talk too much and get a whiff of his blood.

"I'm really sorry again about the accident." He rubbed at the back of his neck. "If there's anything I can do for you..."

I nodded. My eyes zoned in on the artery pumping in his neck. I cleared my throat. I needed to get him out of there, but I had to find out what Isa had done to cover this up.

"You look okay though—not too banged up or anything."

"I was lucky."

"The Captain told me the funeral is on Tuesday. Is it okay if I go?"

Isa had already arranged for a funeral? I tightened my fists at my sides. "Sure, kid. Thanks."

He reached out his hand to my shoulder and squeezed. The vein in his wrist throbbed in my periphery. My eyes fixed on the light blue vein spiderwebbing underneath his pale skin. It was like time stood still. The rush of his blood roared through my eardrums drowning everything else out. My fangs pricked at my gums, itching to break free. My heart rate quickened, pounding against my ribs.

"You have to go now," I hissed.

His expression fell as did his arm from my shoulder. "Oh sure, I'm sorry."

I sucked in a breath. Big mistake. His savory scent filled my nostrils, breaking through every last bit of my restraint. The tray of cookies clattered to the floor as I yanked him by the shirt collar and pulled him across the threshold. My fangs descended and clamped down into his neck.

His screams were muffled by the pounding of my heart. Warm blood slid down my throat, quenching the unending thirst. I sucked harder as the flow began to slow to a trickle. The thrashing stopped.

The bloodlust haze lifted and panic unfurled in my chest. I released my jaw, and his limp body crumpled to the floor. Lifeless green eyes stared up at me. _No_. I lowered my head to his chest and could just make out a slow rhythm. It was so faint. I was fairly certain that had I still been a human, I wouldn't have heard a thing.

I dialed 911 and raced out of the apartment.

# Chapter 11

_N ew York City, Thirty Years Later_

* * *

The phone rang, pulling me away from the computer monitor I'd been staring at for the past hour. I pressed the speaker button and rubbed my eyes.

"Go ahead Olexa."

"Hey boss. You should probably get going for your 9:30 meeting in the city."

"Right. Thanks for the reminder. What's the name of the coffee shop again?"

"Thanks-A-Latte." She laughed, and the sound brought a smile to my face. "What a great name for a café, and the person you're meeting with is Camellia by the way."

I pulled up the calendar in my cellphone with all the details. "Right, got it."

"Do you want me to have someone pull the Lambo up to the front of the building?"

"No, thanks I think I'll fly today."

I got to my feet and stretched, looking forward to a little fresh air. That was the one thing I hated about headquarters—it was underground. No windows and no views. I walked over to the corner of my office and glanced up at the narrow round shaft in the ceiling. Excitement hummed through my veins. I closed my eyes and focused on the sound of my heart pumping my mystical blood. Every cell in my body vibrated and warmth ignited in my chest, spreading outward. The air around me blurred, and my entire body trembled and contracted.

I let out a screech as I flapped my leathery wings and darted up the slender chute. My heightened bat eyesight guided me through the darkness until I reached the opening on the roof. I stretched out my wings to their full length and soared high into the cloudless sky. I flew over the East River, its murky brown waters lapping in the slight breeze. It was a quick trip to midtown where I would meet with my newest client.

I didn't often take freelance cases anymore. My day job kept me too busy as it was, but there was something about this woman when she called. The concern in her voice resonated with me, and I couldn't find the words to say no.

About half a mile before the café, I began my descent. I narrowed my beady eyes looking for a vacant alley. In the city, it was always challenging to find a quiet enough spot to transform back to human form. New Yorkers were always in a hurry, but they weren't distracted enough not to notice that.

I spotted a narrow alley barely big enough for a person to walk through a few blocks away from Thank-A-Latte. I chuckled. Olexa had been right; it was a pretty funny name. I angled my wings downward and alighted on a piece of cardboard after a few short minutes. Popping back into my human form, I adjusted my shirt collar and ran my hand through my hair. Every time I transformed, I thanked my lucky stars I wasn't a shifter. Emerging into human form naked was a terrible curse they had to bear. Fortunately for me, vampires kept their clothes.

Taking a quick left out of the alley, I walked the short distance to the café. A line of half a dozen people stood under the green awning waiting to order. I decided to forgo the coffee and went straight inside. A girl's voice bellowed, "Welcome to Thanks-A-Latte," as I strolled in. I glanced up; something about the voice sent a shiver up my spine.

A petite blonde girl manned the register. Her blue apron fit snugly around a full chest and wispy waist and for some reason I couldn't tear my gaze away from her. My skin tingled. There was something about her I couldn't quite figure out. All supernaturals had what I called sup-radar to be able to recognize others of our kind. I just couldn't decipher the vibes this girl was giving off.

She rolled her deep blue eyes at the customer in front of her, and I couldn't help but smile.

"Excuse me?"

I turned toward the voice, finally tearing my gaze away from the girl.

"Are you Damian Spiros?"

"Yes. I am." I held out my hand to the woman sitting at the table next to me. With one look at the platinum beehive she sported, I knew this was my client. "You must be Camellia."

She nodded. "Please sit down."

I pulled out the chair, sitting at the edge of my seat. It was poor form of me not to have spotted her first. I would have, had I not been so preoccupied with that girl. I glanced up at the coffee bar, but she was gone. A tall Latino-looking guy stood in her place.

"Thank you for meeting with me today, Mr. Spiros."

"Please just call me Damian."

"Very well, Damian." Her gaze flicked to the line at the register. "I'm glad you've already taken an interest in my case."

I arched a brow. "Excuse me?"

She turned toward the coffee bar where customers were picking up their orders. "Aria. The young woman behind the counter is whom I need you to keep an eye on. I couldn't help but notice she caught your attention when you arrived."

Heat rushed to my cheeks, and I hoped my olive complexion would hide the flush. "She's not like you," I finally muttered.

"No. She's human, and she needs to be protected."

"Human?" My nose was telling me one thing, but my vampire senses were confused.

"The details aren't important right now, Damian. What is important is that her life is in great danger. I need you to protect her. As I mentioned on our phone call, money is no object. I don't know how long this task may last so I need someone that can commit to an indefinite time period."

I looked up at the girl behind the counter tinkering with the industrial coffee machine. She bit down on her lower lip appearing deep in concentration.

"Damian? Can you do it?"

"Yes," I breathed out.

She slid over a manila envelope with a few pages sticking out. "This is all the information you'll need about her. In addition, you'll receive your payments weekly via wire transfer direct to your bank account.""

"Fine." I flipped through the small file. "This isn't a lot to go on. Can you be more specific about the sort of danger she's in?"

She shook her head. "No, not at this time. I can, however, tell you that there are both supernatural and human threats."

_Great_.

She abruptly stood. "Please take care of her, Damian. I am entrusting you with her life."

I nodded, my brows pulling together. "I promise I won't let anything happen to her."

She squeezed my hand and rushed out of the crowded café.

# Chapter 12

I cracked my knuckles as I waited for Aria to emerge from the red brick building. The dilapidated sign for the Frederick Douglas public housing development was covered in black graffiti. The girl had to be tough to live in this part of town. I sniffed the air, the breeze thick with illegal substances wafting down from open windows.

There were plenty of human threats right in this building. This job might turn out to be more difficult than I'd imagined. Keeping an eye on her from afar might prove impossible, which meant I had to figure out a way to insert myself into her life. The idea of serving coffee at Thanks-A-Latte was not the least bit attractive so I had to find another way.

A few minutes later, the cute blonde pushed open the rusty metal door and descended the few steps to the sidewalk. Next to her was the Latino guy I'd seen at the café the day before. It had to be her roommate and co-worker, Ricky. I'd gone over her file last night and familiarized myself with all the important details of her life. She threaded her arm through his, and they made their way toward the subway station. According to Aria's schedule she was slated to work in half an hour.

I followed them while keeping a half block distance between us. I didn't want her to see me just yet. From what I'd learned in her file, she wouldn't be too welcoming of a stranger. Let alone one that was trailing her.

My senses were on high alert as we walked down Amsterdam. I'd taken note of every car and person in a one-block perimeter. I focused my vampire hearing to hone in on every distinct sound around me, which was difficult in a bustling metropolis like New York City. Footsteps echoed from every direction, but I caught a faint pattern and paused.

The footfalls fell away as soon as I stopped moving.

I continued to walk again, closing the distance between Aria and Ricky and me. I peered through the corner of my eye and noticed a man a few yards behind me. He'd appeared a block or so after we left Aria's apartment.

The stranger was short, medium build, dark hair and definitely Latino. I slowed my pace and let him pass me. Tucked into the back of his jeans was the bulky silhouette of a gun. A low growl reverberated in my throat. I kept a short distance between the man and myself. It could be nothing. I may have been paranoid, but I wasn't letting this guy anywhere near my charge.

Aria and Ricky descended the stairwell into the 116th Street subway station, and so did the stranger. I hurried down the steps, swiping my metro card through the reader and slammed past the turnstile. The pair were further down the platform, talking and giggling about a nasty customer they'd encountered at work. The man still hovered nearby, scanning his cell phone.

I moved between him and the girl. The rumble of the approaching train sent my heart racing. I took a breath and forced myself to keep cool. What was up with me? I never lost control; I hadn't for a very long time.

The train stopped, the silver doors gliding open. A rush of morning commuters spilled out, and I momentarily lost track of the petite blonde. I whirled back and forth until I caught sight of her and her friend slipping in between the closing doors. I dashed into the same car just in time.

I scanned the passengers for the man, but he was nowhere in sight. I released a breath I hadn't realized I'd been holding and relaxed against the cold metal pole. Aria and Ricky were halfway down the car engaged in deep conversation. I tuned in, focusing my super hearing. She was telling him a story about their manager, Scott. Her deep blue eyes twinkled as she ragged on their boss, a huge grin splitting her full lips. Again my skin prickled at her proximity. There was definitely something Camellia wasn't telling me about her.

The rest of the trip to work went by without incident. The guy never showed up again, and I convinced myself I was just being paranoid. I hadn't taken a case like this in awhile, and I must have been on edge. Aria and her friend disappeared into the employee entrance in the back, and I took my position outside the café.

Through the window, I watched Aria as she dealt with customer after customer. She kept a smile plastered on her face the entire time. As soon as the person was out of sight, she'd roll her eyes at Ricky from across the bar. I couldn't help but chuckle at some of her more amusing faces.

The slam of the employee door at the back of the building drew my attention. I peered around the corner to investigate. The narrow alley was empty. I pulled out my phone and checked Aria's schedule. There were no other employees scheduled to start a shift at this hour. Returning to the front of the café, I found Scott, the manager, manning the register. My eyes quickly scanned the interior searching for the girl as my breathing accelerated.

I whipped the front door open and stalked around the small seating area. There were two doors on opposite corners of the space: one marked Restroom and the other Employees Only. She could've been on a break. I barreled through the bathroom door and put my ear up to the one marked Women. It was empty.

I couldn't just push my way through the employee area. That would definitely not go unnoticed. I moved toward the door and pretended to look at the menu above the coffee bar. Focusing my super hearing, I listened for anything unusual in the employee area. Footsteps. A heartbeat speeding up. A second heartbeat. Dammit!

I darted out of the café and to the back entrance of the alley. Rapid footfalls thundered down the corridor. I jerked the heavy metal door open, nearly taking it off its hinges, and a guy plowed right into me.

I grabbed him by the shirt and tossed him out into the alleyway.

"What the hell, man?" he shouted.

Fear blazed in his dark eyes. The same guy who had been following Aria earlier. I squeezed my hands into tight fists. How did I lose him before? This was my fault.

Approaching footsteps yanked me out of my inner ramblings. I scooped up the stranger and vamp sped out of the alley seconds before the back door opened. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Aria looking up and down the alleyway. The pressure in my chest relented. At least she was safe.

I dropped the guy next to a dumpster behind a pizza place. His eyes were wide, and his heart was pounding so loud I was fairly certain one didn't need supernatural abilities to hear it.

He scrambled backward until he hit the wall. "What do you want from me?"

"I'm the one asking the questions here," I hissed. "What were you doing at that coffee shop?"

"Nothing, man. I swear."

Why couldn't people just cooperate? I yanked him up by his collar and fixed my eyes on his. Power poured out of my lips. "What were you doing at Thanks-A-Latte today?"

"Keeping an eye on Aria. She's my boy, Omar's, girl. He hired me to follow her. He's real paranoid, thinks she's cheating on him or some crap."

Omar. Omar? I searched my memory for any mention of a boyfriend in Aria's files. Camellia had omitted an important detail.

"Why do you have a gun?"

"It's for my own protection. Omar has his hands in some shady dealings."

I narrowed my eyes, infusing my pupils with power. "Does Omar want to hurt Aria?"

"Not right now, but if he finds out she's been cheating on him, I don't know. That guy's got a screw loose."

Both human and supernatural threats. What had I gotten myself into? I needed to get caught up on Omar fast. "One more thing, what's Omar's last name?"

"Devante."

I lowered the guy back to the ground and he stopped shaking. "Forget this happened. If Omar ever asks you to hurt Aria contact me immediately. You are never to hurt a single hair on her head. Do you understand me?"

He bobbed his head up and down. I handed him my card and shot him a glare. "Never. Or you'll wish I'd killed you today."

"Got it." He rushed down the alley, moving faster than some vampires I'd seen.

I strolled back to Thanks-A-Latte to resume my post. This case was getting more interesting by the minute. Olexa had been right. It was going to do me good to get out of the office for a while and focus my attention elsewhere.

When I arrived at the coffee shop, Aria was back at the register. She swept her blonde bangs to the side and winked at the man standing in front of her. I focused my vamp hearing just to hear the sound of her voice again.

It was almost an exact replica of Sofia's.

# Chapter 13

The booming bass from the club reverberated in my eardrums—even at a full block away. The Lamborghini doors glided closed, and I made sure to engage the alarm. I glanced around at the broken streetlight and graffitied walls surrounding my car and grimaced. No one better break into my girl. I gave her a final pat and walked toward the music. The Lambo had become a symbol of my new life. It was very unlike me and was exactly what I needed following the dark years after being turned. Now it had become a tradition. Every few years I'd buy a new neon yellow one. This year's model was the Aventador; Giallo Orion was the fancy Italian name for its color. It was a reminder of starting over.

Loud music and babbling voices increased in intensity as I neared the newest hot spot in Brooklyn. I stared up at the smiling cow mural painted over the old brick building. From meatpacking to exclusive nightclub—only in New York City. A NYPD police cruiser was parked near the entrance, and two officers leaned up against the car talking. As I got closer, green eyes peered up at me from underneath a tuft of unruly brown and silver curls.

I froze.

After thirty years, Theodore Grant had the exact same childlike mischief in his gaze. Time had worn a few more creases into the corners of his eyes and around his mouth, but I'd never forget that face.

He moved toward me, his eyes wide. "You?"

I cleared my throat and slid on the expressionless mask I'd perfected over the years. "Excuse me, officer?"

His cheeks reddened. "I'm sorry for staring, it's just that you look so much like someone I knew a lifetime ago."

"I guess I just have one of those faces." I kept walking, avoiding the streetlamps.

He followed me, trying to get closer. "You're not related to a Damian Spiros are you?"

"No, sorry," I said over my shoulder. "Have a good evening, officer. I'm afraid I'm late meeting some friends."

"Sure. Have a good night."

I could feel his heavy gaze on the back of my head as I walked away. My young recruit, Ted. It wasn't until years later I found out I hadn't killed him the night I was turned. I often wondered if things would have turned out differently had I known all along. I pushed the somber thoughts to the back of my mind and searched the line of restless partygoers for Aria and Ricky.

Of course they'd pick a crowded nightclub. I cringed at the thought of sweaty bodies squeezed together on a packed dance floor. I passed by the velvet-roped entrance and found an empty spot along the wall. Leaning up against the brick façade, I scanned the line once more. Nothing yet. I'd followed them until the subway then drove the rest of the way. I figured having the car could come in handy in case things went south.

The clicking of heels on pavement drew my attention across the way. A petite blonde with hot pink streaks in her hair sauntered toward the front of the line. Black leather pants hugged every curve on her body, her bright red stilettos catching my eye. My jaw hung open. That girl did not look seventeen. I shook my head, forcing myself to focus. This was a job, not a night out on the town.

Aria and Ricky approached the burly bouncer, and he unlatched the red velvet rope with a smile. As soon as they disappeared into the entrance, I sped over.

"Hey, hey. The line's back there buddy." The enforcer pointed to the end of the hundred-plus person queue.

I fixed my gaze on the towering giant, infusing power into my voice. "Let me in."

Without another word, the bouncer retracted the rope, and I slipped in through a wave of angry complaints from the crowd in line.

The pounding base echoed in the narrow entrance hallway. I focused my hearing trying to isolate Aria or Ricky's voice as I made my way to the middle of the club. It was an enormous circular space with four levels of music, sure to appeal to all tastes—except mine. I glanced up to the second level which overlooked the dance floor. I needed to get up there so I could find them.

At the far wall, the glow of the elevator lights caught my eye. I dashed over and jabbed at the call button. The door finally slid open and I hurried in, followed by two giggling girls. The brunette ogled me unabashedly. Heat seeped up my neck, warming my cheeks.

"Do you want to buy me a drink?" she asked with a flirty smile.

"I'm sorry, I can't. I'm working."

The elevator doors glided open, and I raced out, the girl's words blurring into the background. I reached the railing and peered over into the mass of grinding bodies. Right in the center, a blonde head poked out of the crowd. Aria swayed her hips to the music, tossing pink and blonde hair from side to side. Ricky danced next to her, wiggling and bumping his butt into hers. She laughed, raising her arms up and fist pumping to the beat.

Aria glanced up, and our eyes locked. Heat swirled in my chest. What was it about this girl? The skin at the back of my neck tingled. I averted my gaze and ducked behind another guy leaning against the bannister.

In that moment I decided I needed to know her. I wanted to protect her, and the best way to do that would be to insert myself into her life. That's what I told myself anyway—the excuse.

I raced down the back stairwell to find a spot at the bar to wait for when she inevitably showed up. I pushed my way past the mob congregating around the circular bar below the DJ booth. I found a spot in the middle where I could keep my eyes on the dance floor. Aria and Ricky were still going at it, a small crowd surrounding them. I eyed every single guy around the perimeter, but they seemed harmless enough.

I waved at the tall blonde bartender, and she rushed over, a bottle of beer in each hand.

"What can I get you handsome?"

"Bourbon on the rocks."

"Now that's a man's drink," she said with a wink.

I gave her a half smile. It was all I could manage. She was back in seconds with my drink and another attempt at flirting. She rest her elbows on the bar, leaning over. I had a clear view down her low cut top. My gaze darted back up to her eyes, and she giggled. _This was so not happening_. I fixed my eyes on hers, and focused my power. "I'm not interested in you in that way and neither are you. Just get my drinks when I order them, and I'll give you a good tip at the end of the night."

The girl nodded and walked away to serve the next eager customer. I took a deep breath and sidled in between two guys sitting at the bar. I glanced over my shoulder to the dance floor. A large circle had formed around Ricky who was break dancing. A smile pulled at my lips as I remembered my break dancing days in the carefree 80's. I stood on my tiptoes trying to see over the crowd to find Aria. She was gone.

A few feet away, the mob parted and Aria emerged, her black top clinging to her and face shiny with sweat. She pushed her way toward the bar, a few guys ogling her as she passed. I darted through the dense mass of bodies until I was right behind her. A faint scent of jasmine wafted up to my nose.

I cleared my throat and yelled over the music. "Can I get you a drink?"

She turned to the left so I tapped on her right shoulder.

Her bright blue eyes widened. "Whoa there, buddy. Have you ever heard of personal space?"

"Sorry." I took a step back. "It's a little tight in here." I motioned over my shoulder where a drunk girl was pressed up against my back trying to get to the bar.

"Fine, I'll give you a pass this one time."

She was feisty. I liked that.

"So how about that drink?" I smirked and extended my hand. "I'm Damian."

"Aria." Her eyes scanned me from head to toe, her brows knitted, then as if she'd come to an acceptable conclusion she added, "I'll have a Cosmo."

I arched a brow, knowing full well she was underage. My cop instincts raged inside me, but I had to get her to trust me. I signaled to the bartender, and she dashed right over to take my order.

Aria's inquisitive gaze continued to rake over me. I could almost feel her assessing me. The blonde returned seconds later with the Cosmo and my second bourbon on the rocks. I handed Aria the drink, shooting her my best smile. "It matches your hair."

"Very perceptive." She twirled one of the hot pink streaks. "It's my favorite color."

"It's a good one for you." I raised my cocktail and clinked it against her martini glass. I was really out of practice with this stuff, but I hoped I was pulling off the flirting thing.

As I took a sip of bourbon, I caught her staring at me.

She laughed, and her whole face lit up. "Your eyes are pretty cool."

"Thanks. Yours are beautiful, like the translucent aqua of the Caribbean." I paused and took another swig of bourbon, never dropping eye contact. "So do you come here often?"

"Wow, I haven't heard that one in awhile." She bit her lower lip, and I found myself wanting to do the same. That was so unlike me. What was it about this girl?

"Does that line really work with the ladies?" she asked.

"It's not a line." I pulled myself together and took a step back, my hands raised. "I've been here a few times and never seen you. It was an innocent question, I swear."

"Umhmm... This is my first time. My best friend Ricky dragged me here tonight. " She got on her tiptoes and peered over the mob to the dance floor.

"Am I keeping you?" I turned in the direction she was searching.

"I should probably go find him. I don't want him getting into any trouble without me."

"Why do I get the feeling you're the one that's trouble?" I shot her a mischievous smirk. I was really bad at this, wasn't I?

She finished off the last sip before answering. "Too bad you won't get to find out."

She turned to leave, and my hand shot out to stop her. I twirled her toward me, my eyes intent on her lips. "Give me your number before you go."

"That sounded like a demand." She jerked away from me, and I panicked.

I cleared my throat and averted my gaze. "I'm sorry. I just... I'd like to get to know you better."

"Look, it's Damian, right?"

I nodded and zeroed my steely gaze in on her.

"I appreciate the drink, but I already have a boyfriend, and he's enough to handle."

"Maybe that's the problem." I cracked my knuckles, the idea of her boyfriend sending that sleazy guy after her making my blood boil.

She paused and her expression darkened. "Goodbye, Damian. Maybe I'll see you around."

Before I could stop her, she disappeared into the mass of grinding bodies on the dance floor.

# Chapter 14

What exactly was Aria's story? I knew there was more to her than what I had read in the file. My eyes never left her as she wandered around the club in search for her friend. The way the tiny hairs on my body bristled when she was near was not normal. This wasn't just some ordinary human girl.

Aria darted in between a group of tall muscled guys, and I lost her. My heart plummeted. I plowed through the center of the dance floor, hurtling past wriggling bodies. I strained my eyes as strobe lights flashed across the space muddying my vision. Where was she?

I reached the group of guys she'd disappeared between, but she was gone. I grabbed one of them and hissed, "Have you seen a cute blonde go by?"

He laughed. "Yeah, man there's one pretty much anywhere you look." He ticked his head to the left and then the right. Blondes everywhere. But no Aria.

I growled and released him, hurtling through his meathead friends.

At the far corner of the club, a door slammed. I don't even know how I heard it over the loud music and pounding base. I spun toward the sound, and a glowing red Exit sign flashed over the back door.

My nerves tingled. It was her; I knew it was.

I sped across the crowded club, shoving people out of my way eliciting a series of angry shouts. I never stopped. I barreled through the back door, and the sudden silence of the alleyway had my ears buzzing. I whipped my head to the left and right, straining to hear her.

Footsteps.

I dashed to the left, my heart thundering in my chest. I never should've let her out of my sight. The hair on the back of my nape bristled. I sniffed the air, recognizing the scent of my own kind. It took all my restraint not to shout her name as I sped down the street.

A scream echoed down the narrow passageway nearly shattering my nerves. My breath caught in my throat as I raced around the corner. I turned and a soft body ran straight into my chest.

"Watch it!" said a familiar voice.

"You're the one that nearly knocked me over." I looked down at the pink wisps of hair brushed up against my shirt.

She took a step back. "Cosmo guy?"

"Damian."

"Right." She glanced behind her then turned to face me once again. "Listen, there's some crazy stuff going on back there. I swear I just saw some girl biting a guy in the alley."

I couldn't help it; my eyes widened. "What do you mean, biting?"

"I have no idea, but there was blood. Lots of blood. Maybe it's some sort of new kinky thing or something, but that girl freaked me out."

I glanced in the direction she had pointed and furrowed my eyebrows. That must have been what I'd smelled. What were vampires doing feeding out in public like this?

"Are you by yourself?" I glanced down at Aria. "Do you need a ride home?"

She eyed me up and down again before finally answering. "I'm taking the subway."

"Where do you live?"

"Upper West side."

I debated compelling her and just throwing her in my car and taking her home. I decided against it. I didn't want to treat a new client that way unless it was absolutely necessary. "Let me at least walk you to the subway then."

"Okay."

She led the way toward the number 2 line, which was just a little over a block away. An awkward silence permeated the air.

"So what happened to your best friend?" I finally asked.

"He met up with some guy and sold me out."

I arched a brow and frowned. "That's not cool."

She shrugged nonchalantly. "No biggie."

The Lambo was just across the street, and I had an idea. "Hold on a sec. I need to get something out of my car."

" _That's_ your car?"

"Yeah."

I walked up to it, and the door opened automatically. I bent down and grabbed my cell phone, sliding it into my back pocket. I don't know how I'd forgotten it.

I locked the car and moved toward her. Her face paled. "What's the matter?"

"Don't come any closer."

"What are you talking about?"

She shoved her hand in her purse and pulled out a pocketknife. She pointed it at me, her knuckles white from gripping it so hard. "I don't know what you just put in your pocket, but you're not going to get a chance to use it."

A big laugh escaped my open mouth. "Promise you won't stab me, and I'll show you my cell phone."

I slowly pulled the phone from my back pocket, and her face flushed. It made her look younger and softened the tough act she put on.

"I thought I'd try to get your number again," I said with a smirk.

She gave me a lopsided grin and pulled a stick of gum and pen from her purse. She scribbled something on it and threw it to me. "Thanks for the drink. Call me if you ever want to buy me another one." Without looking back, she disappeared down the steps to the subway.

I stood there for a few minutes staring at the stick of gum. I knew her phone number and that wasn't it. I smiled as Aria's sweet jasmine scent lingered in the air. My feet itched to follow her down the steps, but I couldn't. Now that I'd introduced myself, trailing her unnoticed would be a bit more difficult.

I was okay with that though; it was worth it just to get to know her. Plus I liked a challenge.

# Chapter 15

I'd spent the majority of the night outside of Aria's apartment. I yawned and took a big gulp from the coffee mug on my desk as I skimmed emails. Ricky had come home late, and I didn't want her to stay alone. So I waited. She was tough. It was clear she could take care of herself, but she was my responsibility now.

I glanced at the clock on the wall. I still had a few hours until her shift began at Thanks-A-Latte. I had just enough time to get some work done.

_Or not_. A light knock on the door pulled my attention away from the computer screen.

"Hey boss." Olexa walked in with a tablet in hand.

"What are you doing in so early?"

"I figured you'd be here at the crack of dawn so I wanted to see if there was anything you needed."

"Thanks, but that's not necessary." I buried my nose in my coffee.

She pulled out the chair in front of my desk and sat. "How did it go last night?"

I couldn't help the smile that pulled at my lips. "It went well."

She arched a brow and leaned in. "So you met Aria?"

I nodded, pressing my lips together.

" _And_?"

"And it was interesting." Interesting in the sense that I ran into the adult version of the kid I almost murdered thirty years ago when I became a vampire. Interesting in the sense that I'd had a growing inexplicable ache in my chest ever since meeting my new charge. Overall: interesting.

Olexa eyed me curiously. I could almost see the gears grinding in her head. She knew me too well. She was one of the few people who knew about my past. "I knew you'd like her."

"Her?" I put on my best innocent look.

"Yes, Aria. You always have a thing for cute blondes." She tossed her long brunette locks over her shoulder.

I laughed. "I do not."

She crossed her legs and moved to the edge of her seat. "Okay, maybe I didn't say that right. I mean, I've never actually seen you with a girl, but whenever a petite blonde walks into the room, you get this look."

"A look?" I could feel heat rising to the tips of my ears.

She cocked her head to the side. "Yeah. It's hard to explain. It's like your lips want to smile, but your eyes won't let them."

My fingers found their way to my chest. They rubbed circles at the source of the sharp pang. "Sofia was blonde."

Olexa swallowed hard, and her expressive eyes darkened. "I'm sorry, Damian." She clasped her hands together. "I didn't know."

I exhaled slowly and sat back, leaning my head against the chair. Olexa knew a lot about me, but I didn't share every detail even with her. "It's okay. I didn't realize I did that."

She stood and twirled a lock of hair around her manicured finger. It was what she did when she was nervous. "I'm going to get started on some work." She pointed to the door.

I sat up. "Don't go. I'll tell you about my night."

A small smile crept across her lips as she lowered herself back into the chair.

"I think this job is going to be good for me."

"How so?"

"Maybe I can save her." I took a deep breath to still the tremble in my voice. "Maybe I can make up for what I failed to do with Sofia."

Olexa reached across the desk and squeezed my hand. "I'm sure you will."

I dug into my shirt pocket and pulled out the stick of gum. Behind the fresh minty smell, a faint scent of jasmine lingered. I traced the numbers scribbled on the wrapper, and a shadow of a smile tugged at my lips.

Aria would be my redemption.

Do you want to find out more about Aria and Damian? The completed Hybrid Trilogy is now available. Start with book one, Magic Bound now! Read on for a special sneak peek :)

Blurb:

**A young girl with new powers. An unstoppable supernatural hunter. A mysterious stranger who seems to have all the answers to her past...**

Meet Aria Negrescu – orphan, coffee shop barista, and apparently, supernatural. Fireballs just shot out of her hands, and she has no idea how. Magical abilities aren't as cool as they sound when you have no control over them. Now an unstoppable hunter wants her dead, and if she's going to survive she has to discover who she really is.

To get a grip on her new powers, she needs to trust a mysterious stranger who always happens to show up right when she needs him. Trust, however, is not a word in her vocabulary – not after being abandoned so many times. Even if he is super hot. But none of that really matters because if she doesn't master her powers and stop the hunter, she's as good as dead.

A whole supernatural world existed right under Aria's nose, and she's about to become a part of it. Whether she likes it or not.

Buy it now!

# Sneak Peek of Magic Bound

Chapter 1

* * *

A sharp hiss assaulted my eardrums. I started and blinked. Coming out of my stupor, I quickly turned the dial on the espresso machine. A ruddy-faced, middle-aged man in a fancy suit stood in front of me. He drummed his fingers on the counter, nostrils flaring.

"Are you even listening to me?" he barked. "I said I'll take a double espresso and a chocolate biscotti to go."

"Got it," I answered as I quickly tapped keys on the register.

Ricky caught my eye from across the bar, behind the industrial coffee machine. He perked up one dark eyebrow and mouthed, "What's wrong with you?"

Shaking my head, I ignored him and took the $10 bill the man impatiently waved in front of me.

Once the irate customer left, Scott came up behind me and poked me in the side. "Can you run in the back and grab some more of the Columbian roast? We're almost out."

I nodded, more than happy to get away from the line of customers jonesing for their morning caffeine high. I slid out from under the counter and pushed through the swinging doors to the back of the café. The narrow corridor was dark. _Cheap-o Scott was probably trying to save money on the electric bill_.

Reaching out for the wall, I fumbled in search of the light switch. My fingers blindly moved across the cold surface as I cursed myself for leaving my phone with the built-in flashlight in my locker. The sudden creak of a door opening sent my heart rate into overdrive. "Who's there?" No answer. Forgetting about the light switch, I spun toward the sound. The employee locker room door was open a crack. I took a step, and the door swung wide open. A guy burst out and bulldozed by me, shoving me against the wall. He raced toward the emergency exit as I stood frozen. Just then, the back door whipped open from the outside and a tall figure blotted out the doorway. The sunlight was so bright behind him that all I could make out was a dark shadow. He grabbed the runner by the shoulders and yanked him outside. _What the hell_?

My feet thawed, my curiosity urging them back to life, and I ran toward the back door and pushed it open to peer outside. It took a second for my eyes to adjust, blinded by the intense light of day after the black hallway. I glanced up and down the alley, but it was empty. A faint scent of laundry detergent lingered in the air. A thief with fresh smelling clothes? _So weird_.

I trudged back to the front of the café, my heart still thudding against my chest.

"Where's the coffee?" asked Scott.

"You can go get it." I planted my feet and threw my hands on my hips. "You need to invest in a better security system. I was almost attacked by some guy back there."

A few of the customers turned toward us, putting down their coffees to stare. "Ricky, cover the register please." Scott put his hands on my shoulders and led me back to his office.

* * *

Later the police came and questioned me, but I wasn't much help. I hadn't seen anything clearly in the darkness. To be honest, the whole thing sounded crazy when I said it out loud. Scott filed a report, but after a thorough search, nothing came up missing.

The rest of the morning didn't go much better. Just when I thought the day would never end, I felt a tap on my shoulder.

"Come on, it's 3:05. Let's get outta here." Ricky grabbed the bright blue apron and pulled it over my head before I could say a word. Taking my arm, he yanked me out of Thanks-A-Latte and onto the bustling sidewalk of Columbus Circle.

Outside, enveloped by the noises of the city I knew and loved so well, my dark mood dissipated. I was probably the only person in the world who found blaring horns, screeching brakes and shouting taxi drivers soothing.

"Aria, what's going on with you today?" Ricky repeated.

I shrugged and kept walking. I wasn't trying to be evasive; I just couldn't put my finger on it. I hadn't felt like myself for days.

"I know what'll make you feel better—a night out." His eyes held a mischievous twinkle.

"I can't. I got my fake ID taken away last month at Space, remember?"

He chuckled and flashed me his killer smile. "I met a guy, and he's the bouncer at this new underground club in Brooklyn. He can get us in, no problem."

Maybe a night out was all I needed. Plus I didn't have the heart to say no to Ricky when he looked so excited. "Okay, I'm in."

Ricky grabbed my hand and spun me in a circle, nearly plowing me into a lady with a stroller. I laughed as he maneuvered me out of the way just in the nick of time. We ducked down into the subway and jumped on the number 3 train to head home. It was packed as usual even though it wasn't even rush hour. I wedged myself in between the door and a large man who smelled like French fries. Luckily it was a short ride to 103rd Street and the Frederick Douglass Houses that Ricky and I called home. I never called it the projects; it made me feel ghetto. We liked to call it our urban retreat.

As we climbed the stairs to our fourth floor apartment, I thought about all the places I'd lived in my sixteen years. Some were better and a lot were worse, but at least this place was mine—well, Ricky's and mine. We met a little over a year ago when I got the job at Thanks-A-Latte, and we immediately became best friends. He's the closest thing to family I've ever had.

Ricky turned to me as he inserted the key into the lock. "Please let me do your hair tonight, and can I pick out your ensemble too?"

I arched a skeptical brow. "Only if I approve of it."

"Fine," he said with a huff as he dug through his pockets. "I bought this on my lunch break today." He waved a small mascara-looking tube with a hot pink cap on it. "I was thinking we could put some pink highlights in that cute little blonde bob you've been sporting."

"Sure, as long as I can put some in yours too." I jumped to my tiptoes and mussed up his perfectly gelled black hair.

"Oh no, honey, I know you didn't just mess with my do! Do you know how long it takes to get it to look like this?" He ran his hand through his hair and held the door open for me.

"Relax, it still looks perfect." I turned toward my room. "I'm taking a nap if we're going out tonight. I need my beauty rest."

Ricky laughed and disappeared into the kitchenette as I shut the bedroom door behind me.

The booming bass reverberated through the blown-out windows of the old meat-processing factory as we walked to the entrance of Eclipse. A huge mural of a smiling cow hovered above the line of people already amassed outside the dimly lit brick building. Hipsters and trendy Manhattanites, along with the bridge and tunnel crew, littered the streets clamoring to get into the new hot spot. As we sauntered up, I wondered if anyone else found the smiling cow as creepy as I did.

Ricky took one look at the line and with his head held high and hips swinging to the beat, made his way directly to the front. I hurried to keep up with his long stride and not get swallowed into the crowd. Blocking the black-draped entrance was a strapping giant of a man with slicked back blonde hair and bulging biceps. I guessed this was the Swede Ricky had been so excited about. His tough guy bouncer persona immediately morphed when he saw Ricky and me approaching. A shy smile crossed his hard-angled face.

"Heyyy," said Ricky with a flirtatious grin and a brief caress to the bouncer's exposed bicep.

After a quick smile back, the Swede slipped his enforcer mask back on and answered gruffly, "Glad you could make it."

Ricky ticked his head toward me and introduced us. I couldn't help but look up in awe at the guy towering over me, despite my three-inch heels. "Hi, I'm Aria."

He gave me a brief nod and turned his eyes back to crowd control. _No name so I guess "the Swede" it is._ Without a second glance at us, he reached across to the red velvet rope and unlocked it, allowing us entry.

"Sorry, he's kind of shy," shouted Ricky. We made our way through the dark entrance as the thumping music kicked up a notch. After passing the vacant coat check, the long, narrow corridor finally opened into an enormous four-story circular room. Looking up, I could just make out an upper level above the floating DJ booth. Neon laser lights and white smoke blasted my senses as I stared at the wall of rainbow lights on the ceiling. The place was incredible.

"No worries," I yelled back distractedly, but my best friend was already three deep at the bar trying to flag down the bartender.

As I surveyed the scene, a movement from above caught my eye. I stared skyward. A man stood on the upper level, no more than a shadow at that distance, but when his gaze focused on me, his silver eyes glowed against the dark background. Startled, my heart thumped wildly against my chest. I lowered my gaze and wrapped my arms around my bare shoulders to stop the sudden eruption of goose bumps.

Someone grabbed my shoulder from behind, and I nearly jumped out of my skin. "Hey, you okay?" Just Ricky.

I turned my sights upward again, but the guy and his weird eyes were gone. "Yeah, I'm fine. Did you get me a drink or what?" He handed me a plastic cup filled with amber liquid and ice. I took an eager sip and then grimaced. "What is this crap?"

"Diet Coke."

"What am I, twelve?" I gave him my best evil eye.

"I promised the Swede we wouldn't drink if he got us in. He just got this job and doesn't want to lose it."

I rolled my eyes and took a swig of my soda. "Unbelievable."

"Forget it. Come on, let's go dance." Ricky grabbed my hand and dragged me through the crowd and onto the dance floor.

After a few minutes, I was back in my element. My body took over, and I was no longer in control, moving and twisting to the electric sounds the DJ concocted. Ricky spun me around and began grinding his butt up against mine, his natural Latin rhythm no contest to my sad white girl moves. Before long we had a crowd around us, and Ricky was showing off all his best stuff. I tried to keep up for as long as I could, but once he started busting out his old-school break dancing, I was out for the count. I signaled to him that I was going to the bar. He winked without missing a beat.

Laughing and out of breath, I made my way to the circular bar below the DJ's booth. Ricky had been right: this was exactly what I needed to get out of my funk. The truth was that it was my birthday tomorrow, and it was a day I pretty much hated. It brought back too many bad memories I'd rather never think about.

"Can I get you a drink?"

I whirled around, searching for the owner of the deep voice. I turned to the left but felt a tap to my right. I spun back around. A guy with jet-black hair and a wry grin stood just inches away.

"Whoa there, buddy. Have you ever heard of personal space?"

"Sorry." He took a step back. "It's a little tight in here."

He was right. He was shoulder-to-shoulder between two other guys while a drunk girl pushed up against his back trying to get to the bar. There was something disarming about his smile, so I decided not to give him my feisty routine. _Plus he was totally hot_. "Fine, I'll give you a pass this one time."

"So how about that drink?" He smirked as he extended his hand. "I'm Damian."

"Aria." I scanned him from top to bottom to figure out how old he was. _Definitely at least twenty-one_. "I'll have a Cosmo."

Now it was his turn to look me up and down. He arched his dark eyebrow, assessing me, then when he seemed satisfied he signaled to the bartender. The tall blonde practically sprinted to get to him. Now I was impressed.

She returned seconds later with my Cosmo and his bourbon on the rocks. Smiling, he handed me the drink. "It matches your hair."

"Very perceptive." I twirled one of the hot pink streaks that Ricky had added. "It's my favorite color."

"It's a good one for you." He raised his cocktail and clinked it against my martini glass.

As I took a sip of the fruity drink, I peered over my glass and snuck a quick look at his eyes. They were amazing—a smoky steel gray with tiny flecks of aqua. They were like none I'd ever seen before. His lip curled up in a grin as he caught me staring. I had to laugh. "Your eyes are pretty cool."

"Thanks. Yours are beautiful, like the translucent aqua of the Caribbean." He paused and took a swig of his bourbon, never dropping eye contact. "So do you come here often?"

"Wow, I haven't heard that one in awhile." I bit my lower lip to stop myself from laughing. "Does that line really work with the ladies?"

"It's not a line." He took a step back, his hands raised. "I've been here a few times and never seen you. It was an innocent question, I swear."

"Umhmm..." I decided to let the cheesy line pass since his eyes were making my insides melt. "This is my first time. My best friend Ricky dragged me here tonight. " I got on my tiptoes to see over the crowd to find him, but it was no use. Even with my heels, I was way too short, and the crowd was way too thick.

"Am I keeping you?" He turned his head over his shoulder, glancing in the direction I was searching.

"I should probably go find him. I don't want him getting into any trouble without me."

"Why do I get the feeling you're the one that's trouble?" he asked with a mischievous smirk.

I ignored the heat rising from my middle and finished off my last sip before answering. "Too bad you won't get to find out."

He grabbed my hand as I turned to leave, twirling me toward him, his eyes intent on my lips. "Give me your number before you go."

"That sounded like a demand." I took a step back and set my jaw.

He cleared his throat, averting his eyes to avoid contact. "I'm sorry. I just... I'd like to get to know you better."

"Look, it's Damian, right?" He nodded and zeroed his steely gaze in on me. "I appreciate the drink, but I already have a boyfriend, and he's enough to handle."

"Maybe that's the problem." He cracked his knuckles as he waited for a comeback.

This guy was good; I had to admit. _And gorgeous_. But things were bad enough with Omar right now and another guy was the last thing I needed in my life. "Goodbye, Damian. Maybe I'll see you around." Without giving him a chance to reply, I disappeared into the mass of grinding bodies on the dance floor.

After three circles around the club, I still couldn't find Ricky, and somehow my thoughts kept straying to a certain steely-eyed stranger I had left at the bar. I glanced at my watch. Crap, how did it get so late? _Where is he?_

My phone buzzed in my pocket. It was a text from Ricky. Finally.

_Sorry, girl, you're on your own. The Swede got off early, and I'm out._

"Unbelievable!" I yelled as I slammed my phone back into my pocket. I hated taking the subway back into the city alone—not because I was scared, but because the ride was so long and boring. I'd probably fall asleep and miss my stop and end up in Inwood. _Another stellar start to my birthday_.

Grumbling to myself about the worst best friend ever, I searched for the quickest exit. The entrance was all the way across the dance floor. _Man, I do not want to get jostled against all those sweaty bodies again_. I looked around. A red neon sign glowed from behind the floating DJ booth to my left. I pushed my way through and shoved the heavy metal door open.

I stepped outside. The pulsating sounds of the club still buzzed in my ears, and it took me a second to adjust to the silence of the narrow alley. I paused to orient myself and turned left toward what I thought was the way to the main street and the subway.

As I made my way through the darkened passage, a couple in a shadowy corner caught my eye. I quickly walked past them since by the sounds of it, there was some major hooking up going on. My heels clicked noisily on the cement as I sped by their hidden alcove with my head down. _Please don't notice me_.

Finally past, I let out a relieved breath and slowed. Just ahead was the sign for the red number 2 line. I headed toward it.

A guttural scream echoed from the alley. I whipped my head around. Where had the couple gone? I hesitated, then I doubled back toward their murky nook, walking as silently as possible. I turned the corner. The guy was backed against the factory wall, his face contorted in an odd expression and the girl was going to town on his neck. She must have heard me and spun her auburn head my way. Her pretty little mouth was completely covered in blood. _What the hell?_ I bit down on my lip, refusing to scream.

"Get out of here!" she hissed.

No problem. I turned and ran, cursing myself for being such a Good Samaritan and going back in the first place. As I flew around the corner like a bat out of hell, I smacked into a very hard body.

"Watch it!" I yelled without looking up.

"You're the one that nearly knocked me over," answered a vaguely familiar voice.

I took a step back. "Cosmo guy?"

"Damian."

"Right." I glanced back to make sure I wasn't being followed by that psycho chick before turning to him once again. "Listen, there's some crazy stuff going on back there. I swear I just saw some girl biting a guy in the alley."

His steel gray eyes widened. "What do you mean, biting?"

"I have no idea, but there was blood. Lots of blood. Maybe it's some sort of new kinky thing or something, but that girl freaked me out."

He glanced to where I had pointed and furrowed his thick eyebrows. He didn't seem fazed at all. Instead, a look of annoyance crossed his handsome face.

"Are you by yourself?" He turned back to me. "Do you need a ride home?"

A ride back to the city in a car instead of the gross subway sounded amazing, but my survival instincts were yelling at me to reconsider his proposition. I eyed him up and down and contemplated the likelihood of me being able to take the guy if things went south. He was tall, definitely six feet at least, and while he wasn't meathead muscle-bound, his defined biceps strained through his long sleeve button-down shirt. "I'm taking the subway," I said finally, purposely avoiding his first question about being alone.

"Where do you live?"

"Upper West side." No need to give him specifics.

He eyed me like I was some sort of scared animal he was trying to pet for the first time. "Let me at least walk you to the subway then."

"Okay," I conceded. Though I would never admit it, that weird girl did have me a little frazzled. What was that anyway—an episode of _The Walking Dead_?

We turned toward the number 2 line, which was just a little over a block away. And there was silence. Like really awkward silence. When I thought I couldn't take another second of it, he finally spoke.

"So what happened to your best friend?"

"He met up with some guy and sold me out."

He arched a brow and frowned. "That's not cool."

I shrugged. To be honest, it happened all the time. I loved Ricky like a brother but he was a huge flirt and had more boyfriends than I could count. "No biggie."

"Hold on a sec. I need to get something out of my car." He paused in front of a super sporty vehicle.

I didn't know what kind it was—Ferrari, Lamborghini? All I knew was it had to be expensive. "That's your car?" It really annoyed me how my voice went up a notch.

"Yeah." He walked up to it, and the door opened automatically. He bent down, grabbed something from inside and slid it into his back pocket.

Alarms went off in my head as I imagined a knife stuffed into his pants. I took a step back as he locked the car and approached me. My face must have given me away because he stopped immediately.

"What's the matter?"

"Don't come any closer." I tried to keep my voice calm.

"What are you talking about?" He took a step toward me.

I shoved my hand in my purse and pulled out my pocketknife then held it out, my knuckles white from gripping it so hard. "I don't know what you just put in your pocket, but you're not going to get a chance to use it."

A throaty laugh escaped Damian's mouth as his gray eyes twinkled under the dim streetlight. "Promise you won't stab me, and I'll show you my cell phone."

I could feel the heat rising to my cheeks as he slowly pulled the phone from his back pocket.

"I thought I'd try to get your number again."

I don't know why I did it, but I pulled a stick of gum from my purse and scribbled the phone number to Thanks-A-Latte on it. I threw it to him with a self-deprecating smile. "Thanks for the drink. Call me if you ever want to buy me another one." Without looking back, I hurried down the steps to the subway.

I was already up making coffee when Ricky poked his head out of his makeshift bedroom. Our apartment was a true one-bedroom, but we'd put up a wall to create a second semi-enclosed area for him. I had been slamming cabinets shut and banging plates together as loudly as I could all morning.

"Could you keep it down out here?"

"No!" I hissed back, slamming the refrigerator door for good measure.

"Okay... what has you all in a tizzy?" He stepped into the tiny living room in his boxers, his hair standing up at odd angles from the exaggerated amount of gel he'd doused himself with last night.

"I can't believe you left me at Eclipse last night." I jutted out my lower lip and gave him my best puppy dog eyes. Not even Ricky knew it was my birthday today, and I sure wasn't going to tell him now. "You know how much I hate riding the subway from Brooklyn alone."

Ricky moved into the kitchenette and threw his arm around me. "I'm sorry, babe, it was the Swede! He made me do it."

I rolled my eyes and punched him in the shoulder. "Don't do that again! I had the most insane night." I took a sip of my coffee and offered him a conciliatory cup. He took it and raised a curious brow as we sat on the futon. "When I left, I saw this couple making out in an alley, which seemed normal enough, but then I heard screaming. I thought the guy was trying to rape her or something so I ran back."

"Always the do-gooder—"

"Anyway, when I found them, the guy was backed into a corner and the psycho redhead had blood dripping out of her mouth."

"What?" shouted Ricky as he jumped to his feet. "Are you sure you weren't hallucinating or something?"

"No!"

"Maybe someone slipped something in your drink." Ricky sat back down.

I shook my head. I never took my eyes off the Cosmo Damian gave me. This wasn't my first time at a club, after all.

"That's insane. Maybe _she_ was on something."

"Maybe, but I didn't wait to find out. I ran away as fast as my stupid heels would let me." I picked up the strappy red stilettos from the floor and showed him the damage.

"Ouch, girl. Sorry I abandoned you, and thank the Lord you made it home okay."

"Yeah, I met this guy earlier at the bar, and he showed up right as I was high tailing it out of there."

Ricky's dark eyes lit up. "A guy? Do tell!"

"Don't get all excited. It was nothing really. He offered to buy me a drink—a real drink—so I accepted." I shrugged nonchalantly, but I could tell he didn't buy it.

"What did he look like? Did you get his digits?"

I wasn't going to lie to my best friend. "He was smokin' hot with the most mesmerizing eyes. You know—tall, dark and handsome, like you."

He leaned in further, practically jittering with excitement. "And?"

"He walked me to the subway, and that was it."

"Ugh, you're such a tease." He slumped back onto the futon. "I thought you were finally going to get rid of that loser, Omar."

"Hey!"

"I'm sorry, babe, but you know it's true. When are you going to kick that guy to the curb?"

"He's not that bad." As I said the words I could hear how hollow they sounded. We'd been dating for a few months now, and I honestly couldn't name a single thing I liked about him, yet still I kept him around.

"You only put up with him because he buys you fancy purses and takes you to the hottest restaurants and bars."

_Okay, so maybe that was it_. "So what's wrong with that?"

"Nothing, except he's a rich boy drug dealer, and you're nothing but arm candy to him."

I shot up from the couch and stormed into the attached kitchenette. It's not like Ricky had the best taste in men either, and this was so not the day to piss me off. "Drop it, Ricky."

He stood and gave me his best fatherly look. "I'm just trying to look out for you."

I cocked a brow and crossed my arms over my chest. "Well, where were you last night, then?"

He rolled his eyes as he pranced to the kitchen sink and deposited his empty coffee cup. "You're never going to let that go, are you?"

"Maybe—"

Before I could finish my thought, a knock at the door interrupted me. I walked over and stood on my tiptoes to glance through the peephole.

"Are you expecting a package?" I asked Ricky.

He shook his head as I unlocked the door. The FedEx guy asked if I was Aria Negrescu. When I confirmed, he handed me a thick envelope.

"What'd you get?"

"I have no idea." I turned the envelope over to see the sender's address. "It's from an Oak Bluffs Community College."

He tried to grab the envelope from me, but I held him at bay. "Where the heck is that? And why didn't you tell me you've been applying to colleges?"

"I haven't." I hid it behind my back. "I didn't even finish my GED yet."

"Open it!"

I peered incredulously at the perfect white letter and just couldn't seem to get my sweaty hands to open it. I had no idea why—it wasn't even a college I'd ever heard of.

"Give that to me!" Ricky snatched it out of my hands and ripped it open before I could object. He scanned the first page, and his expressive eyes lit up. "Congratulations Ms. Negrescu, we are pleased to offer you a place in our freshman class in the fall—"

"What?" I shouted right before I ripped the letter out of his grasp. I ran my eyes down the thick cream-colored page in shock. "I don't get it. How did I get into a college I never even applied to?"

"Who cares? Maybe it's some sort of outreach program for inner city orphans."

I punched Ricky in the shoulder for that remark because he totally deserved it. "Where is this place anyway?" I asked as I continued reading through the informational folder. "Hmm... looks like a small town in Pennsylvania."

"Yuck."

I sat down and glanced at all the happy-looking kids wearing polo shirts and khakis in the brochure. "I don't know; it looks kind of quaint."

"Says the girl who's spent her entire life in the city."

"Look how green it is." I pulled him down to sit next to me and shoved the pamphlet in his face. Maybe it was the fact that it was my birthday and facing another year of the same old made me cringe, but for some reason I had to at least give it a chance. "And the campus has brick buildings, and it looks huge."

He pushed it out of the way and stood back up. "Yeah, yeah and the sky is super blue and probably the clouds are puffy and white unlike our dark polluted ones."

"Don't be such a hater."

Ricky huffed. He looked at the brochure again and cracked a smile. "It's only a few hours away. I guess we could take a drive down there and check it out."

I leapt out of my seat and wrapped my arms around him. "Road trip!"

To continue reading Aria's story - Buy it now!

# Also by G.K. De Rosa

The Vampire and Angel Wars

Wings & Destruction

Blood & Rebellion

Souls & Salvation

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The Vampire Prophecy

Dark Fates

Dark Divide

Dark Oblivion

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The Hybrid Trilogy

Magic Bound

Immortal Magic

Beyond Magic

Magic Bound: The Hybrid Trilogy The Complete Collection

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The Guardian Series

Wilder: The Guardian Series

Wilder Destiny

Wilder Revelation

Wilder Legacy

Wilder: The Guardian Series The Complete Collection

# Acknowledgments

A huge and wholehearted thank you to my dedicated readers! I could not do this without you. I love hearing from you and your enthusiasm for the characters and story. You are the best!

A special thank you to my loving and supportive husband who always understood my need for escaping into a good book (or TV show!). He inspires me to try harder and push further every day. And of course my mother who is the guiding force behind everything I do and made me everything I am today. Without her, I literally could not write—because she's also my part-time babysitter! To my father who will always live on in my dreams. And finally, my son, Alexander, who brings an unimaginable amount of joy and adventure to my life everyday.

A big thank you to my editor, Dionne Lister. I wouldn't be the awesome writer I am without you. And my incredibly talented graphic designer, Masa Licinia, for creating yet another beautiful book cover. A special thank you to my dedicated beta readers/fellow authors Kristin, Tiea, and Jena who have been my sounding board on everything from cover ideas, blurbs, and story details. And all of my beta readers who gave me great ideas, caught spelling errors, and were all around amazing. Finally, an extra special thank you to Angelica Jacobs, a great Wilder fan and the inspiration for my character Angelica, the werebear.

Thank you to all my family, friends, former co-workers (especially you, Robin Wiley!) and new indie author friends who let me bounce ideas off of them and listened to my struggles as an author and self-publisher. I appreciate it more than you all will ever know.

# About the Author

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_USA Today_ Bestselling Author, G.K. De Rosa has always had a passion for all things fantasy and romance. Growing up, she loved to read, devouring books in a single sitting. She attended Catholic school where reading and writing were an intense part of the curriculum, and she credits her amazing teachers for instilling in her a love of storytelling. As an adult, her favorite books were always young adult novels, and she remains a self-proclaimed fifteen year-old at heart. When she's not reading, writing or watching way too many TV shows, she's traveling and eating around the world with her family. G.K. DeRosa currently lives in South Florida with her real life Prince Charming, their son and fur baby, Nico, the German shepherd.

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Contact me:

Website: www.gkderosa.com and www.wilderbook.com

Email: gkderosa@wilderbook.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/wilderbookseries and www.facebook.com/gkderosa

Twitter: @vampgirl923

Goodreads: G.K. DeRosa

Instagram: GK DeRosa
