“So what do you think is the source of Daffodil’s power?” Mary asked.
“I’m not sure. She doesn’t really want to talk about it, but says she’s not interested in witchcraft or anything tied to the craft, that she just wants to do what makes her happy and be with Phil.”
“I’d leave her be, then. Can’t force someone to face something they’re not ready for. Besides, from what you’ve told me, that child has been through enough.”
“That she has,” Bernadette said. “She’s become a good friend.”
Swinging quietly, they enjoyed the fair weather and the colors of the building sunset. Phil, Frank, Tractor and Beastman were cutting firewood and stacking it next to the outdoor furnace. Daffodil sat in a lawn chair, her colorful shawl around her, and smiled at her man as he worked. Luella wandered out with a tray bearing several mugs and walked over to the men, then to Daffodil where she joined her by rolling a log over for Luella to sit on.
“Do you think things will settle down now?” Bernadette asked.
The woman sucked air through her teeth. “Can’t say for sure. The runes are still giving me jumbled messages, but I’m guessing that’s because by vanquishing Ezra, the future is resetting.”
“I hope you’re right.”
“What about the human trafficking?” Mary asked.
“Deputy Williamscot says the next one in command will take over the River Rebels. Someone by the name of Stickman, I think. But the River Rebels are being watched very closely, so I doubt they’ll try anything, even drugs or guns, until they feel they can do so safely.”
“On a bright note, yesterday Frank received the energy rights monies, and several in the community said the insurance claims are being paid now, one by one.”
“That is good news!”
She sighed and closed her eyes as a chilly wind wafted up from the pond. “Frank wants to turn me.”
“Oh?”
She looked over at her mentor. “I’m on the fence, really. Part of me likes the idea of longevity, extra strength, heightened senses…but the pain of shifting is really hard on a turned werewolf.”
“Yes, that’s what I’ve been told too.”
“Then there’s the idea of having a part-human, part-lykoi family and I’m not sure if I want that, that maybe I should be turned so we’re all lycanthropes.”
“You must follow your heart, Bernadette.” Mary rummaged in her many skirt pockets and produced home-rolled clove cigarettes and a book of matches. “No one can choose for you. And there’s plenty of time to decide.”
“I just want everyone to be happy and no upset during the holidays. No more disturbances, supernatural-, paranormal- or one-percenter-related.” Bernadette patted Mary on one round knee. “Is that too much to ask?”
An amused snort was followed by a puff of clove-scented smoke. “You and me both, child. The future remains to be seen.”
About the Author
Ana Lee Kennedy loves writing stories steeped in lore, history, mythology, and her wicked sense of humor, although she is known to pen hot paranormal and contemporary stories too. She is currently writing the final novel in the Werewolves of Rebellion trilogy.
After many actual dreams of traveling the world, Ana Lee hopes to do so soon with her husband and young son, and their first stop will be England. When she’s not writing, she can be found in her flower gardens or at one of the local lakes playing with her son and their creepily intelligent Labrador retriever. She resides in the U.S. with her family, Sir Creepy Dog, two almost-as-smart felines, and a pair of pet ducks.
Other Riverdale Avenue Books By Ana Lee Kennedy
Nightshade’s Flame
Book One of The Werewolves of Rebellion
Seduced by the King
Volume One of the Valhalla Skies Saga
The Dragon God’s Kiss
Volume Two of the Valhalla Skies Saga
The Sorcerer King and the Fire Queen
Invasion of Her Heart:
Book One of the Lovers of the Galaxy Series
Bounty Hunters of the Heart:
Book Two of the Lovers of the Galaxy Series
Raiders of the Lost Heart:
Book Three of the Lovers of Galaxy Series
Wrapped Around Your Handlebars
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