Wounded Wings (Cupid Chronicles)

by Allen, Shauna

  And he was all hers.

  Slowly, she crawled up his body, skin-to-skin, heat-to-heat, planting openmouthed kisses on his belly, his chest, until they were facing each other, their breath mingling. She interlaced their fingers and stretched both their arms above his head so he was trapped below her, restrained as her prisoner.

  She searched his eyes. The sweet, deep brown eyes she’d come to trust. Maybe had all along . . . her heart simply had to learn to believe. “I do have one more question,” she whispered.

  His eyes became guarded. “What’s that?”

  “Did you mean what you said earlier?”

  His grip tightened where she had him pinned as his scent filled her, heart and soul. “Which part?”

  “About loving me—?”

  “More than life itself?” His eyes sparked with intensity. “Yes, Naomi. I’m a wounded man, and I’m not worthy of you, but I love you so much it hurts.”

  She squeezed her eyes shut and pressed her forehead to his as a million emotions warred within her.

  He didn’t move for what seemed minutes, but was probably only seconds, until she opened her eyes and met his gaze. “You may be wounded, Elijah, but so am I. And you are more than worthy.” She leaned down and pressed her lips to his, the familiar warmth and surge of electricity thrumming through them. She pulled back and studied his precious eyes once more. “And I love you, too. More than life itself.”

  He blinked up at her, then opened his mouth to speak, but she shushed him with her lips as she released his hands and cupped his cheek in her palm.

  “No. No more pain, Elijah.” She waited until she felt his posture soften, acquiesce. “I love you . . . now make love to me.”

  And so he did.

  Epilogue

  One year later . . .

  Elijah stared down at the menu in his hand.

  Ange Dèchu.

  Fallen Angel. His own restaurant. A dream.

  He raised his eyes and gazed at his wife and her friend, Delaney, as they giggled and spread the pristine white tablecloths on the tables, preparing for his grand opening tonight. Delaney was showing off the sparkling engagement ring the Sheriff had given her two nights ago, but his eyes were riveted to Naomi’s gently rounded stomach.

  This fall they would welcome a child. His child. He could not believe his luck in finding the love of his life, much less two. His prayers of thanksgiving would never be enough.

  As if reading his thoughts, her gaze shifted to him, her smile lifting even higher. She pressed a hand to her stomach and turned her attention back to a chattering Delaney.

  He moved his emotional thoughts on to finalizing the preparations for the night’s special and last minute staffing issues. A sudden case of nerves fluttered to life in his gut.

  God, could he do this?

  Suddenly, warm arms enveloped him from behind, a belly bumping into the curve of his lower back. “Whatcha thinking about so hard?” A kiss was pressed between his shoulder blades.

  He spun around and found solace in the green eyes he loved so very much. “Nothing.”

  “Liar.”

  He smiled. “Just how much I love you.”

  Naomi settled against the counter and caressed a bottle of wine. “It’ll be great tonight. This place is gonna be a hit. Everyone in New Destiny already loves you, Elijah. You don’t need to worry.”

  He leaned next to her and placed a hand to her belly, hoping for one of the sporadic kicks that thrilled him. “I hope so.”

  “I know so.”

  He stayed silent as she interlaced their fingers, each lost in their own thoughts.

  “You hungry?” she finally asked. “We skipped breakfast and we’re going to have a long night.”

  He glanced up into her face, concerned. “You haven’t eaten today?”

  She shook her head. “We’ve been here, silly.”

  “God, Naomi. You need to eat.” He stood. “Let’s go feed you.” He strode toward the front door and called to Delaney, “Join us for lunch?”

  Delaney shot her a strange look.

  Naomi shrugged. “Overprotective man?”

  They locked up and headed over to the diner, where the daily special of chicken and dumplings immediately had his mouth watering.

  Elijah gripped Naomi’s hand and tugged her to a corner booth, calling out to Maura as they passed. “Hi, there. Two iced teas, please.” He glanced at Delaney in question.

  “Make that three.”

  Maura waved. “Sure thing. Be right there.”

  They settled in and Maura brought their drinks. “Hey, long time, no see. How’s the restaurant coming?” she asked.

  Elijah smiled. “Great. You coming to the opening tonight?”

  “And miss the chance for my hubby to take me out to a fancy dinner? Wouldn’t miss it.” She shifted her gaze to Naomi. “How’s Miss Vi and Sam? Haven’t seen them in a while.”

  “Oh, fantastic. Gallivanting around the country in Sam’s RV and loving every minute of it. But they’ll be home in plenty of time for the baby.”

  Maura grinned and took their order as the hubbub of the diner filled the space. Silverware clinked, the cash register rung, coffee scented the air, Sharla laughed as she chatted in the corner with Old Man Sumners.

  “And how is it working for Dr. Arrington?” Maura asked.

  Elijah glanced at her. He’d been wondering how she was doing being on her feet all day at the doctor’s office. He was so happy she gave up that job in California and they decided to make a life here in New Destiny. But they’d laughed when they realized he’d made it all the way to the town she’d been heading to.

  She smiled. “I love it. It’s so nice to finally use my nursing license.”

  Maura murmured something and took their order to the kitchen.

  The bell above the door chimed as a young family strolled in. Something about them caught Elijah’s attention, his heart.

  The woman was pretty enough; reddish hair, cute haircut. Petite. Sweet smile. Haunting, pale amber eyes. Black-haired baby perched on her hip.

  A young boy, maybe fourteen or fifteen with chocolate brown hair and eyes just as dark, but full of excitement, rushed over and picked up a stack of brochures from the tourist stand.

  But the man. He was an enigma.

  Tall. Proud. Intimidating. Dark like an Indian warrior, fierce eyes to match. He took in the diner like he was on the prowl. Or protecting what was his.

  He ushered his brood further in and they were seated one table over. He made eye contact with Elijah, tipping his head in silent acknowledgment.

  “Noble,” the woman said after she got the baby girl settled into a highchair, “I’ll be right back. Would you order me a Diet Coke?”

  The man shifted his attention back to his woman. “Sure, babe.”

  The woman left the table and the boy was nearly shaking with excitement. “Dad . . . seriously! You grew up here?” He shuffled through and picked up one of the brochures, shoving it the man’s way. “This place is freakin’ awesome.” His eyes lit with awe. “So much better than Indiana or Texas.”

  The man smiled and offered the baby a teething ring. “If you say so, Tristan. Hey, if your mom will let us, I’ll take you on a bike ride through the rez and show you where I grew up.”

  The kid’s grinned widened. “Sweet.”

  The boy quieted once his mother returned and pecked a kiss to the brooding man’s lips. “What’s going on?”

  The boy caught the man’s gaze. “I just think it’s great here and I wanna live here someday.”

  Elijah ripped his eyes away. Their conversation wasn’t his business.

  Then why did the boy’s words resonate with him?

  “They seem like nice
people,” Naomi said, her gaze tracking to the family.

  He nodded, letting it go. “I suppose.”

  He shifted and refocused on his wife. His baby. His life and future. He settled his hand on her belly. “I love you.”

  Her brows dipped, confused. But just as quickly, her face cleared and she smiled. “I love you, too, Elijah. You’re my angel.”

  Michael watched the scene with tears in his eyes.

  The fruition of his life’s work, together in one room; missions past and present. What a gift.

  But in an abrupt loss of connection, the vision was gone and he was once again staring into Seraphina’s crystalline green gaze.

  “Thank you, Sister,” he managed to choke out between breaths.

  She nodded. “You’re most welcome. Now, are you ready for the ceremony?”

  Not really. But he dipped his head and took a deep breath. “I suppose so.”

  She smiled and led him from the Heavenly chamber, her voluminous white gown billowing like a cloud around her legs. He followed her to the ceremonial room, the pearlescent light as pure and bright as he’d ever seen.

  He strode forward and was suddenly enveloped by his brothers and sisters. He glanced around, recognizing the faces of those he loved.

  Rachel.

  Uriel.

  Ariel.

  Raphael.

  On and on, endlessly . . . until . . .

  Gabriel.

  His breath caught in his chest.

  Gabriel stepped forward. “Are you ready, Brother?”

  Michael swallowed. “I’m not sure.”

  “Of course you are.” He smiled. “You’ve earned it.” He extended his hand as his wings unfurled gloriously. “Let’s finish this.”

  Michael followed suit and let his wings go, reveling in the freedom as his light shone to its full glory and accepted Gabriel’s hand. “Okay.”

  Together, they strode forward to the ceremonial platform and faced Serephina, whose wings were also spread and fluttering in their infinite beauty.

  He’d never seen such majesty in one room.

  “Brothers and Sisters,” Seraphina said. “Welcome. We’re here today to witness the passing of angelic mantles.” She faced Gabriel first, who knelt before her. “Congratulations, Brother. You have earned your place in Father’s Kingdom as the Emissary of all Angelic Realms.” She touched his shoulder and white light pulsed from her into Gabriel’s form as the transfer took place.

  The entire room broke out into deafening applause.

  Gabriel rose, his eyes shining with unshed tears. He glanced at Michael with a small smile.

  Seraphina turned to Michael. “And, you, Brother, have earned the right to be the Leader of Love Detail.” Michael inhaled and knelt. Waited.

  Gabriel stepped in and placed a hand to his shoulder. A shudder coursed through Michael’s body as silver light blinded him and energy flooded his body. An instant transfer of knowledge, of power, of love.

  A miracle.

  And in a mere moment it was complete.

  Gabriel stepped back and the room once again broke into cheers and celebration as Michael tried to reconcile the changes within his soul.

  Then, he blinked, and was suddenly back in his chambers, gazing into Gabriel’s concerned eyes. “Are you all right, Brother?”

  Michael scanned his body, his heart. “I believe so.”

  Gabriel smiled. “You’ll get used to it, I promise. And you’re going to do a fine job. I have faith in you.”

  Michael’s soul lurched. He hoped he could do half the job of his predecessor. “Thank you, Brother.”

  “I should be going.” Gabriel stepped back. “Lots of work to do, you understand.” He grinned. “But before I go, I have something for you.” His eyes twinkled. “One last Love Detail loose end to tie up, so to speak.”

  “Really? What’s that?”

  Michael’s gut clenched as Gabriel slid the gold shimmering envelope from his pocket and handed it to him. “One more. For you.” He slowly spun on his heel and left, leaving Michael to his churning thoughts.

  Michael stared down at the missive, half frightened to open it. What would Father say to him now that he was leader?

  He steeled himself and ripped open the letter.

  His heart tied into knots as he read the words. Tears stung his eyes and he had to re-read it again. And again. Yes, Father was truly all-loving . . .

  Dearest Michael,

  I’m so proud of you for your work with Elijah and for taking your rightful place as leader of the Love Detail. I have faith you will do a wonderful job. This morning, I had Seraphina gift you with that vision of Elijah, as well as Noble and his family, because I know how you miss them and how it pains your heart sometimes. I understand. I made that heart, Michael.

  But you were successful in all of your matches, including the most difficult, and I have promised that all Love Detail angels may match up the children of their couples, if they choose. This is your choice, of course. But, Tristan is about to meet someone special, and by my hand, it will be a match made in Heaven.

  Just keep it in mind. You’ve got a few years to think on it.

  I love you.

  Father.

  Angelic Commandments

  An Angel shall have no other God before the Father.

  An Angel shall never reveal their angelic visage or mission to a human unless commanded, ordained or, in exceptional cases, Heavenly possession by the Father.

  An Angel shall never bear false witness against another Angel.

  An Angel shall never have romantic or intimate relations with a human.

  An Angel shall never question nor impugn the will of the Father and shall always fulfill their mission to the best of their God-given ability.

  Intrigued by the stoic Noble Blackfeather

  and his family at the end of

  Wounded Wings?

  What does Elijah see in them?

  Catch their story if you missed it in:

  The Halo Effect:

  Book II of the Cupid Chronicles

  He’s gotta earn his wings . . . again.

  Love Detail’s favorite angel has his sights set on his next target: the stoic and mysterious Noble Blackfeather. And it just may prove to be his toughest case yet. Noble’s reclusive ways keep his angel at wing’s distance, and love even further. But he’s not playing a part—he’s truly masking a painful secret and a profoundly wounded heart.

  A cupid’s worst nightmare.

  Noble’s been paired with Braelyn Campbell, the cute single mother next door. She’s adorable, friendly, fun . . . everything Noble needs. This should be a Love Squad slam dunk. Except she’s making a fresh start in Texas to protect her son from a volatile ex, and she’s not about to risk her heart or her son on another man. Even if he’s sexy as sin and always coming to her rescue.

  Thank God for possibilities.

  But, reluctantly, they are drawn together—thanks to their cupid’s dogged efforts and a whole lotta chemistry. Can the girl next door learn to trust again and help heal Noble’s wounded heart? Together, can they save the lost, hurting boy she's raising? Can the angels help it happen before it's too late?

  Thank God for love.

  Available now at Amazon: http://tinyurl.com/qhy5h3r

  Also available in the Cupid Chronicles Series:

  Inked by an Angel:

  Book I of the Cupid Chronicles

  Tattoos . . .

  Jed Gentry is doing just fine, thank you very much, running his tattoo studio in Austin, Texas. So what if people think he’s a bit on the surly side? He’s been burned by his ex who sticks around to torture him and he lives with a family heartache that he’d rather not
talk about. But he’s got a thriving business, his dream car, and good friends. Not much to complicate things. At least, not until she walked in . . .

  Accountants . . .

  Kyle O’Neill has had it with being the sheltered daddy’s girl at the family accounting firm and is ready to spread her wings and fly on her own for the first time. Unfortunately, it seems she’s about to fall flat on her face when her first and only client is—gulp—a tattoo artist! Her country club upbringing certainly hasn’t prepared her for this place or the sizzling attraction her traitorous body feels for the grumpy owner.

  And . . . Cupid?

  But there is a Divine conspiracy at work here pushing these two together. And they are hell bent on bucking the Heavenly plan all the way. Luckily, their angel is a true believer and pulls every trick he knows from under his halo to make this a match made in Heaven.

  Who says God doesn’t have a sense of humor?

  Available now at Amazon: http://tinyurl.com/afpfrd2

  Also by Shauna Allen:

  Elvis is A Keeper

  A spunky female fishing guide’s life is turned upside down when her beloved father is accused of a brutal crime. The last thing she needs is a brainy Elvis clone to waltz in and tempt her heart.

  Hook, Line, and Sinker . . . Elvis is alive, he’s brainy, and he’s a Keeper!

  Available now at Amazon: http://tinyurl.com/ks7nvrc

  You can also find out more about Soul Mate Publishing by visiting:

  www.SoulMatePublishing.com

  Shauna loves to hear from her readers! You can find her at: www.shaunaallen.com

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  http://eepurl.com/D_RcP

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