by Kiki Howell
Freda clucked her tongue softly. “We have discussed your enthusiasm before, Cassandra.” Waving a hand over the pieces, the plate reassembled itself into its original form. “It is a pity we cannot save the bread,” continued Freda, evenly.
Sebastian slid forward off his stool and offered Remy his hand. “I seem to find you in this position a lot,” he murmured seductively.
“Hands off,” shouted Drew, shoving Sebastian away.
A smile twitched across Sebastian’s full mouth as he spun to face Drew. “And who are you?” he drawled acerbically.
Drew shifted into a protective stance, attempting to step between Sebastian and Remy. “Remina’s boyfriend,” Drew snarled.
“He is not my boyfriend,” Remy growled, slamming her fist on the ground.
“At least, not anymore,” muttered Cassie. She lifted a skeptical eyebrow, “or are you still mad at me over that?”
Remy glowered at her. Cassie disappeared behind the island under the pretense of helping Freda remove fresh anadama loaves from the oven. The aroma danced through the kitchen, swirling around like mist.
Sebastian extended his hand again, keeping a vigilant eye on Drew, and slowly dragged Remy to her feet. Pulling her flush against his body, Sebastian circled her waist with his arm; his fingers inched lower, cupping Remy’s butt. Sebastian squeezed possessively.
A low rumble emanated from Drew, who clenched his fists in irritation; Grandfather silenced him with a glance. Retreating, Drew faded into a corner near the kitchen entrance, his arms crossed sulkily.
Grandfather cleared his throat, raising an eyebrow at Sebastian. Bowing respectfully, Sebastian released Remy and placed her gently back on to the stool. Giving Remy’s shoulder a tight squeeze, Grandfather’s gray eyes rose to Freda, who patiently kneaded a lump of dough; a furtive smile evaporated from her lips.
“Freda, it is a pleasure to see you again,” Grandfather’s voice boomed. “I see your talents are still as accurate as ever.” He rounded the counter and greeted her with two airy kisses.
“Nicoli, it has been far too long,” she answered in a respectful tone, returning his friendly greeting. “It is a pity we only converge to discuss challenging issues.”
“It is,” agreed Grandfather, with a sad smile. “Unfortunately, that is the exact reason for my visit; we have another problem.”
Freda nodded, her tone grave. “We have more than one.”
“Darius and Angelique will be vital to this discussion,” added Grandfather. “Would you summon them?”
“I already have,” responded Freda, lightly.
“Who are Darius and Angelique,” Remy whispered to Sebastian.
“My parents,” he sighed.
“Your parents are coming here?” Remy murmured apprehensively. “At this hour?”
“They have arrived,” declared Freda, dispassionately. She indicated the kitchen door with a nod; the immobile bun steadfastly clung to her head.
A moment later, an older version of Sebastian stormed into the kitchen. His piercing blue eyes swept over the group, landing briefly on Freda and Cassie, pausing curiously upon Grandfather, before settling on Sebastian.
“Please tell me you did not get some girl pregnant,” his thundering voice bounced off the ceiling.
“I am not pregnant!” Remy exclaimed indignantly, leaping off the stool and striding toward him.
Quickly, Grandfather interceded, blocking her progress. Sebastian lunged forward, grasping her wrist. He tugged lightly, pulling Remy backward until she resumed her original position atop the stool. A firm arm locked around her wrist.
“Darius,” Grandfather spoke calmly as he extended his hand in a friendly greeting, “you know I would never wake you for something as trivial as an unplanned child.”
Darius accepted Grandfather’s hand. Concern flitted across his beautiful face. “Has something happened?”
“Yes,” Grandfather replied. “Where is your lovely wife? This affects her too.”
“I am here,” answered a musical voice. Floating into the room, Angelique – the embodiment of her name - kissed Grandfather’s and Freda’s cheeks before joining her husband’s side. Darius regarded her in adoration, momentarily in awe. She trailed her hand over his back, folding her fingers into Darius’ large hand, and smiled up warmly at him.
“What news was so important that we were called before breakfast?” Darius grumbled irritably at Sebastian. “This better not be anything like Kerian.”
“It’s not,” growled Sebastian, his hand clenched. “I still do not understand why you refuse to see her.”
“She married beneath herself,” scowled Darius in return. “Are you planning to do the same?” He shot Remy a sour glare.
“Darius, please stop this foolishness and listen for a moment,” Freda calmly addressed her son-in-law. “I would like to introduce you to Remina Vasile.”
Darius granted Remy a cursory glance – barely a second of his attention - before returning his gaze to Freda. “I see nothing special.”
Grandfather smiled in understanding. “You will not either, at least, not until after midnight.”
“What happens after midnight?”
“Remy will cease being a Vasile.”
“What will she become?” asked Darius, suspiciously. He frowned at her; Sebastian gave her waist a light squeeze. The heat from his fingers burned through her clothing.
“A Bonnay.”
“Vraiment? Nadine’s daughter?” The words slipped reverently from Angelique’s red lips. She released her clasp on Darius’ hand and drifted closer; her piercing gaze locked on Remy’s face, who shifted uncomfortably under Angelique’s scrutiny. Unable to wrench her eyes away from Angelique’s captivating blue eyes, Remy tumbled into the deep pools – drowning. A wave of white-blond hair fell across Angelique’s face, breaking the trace. She paused, an unreadable expression flitted across her cherubic mouth; it twitched into a tiny smile. Her eyes flickered to Sebastian.
“A little overprotective, son,” she murmured, tucking the wayward tress back into her braid. Hesitantly, Angelique reached out one finger and touched it softy to Remy’s cheek. Sucking in a quick breath, Angelique retracted her hand immediately.
“It is she.”
“The daughter of Nadine Bonnay is part of your coven and under your protection,” Drew seethed bitterly from his corner. “We are no longer responsible for her well-being.”
“Drew,” Grandfather chastised, a dark growl rumbled in his throat. “By design or by blood,” his deep voice intoned. “Your petty disagreement has no place here. Remy is my grand-daughter.”
Drew dropped his gaze, kneeling. “As you command.”
“Sasha’s enchantments are nearly depleted,” continued Grandfather, remorselessly, “Remy needs your help; you are her chosen teacher.”
“I object,” Remy’s strong voice surprised everyone; they turned, staring. Remy rolled her eyes. “Obviously, he doesn’t want to.”
“He has no choice,” replied Grandfather quietly; he indicated Drew, still crouched on the floor. “Drew is obligated to perform the task.”
Sebastian bristled beside Remy. “What if I object too?”
“You are not trained to assist with transitioning, Sebastian,” Freda stated flatly, dropping the loaf-shaped dough into a greased pan; beside her, Cassie silently stirred a mixture of cornmeal and yeast. “Drew is more than capable.”
Drew rose to his feet. “Thank you, Madame Tobain.” He shot a smirk at Sebastian, earning a scowl in return.
“We must keep Remy concealed.” Angelique turned to Darius. “No one can know of her existence until after the transition is completed; it is the only way to keep her safe.”
Darius remained mute, his shrewd eyes fixed on Sebastian. A silent conversation passed between them. “Why is that not an option, Sebastian?” inquired Darius, aloud.
“I bade Remy to attend the midnight ceremony tonight,” Sebastian admitted defiantly, wrapping a protective arm around Remy’s shou
lders. She leaned backward into his chest and inhaled deeply; cedar and spice. Sebastian pressed a burning kiss against her forehead; his eyes blazed fiercely as he stared down his father.
“Knowing that she was undeveloped? That is a risky decision, Sebastian, even for a piece of ass.”
Sebastian purpled. The arm wrapped around Remy tightened, crushing her arm; she whimpered. Immediately Sebastian relaxed his hold. His fingers twitched.
“Just tell him,” Cassie burst out in irritation, slamming her spoon against the metal bowl. Freda pushed a plate of bread towards her.
“Manges,” Freda commanded sternly, drawing the word out in her thick accent. Cassie nodded meekly and selected a small piece, nibbling on the edge.
“Tell me what?” Darius’ head twisted angrily between Cassie and Sebastian.
“Look at her, dear,” Angelique’s soft voice hovered calmly in the kitchen.
“What?” Darius exclaimed in exasperation.
“He marked her,” answered Angelique, concealing her smile.
“Impossible,” Darius scoffed, “Sebastian is incapable of commitment.”
The anger rolling off Sebastian flowed over Remy like lava. Darius took a step backward, holding up his hands – a defensive action.
“Sebastian, there is no need for that,” Angelique intervened, placing a restraining hand on Darius’ arm. She turned toward Darius. “If Sebastian believes she is his match, his mind cannot be changed.”
Darius glared at Sebastian. “Did you consult the deck?”
“Several times,” he responded vaguely.
“And the answer?”
“Favorable.”
Darius subtly inclined his head, bowing to his son. “I withdrawal my protest.”
Stepping around Angelique, Darius approached Remy. Sebastian tracked his father’s progress, muscles tensed. Darius stretched out his hand in a cordial gesture. Glancing uncertainly at Sebastian, Remy extended hers as well. As Darius clasped her hand in his, Sebastian’s body stiffened.
“Remy, you are a welcome guest in our home,” Darius exclaimed warmly, focusing his gaze solely on Remy. “I hope for your sake the transition is quick. However, if the need arises, you may desire sanctuary. I suggest you reside with us for a few days, until we can sort out a safer place to conceal you.”
“She can stay with me,” declared Sebastian; he nuzzled Remy’s neck, sending tiny shivers skating down her spine.
“We all know that is bad idea,” Drew snorted.
“Remy will stay with us,” emphasized Angelique, shooting Sebastian a severe glance. She turned toward Cassie, who finished her piece of bread and removed the dough mixture to knead. “Of course, my dear, you may share the room with your sister.”
Cassie nodded once, smashing the dough-ball between the palm of her hand and the floured surface of the counter. Her gaze bounced to Sebastian. She tilted her head at him with a smug grin, grinding the dough flat; Sebastian winked. Cassie narrowed her eyes, muttering an obscenity.
“In addition to Remina’s transition, there is a second obstacle we must address,” interjected Freda. She paused, raising a penciled eyebrow at Cassie. Cassie pursed her lips and grouchily peeling the ball of dough from the counter. Her glare never faltered from Sebastian’s face as her flour covered fingers violently rolled the dough back into a usable shape.
“What could be more complicated than assisting Remy with her transition in the middle of the ceremony?” muttered Drew, sourly.
“A queen will be revealed tonight,” Freda stated succinctly. “My vision this morning confirmed the coven rumors.”
“The cards have been wrong before,” declared Darius; his grim tone belied the statement.
“Cartomancy cards are never mistaken, Darius, you know that. However, the interpretation can be incorrect,” answered Grandfather, civilly. “There is no indication of which coven’s queen will be named.”
“It could be Malina,” huffed Cassie, bitterly.
“Malina Hargrove is not one of the future queens,” dismissed Freda; she waved her hand in disgust.
“How do you know that?” inquired Drew.
Freda glanced at him, annoyed by his query. “I considered her heart and found it hollow.”
“I could have told you that,” Cassie muttered, slapping the dough into an oiled bowl. “There are not enough foul words to describe her horrid personality.”
“She isn’t a fan of yours either,” murmured Sebastian.
Cassie twisted angry toward him. “You’re the one who dated her.”
“You dated Malina?” Angelique asked disbelievingly.
“I wouldn’t really call it dating.” Sebastian looked at Remy apologetically. “I was in a bad place,” he explained softly.
“Obviously,” snapped Cassie.
Grandfather interceded the argument, scolding Cassie. “Enough, Cassandra. You cannot change what has already been done.”
Cassie deflated; her mouth puckered unhappily. “Yes, Grandfather,” she mumbled.
“We still need to determine how to ease Remy through the transition; does anyone have a plan?” Drew’s raspy tenor pinched slightly. His warm, chocolate eyes brushed over Remy’s face, cooling as they reached Sebastian’s protective embrace.
Four other pairs of eyes locked on Remy – scrutinizing. She shifted uncomfortably under their consideration. “Just how thorny is this transition?” she whispered, searching Sebastian’s face for comfort.
He smiled down, drawing Remy close and pressed his lips to her ear. He whispered, “I will be right next to you.” Remy’s heart thumped erratically.
“Stop it, Sebastian,” Cassie growled under her breath; her eyes slid sideways to check Grandfather’s profile. He gave no indication of hearing her whispered command; boldly, she continued. “I have no intention of watching you seduce my sister.”
“Then close your eyes,” purred Sebastian. His mouth brushed against the nape of Remy’s neck.
Darius cleared his throat. Instantly, Sebastian’s head whipped up; his mollified smile curved smugly. Returning his attention to the conversation, Sebastian’s hand repetitiously stroked the soft skin on Remy’s inner arm. A bout of tremors raced through her body with each caress. His hand skimmed tenderly up her arm, etching circles along her sensitive skin. Tiny bumps appeared along the path his fingers followed; Remy shuddered.
“Bastian, I will break your fingers,” Cassie muttered out of the side of her mouth.
Sebastian grinned, continuing his seductive assault. “Anytime, Cassandra.”
She smiled sweetly at Sebastian, her eyes darkening to molten chocolate. “Say good night to Remy, Bastian.”
Remy lost consciousness.
Chapter Five
“CASSIE, YOU DO that to me one more time and I will curse you.” Remy grumbled, disoriented from the fog. Gingerly, she twisted her head to the left to glare, knowing Cassie waited on the outskirts of her fuzzy vision. A tug at her wrist prevented Remy from rolling completely onto her side. She pulled against the restraint; rope chafed her skin.
“What the hell!” Remy yelled, frantically yanking against the ropes; both wrists were lashed to an ornately-carved headboard. “Cassandra, release me immediately,” Remy seethed.
“No,” she replied, remaining draped over a plush armchair, just out of kicking range.
“I’m going to kill you.”
“I have no doubt,” answered Cassie, blithely, “however, until that happy moment, I suggest you stop fighting. Those bindings will only tighten the more you struggle.”
Remy ground her teeth in irritation. “Fine,” she forced a smile, simpering sweetly. “Please let me go.”
“Nope.”
“Sebastian will hear of this,” Remy threatened, hoping to frighten Cassie into action.
Cassie snorted. “Sebastian is aware of your current location, having restrained you himself.”
“He what?” Remy felt her heart sink. “Why?”
Shifting, Cassie s
tretched out her legs like a cat just waking from its nap. “I have something important to discuss with you and I need you to stay in one place.”
Remy wriggled into a sitting position and cocked her head at Cassie. “That’s rich coming from you,” snarled Remy.
“This is serious, Remina.”
Remy paused, thrown by Cassie’s use of her full name. Swallowing her retort, Remy eyed Cassie suspiciously. “Okay, what is so important that both you and Sebastian thought it was necessary to chain me to this bed.”
“They’re not chains,” answered Cassie, mulishly.
“Because you couldn’t find any?” Remy needled, still annoyed.
Cassie shrugged. “I worked with what I was given.”
“What is the purpose behind this involuntary imprisonment?”
“Perhaps I should have gagged you too,” Cassie mused, stroking her chin thoughtfully.
Remy’s eyes popped from her head; she thrashed violently against the restraints. “Don’t you dare.”
Cassie held her hands up defensively. “Fine. Just be silent for a few moments. Can you do that?”
Remy stuck her tongue out at Cassie.
She sighed. “I guess that will have to do.”
Rising, Cassie paced a semi-circle around the bed. Remy’s eyes tracked her movement warily. Repeating her arc, Cassie returned to the armchair, but did not sit.
“My transition occurred when I was extremely young,” she began suddenly, her fingers twisted unconsciously.
“I am aware of your age,” Remy cut in; her harsh tone grated through the room.
“Remy, I asked for silence.”
“Fine,” Remy muttered, longing to cross her arms in exasperation. Instead, she rolled her eyes, impatiently drumming her fingertips on the wooden headboard.
“It was extremely painful and not something I would wish upon anyone, except maybe Malina. Sebastian, who transitioned at twelve, admitted to me that his experience mirrored mine – excruciating, unfathomable pain. In fact, every person we queried stated the exact same sentiment; they would never endure that inferno again.”
She held up her hand to prevent the next comment forming on Remy’s lips. “As best as we can infer, the older the person, the more agonizing the process. Grandfather has not confirmed this theory with either Sebastian or myself.”
