“We’ll figure it out later,” Saxon said and moved to the map where Kaylen pointed out the men’s positions and what they had for weapons. Are they all human?” he asked, and Kaylen shook his head.
“Most are human, but some of them are other, and they also have gifts, so be careful,” Kaylen announced.
A bright flash filled the room along with the sound of thunder that shook the walls of the establishment. Saxon hit the floor with everyone else expecting an attack, but as he turned toward the back of the diner, his heart seemed to stop beating at the damage he could see. Immense heat rushed over him as he jumped up, moving toward the back of what used to be the back of the diner, where he had just left his woman. Dread filled him as he and the others rushed toward the back. Not caring what or who was back there, Saxon released the beast inside, shifting. His skin was now red and tough for the battle that was about to come.
Drake’s scream filled the air, as all of his sons burst into the room running with him. Darla had been hurt, his mate...
Chapter Six
One minute Nava had been taking to Darla, the next, every nerve and muscle in her was doing the funky chicken inside her. Pushing Susanna and the help next to the freezer, Nava stepped in front of Darla, since she refused to hide. The stupid, stubborn woman was bound and determined to try and protect her. It was weird how quickly this woman and her husband had a place in her heart, and she sure wasn’t about to let anything happen to her, but even Nava couldn’t stop over thirty darts flying at them through the windows.
The burn was on. How dare they attack these innocent people, hurting them? But then go further by shooting their stupid dart guns at Darla, and that was the last straw. Her skin heated, her vision changed as fireballs formed in her hands as she started throwing them at the men that had broken into the back room. Nothing mattered but giving the men time to get back there to help them. Already the two men that Drake had left were dead, gunshots to the head it would appear to the small holes in their heads as they lay on the ground.
She would not let them take her new family. Nava fought the drug that was now going through her system, trying to give them time, knowing the men were coming. With a thud, Darla fell beside her. Susanna and three of her workers hid in the walk-in freezer as Nava placed herself in front of a sleeping Darla. They wouldn’t touch the woman as far as she was concerned.
But the question in her head was forefront. Who the hell knew they were in the back and had squealed on her? “I really can’t hold on here, Saxon, if you can hear me...” Nava yelled in her head, hoping there was a chance that through the mate thing he would be able to hear her. “But hell, you would think the back of the diner burning...” The door behind her came flying off its hinges as it flew toward the three men that had stormed into the hole that had been created by her first fiery blast. “Saxon?” she questioned, not wanting to take her eyes off the enemy.
“I’m here, little fire,” he said, wrapping his thick, red arms around her as others stormed into the tiny room from the hole in the wall behind them.
“I’m tired, Saxon. Make sure, Darla...”
“I’ve got you, little fire,” she heard before the lights went dark.
* * * *
Saxon swung his woman up in his arms as Drake did the same. “I want one of them alive,” Drake ordered as Saxon moved into the main part of the diner.
“We need a doctor. We have no idea what they put in those darts,” Saxon growled.
“He’s on the way,” Kaylen said, coming in with one of the men hogtied, dragging him behind him as the doctor for their kind appeared in the room.
“What do we have?” Doc Lope said as he shifted from his wolf form, moving right to Darla, pulling out the dart and sniffing it. “Fuck, Thiopental. Your mate will be out for the rest of the day by the number of the darts in her body. She’ll be very hungry, and well, you will be busy for a while. Think of the mating heat of a demon.” The doc turned his gaze on Saxon and moved to Nava next.
“I see at least three darts, and she was the one standing?” the doctor asked, removing her darts, throwing them on the table next to her. “Something isn’t right. She should have hit the floor first if she is human. Saxon, I’m going to shift. I want you to bring her down to me. I need to scent her to find out what is going on,” he said, and Saxon nodded.
Carefully lowering Nava down, Doc Lope shifted and walked around them, sniffing. After a few minutes, bones popped, and the doctor shook his head. “We have a problem here,” he looked at the sheriff. “I scent two different forms, a Golem, which would explain why it took three darts, but her other form has me worried. It also explains the fire; we have a Phoenix here. I only heard of one family long ago, but the rumors were they’d been killed off.” The doctor looked over at Drake, who sighed.
“By my kind. I had just gone down for my deep sleep when this went down. Believe me, the men who did this were dealt with.” Drake glanced at him. “It’s good she is my daughter now. But guard her well.” Drake glanced at the sheriff. “You might want to inform the town. This could also bring more people here once they hear about her. It’s most likely the reason why they haven’t given up on her after all these years. After all, a true Phoenix has amazing gifts and love to give to all around her. It’s no wonder my woman was drawn to her.”
Saxon hugged his woman tight. “How long on the drugs for her?” he asked.
“She should wake in a couple of hours, I think. The drug won’t affect her like Darla here, but she’ll be confused when she awakes. I’d like to be called when she starts to wake, so I can make sure everything is okay. Now, I’m off, Ms. Merk is about to deliver her triplets. Looks like the boys will have some company,” the wolf said as he shifted, taking off.
Kaylen moved up to Saxon’s side. “All the men have been taken care of. The posse has rounded up the last of the men, and they are in the jailhouse now. Three of them are dead; no one was hurt but them. Are you taking her to her place?” Kaylen asked.
“No, I want her moved to my home, and yes, you are welcome there, too, Saxon. But if we have a traitor here in the city, my home will be the best to defend than your home or hers,” Drake said, moving to the door with his wife in his arms as his sons followed. “Ringo, make sure the west wing is ready for your sister. Matty, go gather her belongings and bring them to the house. Until this is over, Saxon and your sister will be staying with us.” Drake gave him a stare, waiting to see if he would object.
“I’m right behind you. Kaylen, go to my apartment and pack a bag for me. A team bag will be fine for now,” Saxon said, knowing Kaylen knew he wanted his weapons now, too. He stopped at the door to the diner and looked around him. “Sheriff, all the repairs are on me. Make sure only the best supplies are used.”
“Don’t worry about it. We’ll take care of Susanna,” Topper said, appearing with Lacey and her sisters. “Also, you should bring her by Lacey’s, there is a special pup there that is waiting for her.”
Saxon nodded, following Drake out the door to the waiting limo. His little fire ball wasn’t going to be happy about moving into Drake’s, but Drake was right. His home was like a fortress and well protected. She’d be able to move around the home, not having to worry about who was after her.
“So, you have any idea who the traitor is?” Saxon asked as they pulled away from the curb.
“No, and that has me worried. The only thing I can think of is someone followed Darla here, which was a while ago. But it still does not make sense since why risk yourself now after so many years?” Drake said, brushing his mate’s hair out of her face.
“I think we need a more personal approach to this. To dig deeper into those that came here to extract our women. Because it’s obvious they were not only going to take Nava...” Saxon looked up at Drake. “But Darla, too. Otherwise, they would have just shot her and killed her as they did the guards.” Saxon watched as Drake’s eyes flashed red and black.
“Agreed, and as soon as I get this o
ne home safe in her bed, I will personally be visiting those we have captured. It’s time to get to know their plans for Nava and our town since it’s obvious they know all about it. They have attacked the wrong family,” Drake said and glanced out the window.
“Dad, really?” Ringo yelled from the front of the limo. “Do you know the frenzy this will bring?” Ringo met Saxon’s gaze. “He’s called all our people on this one, from everywhere.”
“What? You think this is wise?” Saxon asked, knowing it would cause a stir around the world.
“Not only have they attacked my family, but if they capture your woman and, most likely, the last Phoenix, it would be bad. You do realize the importance of making sure she lives?” Drake asked.
“Other than a species being destroyed, no?” Saxon said, rubbing his cheek on the top of her head.
“Yes, a Phoenix is born again when she dies, but what others do not realize is that she is the hope for those who are lucky to know her. Not only does her kind bring peace to her surroundings and hope for new life, but births are also increased and new romance blossoms around her. With her death in our city, darkness would settle over us, and I don’t think we could survive it. She’s already chosen us, honored us,” Drake informed him, staring at Nava.
“Don’t you think that is a lot to put on one woman? She doesn’t even know what she is, let alone about this story or rumor, and she doesn’t need to be pressured about this either.” Saxon raised his gaze to Drake. “If all this is true, don’t you think it would be wrong to allow your people near her after everything that happened to the others of her kind?”
“No, they saw firsthand what happened to their city and their lives. Believe me, she will be protected at all cost. But you are right, it is much to know, but she also has a right to know about herself if she asks.” Drake glanced at his son. “The south wing, have it ready, for the others will be arriving in the next few days.”
Chapter Seven
Her head was throbbing, wishing the little trolls in her brain would stop their pounding, Nava tried to remember what the hell she had to drink when everything came back to her. “Darla!” Nava screamed, lifting up in bed, looking around, frowning.
“Easy there, you’re both safe. If I’m right, Darla and Drake have been very busy for the last day,” Saxon said, coming over with a glass of ice water. “Drink,” he said, sitting down on the bed next to her.
“How long was I out this time?” she asked and sighed as the cold water soothed the burning pipes inside her.
“Thirty-six hours, which is longer than I thought you’d be out, young lady,” a strange, older gentleman said, coming up to stand behind Saxon.
“This is Doc Lope. He’s been checking on the both of you but was thrown out of Drake’s room six hours ago.” Saxon smiled, and the doctor snorted.
“I should have seen it coming, but I didn’t expect her to start stripping the minute she opened her damn eyes,” the doctor said. “It would seem the dose they used was stronger than I had expected. How are you feeling?” he asked Nava.
“I feel as if I have a hangover times three. It’s a normal reaction for their concoction. It’s not just one sedative they mix but two when they come after you. And what’s going on with Darla?”
“I’ll let you explain that to your woman. I’m off to see if we’re any closer to delivering those triplets yet. You take it easy, young lady, you’re going to be tired for the next day as you know.” The doctor moved toward the door, stopping to look at Saxon. “I’ll be going with you when you go rescue those at that place. God knows the kind of damage these idiots have done to those children.”
Nava frowned and glanced down at the blanket covering her. She was naked under said blanket. “Did you remove my clothes?” She peeked up at Saxon.
“I did, and I also gave you a bath. You were covered in smoke, ashes, and such. I sure didn’t want to put you to bed like that. It’s my job to take care of you, little fire, and I take my responsibilities seriously. I do have several questions about the scarring on your back, but that is for another time.” He leaned down and nipped her lip then ran his tongue over it. “No one has the right to touch you and hurt you. I ’don’t give a damn if it was in the past.”
Nava smiled and couldn’t help herself, reaching up and cupping the side of his face. “Saxon, I rather not even see the person who did this. I’m hoping he is dead. It’s what I had to believe trying to heal myself when I got to my parents.” She started to pull her hand away, but he covered her hand with his, holding it there.
“My little fire ball, you have nothing to worry about. This person won’t get close to you. I should warn you now.” He turned his head and placed a kiss on her palm. “My world has changed, the center of my universe, my heart, and soul is the fire ball I have trapped here on this bed. When we were alone and I was giving you a bath,” he took her hand and put it against his chest, “it felt as if my heart was swelling inside. Never have I experienced such emotion, except for the death of my grandfather long ago. It might be too soon for you to feel this way, but know I’m not going anywhere. Wherever you go, I will follow, you will never be alone again, little fire.”
“No one has ever said such words to me. Do I feel something for you? Yes. Otherwise, you’d be fried right now for giving me a bath. But there is something you are not telling me?” she asked, tilting her head to the side, studying him.
“Do you know anything about your past, heritage, and not including Calamity Jane?” Saxon asked.
“Not much, Mom was always interested in our genealogy but was afraid to dig after what happened to me. Why?” she asked.
“The doctor is very good at what he does, and you are not just human. It’s one of the reasons why you were still standing when Darla had fallen to the drugs. It would seem you are part Phoenix and Golem. Your Golem helped fight off the effects of the drug, which saved you both from being dragged away. Do you know anything about them? What they are?” Saxon asked.
“I mean, I’ve heard rumors about the Phoenix but nothing on the other. Is this important? Is it why they keep coming for me?” Nava pulled the cover up and tried to scoot around without being exposed.
“I don’t know if it’s the reason they keep coming after you, but most likely. Drake told me there are not many Phoenixes left in the world; as a matter of fact, you could be the last of your line.” Saxon reached over and lifted her up under her arms; the blanket slipped loose, exposing her breast.
She tried to pull the blanket back up, but Saxon grabbed onto her hand, holding her still as he lowered his head, sucking her exposed nipple into his mouth. “Saxon,” she whispered. His touch was like fire, sending heated tingles throughout her body. Nava rubbed her legs together as moisture gathered below. “Please, you have to stop,” she begged.
“Never,” he growled, releasing her breast. “Every single inch of your body is mine to worship, love, and touch.” His gaze met hers. “And I plan on touching you whenever I can, but since it’s obvious you are not ready for our joining yet...” He tucked the cover around her. “What do you think about doing some exploring? Did you know, Drake’s home is built in the caverns? There are hidden natural treasures all around us. I thought we could pack a picnic and go explore.” He placed a kiss on her nose and stood. “It would give us time to get to know each other.”
“I take it all my belongings have been moved here,” she said, sliding her feet over the edge of the bed and standing up, taking the sheet with her. She scanned the room, searching for the duffle bag with her emergency funds and clothes if Nava had to leave.
“The bag is in the closet, but you won’t need it anymore. I’m afraid once Drake considers you family, he is very protective. He and Darla have given you the west wing of their home. You even have your own kitchen and living quarters in this wing, not to mention three separate bedrooms, plus this master and two bathrooms. As you can see, the bedroom set you liked has been placed in here along with the other furniture you hav
e chosen. Plus, there is the fact you’re not going anywhere without me,” Saxon informed her.
She shook her head, looking around for clothes. She glanced up at Saxon. “I will always have a bag packed. Never will they catch me unprepared like they did my parents,” she told him with a lump in her throat scanning each inch of her new place. “I have no idea why they would do this. It’s too much. Hell, I just met them. Aren’t their sons going to be furious they are doing this?”
“Your clothes are over here. I understand the need for the bag, but it will be my job to prove to you that you are safe with me.” Saxon moved to her, wrapping his arm around her waist. “You have a walk-in closet that could be a room in itself. As for your new brothers, they are having a blast. Even a pain in the ass telling me what I can and can’t do with you, please,” he grumbled, and she couldn’t help but giggle.
“I always wanted older brothers, how cool is that,” she teased, earning another growl, but didn’t say a word about her duffle bag, seeing it in the corner of the closet. She moved to it, opening it up to make sure everything was in it, including her... “My gun, purse?” she asked, looking up over her shoulder as Nava stood.
“Don’t encourage them, little fire, I might have to physically make that butt red.” He leaned over, nipping her bare shoulder. “Your purse is behind you, but your weapon has been locked up. Drake hates guns in his house, not that he needs any,” Saxon grumbled.
“Ouch,” she tried to jerk away, but he dipped, lowering her in front of him, once more exposing her breast to his view. He just held her there, his gaze traveling down her body as Nava held onto him. “I’d prefer to have you naked, but with so many new faces showing up around here, I’ll be damned if I allow others to stare at what is mine,” he grumbled and lifted her back up. “Get dressed, baby, before we both burn up here.” He set her on her feet and spun, moving out of the closet.
Magic, New Mexico: Loving Phoenix (Kindle Worlds Novella) Page 4
