Curley's sported broken neon in bright red letters over a chipped brick building with bars covering the windows. Ther was either burnt out or broken and spelled “Culey's.” Cute, I thought, pushing my way into the dimly lit interior. After a quick scan of the patrons, I noted a dark corner with a single occupant at the opposite end of the bar. Cracked tile greeted my Chucks as I threaded my way over between the rickety tables. Garth Brooks played out of an old jukebox in the corner. Half the screen was lit, and I could barely make out the warbles of "Friends in Low Places.” Low being the key word in my mind. Easing onto a crooked stool, I placed my wallet on the only clean surface: the bar. A portly man with a handlebar mustache shuffled over with a grunt.“Tequila, please, Pepsi back," I mumbled, earning another grumble by way of reply. Pulling some loose change from the pocket of my apron, I hoped to have enough to put Garth in the back of the queue, and made my way over to the jukebox. As I flipped through the selections using the worn silver knobs, the paper placards flopped beneath the scratched glass. I quickly said a prayer to the All Mother for there to be some classic rock-anything other than country.

Yes! I smiled " Painted It Black." Making my selection, I popped in two quarters and headed back to my chair.

As the Stones finally shut down Garth, I eyed my drink. After a steadying inhale, I polished the shot in one go. Mouth watering at the taste, I quickly chased it with the glass of warm Pepsi. Ick. Gut rot stuff. Shadows moved out of the corner of my eye. Turning my head, I caught a glimpse of blond hair and a strong jaw as my bar mate shifted his position. Plucking my phone from the back pocket of my jeans, I squinted at the sudden bright light. 1:30 a.m. The bartender was polishing the aged oak down the way, so I raised my cup.

“A double, please.”

Grabbing the bottle, he poured four fingers of gold, and went back to his task.I stared hard at my glass, wondering where the hell I was, and who the hell I was. My days had taken on a monotony of sleep, eat, and work. It was all autopilot since Giselle took me in four months ago. I shopped at thrift stores for clothes, but that was about all I did to leave my studio apartment. A mini fridge, free Netflix, and a microwave were my stable companions. My cell was an outdated Nokia. It didn't even have data, not that

I'd have a use for it.

My friend Viv owned an internet cafe, but her being human made me feel more like an imposter. Reaching for the glass, I raised it to my lips and slowly swallowed the burn just to feel something as Mick hummed out his last tones. Switching to the warm soda to ease the fire in my throat, I debated on playing another song or heading back to my Orange Is the New Black binge. A brush of air whispered against my neck, prickling my skin as the only other patron made their exit. I stewed a bit more on things I couldn't change and checked the time: 1:45 a.m. Throwing a few bills on the bar, I gathered my things and left.Once outside, I zipped up my hoodie and shoved my hands deep into its pockets. It was chilly for a June night in San Diego. The weatherman had forecasted a light drizzle. Looking up, I searched for the silver face of the Moon, but the marine layer was too thick. I was getting spoiled; only fifty degrees out and I was freezing. I concentrated on my footsteps for two-mile walk home, and my vision slightly blurred while I berated myself for skipping dinner after the evening rush.

Wallowing back in my own self-pity, thoughts of my ineptitude flashed through my mind. I had everything; how could I be a magical dud? My parents had maxed out on what they could do for me, but when they could no longer deny my inability to cast even a light sphere, the Council forced them to cast me out. By that point they were so frustrated and embarrassed by what should have been a child prodigy, they didn't even accompany me to my own banishment. As I recalled the last time I had seen them at dinner before I was taken away like trash, I failed to pay attention to my surroundings. Without warning, I was hit from my right side and thrown to the sidewalk. The world spun as my head slammed against the unforgiving concrete. I caught a glimpse of blond hair just before my world went black.

I was being shaken. Rough hands began patting down my pockets.

"What?" I mumbled groggily. A male voice shouted in alarm, “Shit, she's waking up! Let's go!"

Slowly, I sat up to the slaps of their retreating footsteps and took in surroundings. Only about a quarter mile my from home. My fingers dug into the grass and bumped into the hard brick of my phone as I swayed to my knees. Snatching it to my chest, I thought it was absurdly comical that not even random thieves wanted the old piece of junk. Further inspection revealed my apron was a ripped mess and my wallet was missing.

Goddess, my head hurt. Reaching to the back of my skull with my free hand, I found a solid knot with the makings of a scab. Had I fallen?

I rocked back to sit on my heels, and my cell cheerily glowed, 4:30 a.m.

I ran through what I remembered: bar, tequila, time 1:45 a.m. About two missing hours. Maybe I drank too much? Staggering to my feet, I finally made it over to the sidewalk and continued home with my thoughts a scattered mess.

Ten minutes later, the light on the landing glowed like a beacon as I reached my studio. Leaning heavily on the rail, I slowly climbed the stairs. Thankfully, my keys had been safe in my inner jacket pocket.

After repeatedly missing the keyhole, I cursed myself. Had I really drunk too much and fallen over?

Eventually, I found the lock and turned the key. Fumbling the knob, I stumbled inside.

Kicking the door closed with my heel, I flicked the deadbolt and tossed my phone onto the hide-a-bed. Using the wall for support, I slowly made my way to the small bathroom and flipped on the light. My platinum hair was stained orange from the impact with the concrete. Dull sea-green eyes stared back at me from a reflection I barely recognized. The smattering of freckles on the bridge of my nose, normally not even noticeable, stood out in stark relief. My sun-kissed tan was gone; I looked like death after a benderwith a bottle of José.

Turning away in disgust, I turned the shower on as hot as I could stand and quickly shucked my clothes. Pulling the flimsy plastic curtain aside, I stepped under the spray. Oh, blessed heat. Swiftly, I soaped my locks and bits as anxiety fluttered through my belly. I just wanted to go to sleep and put the entire night behind me.

After a rough towel dry, I tugged on a tank and loose shorts before hopping into bed. Snuggling beneath my blue blanket, I flipped through my saved shows on the TV. Sleep finally arrived with the remote still clutched tightly in my hand.

I awoke to the standard sound of my Nokia tune. Blindly searching through the covers, I finally located the device once the ringing stopped. 4:30 p.m. I'd slept for nearly twelve hours. My thoughts scrambled as I tried to remember what day it was. Right, Wednesday, my night off. My phone chimed as a message scrolled across the display.

'Hey, honey! Dinner tonight at 6?' A big G shone next to the text-Giselle. She liked having dinner once a week. She worried about me. Her husband and daughter had passed away a year ago in a car accident.

I slowly typed back, 'I got in late last

night. Raincheck for tomorrow?'

‘Are you okay?

Fine, just a long night.

“Let me know if you need anything. Get some rest :/

I loved it when she sed emoticons. It was sweet. 'Will do :)'

As I looked around my studio, the events of last night came rushing back. What the hell had happened?

My stomach rumbled loudly. Well, I mused, that was one problem I could solve. Getting up, I pushed in the hide-a bed and resettled the cushions. Flipping on a nature documentary, I made my way to the small kitchen for some Honey Nut O's.

Back on the sofa, I took my first bite. Crunch, crunch, crunch... Odd, it didn't taste quite right. Maybe I didn't seal the bag and it was stale or something. I choked it down anyway and went back to clean up my mess.

Moving through my ritual in the shower, I noticed tenderness on the right side of my throat. Stepping out, I tucked the towel around my torso and peered into the mirror. My eyes were the color of the ocean-not quite like their normal sea green-and my skin was flawless. At least I no longer looked like the walking dead from last night.

Leaning against the small vanity to check my neck, I found two dot-like bruises. Hmm, I must have been bitten by a bug last night.

Swiping on a quick coat of mascara, I perused my closet. My go-to size-4 skinny jeans were loose, and I had to adjust the straps on my favorite C-cup bra. Even my lucky V-necked shirt was baggy. Weird.

Styling my locks, I noticed more of a silver sheen. Maybe I should go to bed with wet hair more often.

Hooking the front door closed with a ballet flat, I locked it and decided a visit to the thrift store was in order. It was only five blocks away.

I snorted to myself: hopefully I wouldn't get mugged again. It was a good thing I had a small stash of savings.

I trotted down the stairs with a bounce in my step, and my thoughts swirled with possibilities. I loved shopping.

As I neared the main drag of Pacific side of my throat. Stepping out, I tucked the towel around my torso and peered into the mirror. My eyes were the color of the ocean-not quite like their normal sea green-and my skin was flawless. At least I no longer looked like the walking dead from last night.

Leaning against the small vanity to check my neck, I found two dot-like bruises. Hmm, I must have been bitten by a bug last night.

Swiping on a quick coat of mascara, I perused my closet. My go-to size-4 skinny jeans were loose, and I had to adjust the straps on my favorite C-cup bra. Even my lucky V-necked shirt was baggy. Weird.

Styling my locks, I noticed more of a silver sheen. Maybe I should go to bed with wet hair more often.

Hooking the front door closed with a ballet flat, I locked it and decided a visit to the thrift store was in order. It was only five blocks away.

I snorted to myself: hopefully I wouldn't get mugged again. It was a good thing I had a small stash of savings.

I trotted down the stairs with a bounce in my step, and my thoughts swirled with possibilities. I loved shopping.

As I neared the main drag of Pacific Beach, I noticed the lights seemed brighter and the sounds had more depth. The ocean even smelled sweeter. Maybe that crack to the head had adjusted my sensory input? Only then did I realize there wasn't even a bruise on my scalp from the concrete. Shrugging it off, I continued on my way.

A bell chimed overhead as I pushed open the swinging door.

The bohemian-dressed teen at the register waved hello.

Smiling back, I began searching through the size-2 racks and small tops. My thoughts rolled. Bar... check. Drink... check. The jukebox... check. Another drink... check. Paying... check. Getting lost in my own failures on the fuzzy walk home... check. Then nothing until I was rudely robbed and left on the grass.

With a bundle of clothes draped over each arm, I chose a fitting room and stripped.

A beautiful stranger stared back in the full-length mirror. Where I wasn't toned before, I had triceps. I could even see my ribs. My waist tapered to a tiny hourglass while my hips flared just enough to attract male attention. Even the globes of my rear seemed perkier. If it wasn't uncouth, I could go braless. Grinning at the thought of the girls bouncing in the breeze, I quickly tried on the other selections.

It didn't seem to matter what I put on, everything looked amazing. This would be my best shopping trip yet.

Arms full of fabric, I skipped to the cashier.

She eyed my selections with approval and gave me my total.

Thumbing out a couple bills from my emergency stash, I paid and grabbed my bags.

In the glass reflection on my way out, I could see the cashier staring after me with a strange look of longing on her face. Weird.

Needing a caffeine fix, I popped into Starbucks. As soon as I stepped up to the counter, the room fell silent. The espresso machines hissed, but everyone just stopped and gawked. I looked around for a moment before I figured out that the object of their fascination was... me.

Feeling uncomfortable with my second hand purchases, I cleared my throat to order.

The barista immediately snapped to attention. “A venti mocha frappe, please," I

mumbled, reaching into my pocket. As I grabbed a ten, the drink appeared in front of me. Was he trying to give me someone else's order? You could have heard a pin drop as I held out the bill.

The employee looked at my outstretched hand like he didn't know what money was. Dumbfounded, he stared for a few beats. “No charge, miss. Thanks for coming in today.”

“Um, okay," I stammered, not even wanting the coffee now. Snatching my drink, I turned and headed toward the door.

Every person's eyes followed me with not just longing, but also jealousy, and... lust.

I rushed the five blocks home in record time. What the hell was that all about?

Locking the door, I plugged in my phone. Flopping onto the sofa, I reflected back on the strangest evening ever. I was a dud, just a normal non-magical person. What was with all the looks?

Venti Mocha Frappe and thrift clothes forgotten on the table, I decided to make popcorn and veg out.

Bed pulled out, comfy clothes on, Orange on the TV... Perfect. Exhausted, I nodded off in the middle of the third season.

A surge of panic startled me awake. Reaching over to the table for my phone, I checked the time: 2:00 a.m. I'd been asleep for about five hours. What had awoken me? I heard nothing but the soft sounds of the TV I had fallen asleep listening to, but inside my gut was screaming.

Something was wrong.

Giselle would be sleeping right now. Maybe I should go check on her? As I debated calling her, a soft tapping sounded on the door. Thoroughly freaked out, I grabbed my bat from the corner by the couch and sat on my knees.

It came again. Tap, tap, tap. After a moment, the handle wiggled. Panicking, I squinted at the deadbolt in the flickering light of the TV. Locked, I sighed in relief.

Tap, tap, tap, thump.

Heart in my throat, I tiptoed to the door while strangling the Louisville Slugger with my sweat-dampened fingers. My home was just a studio/bath above a detached garage with a stair entry on the side. The door opened outward. If shit hit the fan, maybe I could kick it and surprise whoever the hell was sneaking around on the landing.

Muffled voices quickly aborted that

plan. “...I smell it too," said a man's deep

timbre.

“Door's locked... too loud," came a muffled reply.

I looked back toward the phone I left on the coffee table, torn between crossing the distance and listening further.

“The scent... near the old lady's house, we... it out?”

In full-on terror, I gripped the bat in one hand and placed my other on the lock. No way was I letting anyone near Giselle.

Another man replied, “No, Blaze said to check it out, not harass old ladies in the... the night."

I slowly let go of the breath I was holding and released the deadbolt. It made a nearly inaudible click as it resettled from my touch.

Silence.

A moment passed.

Knock, knock.

“We can hear you breathing, mouse. Open up. We just want to have a chat." I debated answering, when the lock began turning on its own. No! Too slowly, I reached out as it fully disengaged and swung open.

Two huge men stood with their faces shadowed against the dim porch light. Heavily corded with muscle, they seemed as big as mountains to my five-foot-nine frame.

Lifting the weapon higher, I readied my stance to strike whoever entered first. I didn't have much, but this was my home. I wouldn't give it up without a fight.

Their shoulders immediately slumped in unison. I waited a few more moments, but they remain as still as statues on my porch.

I shrilled, “Who are you?” Instantly, I cringed at my pitch. No response.

Stepping closer, I flipped the overhead light on with my elbow.

Unseeing ocean-colored eyes stared back at me from both of their faces. One had dirty-blond hair, while his partner's was dark as night. Both men were dressed completely in black.

I met the blond's gaze and repeated my question. “Who are you?”

“Von," he rumbled.

“And you?"

“Jake."

My eyes ping-ponged while the two guys remained completely motionless.

Confused, I looked to Von. "Why did you come here?”

Factually, he stated, “Blaze said to investigate a strange lingering scent in PB last night. It's coming from you.”

“You can s-smell me?" I stuttered. “My, uh, scent drew you here?” I now leaned more toward creeped out, and my panic lowered a notch.

“Yes," he answered. “We caught it near Starbucks and tracked you back here."

“Why?" I squeaked.

He replied in a monotone, “Blaze told us to find you, see what you were."

I took a step back. They remained where they were as if frozen while my mind raced. Strange things had been happening ever since I left that bar. The people's behavior downtown, now two hulking men had tracked me to my home and were answering my questions as if they were hypnotized.

I raised an eyebrow. "I'm human. What are you?”

“Vampires, of the SoCal Clutch."

Obviously Von could carry on a conversation, but Jake stood next to him like a statue. “Jake, who is Blaze?” He promptly replied, “The leader of our Clutch."

Inspired by their non-threatening manner, I stared hard at Von. "Stand on one foot.”

He immediately lifted a black-clad leg. Surprised, I gawked for a moment before addressing Jake, “You too."

What the hell was I supposed to make of this situation? It was almost comical. I knew of Vampires, but I had certainly never met one. Racking my memories, I searched for anything to explain what was happening. It seemed like I was controlling them. Almost... almost like magic. I was a dud, non-magical, and abandoned because of it. Now it seemed I had some sort of power, just one I'd never heard of. Adrenaline flooded my veins at the revelation. Peering at Von, I asked, "What are you going to do when you leave here?”

"Tell Blaze... tell him..." his brow wrinkled in confusion “...that we found a human?” The end of his sentence lifted into a question as if asking my opinion. It seemed I could impart suggestions. Interesting... “How did you unlock my door?"

Jake answered, “We can do simple magic and manipulate items.”

That was freaky. Any Vampire could just stroll into my home? My adrenaline rush came to an abrupt stop as fear took over again. Both Vampires inhaled in unison. Their gazes turned from blank stares into ones of fierce protection and alternating adoration. Odd. Shelving their reaction, I continued the interrogation. “How do I stop a Vampire?”

Von nodded. "Wards from Mages are usually placed around the exterior of a home. We cannot cross them."

Jake added, “Stakes, beheading, and fire are also very effective ways to stop a Vampire. We cannot go into direct sunlight, and daylight hours weaken us."

Shifting from foot to foot, I slowly digested their information. What the hell was I supposed to do now? I didn't want this, whatever this even was. Narrowing my eyes, I spoke with feigned confidence. “I think you should leave. Never come back, and do not tell anyone about me, especially Blaze." Their faces mirrored hurt and

confusion like I had just kicked their puppies. Strangely enough, the effect almost made me take back my words, but my safety was paramount. Hmm... could I make it an order? Clearing my throat, I restated, “Jake, Von, leave my home. Never tell anyone about me. Forget me entirely. You were never here. Is that understood?”

“Yes," they replied in unison. Their faces cleared as they turned away and walked silently down my creaky stairs.

If I hadn't seen them leave with my own eyes, I never would have believed they'd gone. Predatory, my mind supplied as they faded into the night. With the bat still clutched in my hand, I questioned my own sanity and closed the door. There was zero chance of sleep now, so I decided to tidy up my bed and head down to the garage to wash my new clothes. Thank the Goddess Giselle's house was just over two hundred feet away and I could come and go as I pleased. As tragic as it was that she had lost her family, I was very grateful to fill the void that they had left behind, and even more grateful that Giselle filled some of mine in return.

A couple hours later, I finished folding my clothes and checked the time: 4:30 a.m. Deciding to watch some more TV, I soon passed out on the couch.

The same sounds awoke me as the day before. Struggling with the crocheted throw and cushions, I began searching for my phone as it abruptly stopped ringing. I continued the fight with the decades-old sofa, when it chimed again. Finally, I located it beneath the couch and pressed the unlock button. 4:30 p.m. How do I keep sleeping away the day? I wonder, thumbing open the text with the G. ‘Hey, hon, feeling better? Dinner’s at 6.’ I thought for a moment. We’d barely seen each other all week. I typed back, ‘Yup, see you then!’ She replied, ‘:)’ I began what was becoming my evening ritual instead of the usual morning. The only difference was my excitement to try on the clothes I had purchased. After a quick shower, I wiped the fog from the mirror and froze. My hair was now completely silver, the stuff girls paid hundreds of dollars for at the salon. Ocean-blue eyes stared back at me. My lashes were fuller and my cheekbones seemed more pronounced. I tried not to be vain, but damn, I looked great! Grinning at my new look, I noticed my teeth even seemed whiter, and my lips were a plump pink. Shrugging it off as a good night’s sleep, I finished getting ready and headed over to Giselle’s house. Even from the entryway of her Spanish-style home, it smelled amazing. I let myself in and hollered a greeting. “Smells awesome, Giselle! I was practically drooling outside!” I rounded the corner as she was coming in from the back deck. “Steaks?” I looked at her plate. Usually, I steered away from red meat, but this looked delicious. The ribeye’s were grilled to perfection. She replied with a hesitant look on her face, “I know you normally don’t go for them, but I got a really good deal for the diner and decided to try them out.” I smiled. “No, they smell great. I’ll try one.” Her face shone as she grinned in approval. Giselle really was beautiful, in that classic Diane Keaton way. Slightly shorter than I, but with curves in all the right places. The regulars at the diner always stared after her when she made her rounds to the tables. Setting the platter down, she grabbed the salt and pepper. “Potatoes and corn are ready. Could you set the places?” “Sure.” I quickly busied myself with the familiar task. My mind kept wandering to the steaks. Goddess, when was the last time I ate? My O’s the day before? I had forgotten everything with all the crazy weirdness going on. No wonder the steaks smelled divine. I was starving. We finally sat down and served each other as we had numerous times in the past few months. She watched me with the expectant look of a mother while I took my first bite. It was rare and still bleeding in the center. I popped it into my mouth and instantly moaned. Her face lit with a million-watt smile. “I hoped you’d like it. That’s it, they’re going on the menu.” I mumbled my approval, too engrossed in shoveling in my meal as fast as possible. It felt like I hadn’t eaten in a month! Using my potatoes to soak up every drop of juice left on the plate, I took my last bite and leaned back with a contented sigh.

“Whoa! Have a drink, dear,” she chided. “You’ll choke.” “That was absolutely amazing. Thank you so much. I didn’t realize how hungry I was. Food has tasted off lately,” I grimaced, thinking about my cereal and forgotten popcorn from the day before. “Well, you look like you’ve lost a few pounds. You’re not dieting, are you? You know you’re gorgeous. All these fads with ‘thin’ these days.” She shook her head in disapproval. I smiled. “No, no dieting. I feel great, better than great actually.” Her frown turned back into a grin. “You do look amazing. Did you change your hair? I’ve never seen it so silver.” “Honestly, no. I’m not quite sure what’s going on with it, but I love it. I was thinking about cutting it last week, but I’m definitely going to keep it now,” I said, running my fingers through the shoulder-length tresses. “I agree.” She beamed. “It’s rather lovely on you.” My cheeks heated. “Thanks.” We continued to make small talk while we cleared the table and did the dishes. Her brows rose as I was getting ready to head out. “Do you have plans tonight?” “I’m not sure. I think maybe I’ll go for a walk on the beach before it gets too late.” She gave me the eye. “Well, you be careful.” Kissing her cheek, I answered, “I will, I will, promise.” She was such a mother hen. We made our usual date for next Wednesday. It was chilly again as I burrowed deeper into my jacket. The Moon shone off the water and highlighted the breaking waves. The ocean smelled so crisp. Sinking my bare toes into the cold sand, I thought over everything that had happened. I needed answers. Grabbing my sandals, I decided to visit my only friend and hit her froyo cafe to do some research. The door chimed overhead as it announced my arrival. Wiping my salty, sandy sandals on the rug, I glanced around. It was closer to nine, closing time, and the place was deserted. Frozen treats on a chilly night just weren’t as enticing as the coffee shop around the corner. Viv popped her head out from behind the counter and yelled over the loud music, “Hey, stranger!” She stood at five foot nothing with her two-inch pink hair spiked out every direction possible. Her tiny figure was lost in the large yellow apron looped twice around her frame. Green eyes sparkling, a devious grin slid over her lips as she scanned me from head to toe. Chucks slapping against the tiled floor, she made her way over and gave me a bone-crushing hug. For a tiny thing, she sure was strong. I grinned down at her. “Hey, what happened to the Rainbow Dash look?” My chin bumped against a pink spike as I released her. “Everyone has blue, purple, and pink these days,” she answered with a disgusted look on her face. Viv always liked to stand out in a crowd. Her hot-magenta lips shifted into a mock pout. “What brings you in? I hardly ever see you anymore unless I come to the diner.” “I know, sorry.” I cringed. “I’ve just been dealing with some family things. Me and all my baggage, right?” My attempt at a smile fell flat. Viv was an orphan; she understood being on your own. Despite losing her parents at a young age, she came back stronger than ever from it. She only knew my parents were gone, not that I was practically a leper among my people. “Well, I have the perfect fix for that.” She smiled, grabbing a paper bowl from the counter. Expertly working the chrome levers on the machine, she poured my usual froyo. “Chocolate fixes everything.” She was infectious. “Of course it does.” “You look good, been working out? I see you’re finally wearing some nice stuff.” She wagged her brows at me. “New boyfriend?” “Yeah, no.” I paused. “Just been trying some new things.” She winked. “Nice. Well, you eat that. I have a few things to do before I can lock up.” Closing consisted of stacking chairs and texting her boyfriend to tell him their plans for the night. I envied her normal life and cheery persona. “Actually, um, could I borrow your laptop?” My brows lifted hopefully. “I have some things I want to research.” “Sure. I’m out of here in thirty minutes though. Is that okay?” “Perfect, thanks.” I sighed in relief and made my way to her office. Shutting the door, I sat in her chair. The Apple computer was already on, so I just popped into the internet search engine and came to an abrupt stop. What the heck was I even supposed to look up? A Clutch? Vampires? Mind control? I typed away, using different searches and keywords before I promptly began to panic. There was nothing. What was I thinking? Sure, there were plenty of fanatic sites. Even blood-drinking ones; but nothing beyond books and folklore. Everything on mind control was layered in psychic crap and the occult. This was a colossal waste of time and my thirty minutes were up. Damn. Clearing the browser history, I got up just as Viv was coming in. She nodded to the computer. “Find what you needed?” “Not really. Just looking up some family stuff.” She frowned in sympathy and looped an arm around my waist. “It gets easier, you know?” I smiled. “I hope so.” “Hey, you didn’t eat your ice cream. Does it taste okay?” She frowned, spooning at the melted brown mess inside the bowl. “It’s fine. I just had a huge dinner with Giselle and don’t have anywhere to put it.” I reached out and pinched her jutting hip bone, with a wink. She giggled. “Okay. Just toss it. Jason will be here in a few. We’re heading out for a couple drinks. Want to come?” Shrugging, I bit my lip. “Thanks, but I have an early shift tomorrow. No rest for the weary.” I hated lying to her. I was scheduled for the lunch shift, not breakfast. If she was going out, I doubted she’d pop in before that. “Do you need any help locking up?” “No, I got it. You’d better get home and get some sleep. Those early hours suck.” She crossed her eyes at the thought of waking before six o’clock. “All right, take care. Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do.” I ****** my hips in a mock dance move. We both cracked up. My moves were nonexistent. I danced like a newborn colt frolicking in a field on shaky legs. As the door closed behind me, and Viv clicked the lock on the other side, a feeling of unease slithered down my spine. I looked around, but only saw a few people with their eyes glued to their phones or engrossed in conversation. The street lights were bright, but I couldn’t shake the feeling of being watched. I debated calling a Lyft home, but decided against it. With my tips stolen, I didn’t want to dip any further into my meager savings. As I made my way into the dimmer suburbs, the feeling neither grew stronger nor subsided. Six more blocks to go. Rounding the next corner, I spotted a man on the other side of the street walking in the same direction. It was too dark to make out anything other than his blond hair, but I kept an eye on him in my peripheral vision until he turned at the next street. Relieved, I sighed. I did not need another encounter with a stranger. Lengthening my stride, I picked up my pace to get home. Approaching my studio, I noticed my porch light wasn’t on. It must have burnt out, I thought, climbing the steps. Slipping the key into the lock, I turned the handle, when I was overwhelmed with a dose of adrenaline. Fight or flight. Someone was in my house. I jerked the door open in a panic, but no one was there. Flipping the deadbolt, I quickly checked the bathroom and tiny shower. Nothing. Heart rate calming, I walked back to the kitchen area. Opening the mini fridge, I felt a draft against the nape of my neck. Slowly, I turned. A brick of a man stood in my open entryway. I gasped. Lowering my gaze, I eyed my bat near the door from my last encounter. His lips tilted into a smirk as if daring me to go for it. He had a strong jawline and high cheekbones. Not pretty, but handsome in a bad-boy kind of way. The jacket he wore was open to a dark blue T-shirt. Faded jeans finished the look paired with black combat boots. He stared. I stared. It was like a Wild West standoff. After a moment, I injected feigned confidence into my voice. “Who the hell are you, and what are you doing in my house?” His lips curled into a full devilish smile that dimpled his cheeks. Deep, rich laughter rolled out, immediately pissing me off. Squaring my shoulders, I stalked toward him with a glare. His teeth snapped closed when I was a foot from him… and my weapon. Catching the movement of my eyes, he growled, “I wouldn’t.” Crossing my arms as a barrier, I tried to ignore the fluttering of my stomach. “Answer me!” Inside, a silent demand screamed, Let go. So, I did. Brilliant blue light lit my hands, dancing across my knuckles as I spread each finger. The glow played across the stranger’s face as he stared, completely transfixed by whatever the hell I was doing. This close, I could smell him. Clean and crisp like the ocean, and very similar to my home back in Seattle. Inhaling again, I licked my lips and relaxed into the memory. He flared his nostrils as his gaze tracked the motion. Shock and recognition flashed across his face. “You.” Confusion coursed through me. I didn’t know this mountain of a man that smelled like home. Returning his assessment, I noted how his leather jacket clung to him like a second skin. Focus! Tossing my hair over one shoulder, I asked, “Do I know you?” Stepping back, he overcame his previous emotional slip with the movement. “I’m Blaze, Master of the SoCal Clutch.” One perfect brow rose. “And you are?” I shook out my hands in hopes of extinguishing the flames. As they winked out, I bit out, “Sora,” to cover my surprise. “Sora,” he whispered. The longing in his voice made my heart beat faster. Clearing his throat, he murmured, “Can I come in?” Appalled at my body’s reaction, I snarked, “It’s a little late for pleasantries now, isn’t it? You already manipulated my door and let yourself in. Now you’re asking permission?” “Yes,” he rumbled back, following with a lower, “please.” I debated for a moment. I have magic! Magic… that I didn’t know how to use…. Oh well, fake it ’til you make it. “Fine,” I answered, tipping my head to the couch. He silently strode across the room and settled himself on the sofa like he was afraid to break it. The hide-a-bed groaned a loud complaint, but held. His bulk took up so much space, I remained standing. I crossed my arms again. “What do you want?” He let out a long sigh. “I came to investigate a scent I noticed early last night. I sent two of my best Trackers to hunt down whatever it was, only to have them fail to report back. When I tracked them down, they had no clue of the order I issued. Like their memory was wiped.” He leaned forward, and the couch whined its disdain at the abuse. “Any idea why that is?” My thoughts scrambled as my pulse skyrocketed. His pupils dilated. Tracing the curve of my jaw, they came to rest on my fluttering jugular. My quick intake of breath caused him to look away. Chagrined, he muttered, “Sorry.” Vampire, right. Gulping past the lump in my throat, I debated on the best answer that wouldn’t betray my weird ability. An ability that didn’t seem to work on him. Ignorance was bliss. I quipped, “What are you talking about?” His eyes turned cold as his gaze swung back to mine. “You really want to play that game?” Thick muscles flexed beneath his coat, straining the material in a mesmerizing display of masculinity. The threat was clear in every line of his hard body. My eyes widened as fear shot through me. Drawing in a short burst of air, he seemed to relax. I diverted, “Why do you breathe?” His brow furrowed as if he was thrown by the abrupt change in topic. “To gather scents, speak, and blend in.” Okay… I wonder what he smells? My own senses had increased ever since I cracked my head after the bar… Wait! Curley’s! The blond man with the strong jaw. It was him! “Have I seen you before?” Rolling his shoulders into a shrug, he contemplated my question. “I believe we were at the same establishment the other night.” I threw my arms up in exasperation. “Establishment! Yeah, establishment. Let’s go with that.” His sarcasm matched mine. “You were also there, alone, as I recall. Painting it black, right?” Venomously, I spat, “It’s a classic.” Rising, he towered over me. “You’re stalling. Tell me what I want to know.” Shit, he must be six foot three or more. Never had I felt so crowded by a man that smelled so damned good, in all my life. Noting my reaction, he turned toward the window and addressed my reflection. “Please, just tell me what I want to know.” His sincerity undid me. “Two guys, Von and Jake, broke into my home. I don’t know what they wanted. I had my bat. They left. I don’t know what happened to them after. End of story.” I mentally crossed my fingers for him to believe my edited version of events. His sigh fogged the glass. Holding my breath, I waited. “Fine,” he growled. As he prowled to the door, his shitkickers made hollow noises of displeasure on my thin carpet. Hand on the handle, he glanced back condescendingly. “Know this, Mage: there are others that reside in SoCal that will have caught your unique scent and will come to investigate. Others not so patient as I.” In a move too quick to follow, he tossed a card onto my coffee table. “Call if you require assistance. Good night, Sora.” I blinked. My door was closed and locked as if he’d never been there at all. Blaze Never had he been so frustrated by a female, nor had he been so turned on by scent alone either. Her mint shampoo played nicely to the delicate tones of surf and lavender. That alone was odd; ocean scents usually identified Vampires. Perhaps it was residual from his bite two nights before, or even the Trackers he sent. She certainly wasn’t a Vampire… Mentally, he replayed the toss of her hair… like liquid silver. His hand trembled with the urge to run his fingers through it. “Sora,” he whispered into the wind. The Moon had fully risen by the time he settled in to watch her home from a broken streetlight. Sora What the hell was that? Why couldn’t I control him like the other two? Maybe it was his leadership to their Clutch. He radiated power like most women overused perfume. Picking up the card, I read it while peeking out the window to the street. Deeply engraved in black on thick white paper, it read,

BLAZE

619.440.1667 My thumb rolled over the indentations. Pfft, not even a last name? Weird. Checking the view once more, I moved to the poor hide-a-bed and racked my brain for any memory on warding. Nothing came to mind. That was the trick with magic: you couldn’t learn to use it unless you had it. Why did this have to happen now? Recalling the blue flames, I surmised it had to have been instinctive due to my heightened emotions. Clasping my hands, I closed my lids and searched for the pull I felt earlier. There, near my center, was an azure light. Gently, oh so gently, I coaxed it out and opened my eyes. Holy shit! Surprised, I inspected the bright flames. Would they burn everything? Hesitantly, I touched my hair. Nothing. My palm lowered to the table with the same results. Emboldened, I walked to the door and concentrated on never letting anyone in without permission. Gliding my fingers over the frame and base, I came to rest on the knob itself. Over and over I repeated that no one shall enter without permission. On the third repeat, I felt a shift in my chest. The trim and handle lit with first blue, then white light. It flared once before extinguishing without a mark. Magic! I did a mini dance to mark the occasion. Feeling slightly dizzy, I stumbled over to the couch, pulled a blanket over myself, and fell asleep.

Sora Ding… ding… Ding… ding… I lifted my sleep-crusted lids. DING… What? Snatching my cell from the table, I quickly silenced the shrill tone. Ugh, I groaned into the pillow. My shift at the diner. Rolling to stand, I folded my blanket. Padding to the bathroom, the events of the previous night jolted me back to reality. Oh shit! Hands covering my face, I peered through my fingers and willed it all to be a dream. The puffy blue-green eyes in the mirror and crazy bedhead did nothing to reassure me. Flipping on the shower, I pushed the problems to the back of my mind. I could figure it out later; I needed this job and my home. I clocked in at 10:59 without paying attention to anyone and nodded my good mornings to the other wait staff. Tying on my backup apron, I headed out to my six-booth section.Arriving at the first table, I finally looked up. Two large men stared at me. Each flared their nostrils as they inhaled in unison. Noticing for the first time the silence of the room, I glanced around. Not a fork scraped nor a menu crinkled. Everyone was staring, again. Heat rushed to my face as my shoulders rounded. Staring hard at my order tablet, with my pen poised, I cleared my throat. “What can I get you?” The tanned guy on the left shifted on the brown vinyl. “Black coffee.” Closing his menu, the other man muttered, “Same, with the Steak Skillet. Rare, white toast.” Nodding, I scribbled the order down, plucked their menus from the table, and beat a hasty retreat to the kitchen. The elderly cook looked up with a smile as I handed him the ticket. “Rough start?” His head tipped to the pass-through window. “Those boys aren’t giving you trouble, are they?” Thankful for the normalcy, I met his eyes with a grin. “No, just the usual.” Near instantly, his eyes glazed over. Shaking himself, he mumbled, “I’ll get this together. You better get back out there.” “Um, thanks,” I uttered, pushing through the swinging door to the server station. I could do this. So, people were staring. Who cared? I had to get over these strange encounters. Time to kick *** and get paid. Pep talk done, I poured two cups of Columbian Black. People continued to gawk as I retraced my footsteps to the booth. Setting the coffees down, Skillet Guy addressed me with his brows lowered in thought. “You new here?” “Nope, I’ve been here for about four months. This your first trip in?” “No, Mel and I have been coming here for years. We’ve just never noticed your sc…” he corrected himself quickly “…smiling face before.” Thoughts whirling, I tilted my chin toward “Mel.” “You decide on any food yet?” Blowing over his raised cup, he shrugged. “Coffee’s good, thanks.” “All right then, I’ll be back with your food in a bit. If you need more coffee just set your mug”—I patted the table—“on the end here.” Turning away, I moved on. The stares and stammers were easier to handle after that. Lifting my lips, I waited as patiently as I could. A ding sounded as Skillet Guy’s food appeared in the window. I shuffled ketchup and A1 into one hand, grabbed a rack of jelly with my pinky, and double plated the skillet and toast with my other. He was talking animatedly with his hands. Mel stared back with a glare on his face. At my approach, they fell silent. Placing everything on the plastic surface, I injected fake cheer into my voice. “Here you go. Will there be anything else?” They shook their heads. “All right, here’s your check. Flag me down if you change your minds.” First the scent thing, then the weird silence. Shelving the thoughts, I finished my shift on autopilot. As I was getting ready to leave, the hostess snagged my shoulder with adoration lighting her hazel eyes. “Hey, the first guys you served left your tip up front when they paid. There’s a couple others as well, but theirs stood out.” She handed over a white envelope with my name on it. Slipping my fingers inside, I pulled out a fifty and a few other bills. Scrawled on the fifty were the words, “Call me, Mel 6197741282.” I gasped. “Did they say anything?” “Nope, the other guy paid the tab, and his friend left that for you.” She wagged her brows. “They were pretty cute.” “Um, thanks. I guess they were.” I waved over my shoulder. “See you tomorrow.” Shoving the envelope and cash into the pocket of my apron, I rushed home. It was early evening by the time I closed the door to my studio. Placing my hand on the handle, I tried to feel any energy from the ward. A slight hum met my fingertips. Cool, it must mean it’s still active. Walking to the couch, I untied my apron and emptied its contents onto the coffee table. Sitting down, I gawked. That was a lot of cash. Grabbing the remote, I turned on the local news and started counting. Two hundred and fifty-six dollars for a six-hour shift. Whoa. Never had I received so many tips in one day. Thumbing out most of the stack, I made my way to the mini fridge. Opening the freezer, I pulled out my zip lock of savings. Pinching my pennies was doing me well, but a few more shifts like this and I could afford a vacation. If I had somewhere to go. Replacing the bag, I glanced down at the frozen meals. I still wasn’t hungry, and nothing looked remotely appetizing. Hip checking the door closed, I padded back to the couch. Multiple strange men, all affected by my scent, and two phone numbers. Mel couldn’t have been a Vampire; it was daylight. What the hell was going on? I scribbled his phone number on the back of Blaze’s card. Mind spinning with confusion, I decided to take a hot shower. As I stepped out of the foggy bathroom, a knock sounded on the front door. “Who is it?” Another knock came. “Who is it?” I repeated, pitching my voice louder. No response. Hanging my towel on the hook, I slipped into my grey terry-cloth robe. Padding to the entry, I shouted, “WHO IS IT?” The knob shook in tandem with a man’s muffled curse. Simultaneously, I felt a tiny pinch in my chest. Grabbing my bat, I flicked the lock and pushed it open. Mel from the diner stood on my porch holding his hand to his wide chest. Glancing past him, I asked, “What the hell are you doing here? At my house?” His chocolate eyes widened at my robe but dismissed the bat entirely. I shifted its position, but he didn’t notice it. Clearing his throat, he shook out his fingers. “I’ve come to issue a request on behalf of the SoCal Pack.” Wait, what? Dumbfounded, I stared at him. He blinked. “I am the Alpha of the SoCal Pack.” My face screwed up as I tried to grasp memories long forgotten. A Pack… like Shifters? I took him in from head to toe. His brown hair curled at the tops of his ears. Wearing an untucked grey polo, khaki board shorts, and… Wait. Were those green flip-flops? My mind stuttered to a stop. Flip-flops…on a Shifter. A manic giggle slipped past my lips. He glanced at his feet. “What?” Blushing furiously, he grouched, “They’re easy to slip off for a shift.” This was just too insane! I laughed, long and loud. His face hardened at the ridicule. Tears streamed down my cheeks, and a giggle snorted through my nose. Tentatively, he smiled. Slapping my palm over my mouth, I grinned. “I’m sorry, it’s just been a long week.” He fidgeted. “I hoped you would call.” My hackles rose. Cocking a hip, I snarked, “You put your number on a tip. That does not mean I have to call you. Obviously you sniffed me out though. What do you want?” He gestured inside. “Can we talk?” Incredulous, I answered, “Um, no? I’m in a robe. It’s nighttime. What sane woman invites a strange man into her home after he’s stalked her?” Flexing his fingers, he stared down at his reddened palm. I hesitated. “What happened to your hand?” Ears reddening, he muttered, “Your, um, door burned me when I tried to open it.” “So not only did you stalk me, you tried to enter my home?” I glared. “You need to leave.” “No, please, just listen. Hear me out.” He reached out to the door frame. A sharp pain lanced my chest as he made contact. The entire frame glowed blue, then white. Fire raced across the open space as it made a solid flame. BOOM! I fell back on my rear, completely unprepared for the concussion. Blinking hard to clear the spots from my vision, I shakily stood and peered outside. The landing was empty, save for one lone green sandal. Leaning further out, I looked around. There, sprawled on the grass, awkwardly trying to move its forelegs, was the biggest brown Wolf I had ever seen. As he noticed my gaze, his upper lip rose to reveal one very large, finger-sized fang. He was not happy. Taking a sharp breath at his reaction, I smelled burnt hair. His left leg was bald and smoking. He rumbled a vicious growl before loping off into the darkness. Shuddering at the mess my life had become, I gently closed the door. I ran my fingers over the panel, and the ward hummed as I thanked the Goddess the frame wasn’t damaged. It was a damned good thing Giselle was at work tonight. That was the last thing I needed. Tucking my legs beneath my sore rear on the couch, I debated picking up the phone. Blaze said to call if I required assistance. He knew others would catch my scent. Shit. Blaze He grinned as he watched the charred Wolf retreat to lick his wounds. Sora seemed to be handling herself well enough. He wasn’t sure why he returned after dusk. Something about her called to him. If he was honest with himself, it wasn’t just her scent. Ocean-colored eyes in a perfectly sculpted face. High cheekbones paired with full pink pouty lips. He yearned to touch her silver hair. Christ, she even managed to make a bathrobe look seductive as it molded to her soft curves. Her anger at the Wolf turned him on; the crisp bite of sea water was more pronounced with her outrage. Licking his lips, he replayed the memory of her taste. She’d only smelled mildly of the ocean then, he mused. It’s what caught his attention at the bar. Settling back on the balls of his feet, he waited for her call. Sora After making my favorite brand of coffee and pouring it into a chipped mug, I debated whether or not to call Blaze. I took a sip, and my stomach soured. Instantly, I spit it back into the cup. Damn it. Dumping the ruined drink in the sink, I rinsed the mug and set it back on the rack. Pulling out my sleep shorts and tank from my tiny linen closet, I quickly dressed. Padding to the bathroom, I grabbed a comb from the vanity and headed to my window seat. Untangling the messy strands, I watched my reflection in the glass. With a sigh, I reached for my phone and hovered my thumb over the keys. Screw it. Punching in his number, I half hoped to get voicemail after the third ring. “Yes?” a deep voice rumbled, making my stomach flip. “Hey, Blaze? Um uh, hi. It’s Sora.” I cringed. His tone was all business. “What is it?” “Well, you said I could call, that others would come…” My voice lowered to a whisper. “That I might require assistance?” The pause on the other end was so long, I checked the phone’s display to make sure it hadn’t lost signal. Finally, after what seemed an eternity, he replied, “What do you need?” Goddess, he was going to make me ask for help. Screw that! I snarled, “Well, you tell me. I didn’t ask for any of this crap.” He chuckled. Butterflies danced in my belly at the rich sound. Holding my breath, I waited for him to say something, anything. Knock, knock. I jumped and nearly fell off my chair. Who the hell was here now? It was like Grand Central Station around here. “Well,” his voice came through the Screw it. Punching in his number, I half hoped to get voicemail after the third ring. “Yes?” a deep voice rumbled, making my stomach flip. “Hey, Blaze? Um uh, hi. It’s Sora.” I cringed. His tone was all business. “What is it?” “Well, you said I could call, that others would come…” My voice lowered to a whisper. “That I might require assistance?” The pause on the other end was so long, I checked the phone’s display to make sure it hadn’t lost signal. Finally, after what seemed an eternity, he replied, “What do you need?” Goddess, he was going to make me ask for help. Screw that! I sneaked, “Well, you tell me. I didn’t ask for any of this crap.” He chuckled. Butterflies danced in my belly at the rich sound. Holding my breath, I waited for him to say something, anything. Knock, knock. I jumped and nearly fell off my chair. Who the hell was here now? It was like Grand Central Station around here. “Well,” his voice came through the door a second before the speaker pressed against my ear, “are you going to let me in?" Shit, he was here? Now? Hitting End, I walked to the door. Taking a moment to compose myself, I flipped the lock and pushed it open. My eyes widened as I took in his tall, muscular form. Goddess, he looked good. His eyes seemed almost blac in the low light, further enhanced by the thick fan of lashes against his cheeks. My heart beat faster while I slowly looked my fill from his boots to his chin. Clearing his throat, the corner of one lip lifted as if my perusal amused him. Stepping aside, I tucked my chin to hide my blush. “Please, come in.” As he prowled through the doorway, his denim jeans flexed with every step. Without the leather jacket, his black T shirt looked painted on. It highlighted the perfect v of his hips. Inhaling through my nose, I parsed his scent while closing the door. He smelled delicious. Home, my body screamed. He turned toward me. "Well?" My mouth ran dry. Swallowing, I quipped, “That was fast. Are you still stalking me?” Returning my glib, he stepped within inches of my chest. “If I am?” My body betrayed me as I leaned toward him. What? No, focus! Rocking back on my heels, I shook my head. “Then you know why I called. What the hell is going on?” He silently strode toward the couch and sat. A smile lit his face when it once again squealed its dissent. “I came to check up on you. I saw the Wolf; nice work there." His eyes flashed to cobalt as if he truly enjoyed the show. My heart warmed at the praise, and I snickered, "It was pretty funny.” Instantly, I sobered. I needed answers, not admiration from a Vampire I barely knew. “Please, just tell me what is going on." Poker face in place, he replied, "Tit for tat, if you want information.” I walked to the window and sat. I had to keep my distance from him. Never had a male affected me so drastically before, nor had I met one that changed moods so quickly. Hesitantly, I asked, “What do you want to know?" He lifted a brow. "Where are you from?” Sliding a pony tie off my wrist, I tipped my head back and gathered my damp tresses to begin a loose braid over one shoulder. Watching my fingers work the strands, I muttered, “Seattle. I kind of migrated down the coast and ended up here." Raising my eyes to his, I noticed he was staring at my neck. He quickly averted his gaze, but not before I saw the need reflected in his dark depths. Tying off the end, I bounced my leg and pondered my own question. “Why are you stalking me? I mean, um, what is so interesting about my scent? First your Trackers, then you, and now a Shifter." He nodded in anticipation. “Your scent is unique, as I said before. You smell of the ocean, with hints of mint and lavender. It's intoxicating." He sighed. “The kicker is, only Vampires smell like the sea. That brings us to my next question. What are you?” His eyes were so earnest, I found I did want to tell someone of my past. Taking a deep breath, I began, “I was born to some of the most powerful Mages in the Seattle Stronghold. It was assumed I would be incredibly powerful. Most come into their power at puberty. I didn't." Raising a shoulder, I tried to push down the hurricane of negative emotions. “My parents tried everything. Tutors, enhanced spell books, hypnotism. Our Seer couldn't see me, or my future. I was just a blank space, void of magic, worthless. On my twenty-first birthday, my parents were called before the Council. I'm not sure what was said, but I was kicked out of my home because I had no magic. My mother and father were so embarrassed, they didn't even say goodbye. I was left like trash on the curb, alone, with nothing but the clothes on my back in Downtown Seattle.” I met his azure gaze as he leaned forward with interest. At least it wasn't a look of sympathy, thank the Goddess. “You see, I didn't have magic until after that night at the bar." He frowned.

My brow furrowed. "I'm not really sure what I am. Do you know?” His granite mask slid back into place as he shifted back to his original position. “I have some theories, but I'm not prepared to share them yet. I need to do some research first. Do you have any other questions, so we can continue?” “Yes. What do you think Mel, the Wolf Shifter, wanted?” His entire body flexed as his torso rotated toward me. The churning ocean on a moonless night darkened his irises in disapproval. “Mel was the Wolf? The one charred by your ward?”I stammered at the abrupt change. “Ye yes. He came to the d-diner where I work today. He had some other guy with him. He wrote his number on a fifty-dollar bill and left it the cashier.” My shoulders rounded as the menace radiating from him increased. “He stalked me home and said he wanted to issue a request. He wanted to come in to talk, but I refused. He put his hand on the doorframe, and boom”—I threw out my arms-“the ward activated. It blasted him off my landing and across the yard.” Standing, he barked, “We need to leave." Struck dumb by the entire exchange, I stared. His boots clomped loudly in agitation as he stepped toward me. Cringing away in fear, I turned to the side while closing my eyes for the blow that was sure to come. Instead, he placed his fingertips under my chin and gently tipped my face up. Once I met his gaze, he rumbled, "I will never hurt you." His face scrunched in anger and disgust as if the mere thought offended him. “We have to leave. That Wolf is the Alpha of the SoCal Pack. This slight, accidental as it was, will not be forgiven. He will come back with reinforcements and force you to do whatever he requires. We must go. I cannot deal with thirty Wolves on my own." He paused before adding, “Or their Mage." Heart racing, I asked, “A Mage? Go where?” Releasing his grip, he growled, “My Clutch.” My posture changed to defend what was mine as I stood. “What about my home? Giselle? I can't just leave!" “Your presence does nothing but endanger the old woman. Ward everything, but we have to leave. NOW!” His voice boomed in the tiny space, leaving no room for argument. I ran to the linen closet and pulled out a rolled-up duffel bag. Throwing in half of my clothes and my makeup pouch from the bathroom, I pivoted and snagged my jacket off the back of the couch. Shoving my arms through the sleeves, I stomped to my mini fridge and grabbed my

savings. No way was I leaving without that. Dashing past the couch, I tugged my charger from the wall and pocketed my phone. Blaze tapped his impatience on the window frame while staring intently into the night. “Ready," I bit out, glaring at his back. It had only taken me a moment to pack. My chest ached at the thought of leaving the only place I felt any peace since I was kicked out of my home. I was livid. “Good. Outside, go. You need to ward the perimeter.” Turning on his heel, he opened the door and pushed me through. His magic snicked the lock after us as he tugged me down the stairs. I scoffed, “How the hell do I do that?" “Figure out how you did it the first time," he hazarded a guess, “but bigger." What the ****? Damn it! Cursing the Vampire at my side, I squatted to the ground. Closing my eyes, I imagined a large rectangular shape big enough to cover the garage and Giselle's home, but small enough to leave the sidewalk untouched. Holding the image firmly in my mind, I placed my hands in the dirt. No one will enter without her or my permission. I held her face prominently in my mind, glossing over her silver streaked hair and warm smile before I reached for my center. My hands immediately lit with blue flame. Opening my lids, I struggled to concentrate on the ward and her. Slowly, the flame lit the grass. Gently, it flickered in the breeze. With one last mental repeat of my will, it shot off into the night like it was following a trail of gasoline. It hit the first corner of the house while I rose to my feet. A heartbeat later, the flames came rushing toward me from behind the garage. As they met the start, the circuit completed and flashed a foot-high, sapphire flame. A second later, it turned a brilliant white before winking out without a trace. My chest ached with the expenditure of power. I squatted back down and reached back into the damp soil. Pride ran through my thoughts as the hum of magic coursed through the soil and tickled my palm. Blaze pulled me to standing. Completely exhausted, I swayed. A Wolf yipped on the wind as I passed out against him.