 
# Afton

### Burn #1

## Crystal Perkins

### Contents

About the Burn Series

Books by Crystal Perkins

Praise for Books by Crystal Perkins

Preface

Prequel

Hot in the City

I'm Still Standing

I Hear the Secrets That You Keep

Hold Me Now

The End of the World as We Know It

AFTON

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

Epilogue

Acknowledgments

About the Author
Copyright © 2018 by Crystal Perkins

Flame Design: Barbie Gonzalez

Cover Design by Helen Williams

www.allbookedout.com

All trademarks are owned by their respective companies and are denoted by the use of proper capitalization of the company and/or brand. All rights reserved. Without limiting the rights under copyright reserved above, no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form, or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) without the prior written permission of both the copyright owner and the above publisher of this book. This contemporary erotic romance is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, brands, media, and incidents are either the product of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. The author acknowledges the trademarked status and trademark owners of various products referenced in this work of fiction, which have been used without permission. The publication/use of these trademarks is not authorized, associated with, or sponsored by the trademark owners. This ebook is licensed for your personal use only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each person you share it with, especially if you enjoy sexy, emotional, romance novels with alpha males. If you are reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then you should return it and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the author's work.

  Created with Vellum

# About the Burn Series

### Afton Zadie Chiyo Xylon Ekkho Vlada Gauri Taika Inola Rowin Kameo Paola Morit

**These are the witches whose ancestors you burned.**

* * *

**13 women from all over the world will return to the city where evil prevailed over good. Now, they'll use their powers to restore balance and take back their heritage. The devil himself is doing his best to stop them, but they have they have the love of 13 good men on their side as they fight to win.**

**Afton Chase met Brock Johnston when they were both teenagers. He was the rich boy playing at being a cowboy and she was the witch who kept her town protected. It was love at first rainstorm, until someone more powerful threatened them both and they went their separate ways.**

**Afton has spent five years searching for other witches while Brock has built a reputation as a philanthropist and ladies man. The same man who tore them apart unwittingly brings them back together and this time it should be forever. But forever isn't easy when there are secrets to be discovered and promises to keep.**

**Will love overcome history or will they both get swept away in a sea of destiny and denial?**

# Books by Crystal Perkins

**The Griffin Brothers series**

Gaming For Love (The Griffin Brothers #1)

Building Our Love (The Griffin Brothers #2)

Creating A Love (The Griffin Brothers #3)

Learning To Love (The Griffin Brothers #4)

Designing The Love (The Griffin Brothers #5)

Working On Love (The Griffin Brothers #6)

Keeping Their Love (The Griffin Brothers #7)

**Corrigan & Co. series**

Fielding Her SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #1)

Devouring the SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #2)

Rocking a SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #3)

Lessons in SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #4)

Uncovering His SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #5)

Training the SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #6)

Inheriting a SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #7)

Tending Their SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #8)

Playing in SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #9)

Loving My SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #10)

Society Weddings (a Corrigan & Co. novella)

****

**Society Girls series**

Society Girls: Sierra (Society Girls, #1)

Society Girls: Neveah (Society Girls, #2)

Society Girls: Matisse (Society Girls, #3)

Society Girls: Waverly (Society Girls, #4)

Society Girls: Rhieve (Society Girls, #5)

Society Girls: Jenysis (Society Girls, #6)

Society Girls: Harlow (Society Girls, #7)

Society Girls: Camari (Society Girls, #8)

Society Girls: Kalila (Society Girls, #9)

Society Girls: Rose (Society Girls, #10)

****

**Company Men series**

Royal Company (Company Men, #1)

Unexpected Company (Company Men, #2)

Savage Company (Company Men, #3)

Brash Company (Company Men, #4)

Defiant Company (Company Men, #5)

Vital Company (Company Men, #6)

Trusted Company (Company Men, #7)

Essential Company (CompanyMen, #8)

****

**The Maids**

Periwinkle in Portland

****

**Other books**

A Kiss is Just a Kiss

Activate

Never Fear-Phobias Horror Anthology

Never Fear-Christmas Terrors Anthology

Romantic Times Anthology, Vol. 3

(Gary and Maggie Griffin short story)

Never Fear-The Tarot Anthology

Never Fear-The Apocalypse Anthology

The Haunted West Romantic Times Anthology

# Praise for Books by Crystal Perkins

"People should be free to love whoever their heart leads them, too. And this author did a great job of presenting a passionate love between 2 people who are seen as different from each other as dictated by society, but this difference wasn't a part of the love they share. Ms. Perkins did an admirable job of dealing with the issue (and other issues) as a non issue, if that makes sense." -DianeM, Amazon Reviewer, _Creating A Love_

* * *

"I love this series!!!!!! Crystal has the amazing ability to bring her characters to life. I laugh with them, I hurt with them, I smile with them, and I cry with them." -Jessica, Amazon reviewer, _The Griffin Brothers series_

"I love how Crystal makes the characters feel like real people." -Tami, Amazon Reviewer, _Learning To Love_

"This is a lovely romance story that has a sexy sizzle to it but it's funny as well as it is somewhat edgy. I like that the hero has money but it's not the focal point in this story. I love that the heroine has problems but they are not so insurmountable that they take over the story. This is good old-fashioned romance done with a modern day twist. Well Done." -Kindle Customer, Amazon Reviewer, _Gaming For Love_

* * *

"I found this book on Amazon yesterday and loved the cover. I read the synopsis and knew I had to get it. So I purchased it and started to read it right away. Oh my, I could not put the book down. I got so wrapped up in the story I was afraid to put my Kindle down or I would miss a part." -Amazon Customer, _Gaming For Love_

* * *

"I thought this was a fantastic start to a series, and kind of first book of a series that makes you want to rush out and buy each additional book in the series. The premise of a strong group of women working together to help other women in need was pretty awesome. I loved how C0rrigan & Co was a secret covert company along the same lines as the underground railroad but it saved women from sticky situations or abusive relationships." -Aubrey, Romancing the Book blog, _Fielding Her SECRET_

* * *

"I had so many different emotions while reading. I was rooting people, wanting kick people, wanting to rip some peoples clothes off, laughing while reading, gasping out loud. Seriously, I read this like a crazy person. So much happened that I was not mentally prepared for. There were so many shockers while reading this I could not even think about putting the book down." -Sabrina, Amazon Reviewer, _Devouring the SECRET_

* * *

"Love this book the suspense and sex is EPIC." -Teresa Jensen, Amazon Reviewer, _Rocking a SECRET_

* * *

_"_ Perkins breathes life into their characters and has the reader feeling their agony, pain, and even their love for one-another. I enjoy reading her books and learning more and more about each of the people that make up this secretive group." -Dayreader Reviews, _Corrigan & Co. series_

* * *

"In the end I am somehow proud of you Crystal Perkins. How you portrayed Ellie and her and Aiden love. I know I have no right to be, and it's really not my place to say but I am proud I read it and I recommend it to all women so they can see how strong We can be." -Marta Bukowska, Goodreads Reviewer, _Tending Their SECRET_

* * *

"The story flowed well and kept my attention throughout. There was one part I was totally not expecting to happen. I love when that happens." -Lisa Dess, Girls With Books blog, _Training Her SECRET_

* * *

"Wow this story! There are some stories and characters that leave you speechless, breathless and at times slightly broken, and Loving my SECRET Matt & Reina's story is definitely one of them!" -Vicki Plant, Goodreads Reviewer, _Loving My SECRET_

* * *

"I laughed I cried and there many times that I wanted to throw my device." -Mallory, Goodreads Reviewer, _Loving My SECRET_

* * *

"Perkins gives the reader a quick peak into the Weddings of the amazing ladies in the society. What a fun roller coaster ride it was." -Taz Lozada, Goodreads Reviewer, _Society Weddings_

* * *

"Totally loved this book as I did with all of crystals book previous to this with their well written gripping story lines brilliant characters a must read really can't wait for the next in series." – Sassylady33, Amazon Reviewer, _Society Girls: Sierra_

* * *

"It is banter central, lol and completely full with characters who you actually get to know and enjoy spending time with." – All Booked Out, _A Kiss is Just a Kiss_

* * *

"Good book and a really powerful message." Petrina, Goodreads Reviewer, _Society Girls: Jenysis_

* * *

"If you're looking for a great book, this is the one." Renee, Goodreads Reviewer, _Society Girls: Kalila_

* * *

"I love these books!!!! I seem to read them in one sitting I just can't put them down!!!" Rita, Amazon Reviewer

* * *

"This is the new series by a brilliant author and still incorporates the characters from her previous series. This book was brilliant, the author always writes about strong characters with a vulnerable side and she delivered once again. This book was one of her more lighthearted ones, but still had the angst I have come to associate with Crystal Perkins." Natasha, Amazon Reviewer, _Royal Company_

* * *

"The author of this segment as written a great storyline with laughs, suspense, troubles and so much more. The characters are well developed and perfect for the storyline. Room 10 is a quick read that will have you wondering what's going to happen and to whom as well as what's real and what isn't." Barbara, Goodreads Reviewer, _The Last Resort Motel Room 10_

* * *

"This story is full of suspense, adventure, lots of humor as nothing goes as planned, which makes it a fun read that I couldn't get enough of." Jennifer, Goodreads Reviewer, _The Last Resort Motel Room 10_
**_For the women of the world who fight for each other. Thanks for lifting us all up._**
burn

_verb_ \ ˈbərn \

* * *

to undergo alteration or destruction by the action of fire or heat

# Prequel

**Burning Love**

**A Burn Series Prequel**

# Hot in the City

Afton

"Wake up, Afton. You need to help!"

"Help what?" I ask my aunt, trying to burrow deeper under my blanket.

"There's a fire. It's spreading."

Her words jolt me awake and I throw on my clothes before running from my room. I don't know how I'm able to help, but I know I can. It's a gift—or a curse. I haven't decided which one yet.

I don't have time to dwell on that as I jump into my car and drive toward the fire. I can feel it as well as see it, and it makes it hard for me to breathe. Not just because the air is smoky, but because I feel fire in my blood when I'm near it. Even cooking on our stove back at the farmhouse is uncomfortable. I can deal with uncomfortable, though, because that's pretty much my life.

When I get as close as I can, I step away from the people with hoses, trying valiantly to fight the spreading blaze. Some in this town know my secret, but they protect me with a fierceness I'm not always sure I deserve. Sometimes I think it's because they don't want the media and government circus that outing me would bring. Other times, I know it's because the power I wield can save us on nights like tonight. I have no illusions it's just me they're protecting, because I'm no one to this town. They protect the girl who can make it rain, not the girl who lives here with them every other day of the year.

Hiding in the alley between the bank and the general store, I cloak myself in the shadows and raise my hands to the sky. My call will be answered, of that I have no doubt. The only thing I can't control is the timing—yet. I'm working on harnessing the power I can bring, and I know with time I'll master it. Trouble is, I don't always have time. Like right now, when I need the water _right now_.

_Come on. Come on. Please. There you are. Thank you._

The rain begins as a soft shower, before becoming a torrential downpour. I fight for control and for the first time, I have it. I move my hands as I communicate what I want with my mind. With the water focused on the fire alone, it's out in minutes. I say a silent thank you to my elemental friend, and keep it going a little longer, so it looks like a natural occurrence. The exhaustion hits when I drop my hands to my side, and I know I need to work more on controlling this power I have—before it destroys me.

Brock

I watch her, because how can I not? She's the most gorgeous girl I've ever seen, with her wild and curly red hair, soft curves, and a sexy mouth I can't help but want to kiss. She's only in profile so I can't see her eyes, which is probably a good thing. I don't know if I'd survive seeing her full-on.

"What are you doing here?" my boss, Mat, asks.

Boss. I almost shake my head at that, because it's ridiculous. Once I got out from under my father's thumb, I didn't think I'd ever have someone else tell me what to do. My inheritance kicked in when I turned 21, and I was ready to do my own thing. Until the letter came. The letter from my grandfather, asking me to come to this small town in Nevada and learn to be a cowboy. If he'd been alive, I could've asked him why this was so important. But he's not, and since I loved him more than anyone else on this Earth, I did what he asked. I'm here, I'm surviving the hard work, and I think I just found the girl of my dreams.

"I was going to help with the fire, but I wasn't needed."

"You saw nothing."

Oh, I saw something all right. "She brought the rain."

"We have freak rainstorms out here all the time. The city folk call it Global Warming."

He's lying and we both know it. I don't know how she did it, but the beauty with the wild hair brought the rain. She saved this town and I want to know more about her. No, I _need_ to know. For now, I'll play along and keep this secret. Hell, I don't even _want_ to share it for some reason.

"That has to be it," I agree, meeting his stare head-on.

He searches my eyes and I force myself to look believable. I know it works when he nods.

"It is."

It's not, but I'm not going to get into it with him. I'd rather get into it with her and believe me, I will. I'm going to know that girl and learn how she did what she did. And then, I'll take her to bed. Because yeah, she may have brought the rain, but she's still hot as Hell.

# I'm Still Standing

Afton

I slept half a day away after bringing the rain in the early hours of the morning, because controlling an element is no easy thing. At least I have a late shift at the diner today. Yeah, I work in the town diner like some cliché of a small-town girl who has no chance of leaving. It was either the diner or the grocery store. Some days, I'm not sure I made the right choice. Days like today.

I walk over to his table, because I have to. "Hello Afton."

"Nick," I reply.

He looks me over, but not in a sexual way. It's like he's sizing me up and finding me lacking. Nothing new there—the mayor of our small town has always seemed to find me lacking.

"I want my usual."

"Got it."

I start to walk away, but he's not done with me yet. "How lucky we had that rainstorm last night. Funny that it only lasted such a short time and was just where we needed it to be."

"Not gonna complain about it," I tell him with a shrug.

"I'm sure you won't."

I force myself to maintain my smile and not shudder. There's something about the man that's always made me uncomfortable. It's like he's seeing into my soul and looking for a way to use what he finds against me. Well, he can just keep on looking.

I'm not an angel, but I'm a pretty good girl. I had good grades in school, I work hard—and yeah, I save my town whenever I can. If we had tracks through town instead of on the outskirts, I'd be on the wrong side of them when I sleep at night, which rubs some people wrong, even as they know they need Betty and me. But that's it. I'm not rich, but I'm also not a bad person. And I'm not about to turn to the dark side anytime soon.

Brock

Ranch work is no joke. I'm up before dawn tending to some animals, herding cattle during the day, and trying to sleep in a cabin at night. The cabin's nice, but the sounds of animals and not cars outside is not soothing to me. I don't live in a huge city, but it's big enough to have tall buildings and chain restaurants. I can eat here at the ranch but seeing the same people every single day is making me stir crazy, even after a couple of weeks.

That's why I find myself walking into the only diner in town tonight. It has nothing to do with finding out who the girl from last night was and knowing she works here. Nothing at all. I can almost believe that until I see her again.

Tonight, her hair is back in a ponytail with the curls flowing down her back. She's got on a tank top and a jean skirt along with boots on her feet. There's only one word I can think of to describe her right now—stunning. I'm literally stunned as I look at her.

She turns to face me, and _damn._ Those blue eyes are just...yeah. "You can have a seat anywhere you'd like, Cowboy."

Cowboy? Oh yeah, I still have my hat on. I pull it off, holding it in my hand as I blatantly stare at her. I can't help it. "Which is your section?"

"Oh, _City Boy_ , it's not like that," she tells me, cocking a hip and placing her hand on it.

"Like what?"

"You don't get to come in here, put a hat on your head and a checkered shirt over your abs, and expect me to drop my panties for you."

At the sound of laughter, I turn around to see all the other patrons chuckling at my expense. Anger flares in my veins, because I've done nothing wrong. Yeah, I came in here hoping to meet her. And yeah, I'm more than a little intrigued by her. But I didn't ask her to jump on my dick and go for a ride. I _wouldn't_ do that—at least not before we had a first date.

"I don't believe I asked you to drop anything, but I've suddenly lost my appetite."

Spinning on my own boot-clad heels, I shove the door open and storm outside. I'm not ready to get in my pickup, so I turn on the nearly deserted street and start walking. I haven't gone far when I hear boots moving fast behind me.

"Wait. I'm sorry," she says, grabbing my arm and spinning me to her.

Even out of breath, she's still beautiful. Doesn't mean I'm ready to let go of my anger. "You set out to embarrass me, so mission accomplished."

"You were hitting on me."

"Not yet, I wasn't."

"I don't sleep around. Nothing wrong with women who do, but I don't."

"Okay. I'll admit to wanting to ask you out after I saw you in the rain last night, but I wasn't going to force anything on you."

She draws in a sharp breath. "You saw me last night?"

"Yes."

She backs away slowly, like she's scared of me. "I have to go."

"I'm not going to tell anyone. I promise."

She hesitates for a moment before practically running back to the diner. I get that she has no reason to trust me or believe me, but I want her to. It shouldn't matter since I'm only here another month, yet it does.

# I Hear the Secrets That You Keep

Afton

Growing up in this town has its perks and knowing where the cabins at the dude ranch are is just one of them. Unfortunately, I don't know which one _he's_ in. Luckily, I find him on my third peek into a window or I'd probably get reported as a Peeping Tom.

"Hello," I tell him when he opens the door.

He's shirtless, because of course he is. And yeah, he has abs for days. Months. Years. Just yum. So yummy in fact, I can't take my eyes off the ridges of muscles on display.

"My eyes are up here," he tells me, and I don't miss the tilt of his lips once I force my eyes up.

"Should've put a shirt on before you opened the door if you didn't want me to look."

He crosses his arms over an impressive set of pecs, highlighting even better biceps. Is there any part of him that's not perfect, because damn he's fine. With all capital letters, FINE.

"Didn't know it was you."

"Not checking your peephole, City Boy?"

"My name's Brock. You know, just in case you want to use it sometime."

"I'll consider it."

"Have you considered telling me your name too?"

"Oh. Afton. I'm Afton."

Why do I sound breathless and shy? I'm neither, and I've worked hard to prove myself. Talking to some guy shouldn't make that all go away. I won't let it. I _can't_ let it. He's not here to stay, and even if he was, I'm not that girl and I never will be. Weakness is not something I can afford in my life.

"What can I do for you on this fine evening, Afton?" he asks, leaning against the doorframe, which causes his jeans to sit a little lower on his hips. Damn.

Focus, Afton. Fo-cus. He's just a guy. A hot guy, but what he saw is more important than how he looks, or talks, or seems to take me in like I'm a prize he wants to win. Okay, not working but I can do this. Really, I can.

"I wanted to talk to you."

"So, talk."

"May I come inside?"

"You're more than welcome to _come_ inside."

I roll my eyes and turn to walk away. He just broke whatever spell he had over me, and I needed it. Cocky doesn't work for me.

"This was a bad idea."

"Wait," he tells me, reaching out to touch my arm. "I'm sorry. I was being an ass. Please come inside and talk."

I want to flip him off and keep walking, but I came here for a reason, and I need to see this through. After all, it's not just me I need to protect.

"Okay. Apology accepted. Let's talk."

Brock

I know what she wants to talk about, and I also know I want to get to know her better. Somehow, I have to turn one topic into the other. I'm just not sure how to do it yet.

"What exactly is it you thought you saw?"

"Straight to the point, huh?" I joke, but she doesn't smile. "Oh-kay. I saw you bring the rain."

"Bring the rain?"

"You raised your hands up and it started raining shortly after."

"I was praying."

I shake my head. "No. As soon as you dropped your arms, it stopped. You somehow controlled it."

A look of panic crosses her face, and then she just looks resigned before speaking again. "I can assure you, I wasn't in complete control."

"But you admit you brought it?"

"Yeah. I mean, you saw it so there's no point in hiding it. You promised to keep my secret though, and I'm holding you to that."

"Absolutely. I won't tell anyone, but I'd love to know more. More about the water and more about you."

"I need to sit down for this," she says dropping into the chair by the bed. I sit on the bed itself, because there's nowhere else to sit, and it's too soon to pull her onto my lap like I want to.

"I'm listening."

"My mother died during childbirth and my father—well, who knows where he was? My aunt took me in and raised me. She has a small farm, but it thrives. No matter what, her crops all come to fruition and she stays afloat. The whole town thrives, in fact."

"I've noticed."

I have. This ranch, along with the other ranches and farms here all turn a profit. While they're not rich, everyone here seems comfortable.

"I don't know if it's her, because I've never asked. I don't know if I really want the answer to that question," she admits.

"I get it."

She looks at me for a moment, a thoughtful look on her face. "I think you do."

"My grandpa was the most stand-up guy I knew, but my dad? Well, I don't want to know how he's managed to turn the billions he inherited into even more."

"Sometimes it's better to stay innocent."

"Are you innocent?" I ask.

She laughs. "I'm not a virgin, if that's what you're asking."

I shrug. "I kinda was."

"I know."

"Mind-reader too?"

"Nope, just water bringer."

"Tell me more. Please."

"It started when I was a little girl, but I didn't realize what I was doing. I wanted it to rain one day and it did. A torrential downpour I wasn't prepared for, but the rain came. And then I fell into the swimming hole a few weeks later, and the water seemed to lift me to the surface. I didn't know how to swim yet and I would've drowned, but I swore it felt like hands pushing me to the top. Later, it was water jumping from one of my hands to the other when I was playing in the bathtub. By the time I was a teen, I could turn water into waves when I wanted to learn to surf and cause the water fountains to splash up into the faces of the mean girls when they went for a drink."

I can't help but tease her a little, even though I'm still trying to process all she's told me so far. "So, you didn't always use your power for good?"

"Mean girls, Brock. Keep up. I balanced the scales a little."

"I've never been turned on by a vigilante before."

I've never been in love either, but I think I just might be right now. It's too fast, and kinda crazy—okay lots of crazy—but I'm pretty sure it's what I'm feeling as I sit here in my room with her. I haven't even kissed her yet, and I'm feeling more than I've ever felt in my life.

"Perv."

"I'll own it. And I'll keep your secret."

"Thanks. There have been fires in the last year I've been able to put out so that's what I focus on now."

"The guys say they don't know how those have been starting. It looks to them like there was nothing around that could've started them."

"I believe that too. Something else is going on here and I'm going to find out what it is."

"How old are you?" I blurt out, because damn, she has to be legal. Like my life depends on it, she has to.

"19."

"I'm 21."

"Good for you."

"Go out with me tomorrow."

She tilts her head and seems to be thinking it over. I hold my breath and wait for her answer. If she says no, I'll try to be her friend for another day and then ask again. I'll ask her every day if that's what it takes.

"I do have the day off, and I don't have anything planned."

"Is that a yes?"

"Yes."

I try to hold back my smile, but it doesn't work. I'm grinning like a loon, and I'm too damn happy to care about how it makes me look. I want her to know she just made me the luckiest guy in the world. This may be crazy, but it also feels right.

# Hold Me Now

Afton

It's been two weeks since I agreed to that first date with Brock and things are going better than I expected them to. We've both always known he was leaving in two more weeks, so things have been light and fun. I haven't even let him kiss me on the lips yet. Tonight, I will. We're going to the town carnival and I want to hold his hand and kiss him—maybe even more. He's still leaving and I'm still staying, but it just feels right with him. Like he's a part of me I didn't know I was missing.

An hour later, I start to re-think things. He didn't come to pick me up when he said he would, and my calls keep going to voicemail. I gave up ten minutes ago and drove myself to the town square. It's not as fun being in a dress and make-up without him, but I'm not going to just wait around all night until he shows up.

"Looking good," one of the other cowboys says and I flip him off.

Yeah, no. Not waiting, but not looking for someone else either.

My eyes search for Brock, hoping beyond hope I don't see him here with someone else. I have no reason to believe he'd do that, but I look anyway.

"Missing your date, Afton?"

I turn to the mayor, because my aunt raised me to be respectful. "How do you know I have a date?"

"You and that Johnston boy have been inseparable these last two weeks. Pity to get so close to someone who's going to be leaving you behind soon."

"Who's to say I'm not leaving with him?" I challenge him.

The words are out too fast for me to stop them. I've thought about it, but I haven't said them out loud. Not to Brock, not to myself—not to anyone.

He smirks. The creep actually smirks at me. "You belong here. Here is where you will stay."

"That's not for you to decide."

I storm past him, determined to not engage any further with him. He makes me feel unsettled and I'm already an emotional mess right now. I don't need the added stress.

A young girl bumps into me, spilling her water on my hand. She apologizes, but it's not her I hear or see in front of me. I see Brock, half in and half out of the swimming hole. It's like he's suspended there, although I see nothing binding him.

_"Help!"_

_"Brock?"_

I think the word in my head, because I don't need people thinking I talk to myself. Somehow, he hears me though.

_"Afton? Something's holding me here. I can't move."_

_"I'm coming for you. Hold on."_

Turning to go, I run right back into the mayor. "Excuse me."

"Where are you rushing off to, Afton?"

"None of your business."

"If you're going to the swimming hole or your aunt's farm, it is indeed my business."

The farm? "What are you saying?"

"Betty was always too kind-hearted. Helping these people who don't deserve it. You on the other hand understand that your power can be fun too."

"I don't know what you're talking about."

"I watched your great-great-great-great grandmother die on the stake. There might be another 'great' or two in there, but you get the picture. I watched the flames burn her as she looked into my eyes."

"What?"

"She was a powerful witch, but not powerful enough to save herself."

"How would you have been there?"

"Because I _am_ powerful enough to survive. And because as a man, I had more power than she did in the community. I _always_ hold all the power."

"Not over me, you don't."

"But dear daughter, I actually do."

I suck in a breath and look him over from head to toe. "No."

"Yes. Your mother craved the power she knew we could have together. Too bad I didn't need her once I had you."

"You don't have me. You will _never_ have me, even if what you're saying is true."

"Really? Because I hold the lives of your beloved aunt and your would-be lover in my hands."

He cups his hands and holds them up to me. It's like looking at a split-screen video. One side is Brock in the water and the other is Aunt Betty suspended over a fire. No.

"Come with me and rule by my side, and I will free them both."

"How do I know you'll keep you word?"

"You don't."

Before he can say another word, I run. I run to my old pickup truck and race to the farm. I'm beginning to care about Brock, but my aunt raised me. I have to save her first and then I'll try to save him.

_"I understand."_

I forgot about our connection. I forgot he could hear my thoughts. My heart breaks a little, even though I have to stick with my first choice.

_"I'm sorry."_

_"Don't be. I'll hold on here for as long as I can. Save your aunt first."_

Brock

The water is getting colder as I slide lower into it. I only sunk an inch at a time when I first connected with Afton, but it's more and more every minute now. I know he's going to kill me, and I'm trying to make my peace with that. She had a choice to make and she made the one she had to. I don't blame her for it. I'm just trying to hope she can make it to me before it's too late, but I have to be honest with myself. My last breaths will take place in this water. My only regret is that I didn't get to kiss her like she deserves to be kissed. I want more than a kiss, but she deserves a kiss that will show her she's everything a man could want and more. She's just everything.

_"Hold on, Brock. We're on our way."_

I can't answer her as my mouth is now under water. Breathing through my nose isn't something I'll ever take for granted again if I make it out of here. _If_.

I hear gravel flying as a car comes down the road right before my ears slip below the surface of the water. My lungs are fighting for air that isn't here and I'm dying. This is the end.

_"You are not dead yet, Brock. Fight."_

I feel light on my face and open my eyes to see a woman under the water with me. She looks like Afton, only older. There's a glow around her and I have no doubt this is her mother. Her _dead_ mother. Other glowing women come to stand behind her. They're dressed in all manner of clothing, from all different cultures. I should be afraid, but I'm not.

_"Fight. She is coming for you. You must fight today—and you must fight in the future when she comes to you. You will be apart for many years, but when she needs you, fight for her. With her. Promise me, Brock."_

_"I promise."_

I say it in my mind because I can't speak underwater, but I know she hears it when her image dissolves in front of me. I feel hands pulling at the invisible ties binding me and then I'm pushed to the surface. I flail my arms as I take large gulps of air.

"Brock!"

I turn to see Afton and her aunt on the bank on the water. Afton dives in and surfaces next to me, placing her arms around me as the water seems to lift us out of it and onto the ground. I fall to my knees before looking up at the woman in front of me.

"You must be Betty," I tell her, holding out my hand, as I gasp for breath. "You look like your sister."

She sucks in a sharp breath. "She was here with you."

"What?" Afton asks, looking around. "My mother was here? Where?"

"Yeah. Her and a bunch of other women appeared to me underwater. She asked me for a promise and then they helped me to the surface."

"Only a man with a pure heart can see the ancestors."

"Um, okay," I tell Betty, forcing my eyes not to roll.

I mean, I did just see a bunch of dead women and I know they saved my life. Nothing is too far-fetched to believe right now.

"What did she make you promise?" Afton demands.

"To help you when we meet again."

I don't tell her I'm supposed to fight for her, because I now know I'm leaving here without her. When we re-connect, I'll tell her how I've loved her since the day I saw her in the rain, but not now. Now, we have to go our separate ways.

"Meet again?"

Betty nods. "You must go and hide, Afton. Disguise yourself as best you can and become someone new. Do not use your powers and do not dress as you do now. I cannot bear to ask you to cut your hair, but everything else about you must change."

"I can't leave you! _He_ is still here. He'll try to kill you again."

"Try, yes. But he will not succeed. If the ancestors are here, they will stay and protect me. I feel it. I feel _them_."

"Brock?"

"I know you have to go. It's what has to happen."

"Tonight. You will have this one night where you are protected. Go and make the most of it." Betty tells us.

I'm not going to argue. "Let's go."

# The End of the World as We Know It

Afton

It's too much. Tonight is too much and not enough all at once. Brock brackets my face in his hands the moment we're inside his cabin. His mouth descends on me just like I've imagined it would. We kiss softly at first and then it becomes more.

More lips, more teeth, and more tongue until our hands are exploring each other's bodies with abandon. There's no time for candles and flower petals, but I know now I'm not a girl who needs that from the man she loves.

Yes, I love him. Yes, it's too soon. And no, I don't care. I won't tell him tonight because I have to leave in the morning, but it's true.

The next few hours are lost in a tangle of limbs, mouths, and other body parts. I'm both sated and hungry for more at the same time. Brock must feel the same way, because he takes my body over and over again. I've never felt anything like this with anyone else, and I know I never will again. Not until we're back together. I mourn the loss of him as the sun comes up, but I know this is what we both need to do.

Brock

I feel Afton slipping out of bed, and I reach out a hand to stop her. "One more kiss."

"Just one and then I have to leave."

"For now."

"Yes, for now."

I kiss her sweetly, pouring all of my love into it. "We will be together again."

"So I've been told."

"I believe her."

"And I believe you."

"I need you to know that even if I'd never made that promise, I would always be there when you need me."

"I believe that too."

"Stay safe."

"I plan to."

"One more thing," I say, reaching into the nightstand.

"There's no time."

"Not that, dirty girl. This."

I hold out the watch to her. It's covered in diamonds and completely ostentatious.

"Um," she says, her eyes widening as she holds herself still.

"My grandfather bought this with his first million. He never wore it after the day he bought it. When I was little, I found it and he told me he thought he'd needed it to show the world he was important, but he didn't. Even though he didn't need it, he kept it and when I saw him for the last time, he told me I'd know who I needed to give it to."

"I can't take it."

"You have to. He was the person I loved more than anything in the world—and now, that's you."

"Brock."

"I know I shouldn't say it and I planned not to, but it's true."

"I love you too."

"Take the watch and come to me when you need me. I'll be waiting."

"I can't ask you to do that."

"You didn't."

She slides the watch onto her wrist, kisses me one more time, and then she's gone. We'll find our way back to each other and then we'll be together forever. I've got two more weeks on this ranch before I go home and I'm going to spend as much of it with Betty as possible. When the time comes, I need to be ready to help and fight to the death for Afton if necessary. That's now my mission in life.

# AFTON
# Prologue

Brock

I avoid my father like the plague because it keeps me sane—and human. He's got too much dirt and blood on his hands for me to ever admire him, much less like him. It's hard not to love your surviving parent, and deep down I know I do. I can't help but love him, even as I despise him. It's just how it is. Luckily, love doesn't translate to obligation or respect for me or I'd be dirtying my hands just like him. Or maybe not.

I owe it to myself and to _her_ to be the person we both believe me to be. _Afton_. Even after five years, the thought of her and what she still is to me keeps me going. I don't know where she is or when we'll be reunited, but I know it will happen. It was prophesied back then, and I believe it down to my core.

Tonight, I need something from my father. Something for this city we call home. He owns a building that's going to be condemned, sending many people into the street. I need to convince him to either fix it up or let me buy it. I'll fix it if he'll let me, but that's the problem—he's fought me every time I've tried to help this city and I've lost more times than I've won. But I won't give up.

When I round the corner to his home office, a voice coming out of the open door stops me in my tracks. It's a voice I haven't heard in five years and not the one I long to hear again. Flattening myself against the wall, I move as close as I dare.

"They cannot come here. She's been looking for them and we can't let her bring them here."

"I thought you said she could be stopped. That _you_ could stop her."

"She's proven harder to track than I imagined she would be. I'm always a half-step behind her. She's getting help, but I can't figure out who it is or how to stop it. Yet. I will figure it out and make them pay, just as I'll be making her pay when the time comes."

"Forget your personal vendetta for a moment. If they all come here, they could undo what we've worked so hard for."

"You need to secure the city. Place the protections around the perimeter and not just here at your home. Stop them from entering!"

"Do you have any proof she's coming to Brenne?"

"No. I don't think she's gathered enough info to know about the city yet, but it's only a matter of time."

"It will take _time_ to fortify the borders and if even three enter before it's done, the protections won't work."

"I would never let three enter at once."

"You are already _one_. It would only take two more arriving to break the protections."

"Just worry about protecting the city. I _will_ find her."

Not before I do. I force my steps to be slow, so they don't hear me as I make my way back down the hall. Once I'm outside, I get in my car and drive to my house on the river. I don't know where she is, but I have to try the only way I know how to reach her, and hope it works. It has to work.

Afton

I've spent five years searching for answers. Answers about who I am. Answers about how I can make things right. And answers about _him_. The Devil himself—or at least I think he's the actual Devil we've all been warned about. Nick is another name for that evil being and it explains how he was there when my ancestor was burned at the stake over a hundred years ago, how he impregnated my mother, and how he stood before me five years ago looking like someone in his thirties.

He threatened those I loved back then and even though I saved them—with some ancestral help—I knew I couldn't defeat him. I was just learning to control my power and he would've destroyed me had I gone to battle with him. I still know I'm not strong enough on my own, but now I'm pretty sure I'm _not_ on my own.

My instincts have led me to ancient libraries, holy places, and shops around the world. There is always someone ready to help me wherever I go. Money is slipped into my hands and food and shelter are offered. It's a secret network I've stumbled into and it feels like it was always meant for me to find. Just like I somehow know I need to find the other women like me. The women who descended from those burned at the stake in a city on the East Coast of the United States. The only problem is, no one knows the name of the city or where exactly it's located. It's cloaked somehow, but I'm going to find it.

I'm still thinking about where I need to try next when I slip into the claw-foot tub in this borrowed bathroom. I start to close my eyes, but bolt upright when I hear his voice.

_"Afton."_

_"Brock."_

I see him now, standing in a lake. His pants are rolled up and he's calf-deep into the water. Five years ago, we communicated this way when he needed me to save him. Now, I think he's going to help save me.

_"You have to come here."_

_"Where is here?"_

_"Brenne. It's my hometown."_

_"Why now?"_

_"The mayor—your father—was here. He was in my father's office and they were talking about finding 'her' and stopping her. I know it's you he's looking for. They said more, but I'd rather talk to you in person. I'll send a jet or boat or anything you need to bring you here."_

I can't help the snark in my voice at my next words, because I still love this man. I've been no saint, but that doesn't mean I haven't been hurt.

_"I'm not sure your latest girlfriend would appreciate my presence."_

_"That's all for show. Nothing you might have seen over the past five years was real."_

_"Nothing?"_

_"Nothing."_

_"It's better if you're not connected to me arriving since he knows about us. I'll get myself there as fast as I can."_

_"Hurry. There's not much time. Like I said, I'll explain more when you get here."_

_"I'll get there as fast as I can."_

I watch him walk out of the water and then he's gone. For now. He's gone for now. I'll see him soon and we'll see what a difference five years has made.

# Chapter One

Afton

Brenne means burn in Norwegian. I knew this was where Brock was, but I never thought much about the name because I don't speak Norwegian. They've been hiding in plain sight for centuries, but that's about to end. I came in on a boat, knowing the water would help shelter me. I couldn't look too far into the history or even the geography of this city without tripping invisible wires I knew were there, so I've waited. I won't hide now that I'm on its shores, but I had to hide my intent to arrive here.

Once I've grabbed a coffee, used the free internet at the library, and garnered enough scandalized stares to last some of these people a lifetime, I make my way to the Johnston Foundation. Trust Brock to run his own Foundation completely on the other side of town from his father's corporation. From the few articles I saw while I was away, the two have been at odds for five years. Brock's trying to save this city while his father is only interested in the power he can yield over its citizens.

He's strong and brave, just like he was five years ago. He's grown into the man I knew he could become, but he's also become more. I'm not sure I'm ready to face all that, despite what he told me. I believe he wouldn't lie to me, but I also know what I saw. I saw too much not to get hurt. That's not what I'm here for right now though, so I square my shoulders and push open the door.

The receptionist in the lobby of Brock's building looks as scandalized as everyone else when I walk in, even when I flash her my most charming smile.

"I'm here to see Brock Johnston."

"Is he expecting you?" she asks, already thinking she knows the answer.

"As a matter of fact, he is. My name's Afton."

She doesn't even look at the tablet in front of her when she answers. "Your name isn't on the list for today."

No lady, it's not. It's not going to be on any list anywhere. He's sworn to protect me, and I don't doubt for a second that he will.

"Call up and give him my name."

"No."

She says it with a finality I know I can't overcome on my own. I could try and fight her with words, but a scene like that isn't really my style. I turn like I'm leaving, closing my eyes as I swivel to the door. Her shoes looked expensive under that desk, but I'm not sorry about what I'm going to do. It only takes a few seconds of feeling the water running through the pipes before the sprinklers come on. The shouts and screams around me make me smile. Yeah, _this_ is my kind of scene.

I open my eyes and watch as people duck under desks and staircases, looking for shelter from the water. I don't hide from the water—it's a part of me, my power to share. And sometimes to use to my advantage. Only sometimes, because I try not to abuse the gift I've been given.

Short minutes pass before I hear the elevator ding and then he's there. Older, but still the same. His steps falter when he sees me. I'm breathing so hard I think I might pass out, but now he's in front of me, smiling like he's finally found his light in the dark. Just like I've found mine once again.

"We have to stop meeting like this."

"We didn't meet that first time."

"No, but I think about the first time I saw you every damn day."

"Sorry about the mess, but she wouldn't call up to tell you I was here."

"Next time call me yourself."

"I don't have your number." Or a phone, but that's not the point right now.

"Yeah you do, but I'll give you my _phone_ number once we get upstairs."

I can't help but smile even as I say what I need to say. What I need him to _know_.

"You look better in person than you do in those pictures online."

His smile disappears as his eyes search mine. "I told you nothing happened with those women. How could _anything_ happen with anyone but you?"

"Easily."

"For you? Was it easy for you to move on?" he asks, looking outwardly calm while his eyes betray him. They're questioning and a little wild as he waits for my answer. I feel my heart soar as I realize he still loves me.

"No. I fell in love with a boy five years ago and I've been waiting to be reunited with the man he's become. You've done so much good."

"I have a strong feeling you have too."

I shrug. "Maybe."

He leans in like he's going to kiss me, and I lean forward to let him. Just before our lips touch, a throat clears next to us.

"Sir, we're not sure how to get this turned off. The system's not responding," one of security guards says, looking frantic.

Brock cocks an eyebrow at me, and I roll my eyes.

"Just give the system a minute to re-calibrate," Brock tells him.

I close my eyes and thank the water, telling it play time is over and it should go back to where it's needed. I ask it to listen to the command when it's given from the computer system, and it does. It always listens, and it always helps.

Brock

I'm not surprised the receptionist didn't call up for Afton. Torn jean shorts that barely cover her ass, and a sparkly bikini top leaving almost nothing to the imagination, aren't exactly what one would expect someone having an appointment with me to be wearing. I'm not a snob, but I've cultivated an image over the last five years. An image Afton Chase is going to blow out of the water, because I'm hers and the world is about to know it—bikini top and all.

I pull her to me when the water stops, burying my hands in her wild and wet curls as I take her mouth. It's not a sweet kiss, yet it's not overly sexy either. Oh no, this kiss is a kiss to claim. To let anyone and everyone know this woman and I belong to each other.

Her hands grip my biceps and she moans a little into my mouth when she feels my erection press into her stomach. I need to get her out of this lobby before we do more than just kiss. Five years was way too long to wait, but it's more than worth all the nights alone to have her back in my arms.

"I'm so fucking glad you didn't cut your hair," I say, leaning my forehead against hers.

"I'm happy you feel that way, but I didn't do it for you."

"Smartass."

"Always."

"Good. Don't ever change."

"If you haven't noticed, I already have."

"Hard not to notice the clothes, but you're still you."

"I am."

"We should go upstairs."

She hesitates for a moment, before nodding and stepping back. "I can feel enough water in this building to protect us if it comes to that."

"I'd say something about me protecting you myself, but we both know I'm not equipped for that."

"It's very manly to admit you can't and to trust your woman to take care of things."

"I don't care who saves us, as long as _my woman_ is here with me."

"I'm here."

"Finally."

"Yes, finally."

"Brock?" the receptionist asks, and I momentarily think of firing her for interrupting what's going on here. Instead, I just turn to her with a scowl on my face.

"This is Afton. She comes and goes from this building whenever she wants. She has full clearance. Is there anything else?"

"She'll need a badge."

"Do I need a badge?" I ask, bristling at the challenge in her voice. Even nice guys have their limits and Afton is a hard limit for me.

"No, but your name is on the building."

"One day that will be her name too. Remember her face and let her in when you see her." I look to everyone in the lobby. "Is that understood?"

They all nod and I take Afton's hand as we move to the elevators. I don't care what she's wearing or who they think she is or isn't. Everyone in this building will treat her with respect.

"Pretty sure of yourself, huh?"

"Your mother told me we'd be together again. This time it's forever."

"You'll still have to ask me one day and see if I say yes."

"I plan to do just that."

"Good, because I plan to say yes."

# Chapter Two

Afton

Some women might be awed and impressed by Brock's office and I have no doubt many have been when they've crossed the threshold. Me? I'm here for the man and not the myth, so I could care less about the surroundings. I willingly follow him to a comfy couch in front of one of the windows and settle on his lap, just needing to be close to him after so long.

"You've been working to save this city."

"While my father works against me, yes."

"Tell me everything you heard. Please."

"They were talking about how dangerous you are to them. Nick said you were always just out of his reach."

"I am, and I was. I could feel him on my heels, but it just made me run harder and faster."

"They talked about some kind of protections around my family's compound and how they had to put the same protections around the city before three of you came here. Do you know what he's talking about?"

"The protections must be some kind of runes or spells. I don't get struck down when I enter a church and I'm not afraid of holy water, despite what people think about witches. In fact, I've been helped by people of all faiths on my journey around the world. As for the others, I know they're out there, but I didn't make contact with them yet."

"It's time to do that. We need them here."

"I know. The problem is, most of them _don't_ know. They may have unexplained things happening around them, but they don't know they're the ones causing them to happen."

"But you knew, even without being taught."

"I grew up with a witch. I didn't question her, but my Aunt Betty never really hid it from me."

"Are these other women some kind of coven of yours?"

I smile and consider the man sitting under me. "How much do you know about the history of this city?"

"It's been around for centuries and has a strong Christian history, although now it's a melting pot."

"That strong Christian history included the burning of witches."

He rears back. "Fuck."

"Some probably got burned for that too. Either way, we're all the descendants of those women. Centuries have gone by and in many cases, the powers were dormant for years until this generation. I haven't figured out why there was no consistency, but that's not a priority right now. Right now, I need to convince them to come here."

"My friends will help," he tells me with no hesitation.

"I'm willing to take all the help I can get, but you're sure you can trust them?"

"Yes. I grew up with them."

"Ah, so they're all billionaires?"

"Not hardly. Or at least not all. Try cop, fireman, chef, mechanic, teacher, mayor, and well you get the picture."

"I'm not too fond of mayors."

"I'll warn York, but I can promise you he's nothing like Nick."

"If you trust these men, so do I."

"Because you trust me."

"With my life and the lives of the women I'm going to bring here, yes."

"I'm so glad you're here. Even with all this shit we're going to have to face, we're finally together again and I'm so fucking happy about it."

"So am I."

Brock

I drive Afton home in my Tesla. She's not impressed by my office or my car, but she's going to be impressed with my house. I'm sure of it.

"Oh my God! Is your house really over the water?"

"Yes."

"Did you? I mean...why?"

"Because I knew you'd love to be around your element and have it all around you."

The house begins on land but moves out on stilts over the water. Over half of the four thousand square feet are suspended over the lake. The stilts slope down in back where tiered decks drop all the way down until the water laps over the last one.

"It's beautiful," she says, looking up at the glass and steel structure.

"Finally, something that impresses you about me."

" _You_ impress me. I don't need things, just the man."

"Wait until you see the tub and rain shower before you put me first," I joke.

"I'm sure the women who came here were more interested in your closet and bed."

For the first time since she got here, I see a hint of vulnerability in her eyes. I grab her hand and pull her back to me.

"I told you none of that was real. The only woman who's been to this house is my cleaning lady. You can't believe I would bring anyone else to the house I built for us."

"Even fake girlfriends want to go to their guy's house."

"I have an apartment in my building. I let a couple of them cook me dinner there, but that's it. My hand and I have a great relationship, so he may get jealous now that you're here. My cock on the other hand is rejoicing and hoping for a reunion with your pussy as soon as possible."

"I wouldn't have blamed you if you'd moved on. Or just had random hookups."

"Same."

I say it, but I don't mean it. I won't say it was easy being celibate for five years while women were practically begging me to take them to bed. But, just the thought of her with another man made me crazy—still makes me crazy. Using my hand to get myself off was a small price to pay for hoping she was doing the same.

She shakes her head. "There was no one. I have a very nice collection of vibrators that are going to miss being in use, but that reunion is definitely happening tonight."

"I'm not intimidated by you bringing your toys into bed with us. Just saying."

"Noted. Perv."

"Not the first time you've called me that."

"Probably won't be the last either."

I look her over and try to choose my next words very carefully. "Do you have any other clothes in your backpack?"

"Yes. Why?" she asks, turning to face me with her arms crossed over her beautifully rounded breasts.

"It's just, the guys are coming over and—oh fuck it, they're going to try and convince you to dump me for them no matter what you wear."

She smiles while taking my hands in hers. When she moves them to her ass and places my fingers over the rip on her ass cheek, I have to fight off a moan. She holds up her left arm, showing me the watch there. The watch I gave her all those years ago.

"Not a chance in Hell will I be convinced of that by any man."

"You don't know that until they try," I tell her, leaning over to kiss her wrist above the heavy timepiece that once belonged to my grandfather.

"You think men haven't tried?"

"They'd be idiots if they didn't."

"They were idiots because they did."

"Same with the women here."

"Now that we've settled that, if you'd show me to our room, I'll change into jeans and a t-shirt."

_Our room_. Yeah, it is. Hearing it out of her mouth is like coming home. No matter what happens, I've got Afton back and I'll die to keep her safe if it comes to that.

# Chapter Three

Afton

I don't belong here. Not in this city or this house, but I _do_ belong with Brock, no matter what anyone else believes. I know he loves me and doesn't care what I look like, but the people in his lobby looked at him like he was crazy when he claimed me as his. I had to change how I looked and acted when I went into hiding, but for him I want to change it all again. Not who I am, but how I look. All I have with me are jeans and torn t-shirts, though.

I have no money to buy anything else and I won't take his money for anything but help with the women I need to bring here. I can't, because I need him to know he's enough for me on his own. He's more than enough.

"Afton?" Brock asks, knocking on the bathroom door.

He gave me my privacy while he worked on ordering food for everyone coming here tonight. He told me they get together all the time, so it won't be suspicious, but I have a feeling at least some of them will be suspicious of me.

"I'll be out in a minute."

"I just wanted to make sure you didn't need anything. Take your time."

The problem is, I don't have time. No time for self-pity or dwelling on things I can't change right now. I have to focus on bringing the women here and keeping us all alive. I slide on my jeans, but instead of a t-shirt, I pull one of Brock's button-downs from the attached closet. I leave my bikini top on under it instead of a bra and swipe some lipstick over my lips. This is as good as it's going to get tonight.

"Hi," I say, when I open the door to see Brock sitting on his bed. He's got on jeans and a t-shirt now, but I'm not sure where he got them from.

"Hi yourself. You look much better in my shirt than I ever could."

Suddenly, I feel self-conscious, and nervous. Déjà vu overcomes me, because I once felt shy around him before. He's the only one to illicit these reactions from me, and I'm not sure I hate them. I'm not weak, but I'm human and he more than anyone always make me feel it. He makes me feel so much, and I hope I can give him even just a little of what he gives me.

"I should've asked."

"No, you shouldn't have. Anything in this house—or this city—that belongs to me, belongs to you too."

"I appreciate you helping with the costs of bringing everyone here."

He shakes his head and looks to the ceiling. A muscle in his jaw is ticking and I don't know why he's so mad. "What do you want when this is all over, Afton? After we've brought all of the women here and restored balance or whatever to the world?"

"You." It's the easiest question I've ever had to answer.

"You have me. You've always had me, and always will have me as long as you want me. I'm yours, and all of this comes with me. The house, the cars, the money—it's all a part of the whole package. In another life I could give it up for you, but the people of this city need me. That's not hubris, it's the truth. I can't give up any of it without putting those who have no voice at risk. I won't do that, Afton. Not even for you. Please don't ask me to, because I can't lose you over this."

I drop to my knees in front of him, feeling so selfish and petty right now. "I would never ask you to do that. I love that you're helping people."

"Then take what I have to give you. Take the dressing room I had built for you to pamper yourself in," he says, gesturing to another set of doors I hadn't even noticed before. Another door is next to it and I realize it's another closet for Brock. "Take the money in my bank, the place at my side that has always only truly been yours."

"I'm not cultured or refined."

"Damn right, you're not. Wear what you want, say what you want, eat what you want. Be _you_ , my love, just do it knowing you have my power and money behind you."

"So, I can buy a whole closet full of ripped shorts and bikini tops to wear around town?" I tease.

"Yes."

His answer is immediate, and I know he's serious. I can see it in his eyes, and it brings tears to mine.

"You mean that, don't you?"

"You know I do."

I do know it. I also know I'm ready for a change in clothes, if not attitude. I'm not embarrassed of how I dress or look, but all eyes are going to be on me now and I want to show them I'm strong enough to withstand their scorn. When used correctly, clothes can become an armor and I'm looking forward to being armed.

"I'd like to buy other clothes."

"My friend Sagan will love to hear that."

The name causes me to jerk back a little. I may have been on the run, but I've kept up with the world around me. And that's a unique name I've heard many times.

"Sagan, as in the fashion designer to the stars?"

"Please don't remind him of that. He's insufferable most days as it is."

"I can't wait to meet your friends."

He pulls me up onto his lap, and I move my legs so I'm straddling him. "I can't wait until they go home, and I get to hold you all night."

"If you play your cards right, you'll be doing more than just holding me."

Who am I kidding? I've been craving his body since the moment it left mine five years ago, and tonight it's going to be mine once again. Yeah, we're going to be turning in early tonight.

Brock

I watch Afton interact with my friends and force myself to keep my jealousy in check. She wouldn't cheat on me and no man in this room would cheat _with_ her. We're loyal to each other before all else. Still, watching York charm her into liking a mayor, and Jai tell her she can come by the clinic and play with his puppies makes me a little ragey. Not to mention Sagan calling her his new muse and Urban talking to her about how he studied the water around us when he designed this house for me. I'm questioning my worth—and my sanity—when she turns back to look at me. I try to smile, but know I fall short.

She's in front of me in seconds, placing her hands on my cheeks and her mouth on mine. "Your friends are just being nice."

"No, my friends are circling like sharks in bloody water."

"Yours. Only yours. You know that."

"I do. And I know my friends wouldn't try anything. I just hate sharing you with other people."

"Same."

"Stop hogging your woman," Quade says, walking over with a smirk on his face. "We're so glad you're here to help de-virginize our boy, Afton."

"I can assure you he's not a virgin," she says, staring him right down.

"Maybe not officially, but he hasn't touched a woman since he came back from Nevada," Law tells her.

"I don't need you to tell me that. He already did, and I believe him."

"Thank you," I tell her, because...yeah.

"I always knew I'd like you," Daire says.

"You don't know me well enough to make that decision."

"We know Brock and he loves you, which is good enough for us," Nolan says.

"While I appreciate it, you shouldn't be so trusting."

Felix is the next to approach us. "We're not."

"We're naturally suspicious." Oscar adds.

"Which is when they call me in and ask me to find out what they need to know. I'm Wolf," the last of the twelve says, holding out his hand.

She shakes his hand while eyeing him warily. "What did you find out about me?"

"Nothing. Brock wouldn't allow it."

"Wolf's one of the best hackers in the world. I didn't want him tracking you because I knew you needed to stay hidden. I'd like him to help you now."

"I thought you said _all_ of your friends would help me."

A collective laugh echoes around the room. "You better hold on tight to her Brock, because every man in town is going to try to take your place at her side," Sagan informs me.

"He doesn't need to hold me, because I could care less about what any other man wants. I don't know why men—and sometimes women—feel like they have to claim someone. If the person's truly yours, they aren't going to even look elsewhere."

"I like you, Afton," York says.

"I think I might like you too. All of you. I'll like you even more when you're helping me."

"Tell us what you need," Oscar says as we all move to the giant table in my dining room.

Yeah, I have a table that seats fourteen on purpose. I always knew I'd want my friends and the woman I love sitting around this table eating, talking, and laughing. And planning. Now, we need to come up with a plan to stop Afton's father—and mine.

Afton

I don't get intimidated very easily and that's not exactly what I'm feeling right now, but it's close. Being surrounded by thirteen men who exude intelligence, good looks, and more is just almost too much. _Almost_. These guys are Brock's friends and while they joked around with both of us, the respect in their eyes was evident—for both Brock and me.

"The floor's yours, Afton. Tell us what you need."

I turn to smile at York, still marveling at the fact that he's the mayor. "Thanks. Brock told me his internet is hacker proof, so I printed out info for each of you. Some have pictures, and some don't, because I haven't found any."

"Yet," Wolf tells me with a smirk.

"Yet. Just grab a folder I guess."

They pass them around and I wait as they open them and scan the contents. Brock gives me a nod, letting me know I'm doing the right thing. I believe him, but it's still hard to expose these women to people I don't know. I could be signing their death warrants if this info got into the wrong hands.

"Zadie?" Law asks, and I look over at the NHL player who's face and abs are splashed on billboards all over this country.

I shrug. "It's her name."

"I have an Ekkho," Oscar adds.

As the guys go over the women's names and share what their suspected powers are, Brock comes to my side of the table, crouching down next to my chair.

"They've got this. Everyone will help each other, and they'll find the other women."

"I can't sit back and do nothing while they're doing all that work for me."

"You won't be doing 'nothing', Aft. Trust me when I tell you being my girlfriend is not going to be a walk in the park. There are galas and fundraisers and all kinds of shit we have to put up with in order for people to want to get close to me."

My hearts beats faster than it ever has before, but I try to look calm. "You need them to help you help the city."

"And help you. When we get everyone here, I want jobs lined up for them and places for them to stay. Sure, I could have them all work with me and buy them places, but I think it'll be better if everyone's spread out. We need the people of the city to think of you as my queen and accept your friends along with you."

I can't go through with this. I need help, but not like this. I can't do this without making a fool out of both of us.

"I'm no queen, Brock. I'm a hot mess on my best days. I'm going to embarrass you."

"Never. You're _my_ queen. Always have been and always will be."

"Breathe, Afton."

I look up to see the guys all staring at us. They're looking at me with understanding on their faces. Well, everyone except Sagan. He's the one who spoke and he's looking at me like he believes I can do this.

"I can't."

"You can. I am going to give you a makeover on the outside and you've been blending in for five years now. You can fake it if you have to, but I don't think you'll need to."

"He's right," Quade tells me. "The people who bring their cars to me are from all walks of life, but they all want the same thing—to restore this place to its former glory."

"Its former claim to fame was burning my ancestors at the stake," I remind him.

Felix holds up his hands. "Not happening on my watch."

I'm slightly mollified to have the Sheriff on my side. Slightly.

"None of us will let it happen," Hadrian assures me.

"Thanks. I guess I'm doing this."

I don't have a choice. I have to woman up and make this city fall in love with me. My life—and the lives of the women I need to bring here depend on it. And now, maybe so do the lives of the men in this room. No pressure.

# Chapter Four

Brock

I love my friends, but I'm so glad they're gone now. I _need_ Afton with a ferocity I've never experienced in my life. At least not with anyone or anything but her. I need her in my life and by my side, but right now I need to make love to her.

"I thought I'd find you out here," I say, walking out onto the lower deck where the water laps over the wood.

Afton's standing at the railing while the water rushes over her bare feet. There's no tide in this lake so I know this is either her making it happen, or the water doing it to comfort her.

"This is all a little overwhelming."

"You get used to it."

"Do you really?"

"Yes."

It's the truth. Life in the spotlight isn't always fun, but this isn't Los Angeles or New York and we're not celebrities. Just a billionaire and the woman he loves. We're big fish here, but only moderately sized fish everywhere else. Thank God for that, because if this is already scaring her, I can't imagine what would happen if I was an actual star like Law. Or even Sagan. My life is too much sometimes, but nowhere near the levels they exist in.

She holds out her hand to me and I don't hesitate to take it, pulling her into my arms. Leaning down, I start to pull off my shoes, but she stops me.

"It'll be better if we're both in the water," I tell her, somehow knowing it to be true.

"It? Are you talking about sex?"

Shit. Was I reading her wrong earlier? "Um, yeah?"

"Don't look so scared, B. I totally want your cock tonight. Just not here. We don't need the water."

"You sure?"

"Did we need it five years ago in Reno?"

"Not at all," I admit, shaking my head.

"Take me to your bed."

I bend and lift her into my arms. She's never asked me for romance, but she's going to get it. Here in my house, out in my city, everywhere. Afton is my everything and I need her to know it.

Walking through my house with her in my arms as she nibbles on my ear and neck feels _right_. Too right, actually.

"I'm pretty sure I'm going to embarrass myself this first time. It's been so long, and you're you, so yeah. Just apologizing in advance."

She kisses me on the mouth as I lay her down, pulling me so I'm on top of her. "Good, because then it won't be awkward for our new first time. Get it over with so we can explore and play the rest of the night."

"I love you. Have I told you that in the last five minutes?"

"No, but you don't have to say it all the time. I already know. I love you too."

After that, we quickly divest each other of our clothes and get started on that first time. She's slick and wet when I reach between her legs, and after putting a condom on, I slide home.

All that worry about coming too fast is gone when Afton's orgasm hits on my second thrust. She takes me with her and it's better than what I remembered. Better than anything, but not enough.

"That was a good appetizer, but I'm ready for my meal," I tell her as I pull out, toss the condom off for clean-up later, and slide down her body.

I suck on her nipples until she's calling out my name, before moving lower to nip at her ribs and lick her belly button. By the time I'm biting into her right hip, her hands are in my hair. She pulls the strands and scratches my head as I move over her neatly trimmed curls.

"I used to watch you when you were in the shower," Afton tells me as I hover over her.

What? Oh hell, that's hot. "You watched me jerk off."

"Yes."

She blushing, but the sparkle in her eyes tells me she not too embarrassed by her admission. That's good, because I am absolutely loving the thought of her doing it. I just need more details, like right now.

"Tell me," I demand, licking down her center.

"Don't stop."

I lick her again, swirling my tongue over her clit. "Not stopping."

"The first time was an accident. I was taking a bath in Madrid, and all of a sudden, I saw you. You were in the shower with your arm bent against the wall. Your other hand was on your cock and you started stroking yourself. As I watched you, I got myself off too. I didn't know who you were thinking about at first, but I hoped it was me."

"It was."

"I know. You said my name as you came hard."

"Always. Always your name."

She's arching up into me as I devour her pussy. There's no other word for it, because knowing she was watching me and coming with me while we were apart is making me a little crazy.

"I only saw you a few times, but I played those memories in my mind every other time."

I don't say anything else, because I'm intent on how good she tastes and how much I want her to lose control under my mouth. Another lick, a hard suck, some teeth...and there it is. She comes hard, wrapping her legs around my head to hold me in place as my mouth soothes her back down.

"Please tell me you're hard again," she says, tossing another condom at me as she loosens her legs.

I catch it with a laugh, still smiling as I slide it on. "I'm rock hard again."

"Thank God."

Entering her in one thrust, I feel like I'm where I'm supposed to be. I set a slow pace this time, savoring the feel of her wet and wanting.

"It's so good, Brock. How is it so good? I thought I'd imagined this or made it more than it was, but oh yeah, there."

I keep her hips tilted slightly up as I hit the spot that caused her to lose her train of thought again and again. I'm barely coherent myself, but I manage to answer the question she asked.

"It's this good because it's us. We're meant for each other, and nothing is better than that."

"So cheesy, but true."

"Yeah it is."

She digs her short nails into my biceps as I speed up a little and take us both over the edge. Tonight may not be enough to make up for five years, but it's definitely a start. Yeah, we have some evil to fight and some lives to save, but we'll be having sex while we're doing that. A lot of sex. Amazing, life-changing sex, because my life changed the moment I saw her and I know it's going to keep changing for the rest of our lives together. Nothing could be better than this. Better than her. Nothing.

Afton

There are worse ways to wake up than to have the man you love kissing you softly.

"Good morning."

"It would be better if you were inside of me right now."

"Yeah, but if I did that, I'd never make it to work today."

"And people need you."

"They do."

I don't tell him I need him too. Not just for sex, but to be by my side. I don't tell him, because I know he will be, and I can't be jealous of the people he puts first. Well, I can, but I'm trying to not be.

"Have a great day at the office."

"What's wrong?"

"Nothing. I'm good."

He looks like he wants to argue, but then he just kisses my forehead instead.

"We're good too, right?"

"Right."

I'm being silly about other people having his attention, when I know he's truly mine and always will be. I'm just greedy for him after so long apart, but I'm an independent, strong woman and this neediness unsettles me. It's not a good look, so I push it aside and give him a soft kiss.

"Sagan will be here in about an hour to go shopping with you. I didn't have all your info, so I couldn't order you a card on my account, but he knows I'll pay him back."

"I won't spend too much."

"Yeah, you will. He wouldn't have it any other way."

I turn away from him as he smiles, because this isn't a joke to me. I said I'd do what I need to in order to fit into his world, but that doesn't mean I'm entirely comfortable with spending a bunch of his money.

"I should get in the shower. I'll see you later."

He grabs my arm as I try to walk by, pulling me to him. "I know this isn't what you want to be doing, but I promise it will help."

I sigh, acknowledging defeat, because I know he's telling the truth. "I believe you."

"I was going to clear my schedule today, but Sag said the two of you would do better without me."

"You were?"

"You think I wouldn't want to spend every minute of every day with you now that I have you back?"

"I want to, but we didn't really know each other back then and it's been five years. You have so many responsibilities and people depending on you. I hate that I want to take you from them."

"I know enough, and I'm looking forward to learning more. Everything. I want to know everything about you, and the time we were apart."

"Same."

"I'll tell you anything you want to know. I have no secrets from you and I never will. And yes, people depend on me and need me, but not as much as I need you. I love that you need me too."

We kiss for several minutes, but I pull away with a sigh. "I really do have to shower."

"And I have to make you breakfast while you shower."

"You don't have to."

"Oh yeah, I do. I want to have breakfast with you every day for the rest of my life, starting now. Especially because it's the only thing I'm really good at cooking."

"I'd like that, so thank you."

"You're welcome."

I take my shower, do my best to tame my deep red curls, and follow the heavenly smell of pancakes to the kitchen. Stopping in the doorway, I admire Brock as he flips pancakes and hash browns on two griddles.

"Impressive multi-tasking skills."

"You have no idea."

"You can show me later," I tell him as he slides a plate my way.

"Count on it."

Breakfast is almost as delicious as the make-out session that follows. I'd probably still be on top of the kitchen island with my legs wrapped around Brock if Sagan hadn't come by. Actually, his appearance didn't stop us—until he walked into the kitchen and told us he was going to start filming us. That broke us apart pretty quickly, although I've been promised that multi-tasking lesson later.

# Chapter Five

Afton

"So, what are we looking for today?" Sagan asks as he drives us into the center of the city, and I'm once again a little awed to be in the presence of the man who dresses royalty.

He's got almost white-blonde hair, pale blue eyes, and is built like a linebacker. A totally non-stereotypical male fashion designer, right down to his hetero appreciation of me. He's not rude, but he checked me out last night and again this morning.

"Whatever you think I need for things with Brock."

"Things?"

"Wipe that smirk off your face, because you know I don't have any clue about billionaires and society functions."

"I don't believe Brock didn't tell you any of it."

"He told me some things, but can anyone really be ready for this?"

"On the outside, yes. You need to be yourself, just at a higher level."

"What if I don't know who I am—or rather, who I want to be?"

He looks at me briefly, before looking back to the road. "Who were you before the bikini tops and cutoffs?"

"A cowgirl. Plaid shirts, jeans, boots."

"And?" he asks, one eyebrow raised in challenge.

"And I wanted to get out of my small town and wear heels and dresses," I admit.

"Yes!" he exclaims, fist pumping the air.

"But look at me. I'm not that girl anymore."

"Nope. You're a woman who has an unlimited wardrobe budget and me as your personal shopper. You're going to rock this town."

"As long as I don't embarrass Brock, I'll be happy."

"Not possible," he tells me, pulling up to valet at a fancy mall.

I've been to Paris, London, New York, Milan, and Beverly Hills. None of those places intimidated me, but this mall? Yeah, I'm trying not to sweat. I don't know why, because the fate of the world doesn't rest on how I dress, or maybe it does. So much of my history lies in this city and to uncover it, I need to uncover myself. I need to embrace it all, especially because I'm not going to give up Brock just because I'm uncomfortable about all of this. In the grand scheme of things, it's really nothing. Just a little shopping trip.

"Let's do this."

"That's the spirit."

Three hours later, I've been in and out of more clothes than I've been in my entire lifetime, but I'm smiling. Sagan helped me pick things I feel comfortable in. He vetoed a few of my choices and I did the same to his, but we were pretty in sync once he saw what drew my eye.

"What are you going to wear to dinner tonight?" he asks as we wait in line at Sephora.

We're off to make shoe and handbag people happy after this. I've never been able to just grab whatever I wanted without looking at prices and while I'm still not completely comfortable with it, it doesn't suck.

"Hopefully not cutoffs."

I stiffen my spine as the words come from behind me. I am not going to engage. I know better than to engage. Sagan looks to me, but I give a subtle shake of my head. There's no point in causing a scene.

"Nothing to say? You just walk in here and steal Brock from her, but you won't answer her?"

Yeah, I'm going to engage. I turn to face one of the women I've seen in pictures with Brock, along with her friend who pushed me a little too far.

"It's not possible to steal something when it always belonged to you anyway," I reply, turning to look each of them in the eye before giving them my back again.

Sagan is doubled over with laughter, but I rein in my smile. I can't bask in my verbal victory, because I'm afraid I did something wrong. Brock told me this town comes first, and like it or not, those women are part of this town. Coming second to them makes me nauseous but it is what it is. And honestly, if I had to choose, I might put the other witches before him too.

Brock

I didn't lie to Afton about what my day looked like, but I wasn't completely honest, either. No one knows the secret I've been hiding, and while I trust her, I need to see exactly what I've got in front of me before I share it with her. My father's meeting with his board today, which means he won't be at home for hours. Hours I need to go through my grandfather's journals.

Before he died, my grandfather told me I was the last chance to make things right. I didn't know what he meant back then—and I still don't now—but the journals he had me hide have to hold the truth. Maybe it's something as simple as protecting the city from father and his dealings, but maybe it's more.

I'd take them back to my house, but it's too risky. Despite the security system and surveillance, the power Afton's father wields is no joke. Words my grandfather taught me keep _his_ words hidden but I don't know if they'll work outside of this compound.

The staff smile at me, but I'm under no illusion they're going to keep my visit a secret. My father rules with a titanium fist and his word here is law. So, no matter how nice I was—and am—to everyone here, they'll turn me in. I just need these few hours to get my information and then I'll be out.

I lean against my door once it's closed, listening for footsteps. When none come, I turn the lock and walk into my closet and close that door. Taking out the device Wolf gave me, I sweep the small space for cameras. I'm rarely here, but I don't trust my father not to try and use the type of underwear I wear against me, much less a secret hiding place. Boxers, by the way—I don't like to be constricted.

Bending my knees, I jump, securing a hand on the upper rails running the length of the closet. I reinforced them to hold my weight when my grandfather told me about the secret space in the ceiling. I was fifteen and had already been helping Urban figure out how to build things. I thought Gramps was telling me because it was cool. Until he died and asked me to keep his journals hidden.

My biceps groan in protest as I swing my legs until I'm in a handstand, pressing on the section of the ceiling that seems to almost magically move. The stairs drop down and so do I, shaking out my arms as I ascend.

The tiny space seems to expand as I walk into it, although I know it's not possible, just a trick of the shadows and my mind. Pressing on the light, I grab the two boxes from my grandfather—one holds his journals and the other hides jewelry and knickknacks he left me. I gave Afton his watch, but everything else is in here, waiting for _something_. I don't know what yet, but that's what I'm here to find out.

Using a combination of thumbprint and eye scan, I open the box and pull out the first book. It's written in a language not many would recognize, and I don't even know the name of, but I can read it because from the time I was a toddler, Gramps spoke to me in it. A game, he said. As I read, I realize how dangerous a game he was playing and how it's already cost me more than I could afford to lose. I don't know how all of this has been kept from me, but I know I will not lose again, no matter who I have to take out with me.

It's all I can think about as I put everything away hours later and walk calmly from the house to my car. Betrayal is a cut that runs deep, but when it's handed out by someone you love? Yeah, it hurts even worse. That's all I think about as I make my way home, to the woman I love more than anything. I don't want what I have with her to be fake, but those journals let me know nothing's guaranteed, especially when it comes to witches. I have to stay on my toes and protect myself, because I need to be the last one standing when the confrontation comes. And it will come. Of that I have no doubt.

# Chapter Six

Afton

Something's different with Brock. He told me I looked beautiful in the burnt orange dress I chose, and he's acting like the perfect boyfriend as we pose for pictures outside of the downtown restaurant tonight, but that's it. He's holding my hand for the public, but there wasn't even a peck on the lips when he got home. Not that I didn't try, but he said he didn't want to mess up my lipstick. As if I'd care about my lipstick if it meant kissing him, and I didn't expect him to either. Something is wrong, and I need to find out what it is.

Not here, where we have to smile and make the city think we're its new golden couple, though. Problem is, I've seen the pics and Brock's treating me like every other woman he's brought to this restaurant. I'm interchangeable all of a sudden, and I don't know what to do about it. I mean, I could drench the restaurant but with the way things are going tonight, I doubt he would kiss me again. Or even give me an indulgent smile.

"The lobster bisque is superb," he says, and I try not to look at him like he's been possessed by an alien—or something more sinister.

"I'm not hungry."

It's true. I think I might throw up if I eat something. How did this all go so wrong, so fast? Did we spend too much today? Sagan said we didn't, but maybe there's a limit I didn't know about.

"You have to eat something, or it's going to look weird," he says in my ear as he leans close.

"This whole thing is weird and I'm about to be sick. Excuse me."

I stand so fast, he barely has time to stand with me. I don't want to head to the bathroom, because I know I'll be followed and it'll be documented if I really do throw up, but I have nowhere else to go and I can't run out of here like I want to.

"Ready for the tour of the kitchen I promised you?" Nolan asks, suddenly at my side.

How could I forget that this restaurant is owned by one of Brock's friends? I don't want a tour right now, but I do want an escape. Keeping this smile on my face is getting harder with every second.

"Yes, please."

He leads me to the kitchen and walks me around the various stations for a cursory look before closing us in his office. I slump into the nearest chair and bend over, trying to calm my stomach, my heart, and my brain.

"It gets easier."

"Not like that."

"Sorry to say this is a typical night out for our boy." It takes a moment for what he just said to sink in, but when it does, he looks as stricken as I feel. "Fuck. He's treating you like the rest of them tonight."

"Yeah."

"Why?"

"No clue. He's been acting like this since he came home."

There's a knock at the door before Brock walks in. "I'm glad you're becoming friends but being locked up in here with my girlfriend isn't making me look good."

Really? He's really going there? Oh, hell no.

"Sorry, but I'm not interested in being another one of your women. I think it's best if I just leave now."

"Leave? You can't leave. We talked about how we have to cultivate our image so people fall in love with you."

He looks frantic, but I just can't do this. I can't pretend—not with this. Not with him acting this way.

"You're the only one I care about being in love with me."

"You know I am, so what's the real problem here?" he looks frustrated, but I'm angry, and not about to let him make me feel bad about it.

"The problem is you're treating me like all the other women you told me you were only pretending with. So, did you lie to me then or are you lying to me now? Either one is unacceptable."

"I'm not treating you like them."

"You are," Nolan tells him, arms crossed over his chest.

Brock gets an ugly sneer on his face as he faces off with his friend. "I guess loyalty to me ended when you decided you want her for yourself."

"Are you insane? Never mind, don't answer that right now. When you're thinking clearly, you'll remember how you asked all of us to help you protect the woman you love. That's exactly what I'm doing now. I never thought I'd be protecting her from you, but that's where we're at. That shouldn't be a thing. Then again, treating Afton like she's a random chick and accusing me of some bullshit you know isn't true shouldn't either."

He scrubs his hands over his face, then hangs his head. I fight back the urge to go to him and pull him into my arms. Something is definitely wrong, but I need him to tell me what it is, so I can help him. If he can't even talk to me, what chance do we have?

"I'm trying to process some stuff I found out about today, and I'm sorry."

"What's going on?" I ask, reaching out to touch his arm.

The flinch is subtle, but it's there. Hurt, I pull my hand back, but he catches it in his.

"I'm not ready to talk about it yet."

"Dude," Nolan's tone holds a warning, but Brock's not heeding it.

"I'll talk to everyone when I feel like I can. Right now, we just need to get back out there and be seen as the happy couple we are."

"Even if I'm not happy right now?"

"Please, Afton. Just for tonight, I need you to try."

I'm about to tell him I've been trying since we got out of the car, but a feeling of dread overtakes me. I haven't felt it in over five years, but I know what it is. _Who_ it is.

"He's here."

Brock

She doesn't need to tell me who _he_ is. Her father is here. I'd hoped to have more time to figure everything out. To digest the information I uncovered today and figure out how to proceed. Nothing I can do about that now, because it's showtime times 1000.

Well, I can stop acting like an asshole and treating Afton like she means nothing to me. No matter what I found out, she still means everything to me. It's time for me to man up and show her—and the world.

"We face him together," I say, holding out my hand to her.

She looks at it, then me, before nodding and taking it. "Okay."

"I'm going out there with you," Nolan tells us.

"No. Everyone knows we're friends, but if we can hide what you know, it'll be better for all of us."

"Just keep working on finding who you're looking for. And thanks for listening tonight."

"Anytime Afton," he says, shaking his head at me.

I know I disappointed him, but I disappointed myself too. And fuck, what I did to Afton is even worse. Tonight is nothing like my fake dates, and it's time to walk back into the dining room the way we should've walked into the restaurant.

I keep her hand in mine, but my other arm is around her now, pulling her close. I nuzzle her neck and whisper apologies again as the dining room quiets around us. When she tilts her head to mine, I kiss her. Nope, this is nothing I've ever done with a woman in this restaurant before.

"You two are looking rather cozy."

I don't break off the kiss right away, because the man who once tried to kill me has no right to interrupt us now. I know it's pissing him off to be ignored, but he won't push it with an audience present. At least not yet.

"What are you doing here?" Afton asks him, managing to look truly surprised.

"Is that any way to greet your father?"

"You can say it all you want, but until I see proof, you're just the former mayor of my hometown."

"You know it," he sneers, getting up into her face.

Okay, maybe he is going to push it. Unfortunately for him, so am I.

"If you'll excuse us, we have dinner to order. Have a great night."

He wants to say more, but sensing the eyes on us, he lets us go. The murmurs around us let me know no one heard what we said, which makes me grateful to the asshole for one thing. Well, two if he's really Afton's father.

After getting her settled into her seat with a kiss on her cheek, I move my chair so I'm next to her instead of across the table. It's the little things that are going to show this city how different she is to me.

"I'm all of a sudden really hungry," she tells me.

"Good, because you need to eat and rest before everything comes to a head."

Her smile is flirty. "I thought you might say I need my energy for later."

My body responds immediately, and I want to agree. Shit, but no, I can't. Not tonight.

"We've both had a long day. We'll rest tonight, because we have plenty of time for more."

"Sure."

The smile on her face now doesn't quite reach her eyes, but I can't pretend I want sex tonight. Especially not after seeing her in her snug orange dress and heels. I told her to tame herself to some extent and she blew it out of the water tonight. She is fucking exquisite and everyone here knows it. Too bad I can't appreciate it the way my cock is doing. I want to—God, do I want to—but I can't. Not when I know I may have to destroy everything to save us all. I just hope it won't come to that.

# Chapter Seven

Afton

I was grateful when Law called today and asked if he could come by the house. Brock was still acting weird when we got home last night, and I swear I heard him whispering in some other language as he put his grandfather's watch on my wrist. I only took it off to sleep because it's bulky, but whatever. It was on when I woke up and I'll just have to ask him about it later since he was gone when I opened my eyes.

"Hey," the hockey god says when he walks inside.

He's got dark hair and a dark trimmed beard and yeah, he's sexy as fuck. I don't want to be more than friends with him, but that doesn't mean I can't appreciate the hotness.

"Hi."

"How are you doing?"

"Nolan told you?"

"Yeah, but he didn't need to. We all saw the pics from when you arrived at the restaurant and how Brock was acting. I'm glad he got his head out of his ass later, but it's still shitty."

"Yeah, it is. I'm okay. I mean, I didn't come here for romance."

At least that's not the only reason I came here. I have a world to save, and that has to take priority. Doesn't mean I wasn't hoping for the love of my life to sweep me off my feet. I mean, he did—but then he didn't.

"Doesn't mean you don't deserve it," he tells me, echoing my thoughts.

"Agreed. Now, would you like something to drink?"

"I would, but you have a seat and I'll get it myself."

I don't argue since I know he knows where to find what he wants. Once he grabs his juice as well as a bagel, he sits across from me with a smile on his face.

"So, what was so important this morning?"

"I've been in contact with Zadie."

I stand up and move to his side of the island. I can't believe he was able to do this so fast.

"What? When? Is she coming here?"

He places his hands on my shoulders. "Breathe. I thought she looked familiar when I saw her picture. It kept bothering me and then I realized her brother is one of the guys on the team. I'd visited him in New Orleans a couple years ago and met her at a family dinner. That made me remember him saying she'd been keeping a low profile because of something that spooked her a couple of months ago."

"I was there looking for her a couple months ago."

"So she told me when I got her number from him."

"He just gave it to you?"

"Well, I had to promise I wasn't trying to get with her and let him have first pick of the bunnies when the season starts."

"I appreciate the sacrifice," I tell him with a smirk.

"No worries. He gets to pick first, but there's plenty to go around."

"Um, great? Let's get back to Zadie."

"I talked to her, told her you were cool, and got her to agree to come here. She doesn't want to just fly in, but she said she'll get here."

I sigh in frustration. "I get her wanting to be careful about coming here, but I'd prefer to know when she's arriving. And what her power is."

"Yeah, I didn't think I should be pushing her on that."

"I get it. You did great, and I totally appreciate it. I'm just nervous. I don't know our timeline and if we're too late..."

He places his hands over mine. "We're not going to be too late. Trust us, Afton. If for some reason Brock's dad gets the upper hand, we'll fight right next to you. I promise."

"I know."

I do know. No matter what craziness is going on with Brock right now, I know these guys have my back. A part of me is worried he doesn't, but I'm not going to listen to it. He brought me here to make things right and that's exactly what I plan to do.

Brock

Today, I go to my family home when I know my father will be there. I know exactly what he's going to be doing and I need to talk to him about it. I find him in the chapel, mixing the powdery substance I've come to realize he needs to spread around the city. I've seen it around the perimeter of our compound, but I didn't know what it was until yesterday.

"Do you need some help?"

He startles, wiping his hands on his pants as he regards me. "I'm just mixing up some plant food for the garden."

As if he'd ever look over anything in the garden. He's not going to get his hands dirty in actual dirt. And I'm not in the mood to pretend I don't know what he's doing.

"No, you're making the protections you need to place around the city."

"I don't know what you're talking about."

"Really, because four hands are better than two, and this is my legacy. Stopping witches from invading this city."

He regards me shrewdly, waiting for me to back down. That's not going to happen today.

"Where did this newfound knowledge come from?"

"I've been researching our family for years. It just took me this long to put the pieces together."

"Why would I trust you? You've fought everything I've done for years."

"This isn't about your shady business shit. I'm still going to fight you on that. This is about protecting the city from things neither of us would be able to control."

"I saw the pictures from last night. You're bedding one of the demons."

I have to fight the urge to defend Afton. I read my grandfather's journals and I know what my destiny is. Now, I just have to be strong enough and brave enough to follow through with it.

"Keep your enemies close, right?"

"She's going to need to be destroyed. It's our sacred duty to do it."

"As I said, I've done my research and I know exactly what my duty is."

He smiles and waves me over the altar. "Welcome to the family, Brock. It's time to make some women burn. Oh, and I'll let you buy that building you want so badly. It's the least I can do since you're going to be at my side in other matters."

I wanted that building. No, I _needed_ it. I still need it. I didn't expect to get it this way, but anything I can do to save my city is a good thing. That's what I need to focus on, because losing my focus could destroy it all.

# Chapter Eight

Afton

I'm outside on the deck, with my feet dangling in the water when the sensor goes off, telling me the front door was opened. I don't get up or stop taking notes from my internet search. Brock can find me if he wants me for something.

"I'm home," he says, walking outside.

"I heard."

"You're not ready to go out."

"I didn't get the memo."

"You know we have to be seen."

"And you know you didn't tell me."

"It's a cocktail party at York's place. Not super dressy."

"Give me fifteen minutes."

He looks me over and shakes his head. "I'll give you twenty."

I don't tell him I really only need fifteen, because we've obviously devolved into doing whatever it is we have to do publicly, while being done with anything personal. I won't lie to myself and say my heart isn't breaking right now, but I can't focus on that. Zadie is on her way and that will give us the strength we need to keep the city open to everyone else as we find them.

I choose a white eyelet dress with asymmetrical ruffles, silver heels and dangling diamond drop earrings. Just the right combination of dressy and casual. My hair goes in a big loose bun of curls and then I'm on my way to the front of the house. In fourteen minutes.

"Looks good," Brock says, eyeing me up and down.

The fuck? Not that I'm beautiful or I look good myself? If I didn't need his help, I might just walk out and never come back. But I do need it, so even though it may kill me, I have to stay. I don't have to pretend I'm not pissed off though.

"I'm glad I meet your approval."

"Afton."

"Brock."

"You need to get it together before we get there."

"Me? I need to get it together? I'm not the one who all of a sudden decided they were done with whatever this is we were doing."

"Nothing's changed."

"Nothing? You're really going to go with that?"

"I just have a lot on my mind. Let's just get through this next few days, okay?"

"I'm pretty sure I don't have a choice."

I swear I hear him mumble "none of us do" under his breath, but I don't bother to ask him what he's talking about. Fighting with him is tiring and right now, I'm really tired. I just get in the car and think about what's going to happen when Zadie gets here.

We'll need to figure out what Brock's father is doing with my father and make a plan to stop them. We may not be able to do it with just two of us, but we can try. We _have_ to try.

"Afton, you look beautiful as always," York tells me, pulling me into an embrace.

I sink into his embrace for a moment, needing the comfort as I whisper in his ear. "Thanks. I'm glad someone thinks so."

He stiffens for a moment, before squeezing me once, then releasing me. The smile hasn't left his face because he's a good politician, but I know he's going to let loose on his friend later.

"Stop trying to steal my woman," Brock growls and I barely resist the urge to punch him. A muscle in York's jaw ticks and I know he feels the same way.

York has a fountain in the courtyard where the party's taking place and water shoots up from it as my temper flares. Brock reaches over to squeeze my hand and the water sprays out, just missing the people closest to it. Women scream like it's something worse than what their body is mostly made up of while I roll my eyes.

"Stop," he hisses into my ear, but that only makes me angrier and the water in turn arcs wider.

"Please take some deep breaths," York implores me, so only we can hear. "I know you're pissed and rightfully so, but appearances need to be kept right now."

I look into his warm brown eyes and feel my breathing steady. He doesn't deserve my anger and I won't ruin his party because of the man who does deserve my ire.

"I'm good. Sorry."

"No worries. We can all use a little excitement," he tells me before turning to the other guests. "I need to check with my landscapers to see what's going on with the fountain. That was quite the show."

The guests laugh as Brock pulls me to him for a kiss. York was wrong. The show's actually just beginning and like it or not, it's all about me. For two hours, I schmooze and smile. Quite a few women still shoot eye daggers my way and some of the men hold my hand too long, but I play it off as if it doesn't bother me. As if Brock ignoring it all doesn't bother me. I don't need the added stress of trying to analyze him and his new intentions and I'm planning to talk to him about it when we get home.

"Fire!" someone yells a minute later, and my plans are forgotten as I look around.

The fire is close to us, but not in the house. It's in the hills around the city and there's actually more than one. They're small, but still potentially deadly and I need to stop them.

I start to turn to the driveway, but Brock stops me. "What are you doing?"

"I have to stop it."

"No one can see you."

"I'll be careful, but right now I'm concerned with putting the fires out."

"As am I," York says, coming to stand with us. "I'll make sure no one sees you."

"Thank you."

I hear him getting everyone's attention as I slip away. Right now, I trust York more than Brock, which is ironic since I wasn't sure I could trust his friends at all when I came here a few days ago. Now, I can't trust _him_. I don't know what's going on with him, but it's not good.

Right now, I have to deal with the fires. I hear the sirens and know Daire has to be on the way if he's not here already. I'll do my best to keep him protected as I call the rain.

Toeing off my heels, I scale one of the large trees, hiding myself from the men and women who are trying to contain the various small blazes. The rain comes for me when I call it, but there is also wind. I don't know where it's coming from, but it works with the water, turning the fire from the city and its residents. Strangely enough, the fire seems to be playing along with us as well, instead of fighting.

I'm about to breathe a little easier when I see a shock of blue hair I know belongs to Daire. His helmet's off and the fire is burning just a little too close to him on all sides. He must've been running from the other direction and now he's caught in the literal crossfire. I start to throw the rain his way when he's thrown my way instead.

A gust of wind lifts him and propels him from the fire to the trunk of my tree. His helmet lands next to him a moment later. He shakes his head and looks up, a smile breaking out across his face as he holds his hands up to me.

"While I'd hate to ruin this wonderful view, I should probably help you down."

I don't bother pressing my legs together since he's already seen my panties, but I do roll my eyes as I jump. "Perv."

"Just don't tell Brock," he says as he sets me on the ground.

"That's the last thing on my mind right now. I want to know how the fires started."

"Me too, but thanks for the help."

"I only brought the rain. The wind—I don't know."

"Zadie? I know Law said she's on her way here."

"Maybe? I almost hope it's someone else, but I just don't know."

"We'll figure it out. Right now, you need to get back to the party. Thanks for the water."

"You're welcome."

I slide my shoes back on, thankful for him catching me—even if he did catch a glimpse of more than I'd planned on—because my outfit and hair are still pretty much intact. Time to put the fake smile back on my face and pretend I'm a happy girlfriend once again. I just hope it starts getting easier, because right now I feel like I'm losing myself to the lie.

Brock

"She had something to do with those fires."

"Afton doesn't control fire."

"Doesn't mean she didn't try to start one to make herself look good."

"No one except me knew she was out there."

That's not the truth, but what's one more lie, when I'm lying to pretty much everyone right now? My friends don't need to be exposed to my father—Afton's more than enough to keep him happy. Or so I thought.

"Are you having second thoughts about your destiny?"

"Not a one," I tell him truthfully.

"Good, because her father and I have a plan."

"What do you need me to do?"

"Bring her here. I'm going to throw a party for the crème de la crème of this city and beyond. Unfortunately for the lovely Ashton, she's going to disappear."

"I didn't realize you were ready to kill her."

I try to tamp down my panic. I know she has to die to fulfill what my father believes to be his destiny, but I didn't think it would be this soon.

"Oh, I'm not, Son. She's going to burn with her brethren just as her ancestor did at the hand of ours. For now, I'm just going to keep her contained."

"So, this place really is protected?"

I know it is, but I need to know how much he knows. What he knows, and more importantly, what he doesn't.

"Oh yes, we are completely safe from her kind here. Don't be afraid, Brock. Their power comes from evil and God will never allow evil to prevail."

"I'm not afraid of her."

At least not yet. She may just try to kill me when this all goes down, and yeah, I'm probably going to deserve it. All I know is I have to see this through. For my grandfather—and for me. I may lose her, my friends, everything. But I have to do this. And yes, I do believe God is on my side.

I still believe it later that day when Daire comes by my office unannounced. My friends know they can drop in anytime, but I'm not really in the mood for being civil. Especially not when he reveals his reason for needing to see me.

"I didn't mean to see up her dress. It's like the white lace was a homing beacon for my eyes when I looked up and saw her in the tree."

I'm seriously considering stabbing him in his icy grey eyes right now. Mostly because I never got to see the white lace myself. Still, I know he didn't do it on purpose.

"I believe you."

"It was insane out there. The fires that had a mind of their own, the rain suddenly appearing, and the wind. Man, that wind picking me up like that was wicked cool."

"Wind?"

Afton didn't mention anything about the wind. I mean, she didn't mention much at all since we barely spoke all night. Or this morning. Still, she's keeping me out of the loop and I don't like it. Yeah, I know about the whole "pot calling the kettle black" thing I have going on, but I still feel stung by his remarks.

"Yeah, there was fire, water, and wind. Afton said she didn't know who was doing what."

"So there might be more than one woman here already."

"Looks like it. That's a good thing, right?"

"Huh? Oh yeah, that's good."

Surprises right now are definitely not good, but I have to play along.

"You're acting weirder than normal and your girl seemed a little sad. Wanna fill me in?"

"I've found out some stuff I didn't see coming and I'm not handling it well. Which means I'm not handling her well, either."

"Dude, you cannot fuck this up. You've been waiting for her all these years and now she's here. And honestly, she's just as amazing as you always said she was. We all think so. Nothing's more important than making it work with her."

"The fate of humanity is pretty high on the list."

"Which she's also fighting for. Whatever this is that's gotten into that thick skull of yours needs to get shaken out, because you're looking stupid and it's not a good look on you."

"Appreciate the support."

"Truth. We give each other truth. Always. And that's ten thousand times better than just blind support."

Yeah, but some truths are hard to hear. I can't change the course of things and honestly, I don't think I would if I could. I believed the prophecy about Afton and I coming back together, but now I believe more in myself and my ability to create my own destiny. It may kill me, but it's what I have to do.

# Chapter Nine

Afton

In the last week, I've talked to all of the guys and four of them have found their women and reached out to them. I already know about Law and Zadie, but Wolf found Chiyo, Felix found Morit, and Oscar found Ekkho. The three haven't responded, but I'm hoping at least one comes through. I know we only need two with Nick here, but I don't trust my "father" to stay within the borders if he thinks there will be a real threat to him and his plans. Something tells me more than one of us will be a threat and I need to make sure we're here to do just that.

"Afton?" Brock calls from downstairs.

Nothing's changed with him in this last week, and it's starting to slowly break me. No comfort, no friendship, no sex—nothing. I don't need the distraction of him and his asshole ways, but I walk to the middle landing anyway.

"Yes?"

"My father is having a party tonight."

"So?"

"We need to be there."

"You're willingly going to be in the same room as your father?"

"Yes. We need to show we're not scared of him."

"I don't think it's a good idea to just show up there."

"We're invited."

"Since when?"

"What does it matter?"

"It matters to me. When were we invited?"

"A few days ago."

I cross my arms over my chest and give him my deadliest glare. "And you're just telling me now?"

"You have a closet full of clothes, and no job. What's the big deal?"

This is it. He's crossed the line and I'm done. We've been pretty much done since last week, but we still curl into each other every night, even if it's only for sleep and nothing else. No more.

"I'll be moving into one of the guest rooms until I can find a place of my own. Or I can stay with someone else."

"Someone else? Like Daire?"

"Someone like him, yes. Not necessarily him."

"Why not? You flashed him after all."

"Seriously? I was in a tree, trying to stop some fires. Excuse me for not worrying about someone looking up my dress."

"I can't excuse it."

"Whatever. I'm done. I'll put on a dress for you and play the part, but it's over," I tell him as I walk the rest of the way down the stairs.

"Yeah, it is."

I don't know where we went wrong when everything should be so right. I want to cry in a corner, but I can't. I have to suck it up and do what needs to be done. Zadie will make herself known when she's ready and I have to be ready too.

I pull a flowy, off-the-shoulder white dress with black flowers out of the closet. I'm feeling constricted by the thought of just entering Brock's family home and I want some freedom in my clothes. The sheer sleeves and 3-D accents on the dress are almost as light as air. My hair is down in its wild curls and I wear the highest heels I can walk in on my feet. Tonight, I'm going to show the side of me that doesn't need to be sexy to be strong. I'm already strong—at least on the outside.

I look down at the watch on my wrist and contemplate removing it, but something stops me. I don't know what, because it's definitely not the thought of Brock being upset, but I just can't bring myself to take it off. Whatever.

"Let's go," I say as I walk out to the living room.

"Interesting dress."

"It cost enough to impress your friends."

"My real friends aren't impressed with expensive clothes and you know it."

"I don't know anything about you or who you are anymore."

"I'm who I'm supposed to be."

Whatever _that_ means. I follow him out the door and into a waiting limo. I don't know why we're doing this or what we could possibly gain by going into the lion's den, but I'm going in anyway. Maybe a small part of me still believes in Brock—or maybe I'm just an idiot.

I'm still trying to decide the answer to that when we pull through the gates of the compound. Brock's family couldn't just have a house, apparently. I've been so busy looking into the other women and the history of the town, but maybe I need to investigate the Johnstons. No way they have this crazy ass place and didn't have a part in what went down. Good or bad, if they were here, they were involved.

"Do you trust me?" Brock asks as our driver gets out of the car.

I answer him the only way I can, with the truth. "I don't know. I used to, but now I just don't know."

"I understand."

Two words. He says two words to me and then we're getting out of the car. I square my shoulders as we walk inside, letting him hold my hand. It feels wrong, but nothing seems right anymore. The room we enter is massive and filled with people. I recognize the men Brock calls his true family, and also the women who came at me in Sephora. None of them are who I'm focusing on right now.

Oh no, it's the two men walking our way I need to give all my attention to. Brock's father looks like an older version of him, while the man who calls himself mine just looks like evil personified—at least to me.

"I see you've finally brought your friend around to meet me, Brock."

"Yes," he says, making the introductions.

"I think we need to go somewhere a little more intimate and talk," Nick tells me.

I know I shouldn't face him alone, but I can feel the water around me, and I somehow know I'm going to be okay.

"Fine with me."

Brock squeezes my hand as we follow the two men deeper into the house. Urban steps toward us at one point, but Brock shakes his head. He does the same for the other men, and a part of me wishes they would be there for back-up. I don't want them to get injured, but safety in numbers is a thing.

I'm surprised when we're led to an indoor pool room. Why would they bring me to my element? There are men with muscles here, but I can easily take them out. This makes no sense.

"How does it feel to see your element, but not be able to call it or use it to protect yourself?" Mr. Johnston asks me.

I start to ask him if he's lost his mind, but before I can, Brock lets go of my hand and walks to stand with the other men. He won't look at me and I know now I need to keep my mouth shut and save myself in any way I can. I _can_ call my element, but it's not time yet. Soon, but not now.

Brock

This is it. This is the day I've both dreaded and welcomed. I'm about to do what I need to do. No matter the consequences, this is what I am meant to do. It's all about to blow up and I may not walk out of here alive, but my sacrifice will be worth it.

"You don't look as surprised as I'd hoped, Afton. Perhaps you've already learned my son's secret."

No. There's no way she knows, because if she did, things would be so much different right now.

"I've learned to always only depended on myself," she tells him with a shrug.

"Ah, she doesn't know."

Nick smirks as he walks closer to her. "Their family lit the torches all those years ago. They turned the town against the women and then they did what needed to be done."

God, she's strong—she doesn't even flinch or show her surprise. She's everything I knew she was and more.

"Nothing should've been done. They weren't harming anyone."

"Witchcraft is from the devil!" my father yells.

"Well, I'm pretty sure he's standing next to you right now, so look who's siding with you today."

"Careful, daughter. We cannot use our powers inside this place, but I can still make it uncomfortable for you."

"I'll take my chances with God."

"God? You dare mention God? My son and I have done the work of God by fortifying our borders to stop your kind from entering."

I think my father is about to have a seizure, but I know things he doesn't. I know Afton believes in God. She believes in many other things and has embraced other cultures, but she is not an Atheist.

"Yes. I have felt his presence on my journey."

"You filthy whore!"

As my father moves toward her, she calls her power and hits him with a wave of water. His henchmen raise their guns, and I'm afraid for a moment, because it would be hard for her to take them all at once by herself. She's not alone though.

Several women step out of the shadows, their own guns drawn. I recognize many of them, though I can't understand why they're here. No matter. The truth is about to be revealed.

"How?" my father asks, getting back on his feet. And then he sees it. "The watch! How does she have the watch?"

It's showtime. "I gave it to her. And I fortified it. Your powders and trinkets have no power over her."

"When you were whispering over me," she says, her eyes searching for something I hope they find.

"Yes."

"Remember your destiny, Brock. Do not be taken in by this witch."

"Like you were taken in by my mother?"

He staggers back. "What are you talking about?"

"My mother was an ally to the witches, and when you found out, you murdered her. Your family's destiny was to burn and destroy, but hers was to protect. My grandfather left all of the information for me to find and I chose the destiny I believed in."

"I told you not to trust him," Nick hisses.

"He helped me with the protections. We placed them around the city."

"Only when I knew it was too late. There are at least three here now. You've lost."

"The first battle, perhaps. But this war has been waging for centuries and we are not defeated yet. Bring your worst, because I'll be bringing my best," Nick tells us with a smirk.

"Show yourselves out and take your friends with you," my father says, motioning for his men to follow him.

Reina Corrigan steps forward, flanked by her friends. "We cannot help you with whatever magic he has in store, but you and yours will be protected from mortal danger, Afton. The Society will be here with you."

"The Society? I've read about you, but I wasn't sure the secret society thing was real."

"You believed in magic, but not us?" Tegan Hall teases, and the responding smile on Afton's face makes my heart flip.

"Well, when you put it that way. Thank you."

"You're welcome. You'll find our numbers in the phone Brock gave you. Don't hesitate to use them, even if it's just to talk," Princess Jenysis of Cyndryann yells over her shoulder as they make their way back to the party.

I wait until we're alone, before turning to Afton. I know she's pissed, but I'm hoping she understands why I had to do what I did.

"You've got some powerful friends."

"It looks like I need them, since I can't trust you."

"I've always protected you."

"What if it didn't work? You should've told me."

"I had to make it real so they wouldn't know what I'd done. I needed you to be shocked."

"I need to go home."

"Okay."

"I'm packing."

Fuck. "I can leave."

"It's your house."

I shake my head. "No, it's yours. If you don't want to ride together, I can get a ride from one of the guys."

"We can ride together."

My mood is pretty much the same leaving as it was arriving. I can't say I didn't expect it, but it hurts like hell anyway. I chose the right side, and I'm going to continue to fight for Afton and the others, but right now I almost wish someone had killed me back there.

# Chapter Ten

Afton

My thoughts are all over the place. On one hand, I understand why Brock did what he did, but then I think about how I felt when I thought he'd betrayed me. And how he's been treating me. I want to believe it was all to eventually help me, but what if it wasn't? What if this is all still part of some other plan?

"York's almost here to pick me up."

I turn to see Brock with a suitcase at his feet and garment bags draped over his arm. It hurts just to look at him. It hurts to know he's leaving and that I'm the one who's sending him away. But I have to. I can't be living under the same roof when I don't know what his endgame is. Not when others will be depending on me to keep them safe.

"You're not taking your car?"

"No. I'll use one of the ones at my apartment."

"Oh."

"The keys are on the counter. Please don't be stubborn about using the cash and cards. If you need me for anything, please call. Or call one of the guys if you can't call me."

"I want to believe you did this for us," I blurt out.

"I did. I know you can't yet, but I hope to God you will believe it soon."

"But you told me you'd pick this city over me, and I feel like that's what you just did. You didn't choose your mother's path for me, but for the people here. To protect them. I get it, but it hurts."

"I knew you'd never make me choose between you and the people. That's why I said that to you. If I had to choose, I promise it would be you."

"Don't say that."

"It's the truth. I know I've lied to you, but I need you to know that I would burn this city to the ground for you."

"Been there, done that, didn't get a shirt."

I spin around to see a woman walking towards me. She has light brown skin, her hair's curlier than mine, and even without the lyrical southern accent, I know who she is.

"Zadie."

"Hello, Afton."

"What did you mean about burning the city?" York asks from behind me.

I feel like I'm in a tennis match right now as my gaze darts back and forth, but I'm too excited to care.

"Fine, I wasn't trying to destroy it. I just set a few little blazes. Not enough to burn everything," Zadie tells him, rolling her eyes as she steps back into my line of vision.

"You did that?"

"Yeah. What's the big deal? I had them under control."

York crosses his arms over his chest. "Oh really? I'm pretty sure Afton had to intervene and one of my friends was almost burned. Didn't look like you had _anything_ under control."

"Whatever. The firefighter was fine. I was going to get him out when the wind came."

"I thought that might have been you," I tell her, finding my voice again.

"Nah. I just bring the heat."

"And danger. Keep your fire away from the people of my city."

"You don't boss me," she assures him, raising both middle fingers his way.

"Law didn't warn me you were such a-,"

"Welcome addition to our city," Brock says, stepping forward. "It's great to have you here, Zadie."

She looks at his hand before looking at me. I nod, and she shakes his hand while ignoring the one York's holding out to her now.

"You didn't finish your sentence, Mr. Mayor."

Brock grabs York by the shoulder and pushes him out the door. "That's our cue to leave. Please call me when you're ready to talk, Afton. I love you."

"I love you too."

I'm not going to pretend I don't. We all know I do, and it's not something I'm ashamed of, even if I wish I could just walk away from him. I don't promise to call him, because I just don't know if I can let myself be that vulnerable again. Even if I kinda want to be.

Brock

"I cannot believe that woman set fire to my city!"

York will not shut up and doesn't even seem to realize he's protesting a little too much as he drives me to my building.

"Ask her on a date already."

"What? I'm not going to date her!"

"Okay, ask her for a fuck. Something. Or just shut up about it. She was making her presence known."

"I'm not touching the firebug, but I'll shut up for now. Let's talk about you and all this bullshit you pulled."

"Everyone's on their way to my apartment, so let's wait until we get there."

"You prepared for the beat down?"

"Yeah, I am. Nothing you guys can say that I haven't already said to myself. I did what I had to, and it worked. I protected Afton and called my dad out on his bullshit. He's trying to hide behind God and it's not okay. It will never be okay to use God as a shield for hate."

"Especially not when you're working with the Devil himself. I mean, we really do think Nick's the devil, right?"

"Oh yeah, Lucifer in the flesh right there," I agree as we get out of the car.

The ride up to my apartment is done in silence. I don't think he knows what to say to me and all I can think about is getting Afton to believe I was always on her side.

"I thought they'd be here by now," I say opening the door and then stumbling back as a fist hits my jaw.

"Shit, that hurt!" Sagan yells, clutching his hand.

"You need to learn how to punch," I reply, wiping the blood from my lip.

"Looks like I did pretty good."

"You hurt _yourself_ jackass."

"Worth it."

Oscar hands him some ice while ignoring me. Yep, they're all on Afton's side. I wanted them to be invested in her and help her and now it's coming back to bite me in the ass. But I'm not complaining because right now, I'd punch myself if I could.

"Go on. Everyone take their shots and then you can help me fix this mess I've gotten myself into."

"It's no fun hitting you when you want it," Felix tells me.

"Sit down and tell us everything," Hadrian adds, pushing me toward the couch.

"We've got your back. Hers too, but you were ours first," Quade assures me.

"Thanks."

I mean it and I tell them everything. About my grandfather and his cryptic last request, his journals, my father, and Afton. I admit how badly I've treated her and that looking back, it might've been necessary, but it was always bound to blow up in my face. Still doesn't mean I wouldn't do it over again. I needed to play my part then, and I'll continue to play it in the future. It's the destiny I chose, and I won't abandon it—or her.

# Chapter Eleven

Afton

"We need to find out who brought the wind," Zadie tells me when we're alone.

"I know."

"Law said his friends are all searching and helping. No one else has made contact."

"No. A few were able to find the others and reach out, but they haven't gotten any responses. I thought whoever it was would find me."

"Maybe they did. I mean, what went down tonight was pretty crazy. Passing those gates and feeling the power leave me was scary. I trusted Law enough to stay, but I wanted to run."

I twist the watch around on my wrist. "Brock can probably get you something like this."

"You didn't seem to think we could trust him, so I'm going to have to pass."

"He's on our side."

I know it in my bones. I'm angry and not getting past this anytime soon, but I believe him. The hurt and angry part of me doesn't want to, but the rest of me knows it's true.

"You're sure?"

"I'm sure. He hurt me, but he'd never hurt _us_. I wish I had more info on his family—both sides—but even if I never know it all, I'll trust him to help."

"Why? How did you meet him?"

I can't help but smile. "Five years ago, his grandfather's wish sent him to my little town in Nevada to learn about horses. Or so he told him. I believe now he sent him to find me or my aunt."

"Your aunt was a witch?"

"Yes. Anyway, he saw me bring the rain one night, we met the next day, had an insta-love thing happen, almost got killed by the Devil, had lots of sex, and then parted ways. He heard the fathers plotting and used water to contact me. My aunt told me we'd be together again, and it would be forever this time. Guess she was wrong."

"Wow. One day you're going to have to tell me the unabridged version, but damn."

"Yep. Back to his family. We really need to know more."

My phone dings, and I look down to see a text from Reina Corrigan.

_Everything we could find on Brock and his family is being sent to your laptop now. Talk to you soon._

The fuck? I look around, knowing I'll never figure out how they were watching or listening, but still trying to anyway. I fire off a thank you text as I shake my head.

"What's up?"

"How much did you see at the party?"

"I followed you down even though I couldn't help you with fire, and I heard it all."

"The Society just sent us everything they could gather about Brock's family."

"Okay yeah, that's a little creepy but they had to have started before we were talking about it, right?"

"Probably. Maybe? All I know is I've got some reading ahead of me."

She nods. "You read up on your man and I'll have Law get me in touch with the guys who made contact, so I can try to narrow down who's hiding from us."

"Sounds like a plan."

She goes inside while I move to the lowest deck outside, letting myself be soothed by the calm sway of the water on my legs. I don't know how many hours pass while I read, take notes in new documents, and just marvel at another world running parallel to mine. While the Society was mentioned in various tales and tomes, Slukke was not.

The word literally means "put out" like putting out a flame. Brock's got one side of his family burning the witches and the others trying to put out the flames. I'm both horrified and in awe as I sit back and blow out a long breath.

"What you found is that crazy, huh?"

"Oh yeah. Did you find anything?"

"Possibly. You go first."

"I took notes for you, because I'm not ready to speak about it just yet."

"You need to talk to him first, don't you?"

"Yeah. I know where he stands but I need to hear it again."

"Gotcha. Well, as for our Wind Whisperer, I've narrowed it down to three."

"I'm on the edge of my seat here, although I admit I have some guesses."

"You would with all your years of research. As for me, I think it's Chiyo, Rowin, or Gauri."

"Chiyo and Rowin are obvious choices because they've been connected to weather happenings, but why Gauri?"

"Someone saw her fly. What if she was controlling the wind?"

"This is why I needed help. I never thought of that."

"We're going to make a good team, Afton. Thank you for doing this—working to bring us all together."

"Well, I did it for me too because I want to live, but you're welcome."

We hug, and I feel her energy combining with mine, creating some kind of aura around us. I don't know how else to explain it, but while it's not how I feel when I'm in Brock's arms, it's almost as good. It's just _right_.

Brock

The guys stayed with me all night, sleeping on extra beds, couches, and chairs. We've always been ride or die for each other, but I appreciate their support. Even if that support includes punches and hard truths. I know I screwed up while thinking I was doing the right thing. I just don't know what to do about it.

Part of me wants to run to Afton and beg her to believe me, but the more rational part knows I need to give her space. She was hurt and angry—rightly so—and she needs time to think about me and what I did. She _knows_ the real me, and deep down she has to know I didn't betray her. At least that's what I told myself all day as I jumped every time my phone buzzed. It wasn't her, and she won't be walking into the cocktail party downstairs on my arm tonight either. Doesn't matter—I'll say she wasn't feeling well or some shit like that, because this city still needs to believe in us.

The barracudas start circling as I enter the lobby, looking for a place on my arm. I shake off everyone who touches me, but I make an amateur mistake and end up in a corner with three women around me.

"You don't really want to be alone tonight do you?" one of them asks me.

I look anywhere but at them. It's best to never make eye contact.

"I'll be going home to Afton once the party's over."

"She's stupid for not being here."

"Oh, but I am here, so you can run along now."

I look up and there she is. Afton's in a short grey dress with sheer fabric over the top. It looks retro but new at the same time with clusters of jewels, and her hair is in one of the loose buns she loves. Curls are escaping and begging for my fingers to play with them. I think I might have a chance to do that later—if I don't screw things up again.

"You heard her, run along," Zadie says, waving her hand around. She's in red, but I couldn't describe her dress if my life depended on it.

The women scatter, realizing they really don't have a chance. "Thanks for the help, Zadie. York has something for you. I figured you'd see him before I'd see you."

"Why would I see York?"

Afton turns to her and rolls her eyes as I laugh. "Just a guess."

"You should hold off on the matchmaking until you've been able to work out your own relationship."

"Bye, Zadie," Afton says, pushing her away.

"Hi."

It's the only word I can force out of my mouth. There's so much more to say, but that's all I've got at the moment. Until she smiles, and I think everything will be okay.

"Hi, Brock."

"You look gorgeous as always."

"Miraculous, huh? I heard you said I was sick."

"I didn't want people thinking we'd broken up, since I knew I'd win you back."

"I'd call you cocky, but I am standing here right now."

"And you have no idea how fucking thankful I am for that."

"I believe you. I'd like to talk, but I need you to know I trust you."

"Let's go to my office," I say, grabbing her hand.

"You can't leave your own party."

"Watch me."

I ignore everyone who tries to get my attention, because talking to Afton is more important than anything else. As the elevator doors close, I see York and Zadie facing off across the lobby.

"Those two need to just fuck and get it over with," Afton tells me.

"Yeah, they really do."

Talk of fucking has my cock growing heavy and erect in my pants. I've been hard since I saw Afton but thinking of being inside of her again is causing a mutiny behind my zipper.

"Everything okay down there?" she asks, as I clasp my hands in front of me.

"Not. At. All."

"I wasn't the one decided we should only _sleep_ when we were in bed together."

"Worst decision of my life," I manage to growl through clenched teeth.

"Maybe we should've gone to your apartment."

"Nope. Thirteen men slept there last night, and it ain't pretty. I refused to let my cleaning crew clean up that mess and the guys all had to work today."

"I think I love you a little more after that admission."

"Good."

"Can you walk?" she asks as the doors open.

"I'll mange."

# Chapter Twelve

Afton

He wants me, and I want him. Bad. Bad enough I'm willing to wait to talk to him.

I grab his tie and pull him to his office, pushing him down into his chair. "If I don't get you in my mouth right now, I'm going to go insane."

"Only if I'm getting my tongue in your pussy."

"Deal."

He stands and lifts me onto his desk, spinning me so my feet face the door. Papers and his laptop fall off the desk, but neither of us stops to check on them. When I'm flat on my back, he walks around to push my dress up, slide my panties off, and spread my legs wide. I'm wet and wanting—and I love seeing the hunger in his eyes as he runs a finger between my lips before bringing it to his mouth and tasting me.

"I'm not going to last long."

"Please don't hold back on my account."

"We're talking after," he tells me, pulling my head to the edge of the desk.

"Yes. After."

I try to unzip his pants, but he bats my hands away, pushing them and his boxers to his knees. The pre-cum dripping from the crown of his perfect cock has me licking my lips and trying to lean back for a taste.

"Greedy today."

"Always when it comes to you."

"Ask nicely, Afton."

"No."

I look up and meet his eyes, challenging the humor I see there. I'm here and I'm going to suck the fuck out of that cock, but I'm not giving him control this time.

"Very well. Take what you want."

I do. I tilt my head back, wrap my hands around his shaft and take him as far as I can down my throat. He thrusts once and then he's over me with his mouth on me. As I suck and lick and play, he does the same.

He lasts longer than he thought he would and I'm loving every minute. He's so thick and hard right now, I can barely keep him in my mouth. His tongue and teeth are alternating between my clit and my pussy as I shamelessly fuck his face. It's so good, almost _too_ good.

"Come for me," he whispers against me as he thrusts two fingers inside.

The orgasm barrels through me at his command and as he sucks hard on my clit, his own cum shoots down my throat, salty and perfect. I suck and suck, taking everything he has before licking every inch of him clean. I don't stop even as he softens, wanting more. Wanting him again.

"It's going to be a few minutes before he's ready for round two," Brock reminds me, helping me sit up and spinning me around to face him.

"In me next time, right?"

"If that's what you want."

I nod. "It is."

He kisses me hard and I wrap my legs around his waist, pulling his tie off and starting on his buttons.

"I thought we were talking."

"We can talk without clothes."

"You're trying to kill me, aren't you?"

My hands still. "No, I'm trying to keep us all alive and I think you are too."

"I am," he says, pulling down my zipper as he lifts me up and carries me to the couch.

Brock

Naked conversations should really be a thing. As Afton sucks on my neck while her fingernails tease my abs, I'm even thinking about trademarking the name. My fingers and mouth are hoping to wander too, but it's my turn to talk first and I'm trying. Really, I am.

"My father doesn't understand that he's doing spells and using magic. He thinks it's his God given right, but God gave you your powers too."

"Yes, he did."

"How does he not see it, though?"

She lifts her head to look me in the eye. "He doesn't want to. The Society sent me a ton of info about your family. His ancestors had it practically beaten into them, and I'm sure he did too. We're bad, so it's okay to use spells and talismans against us."

"My grandfather kept me safe from that."

"You wouldn't have done it anyway."

"No, I wouldn't. Even if I didn't love you the way I do. I wish I could say I'd have done things differently, but I wouldn't have."

"I was hurt, Brock. So fucking hurt. You were barely touching me and then you were standing with him. I thought you'd just been playing me all these years. I understand now why you had to make it real."

"It killed me. I swear it did, but when I read about how my father had killed my mother even though he professed his love, I knew I had to protect you at all costs. No one is going to harm you as long as I'm breathing."

"There's going to come a time when you'll have to stand down. It's important to me for you to keep breathing. Some things you won't be able to fight. Promise me."

"I can't."

"Brock."

"Afton."

"I'll be distracted with keeping you safe."

"That's not fair."

"It's the truth. Promise me. Fight with me in every way a mortal can but stop when I tell you to. Please."

It's her "please" that gets me. She wouldn't beg for my cock, but she's begging me to save myself for her. I know she's right—she can't worry about me when the battles are going on.

"I'll stand down, but I'll still be doing whatever I can from the sidelines."

"Thank you. I also need you to promise to tell me everything from now on."

"I promise."

"There's a third woman here. We don't know who, but she saved Daire. I'm not hiding everything from you, either."

"Daire mentioned it but didn't tell me much. He only told me you were wearing white lace under your dress, because he wanted to mess with me. Asshole."

"Are we back to my panties again?"

"No, but I still want to rough him up."

"Speaking of roughing up, what happened to your lip?"

"Sagan."

"No! He doesn't know how to punch."

"Which is why his hand is wrapped."

"Aww, he was defending my honor."

"Whatever."

She climbs on top of me and slides my now-hard cock inside of her. "It means a lot to me that your friends will stick up for me when you're being a dick."

"Yeah, me too."

"Now that we've cleared the air, you should know I'm going to be taking _your_ dick all night."

"It's _yours_ so have at it."

I latch my mouth onto her left breast as she slides up and down, grinding for her pleasure as our pelvises meet. We're good—better than good. Now, we just need to fight evil and stay alive. Piece of cake, right?

# Epilogue

_O ne week later_

Afton

I climb out of the water, walking up the lower deck to where Brock's spread out for me in the moonlight. Naked. After that night in his office, we're almost always naked when we're home alone. He offered Zadie his apartment, but she moved into a loft Law bought for her instead.

We still haven't found our Wind Whisperer, but we've both felt her. It's driving me crazy waiting, but Zadie says she'll reveal herself when she's ready. So will the woman who's started leaving beautiful sculptures out of metal all over town. I know she's one of us because every sculpture is a flame. Small, large, delicate, powerful—there are some of each.

Four of us are here now, while my father and Brock's both lie low. I don't dare believe they're going to let us live in peace, but we'll be ready for them when they come for us. Or at least I hope we will.

For now, I'm going to just enjoy the man who's pulling me down on top of him and let the water connect us once again. Just like I always knew it would.

# Acknowledgments

**Dominique, and Gabi, the best women I know!**

* * *

**Helen Williams, thanks for always taking my ideas and making them better!**

* * *

**As always, thanks to my readers for reading!**

# About the Author

Crystal Perkins has always been a big reader, but she never thought she would write her own book, until she sat down and did it one day. She previously lived in Las Vegas, where you could find her running author events when she wasn't reading, buying too many Sherlock t-shirts and anything having to do with Wonder Woman, James Bond, Harry Potter, or Star Wars. Now she lives in North Dakota with her daughters, son-in-law, and baby grandson. She still helps with some events in Las Vegas, and also with a bookstore in California, recommending books she loves for their shelves. And yes, she still reads a lot of books!

In 2016, she won the Creative Initiatives Award from Romantic Times for encouraging literacy, and also the Community Advocate Award from the Clark County School Librarians Association. In 2018, she was the Romance Writers of America Bookseller of the Year.

A mac and cheese connoisseur, she travels the world looking for the perfect version, while attending book conventions and signings as a cover for her research. The Griffin Brothers, Corrigan & Co., and the Society Girls series are all international best sellers, and she's thankful to the readers who made that happen.

* * *

Find her here:

crystal@crystalperkinsauthor.com

www.crystalperkinsauthor.com

  Facebook

  Twitter

  Instagram
