“What…in…the…world!” She spun around and ran.
“There’s no use in running.”
Throwing her hands to her ears, she tried to block out the voice. An abandoned shuttle van propped halfway up the curb offered the only protection along the vacant street. She darted across the road to find refuge.
Her long hair netted over her face as she stumbled past street-side clutter. She swiped the strands away. Catching her balance, she raced along the storefronts and spotted a weak halo down an alley. An open door!
She rushed into the darkness.
Puddles of discarded waste filled the dips in the pass and the air reeked with a foul stench. Her frantic feet beat the pavement as she raced to every locked door.
Steady footsteps followed.
She gasped with each failed entry. “Come on. Just one open door.”
A cry ripped her throat as she turned to the final promise of safety. A small lamp flickered. Obscene graffiti sprawled the length of the wall that blocked her escape; a dim halo highlighted the neon paint.
She turned to the way she came and stared at the forms as they overtook the narrow alley. A man led center, his companions flanking. Each unified stride caused their capes to furl with controlled motion. The bleak lamp lit their approach—a dark trio. Reapers, all of them—black hair, black eyes, black cloaks.
Curfew breakers are never seen again. At that moment, she believed.
Her body trembled and she backed into a corner for support. “This is a nightmare.” Her shallow voice quivered and sent denial through her. “This isn’t happening!”
The tomb-like closure briefly echoed her claim but the measured steps resounded as they approached.
Anna held her breath as if to ward off the imminent danger. They stopped a few feet from her and the leader stepped forward.
Endless time filled her as she gazed at their resolute faces. She swallowed hard to ward off the want of air.
The leader lifted his hand as if setting a butterfly free. A mist, the brilliance of snow crystalline, encircled her and lingered in the air.
Anna struggled to withhold a gasp.
“You have to breathe sometime.”
The voice sifted through her mind. Her lungs burned, begged for relief. Fear gripped her as she succumbed to need and the tiny crystallites flowed past her lips.
The taste of divinity touched her senses and the promise of bliss sang in her mind. The invitation was overwhelming, irresistible. A wave of serenity coated her emotions.
She met his gaze.
A small smile touched his coal eyes. It penetrated her soul. Opposition dissolved.
He inhaled the sparkling mist and leaned close. Cradling her face in his hands, he touched his lips to hers. They were warm and seductive, unexpectedly tender. The aroma of licorice and cream flowed through her. She accepted his attention, intoxicated by the offering. In a gentle motion, his tongue lovingly caressed hers. Eternity echoed in her heart.
With a breath, the magic spell filled her. Heat steamed her lungs and filtered throughout her body. Every wave carried with it memories: the last words of her father, the aged photo of her mother she clung to as a child.
Subjection engulfed her mind. All wonderment ceased under its capture. Rapture sealed her senses and final will vanished.
Anna weakened beneath Cole’s touch. Her mouth relaxed, face stilled. He rose from the tender moment startled by his actions. They were entirely uncalled for, unexpected, yet he couldn’t deny the pleasure it brought.
He stared at her as she wavered with the effects of empty thought. This girl had indeed sought refuge from her life’s experiences. By her complete surrender, he had no doubt she’d wished for the chance to forget many times—a common occurrence among the homeless. He allowed the spell’s sparkling enchantment to fade. No further need for it with this one. This harvest was complete.
As she opened her eyes, he gazed deeply into them to offer hope and set the desire to take pride in her service. “Your life will find meaning.”
Her gaze wandered amongst them. James, his strong stature evident beneath his cloak, would intimidate many without the effects of the charm. Though distinction trimmed his features, she seemed to be taken by his dimpled cheeks and brushed her own.
Vincent was next. Her head leaned a little as she studied him. Smaller in build, he still radiated strength. His deep onyx eyes held his defined brow low. Square jaw set, he looked as if vengeance ruled his core. His untamed locks fell in loose waves past his cheeks. A radiant glow encircled his clenched fists as they clutched his cape.
Cole watched as her gaze returned to him. His lips tightened together as his jaw tensed. She scanned his long hair as if to see how far it fell down his back.
When her gaze met his, he had to touch that angelic face. He raised his hand, but caught himself and straightened to his full height, squaring his shoulders.
What is that pull to touch? It was unsettling. He clasped the edge of his cloak and turned. Leading the way back down the alley, James and Vincent fell into step behind Cole. Anna gasped, then followed.
The litter from the empty street scurried from their path. Night birds sang from high on their perches, a melody odd in the darkness of the empty streets.
A vagabond sat beside the center fountain. Cole pulled Anna to him and wrapped an arm around her waist. He lifted his cloak with a furl and took on the Smoke of Night before the man could catch their approach.
Giggles and thrills flew through his senses as the young woman’s emotions reacted to the disembodiment. He smiled to himself. Most accompanied him with calm acceptance. This girl seemed to embrace the experience.
As they reached the wide steps to the Grand Marshal’s estate, Cole pulled at their elements to solidify. Anna held to him, her arms wrapped around his neck. Her warm breath puffed against his ear as he grabbed her waist so she wouldn’t fall. Was she holding me the whole time?
He eased her down his chest until her toes touched the ground and arms left his shoulders. Running his palm down his shirt to regain his dignity, he strode past the border hedge onto the grounds. He glanced over his shoulder and she drew her hands to her bosom, innocence echoing from her heart.
Luminescent bobbles peaked from beneath bulbous shrubs, lighting the footpath with a radiant glow. Cole looked at the frontage of the imposing mansion. Three stories of white brick stretched out on both sides of a montage of stained glass that arched around the receiving hall doors. He’d never appreciated the over-indulgence of this Grand Marshal, known for his eccentric views and tastes. He seemed more eager to flaunt his position than most.
As they neared the gaudy threshold, he reached ahead and knocked twice with a heavy drive. The left panel opened and a lanky man peered out. His basset hound visage immediately woke at their presence.
“Good evening, sirs.” The servant quickly stepped back and opened the door wide. “I’ll fetch the sire.”
“Yes.”
Anna’s gaze bore into Cole at the word. Heat flushed his cheeks and he stepped inside before his brothers noticed.
A screen of sparkling crystals adorned the left wall, neighbored by onyx pillars. To the right, a rash of brass hair lines cascaded the pane between two doors like a million squirming worms looking to invade the upper rooms. Sculptures of oversized silver swans stood at each side of the wide staircases, reflecting the multitude of embedded lights in the domed ceiling. Black veins in the white marble floor continued up the divided staircases leading to the enormous stained-glass window at the center of the back wall.
The sire’s deep voice rang from the left-wing hallway. Cole straightened as he neared.
“Sir Cole. It’s good to see the three of you here.” His gaze gravitated to Anna and a wash of satisfaction covered his face. “The addition, I see.”
“As per your bid, she will comply completely. The harvest was a solid take.” He looked back at the lawmaker. “I see she pleases you.”
Dressen smi
led and withdrew an envelope from his vest. “Oh, yes.”
Holding up his hand, Cole shook his head. “I believe the fee is double for this one. Your requirements were very specific. Far beyond that of a Grand Marshal’s standard order. So much so, a special spell was created to ensure satisfaction.”
The sire chuckled and his smile tilted as he pocketed the payment. “Very well. I’ll have the funds delivered in the morn. The Wizards of Shilo Manor continue to exceed their reputation. You are true Reapers.”
The nickname wedged in Cole’s gut. It screamed mockery to their position as Sentinels in this realm. Noblemen had always known they could manipulate the elements purely by their nature and advanced heritage. Yet this generation insisted on labeling them as a demon child at play. Reapers. Wizards. It knotted his stomach.
Intent on making the visit as short as possible, Cole turned his attention to Anna. “Lord Dressen is now your keeper.”
Her regard shifted from him to the Grand Marshal and with it the adoration that had poured from her.
To Cole’s surprise, he regretted the release to Dressen’s care. Countless subjects had been harvested for service to the lords. The assignment of a keeper was an essential step. Why, then, would one more be any different? He reminded himself they had just completed another task, fully satisfying the order.
Dressen waved away the hound-faced servant and dismissed them himself. “Thank you, Sir Cole. It’s rare to find such dedication to quality. You have never failed to produce astounding results.” He grasped the handle and his gray eyes sparkled. “I must admit, I find your natures very compelling. Meridian must be an amazing dimension.”
Underlying meaning seeped through Cole and he straightened to temper a scowl. “Thank you, Lord Dressen. We’re pleased you find our work satisfactory.”
Dressen shook his head. “Silent on the matter as ever.” He chuckled. “Well, do watch for an invitation to my forthcoming celebration. I would be honored to have you present.”
“Of course.” Cole turned and crossed the threshold to avoid further remark. As the door closed behind them, Vincent’s chiseled features contorted into rage.
Cole furled his cloak and took on the Smoke of Night before a confrontation could erupt. The last thing he needed was the runt’s temperamental tantrums.
Vincent billowed like the crest of a storm as they flew over the dark city. His brothers’ emotions melded to his; James’ concern and confusion, and Vincent’s pure fury. Small jets of lightning darted through their mass and Cole knew it was directed solely on him.
Anna watched Lord Dressen as he closed the door. Reverence filled her. Every line that accented his heavy brow and creased his narrow face declared his wisdom. His dark hair was as a crown tinted with silver.
“Clair.” His deep voice vibrated in her senses and touched her like warm honey. A woman appeared from the hall. “Anna has joined the household. She will fill the special bid and have the room on the second floor. See to it she knows what’s expected of her.”
“Yes, sire.”
As he turned, his gaze lingered with a cocked grin. A low chuckle rode his breath and he disappeared down the hall.
Confusion entered as Anna’s keeper departed. She darted her gaze around the spacious room. Lustrous onyx, polished silver and a brilliant ceiling commanded her view. The many eccentricities in the foyer sent anxiety raging and she searched for her tall savior for reprieve. He was gone.
Panic flew.
Clair placed her hand on Anna’s arm. “Come with me, love.”
Anna watched her as she led the way. The woman’s brown hair was tied back into a bun and her ferrety features wore a tiny smile. Small comfort settled the sting of desertion.
Marble staircases curved beside a masterful stained-glass window standing center stage on the far wall. Anna stared at the work of art that took up space from floor to vaulted ceiling. The geometric shapes absorbed her attention but her escort tugged her hand.
“You’ll be staying on the second floor.” They entered a long corridor and the servant opened the first door on the right.
“This is your room. Lord Dressen’s is the master suite down the hall.” She crossed the plush carpet to a set of glass doors and opened them. “The fresh air will help you relax. I know this is confusing to you.” She turned on the light in a small hall to the right. “But really, the choice of lost memory is a blessing. There are twenty of us serving here under Lord Dressen and not a one regrets it. Some have been here since he gained his Lordship. Oh, I guess that’d be about forty years gone now. Reg, the butler was one of his originals. Nice man, Reg.”
Clair slid the closet doors aside and removed a blue lounging robe. She peeked at Anna through her lashes as she handed it to her. “So, tell me. We’re all so curious. How does it feel?”
Anna blinked at the woman. “How does it feel?”
She nodded with a little snigger. “We were told his order had strict requirements this time. You’re a special one, you are, if you fit the bill. We hear you’re to be on his arm.”
“On his arm?”
The woman’s brow furled. “Well,” she closed the closet. “Maybe we can talk later when you’ve settled in. Just get bathed and dress for bed. I’ll be back when you’re done. There are a few things you need to know.”
Panic flashed as the woman headed for the door. Anna grasped at the gown and rushed to her side. “You’ll be back when I’m done?”
“You just get cleaned up and ready for bed. And welcome home.”
The door closed behind her. Finality. Abandoned...again. Anna looked over her shoulder, scanning the room with apprehension. A burgundy comforter hugged the wide bed at the center of the far wall. A desk and chest of drawers took up the left. Stained-glass lampshades with matching light posts adorned the bed stands and a sculpture of a human form stood in the far right corner.
Fear held Anna’s gaze as her vision widened to take in the scene as a whole. The items seemed to leer. In a shift of understanding, they morphed into rudimentary shapes and flattened against the wallpaper backdrop.
Alarm rang in her heart, pumping ice through her arms and legs. She darted into the little hall and entered the small room, slamming the door behind her. Heaving air, she turned to find a broad sunken bathtub, a toilet, and an oval sink.
She rushed to the tub and spun the water knob on. A wide stream gushed from a hole in the wall and down an angled ledge. Stripping off her clothes, she slipped in and sat. Droplets nettled her legs with each splash, pushing the anxiety further. She pulled her knees to her chest.
“She’ll be back when I’m done.” The words reassured her.
She sloshed her feet at the water as impatience mounted. A scowl scrunched her face and she turned off the flow. Snatching the soap, she slid it over her hair, across her shoulder, and then down between her breasts to her tummy. A large plop sounded at her feet as she threw it aside and dipped under the water to rinse.
Done.
Trailing water across the rose tiled floor, she grabbed the gown and slipped it over her head. It clung to her wet skin as she pulled it down her torso and then tossed her hair over her shoulders.
Darting for the bedroom, motion in her periphery caught her attention. She halted at the door and looked back around the frame.
A woman.
Angst melted and she stepped back into the short hall, pulled the bench from under the counter, and sat. Adornments, perfumes, lotions, and puffs lined the narrow shelf. Seated on the other side, the lady’s big blue eyes stared at her. Her angelic face was flushed red, long dark hair straggled and wet. The nightdress she wore stuck to her body as if drenched by rain, but the woman didn’t appear to care.
Anna smiled at her and she returned the gesture. She waited to see what the woman would say.
Silence.
“It’s okay,” Anna whispered. “I’ll wait until you want to talk.”
Cole planned to materialize on the porch first, but as it turne
d out, his brothers seemed to have the same goal.
James held his hand at Vincent’s chest, allowing Cole to enter the manor first. The receiving hall welcomed him home with cherubim-laced walls and trim. But his irritated steps struck the hardwood floor with reverberant thuds as he pulled at the clasp of his cape. He tossed it, draping a sentinel beside the banister. It landed on the seraphim’s head. Cole scowled and flicked his wrist, sending it from the statue to the coat rack.
James hung his cloak beside it.
Cole turned to face them as Vincent sent a bolt of energy to slam the door. The tall decorative windows on each side of the entrance burst and crashed to the floor. The cascading chandelier shook above them.
He glowered at the childish display. “I filled his order.”
Vincent flung his cape to the floor. “You bound her soul!”
James waved at the shattered entrance. Shard and spar whirled into the air, each reclaiming its former place with tiny clinks.
Cole’s heart hardened at the charge and he headed to the parlor. Bound her soul. “It was the only way to ensure complete compliance.” A weak defense, he knew, but the only one that came to mind. He scanned the ample selection of liqueur that filled the wall. “She’ll be happier than anyone in that house.”
“Only because she won’t know better not to.” Vincent widened his stand with a step. “Sealing that spell with a kiss pushed the limit, Cole. You went too far this time!”
“We’ve been pushing the limit for centuries.” With a swagger, Cole picked out a flask. “Now just get this all out of your system so we can get on with our lives. James is here to clean up your mess.”
Vincent growled and a blue pulse jetted across the room from his fist, bursting the bottom of Cole’s bottle.
He pursed his lips and looked at Vincent. He pointedly set the emptied selection on the bar and brushed the front of his shirt.
James bit back a grin.
Cole opened the cooler and chose a can of beer instead. “Okay, Kid. You want my attention.” Popping open the drink, he faced the runt and waved a dismissive hand. “Say what you have to say and be done.”
The Transformation of Anna (Cornerstone Deep Book 1) Page 3
