CHRISTMAS EMBRACE

IMMORTALS OF NEW ORLEANS, BOOK 11

Kym Grosso

Copyright © 2020 Kym Grosso

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.

MT Carvin Publishing

Carlsbad, California

Editor: Julie Roberts

Cover Design: Clarise Tan, CT Cover Creations

Photographer: Wander Pedro Aguiar, WANDER AGUIAR :: PHOTOGRAPHY

Cover Model: Wayne Skivington

Formatting: Jason Anderson, Polgarus Studio

Proofreading: Rose Holub, Read by Rose

DISCLAIMER

This book is a work of fiction. The names, characters, locations and events portrayed in this book are a work of fiction or are used fictitiously. Any similarity to actual events, locales, or real persons, living or dead, is coincidental and not intended by the author.

NOTICE

This is an adult erotic paranormal romance book with love scenes and mature situations. It is only intended for adult readers over the age of 18.

Dedication

To my beautiful children, Tyler and Madi.

Mom loves you more than the moon and stars.

May the spirit of Christmas always live in your hearts.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Epilogue

Author Notes

Romance by Kym Grosso

About the Author

Acknowledgments

~ My readers! I’m so thankful to have each and every one of you, supporting me and my books. I hope you enjoy Christmas Embrace, and have a very happiest of holidays.

~ Julie Roberts, my friend and editor, who spent hours reading, editing and proofreading Christmas Embrace. I’m sad I couldn’t visit you this year but promise as soon as I can, I’m coming to see your gorgeous log cabin and still can’t wait to come visit you in Scotland!

~ Shannon Hunt, publicist and all-round assistant who gives me support! Thank you so much for everything you do to help me and for your friendship! I have the perfect Christmas gift for you, and it may involve your favorite creature, a shark.

~ My dedicated beta readers Lacy, Carolyn, Denise, Karen, Jara, Kim, Leah, Rose, and Vicki for beta reading. I really appreciate all the valuable feedback you provided. Thank you to Carolyn and Vicki for wedding song ideas. You guys rock!!!

~ CT Cover Creations, for designing Christmas Embrace’s sexy cover.

~ Wander Aguiar Photography for the gorgeous cover image! You and Andrey are the best!

~ Wayne Skivington, cover model. So grateful to finally have you on a cover!

~ Polgarus Studio, Jason, for formatting.

~ Rose Holub, Read by Rose, for proofreading. You are awesome!

~ My reader group, for helping spread the word about the Immortals of New Orleans series. I appreciate your support more than you could know!

Chapter One

“I love you,” Sydney whispered.

“Marry me.” Kade brushed the pad of his thumb over her finger, hopeful she’d soon say yes.

Ever since he’d turned her into a vampire, she’d no longer worn her engagement ring. We have a lifetime to do it, she’d insisted. His fiery detective struggled, still mourning the loss of her humanity.

“We didn’t get very far with the decorations.” Sydney laughed, changing the subject. “I think I have tinsel in places I shouldn’t.”

Kade rolled onto his back and cradled Sydney to his chest. His shoulder grazed a box of ornaments, garlands bunched at his feet. He smiled as he brushed his lips to her hair and glanced to the ball of green shrubbery his lovely mate had tacked to the ceiling. Mistletoe. One simple kiss had turned into an afternoon lovemaking session.

The scent of greenery lingered in the air. Bright white lights twinkled upon the ten-foot Fraser fir they’d failed to decorate. Although the fire warmed the room, a draft chilled his skin, reminding Kade of the recent cold spell. He reached to the sofa and tugged on a throw blanket, gently tossing it over them.

As Sydney molded her body to his, drifting in and out of sleep, Kade studied her face. Although she wore a small smile, her puffy eyes reminded him of their loss and the pain that haunted her.

Guilt racked his thoughts. Kade always knew he’d never be able to give his human fiancée children. Up until the day he’d turned her, he’d held a spark of hope that when Sydney was ready, fertility treatment could help them become pregnant. Now a vampire, she’d never conceive.

The price of immortality was a steep one, ruling out the possibility of raising a human child they’d eventually outlive. Adopting a paranormal baby had proved more difficult than either of them anticipated. Wolves tended to adopt most abandoned pups, insisting they be raised within and around pack. Likewise, witches insisted on raising children within the covens, grooming their magick as they matured.

Kade had contacted his friend, Tristan Livingston, expressing their desire to adopt a pup. Both he and Sydney had a deep connection to the Alpha, and while he said he’d advocate on their behalf, he made no promises. As the days went by, they’d nearly given up hope…until Zachery came into their lives.

Several months ago, when an abandoned baby had been left on the steps of the local coven, Sydney was one of the first to arrive on the scene. She immediately bonded to the boy. By the time the paranormal social workers arrived, Sydney insisted on fostering the orphaned child and soon was granted temporary custody.

Neither of them had been prepared for a child. Kade had been surprised how quickly he had bonded and fallen in love with the babe. The mere presence of the child in their home had sparked a maternal flame within Sydney that still burned bright. With the bluest eyes Kade had ever seen, the five-month-old baby boy had stolen both their hearts.

When the baby’s mother, a wolf, showed up to claim him, they’d taken the loss hard. Ever since they were forced to return Zachery, Sydney’s smile had rarely reached her eyes. Although she attempted to hide her heartache, she couldn’t completely mask the hopelessness.

Kade brushed his lips to Sydney’s forehead with a silent promise he’d convince her to marry him one kiss at a time. As he succumbed to sleep, he thanked the Goddess for his beautiful fiancée and prayed that one day they’d be parents. Despite being vampires, Kade planned to remind her that family wasn’t always blood. Some families were forged with bonds of love, heartstrings as strong as steel.

Kade woke to a familiar Australian accent.

“Wakey, wakey loverboy.” Luca glanced at the bare tree, a corner of his lips ticking upward. “Looks like you got balls out, but none made it to the tree.”

Kade cursed as he blinked his eyes open to see the cantankerous vampire towering above him. He reached blindly for Sydney, but ended up clutching a fistful of tinsel instead. She’s gone.

“Let me guess. You’re Santa Baby and Syd opened her present early. A yule log?”

“Fuck off, vampire.” Kade shot Luca a glare of annoyance. He shoved to his feet, wrapping the blanket around his hips. He leaned to spy around Luca, looking for Sydney.

“All that rockin’ around the Christmas tree must have gone to your head.”

“Don’t be daft. You didn’t happen to see Syd on your way in?”

“Said hello as she was rushing up the stairs. Barely dressed I might add.”

“Where’s Samantha?”

“My gorgeous bride is having a fitting today.” Luca smiled proudly.

“You’ve gone right soft,” Kade said, amused by his wide grin.

“I’m a father now. I’m sensitive,” Luca claimed.

“Sensitive? Really? Like last week? When you attacked the vampire in your driveway for insulting your taste in lawn decorations? The way you disconnected his spine from his skull….” Kade walked around Luca and headed toward the kitchen still talking. He glanced upward, hearing the patter of water running in the shower above them. “Nothing says Merry Christmas like blood on the pavement.”

“’Tis the season.” Luca shrugged. “He wasn’t an elf. Ronnie was a wanted murderer who picked the wrong day to come looking for vengeance.” Luca released a roar of laughter and followed him through the foyer. “It was a quick death. I showed mercy.”

“I suppose there are varying degrees of sensitive?” Kade depressed the button on the coffee machine, igniting a hum. “Café au Lait? Latte? Cappuccino?”

“You know I don’t do that fancy shit.”

“One of these days I’ll get you turned on to Chai Tea lattes. Syd loves them.”

“No you won’t, mate, but I do appreciate your perseverance.” Luca took a seat on a kitchen bar stool and retrieved his phone, tapping at the glass. “Ah…Goddess.”

“What is it?”

“Samantha’s asking how you and Sydney are doing with the decorations. She’s actually been asking me, not you, because she’s worried the house won’t be decorated in time for the wedding but doesn’t want to bother Sydney.”

“We’ve been making a good attempt.”

“At something, maybe. Not decorating. What am I supposed to tell her?”

“Sydney doesn’t know it, but I’ve hired someone to help. It will all be done by tomorrow. Caterer called yesterday and confirmed they’ll be here. Musicians as well. We’ve got it all under control.”

“Why did she have to pick Christmas Eve?” Luca shook his head as he texted Samantha. Everything is perfect, darlin. Tree looks amazing. It’s like a winter wonderland. Love you.

“Because it’s romantic.” Kade laughed and slid a clean mug into the coffee machine. It released a hiss as the steam warmed the milk.

“You’ve become human again. I’m convinced of it,” Luca said, his tone condescending.

“You say that as if it’s a bad thing.”

“Because it is.”

“We’ve been over this a million times. You forget. You were human too,” Kade countered.

“Ah, fuck, I was. But now the witch makes me soft. And Sydney, well,” he paused, “I don’t know what happened. You’d think she’d make you even harder with that stubborn attitude of hers.”

“She makes me hard all right. The way I like it.” Kade smiled and waggled his eyebrows.

“Easy, Secret Santa.” Luca crossed the room. “It’s the busiest time of year. We’ve got Kate and she’s looking forward to Santa coming and we’ve still got presents to wrap and with this wedding…”

“Are you getting cold feet?” Kade lifted the piping hot concoction to his lips and blew softly upon the froth.

“Samantha’s been, how should I say…‘saving herself’ for tomorrow night.” Luca gave an audible sigh. “It’s been a damn month already and I’m just about over the celibacy routine.”

“So this is what makes the vampire even more irritable than usual. No sex?” Kade chuckled and sipped his drink. “Good stuff. You’re missing out, man.”

“What about Sydney?” Luca changed the subject.

“What about her?” Kade’s smile fell flat.

“You know what I’m talking about. Zach. How’s she handling it?”

“Not well. Of course you know Syd. It’s not like I catch her crying all the time, but I know she does. She’s been a bit distant but somehow she keeps pushing, going to work, still planning the wedding.” Kade shook his head. “I miss him too. It’s crazy we got to the point we thought he’d stay with us, but we did. There wasn’t any guarantee we could keep him. I knew better but it’s just…he’s my son.”

“I’m sorry, man.”

“I should have never let myself get so attached. It’s been years since I’ve even thought about this being a possibility. You know how it is when you’re turned. It took me a long time to accept I wasn’t ever having children. But eventually you do accept it. Life goes on. You tell yourself that creating others in your line will satisfy that need. Someone to look after if you choose. Your daughter is an exception. She truly is a blessing from the Goddess. Look. There’s no use in ruminating over it. I’ve come to terms. We’ll try again to adopt. But Sydney. She’s new to all this. She hasn’t had a lifetime as a vampire. When she found Zach…and then the dipshit came back to claim him…she’s heartbroken.”

“I get it. Seriously, now that Kate is in our lives,” Luca gave a small laugh, “I can’t imagine my life without her. She’s my world.”

“You’re a lucky man.”

“You’ll adopt someday. You and Sydney deserve happiness.”

“I don’t think she still wants to get married,” Kade confessed.

“Sydney? Are you sure?”

“Pretty sure. I don’t know. After everything went down…when I turned her.”

“But she forgave you. Accepted it.”

“Yeah but everything has changed for her. Maybe because she’s immortal, it’s easier for her to bury her feelings, to shove off the wedding. We have eternity after all.”

“Did she say she wasn’t going to marry you?”

“No, but she won’t wear my ring. She won’t even talk about getting married.”

“Maybe you need to turn on that British charm and woo her.”

Kade briefly closed his eyes and laughed. “Did you just say ‘woo her’?”

“What’s so funny, mate?”

“I can’t believe how much things have changed.” The sound of the doorbell ringing interrupted their conversation.

“Expecting someone?”

“It’s a surprise.” Kade gave a wide smile.

“I don’t like surprises,” Luca muttered.

“You’ll like this one.”

“You want me to answer it?”

“Yeah, sure.”

“I don’t like surprises,” he repeated.

“I heard you the first time. Sure you don’t want a latte?”

“I’ll take a chicory,” Luca said as he left to go open the door.

“You got it.” Kade slid a fresh mug into the machine and pressed the button, smiling as he anticipated Luca’s reaction. He had a love/hate relationship with their old Alpha friend, Tristan Livingston.

Three. Two. One. Kade smiled to himself as he heard the ruckus erupt from the foyer.

“Hey Tris,” Kade called as he prepared the coffee. He glanced to Luca who barreled into the kitchen and shook his head.

“Can you believe this guy?” Tristan asked Kade with a casual smile. He laughed and set his sights on Luca. “What’s up big man? Why the frown? You know you’re lucky I came. Not everyone gets to have the Alpha attend their wedding.”

“You’ve gotta be kidding me?” A corner of his lips turned upward, and he stifled his laughter. “Consider this a revocation of your invitation.”

“I see the witch hasn’t helped your personality.”

“Fuck off, wolf.”

“And fuck you too.” Tristan laughed, his eyes wide with amusement. “Boys, we are gonna have a happy fucking day. Yes we are.”

“Alpha,” Kade called toward his old friend.

“Yo, brotha.” Tristan rushed the vampire and gave him a burly hug.

“Tris.” Kade patted him on the back. He’d missed the Alpha. “Starting up already, boys? You’re both going to have to answer to Sydney if you keep up the cursing.”

“He fucking started it,” Luca grumbled.

“All I said was that I could kick his ass in HALO. He’s a little bitch.” Tristan chuckled.

“I already beat you,” Luca shot back

“That was a short game. He cheated.” Tristan turned to Kade. “Come on. You were there. You saw it.”

“We’ll have a rematch,” Kade suggested.

“The wolf is delusional. He doesn’t know who he’s dealing with.” Luca gave a side eye toward Tristan and reached for his mug.

The Alpha glanced to Kade. “Lattes?”

“You want one?”

“Yeah, sure,” Tristan said. Kade reached for a mug but the Alpha held out a hand to stop him. “I got it. I got it. So what’s up? Big day tomorrow, huh?”

“You bet,” Kade agreed.

“You know what I think,” Tristan continued, still taking jabs at Luca, “I think this wedding shit has sent all the blood to his cock. Yeah, that’s gotta be it because no one thinks they can dethrone me. My HALO record stands for itself. I am the king of the game. I am the master.”

“He’s been practicing,” Kade told Tristan with a laugh. “You created a monster.”

“Soon I won’t have time anyway. I’ll be playing Minecraft.” Luca smiled into his chicory.

“He’s just fucking with me now.” Tristan laughed.

“I’ve got a toddler. They grow up fast,” he insisted.

Tristan’s grin broadened. “I’m pretty sure I’ve stepped into an alternative universe down here in Nawlins.”

“You know what’s happening. He’s getting married,” Kade responded.

“Ah yes. Humans and their traditions,” Tristan mused as he prepared his coffee.

“I’m a vampire. Don’t fucking start with that shit,” Luca shot back.

“I don’t know,” Kade interrupted. “We start off as human and are reborn vampire. But maybe all we’ve been taught isn’t exactly correct.”

“Leo or Quint would damn well kick your ass for suggesting that,” Luca told him.

“No,” Kade shook his head. “First of all. Nobody is kicking my ass in my town. And second,” he paused, his eyes meeting Luca’s, “The Alpha’s correct. Getting married is a very human tradition. But perhaps so are the desires that burn in our soul. There may be only a miniscule amount of our humanity still within us, but it persists. Look at you. You’re a father. Soon to be a husband. You’ve never been happier. All those things are very much human. We seek the family that is stolen from us.” Kade raised his mug and clinked it with Tristan’s. “Cheers.”

“Samantha is more than family. She’s my life,” Luca told them. “I’m unapologetically in love with the high priestess and my beautiful daughter.”

“Well then. Now that we’ve established Luca is more like a human than he thinks…” Tristan clapped his hands together. “What do you say we get this show on the road? It ain’t every day I get to participate in human activities. It’s bachelor time. Cocktails?”

“Bourbon Street,” Kade suggested.

“It’s Christmastime.” Luca peered over the rim of his mug. “I should be home listening to Christmas carols, tending the fire.”

“Decking the halls?” Tristan laughed.

“He’ll be decking the halls for the rest of his life.” Kade smiled.

“Dude. Bro. Ya gotta go with the flow on this one.”

“Did you just call him dude? You been hanging out with Jake, haven’t you? Next thing you know you’ll be movin’ to California.” Luca shot Tristan an unimpressed glare.

“Philly’s home now. But yeah. I’m comin’ off a sweet vacay in San Diego. Got in some swells.”

“Do you hear this shit?” Luca snorted. “Wolves.”

“I have Samantha’s permission for us to go out,” Kade told him. “A few hours on the town. A little time with the boys will be good for you.”

“He’s gonna say yes.” Tristan smiled at Luca. “You know you want to, big guy. Just the three of us.”

“Logan?” Kade asked.

“Four of us.” Tristan shrugged.

“Dimitri?” Kade pressed.

“Yeah, maybe. I dunno. Whoever can get free can come for a drink. Say yes.” Tristan raised his cup to the cantankerous vampire and smiled. “It’s a beautiful day.”

“I’m good.”

“A drink is all. Jesus, he really is a married man,” Tristan teased.

“We’re all happily mated and it’s Christmas.” Kade shrugged. “Now if I could just get Sydney to…”

“What’s going on?” Tristan asked, his smile fading.

“I was just telling Luca. Syd has had a rough time of it this past year. You know what happened with me turning her. Then the whole Pat Scurlock business. Things seemed to finally be back on track, and then Zach came along. It’s not like we expected something like this to happen. We should have known better than to get so attached. It’s just…I’ve never had a son. We thought we had a chance at adopting but…you know how it is. You’re an Alpha. No one claimed him and then out of the blue an out-of-town wolf shows up. It was really hard giving him back to his birth mother.”

“She’ll come round,” Luca told him.

“Sydney’s tough but she’s always had a soft heart. She’s human,” Tristan said, giving a sympathetic smile.

“She’s a vampire,” Luca countered. “You’ll adopt eventually. Time is on your side. As far as marrying you? Ah, well.” He turned to Tristan. “He needs to woo her. I’m not talking about the sex. Doesn’t seem like the two of you have any worries there.”

“Technically she’s vampire but she’s still kinda human. I mean it hasn’t been that long. You’ve got to give her time. Luca’s right. You’ll adopt eventually. It’s hard but not impossible.” The Alpha crossed the kitchen and opened the refrigerator, staring inside it.

“Hungry wolf?” Kade asked.

“I want some beignets. Can’t get em’ up in Philly like you can at home.” He shut the door. “Cheesesteaks? Got ya covered. Soft pretzels. Scrapple.”

“Scrapple?” Luca released an audible sigh. “Yeah, no.”

“Don’t knock scrapple, man. It’s the bomb.”

“Hardly.” Luca’s mouth tightened in disgust.

“It’s unique.” Kade laughed. “All right gentlemen. It’s time for me to get ready. You’re welcome to use the entertainment room. Get in some HALO before we go. I can tell that Luca is ripe with anticipation to have some fun and…”

Kade’s words trailed off as he sensed Sydney. A proud smile bloomed on his face as his beautiful fiancée shook her wild blonde mane, and put her hands on her hips, commanding the attention of all three males.

“Did I hear you say you’re going to get beignets without me? What the hell?” she joked.

“Sydney!” Tristan called, his arms wide open to her.

Kade exercised restraint as the Alpha lifted Sydney into the air and spun her around in a circle before setting her back onto her feet.

“Easy with my woman,” Kade warned.

“Tris.” Sydney cupped his cheek and smiled up at him. “It isn’t fair. You know I love beignets. And I love you even more.”

“Ah, cher. Sorry I didn’t stop. I can bring you some back tonight,” he offered.

“Just kidding, wolf. But you owe me a raincheck before you leave. You’re staying for the holidays? Kalli too?” she asked, her eyes bright with excitement.

“Of course.” Tristan slapped his hand onto Luca’s shoulder and the vampire swatted it away. “So, can you believe our Luca is getting married? I never thought he would be tying the knot with anyone. Or should I say, I never thought his lovely witch would ever agree to marry a grumpy vampire like him.”

“Piss off,” Luca shot back at Tristan.

“He’s not the same Luca,” Sydney assured him. “The high priestess keeps him busy. Baby Kate…” Although a broad smile crossed her face, sadness shone in her eyes. “She’s the cutest little girl ever.”

“Don’t let Logan hear you saying that.” Kade laughed and reached for Sydney’s hand, pulling her to his side.

“Hey.” She wrapped her arms around his waist. Leaning in close, she whispered in his ear. “Maybe we need to work on the tree later.”

Kade fought his arousal as she grazed her lips over his neck. “I’m thinking we need to decorate in every room.”

Sydney laughed, giving him a sexy smile. “Ah…sounds perfect. Although we probably should finish the tree we started.”

“Don’t worry about the tree. Just go have fun.”

“It’s just that it has to be special…It’s Christmas.”

“It’s going to be special. I promise.” Her first year as a vampire would be the most difficult. She’d view every human tradition from a different perspective.

“Syd. Are you sure you want to have the wedding here because…” Luca began but immediately stopped as Kade frowned and shot him a look.

“Of course. I promise everything will be perfect,” Sydney assured him. She pulled from Kade’s arms but still held onto his hands. “I’ll be with the girls for the afternoon. When I get home, I’ll double check everything.”

“I have decorators coming this afternoon. Take your time, love,” Kade told her.

“I appreciate the help, but I don’t want anyone touching the tree. That’s ours.”

“You’ve got it, love.”

“Really Sydney, you don’t have to do this,” Luca told her. “We could do it at the coven. It’s been renovated and…”

“The coven? Ilsbeth’s house? Are you kidding me? No way. Not another word. Every detail has been accounted for. The invitations sent. Caterers will be here in the morning. Flowers. I promise you won’t even recognize this place.”

“But Syd…”

“No buts.” She held up her hand, her tone firm. “It’s going to be here. I promised Samantha. You’re going to have a perfect wedding.”

“One hundred percent.” Kade smiled at Luca who nodded in agreement.

Sydney glanced up to the clock on the wall and cringed. “Oh geez. I’m sorry guys. I’m late. We’ll have to catch up later. I’ve gotta run.”

“But first.” Kade pulled her back into his embrace, his lips at her ear. “Meet you under the mistletoe later?”

“Absolutely,” she promised, brushing a kiss to his cheek. Sydney laughed as she broke free. “Let me go before I drag you back into the living room.”

Kade wore a smile as he watched her walk out of the kitchen, his rock-hard cock straining against his zipper. As he adjusted his painful erection, he lifted his gaze to find both Luca and Tristan grinning at him.

“What?” He shrugged.

“I said woo her,” Luca said.

“I heard you.” Kade reached for his mug and lifted it to his lips. He wrinkled his nose as the lukewarm coffee coated his tongue.

“Let me explain it to you. You see, romance is not sex. You, my friend, just made a date for sex.” Tristan glanced at Luca and back to Kade. “That’s not how it’s done.”

“Just because I made arrangements doesn’t mean I was planning on having sex.”

Tristan shot him a hard glare. “Seriously?”

“Okay, okay. I’m a vampire not a dead man. Not that it’s any of your business but…” Kade stopped speaking, listening to make sure she’d left the house. He lowered his voice. “I’m going to propose.”

“You’re already engaged,” Tristan told him.

“I was engaged. This is a do over.” Kade waved them off and put his mug into the sink. “Plenty of wooing going on.”

“I’ll never understand vampires. Good thing us wolves just mate and get it over with.”

“I know what I’m doing.” Kade turned to them and smiled, changing the subject. “It’s time to go, boys. I’ll just nip upstairs and be back down in a few minutes. I’m ready for some blood.”

“Now you’re talking, mate. Let’s hit the blood club before beignets.” Luca stood.

“Thank the Goddess all the romance talk is over.” Tristan laughed. “If I spend any more time with you guys, I might go into heat.”

“Y’all worry ‘bout yourselves. I’ve got this covered,” Kade assured them as he walked out of the kitchen and headed to go get dressed. Tonight he’d remind his feisty little detective, Sydney, of their love and win her heart and her hand in marriage.

Chapter Two

Sydney sucked a breath of fresh air as she shut the front door to the house. A chill ran through her body, and she tugged up her zipper, her black leather jacket not quite warm enough for Christmastime in New Orleans. She knew surviving the next two days would take every ounce of energy she possessed. Between the loss of her humanity and then losing Zachery, she’d been heartbroken.

Being turned into a vampire had nearly killed her. Emerging out of the darkness had given her hope that an eternity with Kade would be all she’d ever need to survive….until Zachery. As a human, she’d fought her desire to have children, knowing her life as a police officer put her in danger. But after getting engaged, the love in Kade’s eyes sparked a desire for his child, a family.

Her connection with Zachery had been serendipitous, one that transformed her life. She’d just wrapped up a murder case in the French Quarter when she heard the call come across the radio. From the second she held him in her arms, Sydney knew the child belonged with her.

It was only a month. One short month. Each day, minute, second, her love for him grew exponentially.

Giving him back to his birth mother had crushed her. Memories of Zachery lingered in her mind, and she couldn’t shake the pain. She could not erase the sweet smell of the baby. The sound of his laughter. The smile on his face when she walked into the nursery. They’d renovated his room within days, confident he was in his forever home. Everything revolved around Zachery and life was perfect…until he was gone.

“Hmm, the tea is delicious. I would love some more.” Sydney offered her cup to the smiling toddler.

“Ya, ya, ya. Tookie? Tookie?” the little girl asked, flashing her wide blue eyes.

“What do you think, Syd?” Samantha asked from across the room. She stood in front of the floor-to-ceiling mirror, studying the fine lace trim on her dress.

“I think you look amazing.” Sydney’s heart tightened as she admired her beautiful friend. Although genuinely happy for her, not having a child or a plan for getting married stung. Like a dark cloud, it hung heavy over Sydney’s head. Worse, she missed Zachery, unable to accept the circumstances.

“I’ll play. You go help Sam,” Dominique offered.

“Are you okay?” Sydney inwardly questioned her choice of words. “I meant…you sure you want to watch Kate?”

“Don’t be silly. Of course I’m okay,” she lied, settling on the floor next to Kate. “Go on. Sam needs you. It’s fine.”

“You sure?” The once ferocious vampire rarely spoke. Several months ago, she’d been rescued from a demon. Beaten and starved, it had been weeks before she’d uttered a word. She still had not opened up to Kade or Sydney about what had happened, although they had learned that prior to her being turned into a vampire, a demon had murdered her children.

“Yes. All good.” She turned to Kate with a broad smile. “Do you need more tea, mademoiselle?”

Sydney reached for the hot-pink clay teapot and pretended to pour tea. The toddler giggled, a cookie clutched in her chubby hands.

“Dear princess, your mommy needs my help, but this beautiful queen would love to play with you.” Sydney glanced at Dominique and frowned, turning to Kate. “Queen Dom seems to be missing her crown. Do you have one in your dress-up bin she could borrow?”

“Ya, ya, ya.” Kate’s eyes lit up in excitement as she ran off to search for a tiara.

“Thank you.” Sydney stood and bowed to Dominque, still in character. A small smile formed as she caught a hint of amusement in the vampire’s eyes.

“Syd,” Samantha called from across the room.

“The princess is all yours, my queen.” Sydney winked and quickly made her way across the room to Samantha.

“You’re a beautiful bride.” Sydney unconsciously fiddled with her naked ring finger where she’d once worn Kade’s diamond. She drew a deep breath and bit her lip, struggling to tamp down her emotions.

“Are you sure? I want to look perfect for Luca.” Samantha glided her hands over her waist, fingering a seam of beading. “Do these pearls look straight? This one looks a little off to me. I think they may have to be resewn.”

“It looks perfect.”

“Are you sure?” Samantha cocked her head, studying the stitching.

“Absolutely. You can always ask the seamstress when she comes back if it will make you feel better.”

“My parents are coming,” she continued as if she hadn’t heard Sydney. “It’s been rough going with me moving to New Orleans. They weren’t thrilled with it, you know. My nerves are shot.”

“Your parents love you and they know you’re getting married to an incredible man. He’s your soulmate. That’s all that really matters.”

“Hopefully they’ll be okay with Luca as a son-in-law. You know how he is.”

“Yes, yes I do. Luca can be…well, it’s just that he…” Sydney briefly hesitated. “You know. The human thing.”

“He hates humans,” Samantha said, locking her eyes on Sydney’s as she stared at the mirror. “You know it’s true.”

“Hate is a strong word. I’d say more like…is indifferent.”

“They’re weak,” Samantha replied in her best impersonation of Luca.

“Food,” Sydney countered with a small laugh.

“Oh Goddess. My parents are not food.”

Sydney circled around to face Samantha and took her hands in hers. “Luca adores you. He’s a bear. But a loving bear, nonetheless. He’s going to behave.”

Samantha lowered her gaze. “They don’t know.”

“They don’t know what?”

“My parents. They don’t know everything,” she repeated, her words slow and deliberate. “About me. About Luca.”

“Oh. Well. Hmm.” Sydney paused and gave a closed smile, attempting to muster support. Not all humans approved of paranormals. “I don’t know your parents all that well but if they are anything like you, anything at all, they will be okay. They love you. They want to see you happy.”

“I told them I met Luca at a tech conference, and he offered me a tech job at Issacson Industries.” A nervous chuckle escaped her. “Shortly after Kate was born, we flew up for the day so they could meet her. Dad is a civil war buff, so he had a great convo with Luca about Gettysburg but it’s not like they’ve seen his fangs. I know some humans are aware, but my parents are conservative. Go to church every Sunday. Happily live in suburbia. Mom enjoys Bunco with the girls. I didn’t even tell them I was pregnant until pretty far in. They weren’t crazy about me giving birth and not being married. I once tried to tell Mom about the magick and being a high priestess, but she quickly went into a rant about how someone gave her sage and how she doesn’t care for woo woo malarkey. Pretty sure she used that word. Malarkey. I’m surprised she didn’t bring up Hell. If she only knew where Kate was born…oh Goddess.”

“Your mom and dad love you. She’ll come around eventually.” Sydney attempted to calm her.

“I couldn’t explain why I didn’t give birth in a hospital, so I told her I had a home birth. A home birth, Syd. Seriously. That’s what I said. How was I supposed to tell her I gave birth in a demon cave? Who even does that?”

Sydney stifled her laugh.

“I can’t have any of our special friends shifting or doing anything crazy,” Samantha continued.

“Logan will keep his wolves under control,” Sydney assured her.

“Well. Ready or not, she’s going to find out today that I am a high priestess and what that really means. Wait until they get a load of Leo.”

“It’s all going to work out. It’s meant to be. I have to believe that for all of us. It was destiny. The Goddess saw fit to make you high priestess.”

Samantha took a deep breath and nodded.

“Personally, I think there was magick in you long before your feet ever touched down in New Orleans,” Sydney speculated.

“I wasn’t a witch. But maybe sensitive,” she admitted. “Sensitive and in denial. I don’t know.”

“How do you really know where the magick came from? I know your ordeal with Simone caused it but maybe it wasn’t her magick. Maybe you had a seed, a spark of magick? Maybe you just didn’t know. I did one of those DNA tests once. Thought my whole life I was Italian, and it turns out I’m mostly Scottish. That’s how we found out my great-grandfather was adopted.”

“This is a little different.”

“It is but it isn’t. Maybe there is magick somewhere in your family tree. You never know, Sam. Maybe after the wedding you could have a heart-to-heart with your parents. Explain what happened. My guess is they’ll understand. Magick family tree or not. Besides your mom loves Kate.” Sydney smiled. “It’s Christmas. Everyone’s a little kinder.”

“Do you really think so?”

“I know so. We all have a little magick in us anyway. Even humans. We all have a soul. We love unconditionally. That’s magick isn’t it?”

A ding sounded, interrupting their conversation. Sydney rooted into her back pocket and dug out her phone. “Oh man, who is it now…ugh, sorry.”

Her smile faded as she read the text. Got a body down in Holy Cross. You’re gonna want to see this. Sydney tapped at the glass. Send the addy Brt

“Work?” Samantha asked with a frown.

“Spoke too soon. Almost everyone’s kinder.” Sydney pressed off her phone and stared at Samantha. “The rest are assholes.”

“No Syd. Not today. It’s the day before the wedding. We’re supposed to drink mimosas all day. Have fun doing girl stuff.”

“I’m sorry, Sam. I’ve got to check this out, and then I should be free. I’m just going to pop in for a consult. I promise to be back by noon.” Guilt threaded through Sydney as disappointment washed over Samantha’s face. She reached for her purse and turned to the bride. “Keep the champagne cold. The limo will be here early. It’s you, me, Kalli, and Laryssa. Wynter will be there for a bit too. Court of the Two Sisters, then mani-pedis. We’re topping it off with massages so you’re cool-as-a-cucumber relaxed for the wedding. It’s going to be amazing!”

“Okay, but don’t be late. You work too much.”

“Madame! Tu es magnifique! Vérifions les détails une fois de plus,” the seamstress exclaimed as she entered the room waving a pink velvet hanger.

“I’ll be back by noon. Love you!” Sydney waved, quickly heading out of the room.

“Love you too! Don’t be late!” Samantha called after her.

Sydney rushed to her car. As she turned the ignition on and put her car into gear, a dark premonition churned in her mind, one she couldn’t quite shake.

It was Christmas. In New Orleans. But evil never took a day off.

Chapter Three

“Jesus.” The pungent scent of blood filled the air. Sydney struggled to control her heightened vampire senses, choking back her hunger as an officer approached. She scanned the crime scene, her focus drawn to the ground. She proceeded carefully, avoiding stepping in the pools of blood.

“What in the hell?” Sydney stopped cold as a severed hand came into view. The lingering demonic energy danced over her skin and she shivered. Demons.

“I think they may have been tourists,” she heard an officer respond. “No IDs but we found a set of car keys. The Escalade was found over on the 6200 block of Dauphine.”

“Whatever did this…it was a monster.” Sydney spied a long brown mane attached to a bloodied head. “How many we got here? Males? Females?”

“Still doin’ a count. This one here’s male. At least we think he was a male. We’re still trying to locate the rest of his dick. There’s body parts everywhere.” The officer scrubbed his fingers through his scruffy hair. “Listen, Syd. The guys are going to clean up the scene and get the bodies to the morgue but we both know this isn’t something a human could do. It looks like a wild animal came through here.”

“When did it get called in?”

“NOPD got an anonymous call around an hour ago. We got here soon after.”

“Something real bad is going on…can you smell it?” Sydney sniffed again. The putrid aroma of sulfur still lingered in the damp air. “Yeah, this is definitely a supe.” Demon. “Don’t assume all the vics are innocent. Be careful going through here. You got someone who can come in to clear the energy while you work?”

“Yeah, I can get someone. Whatya take em’ for?”

“I don’t want to say just yet.” Sydney studied the clothing of a female victim whose abdomen had been eviscerated, her intestines strewn like a ball of string unraveling around her. The scent of the blood wasn’t human. “The vics are definitely not vamps. Could be wolves, but not sure they’re Acadian. Logan would know. If they were his anyway.”

She retrieved her cell phone from her jacket pocket and tapped on the glass. Got a blood bath down in Holy Cross. You missing any wolves?

Nope. What’s goin’ down? Logan texted back immediately.

DBs ripped apart by something. Not a pretty sight.

Acadian wolves aren’t involved.

It’s why I’m checkin' in.

100% sure.

I smell demons.

Keep me updated. Watch your back.

Will do. Thanks.

Sydney’s hand unconsciously traveled to her abdomen. The memory of the demon flashed in her mind, as his fist gored through her stomach. She’d never forget the fateful day she’d been killed, her humanity stolen. Reborn as vampire, the strength of her breed was substantial, but demon energy remained formidable. Only a powerful witch could control the beasts of the underworld.

Sydney exhaled, attempting to shake off the diabolical memory. Hair prickled on her arms as she stepped toward the back of the alley.

Death hung heavy in the air. A corpse lay hidden behind a dumpster. With his neck torn open and his left hand missing, the victim had bled out all over the street. A right eyeball dangled from its socket, the face shredded beyond recognition.

The commanding voice of an officer boomed over a loudspeaker, warning off a growing crowd of onlookers, yet Sydney barely heard it, lost in examining the scene. The stench of vomit reeked, causing her stomach to roll, yet the aroma of blood sent her vampire senses reeling. Easy, Syd, she told herself, her fangs straining against her gums.

With a slow acceptance, Sydney had come to terms with her existence as vampire. Learning to drink blood challenged her, but she enjoyed biting Kade and had grown accustomed to human blood. But now more than ever she was acutely aware of the death experience. The final beats of a heart. The last minutes of someone’s death, the gritty rattling of their final breaths. A desperate exhale, often their eyes wide open, gazing out onto eternal afterlife. The soul releasing from its vessel, returning home to the Goddess. The cries of grief from family members.

Sydney closed her eyes and took a cleansing breath, attempting to refocus. Let it go. Let it go. One. Two. Three. Four. Five. Vampiric energy tore through her body as she released the dark thoughts.

Concentrating, she sniffed the air again. The familiar scent registered, forcing her senses to alert. Her eyes flashed open, in panic at the barely audible whimper.

“Everyone be quiet!” she yelled. The murmur of conversations trailed off slowly. “I said shut up. Be quiet! Now!”

The sound of trash crunching under her feet echoed in the silence of the claustrophobic alley. As she trekked further into the darkened tunnel, her heart caught in her throat as she caught sight of a dented trash bin that had been tossed on its side.

“No, no, no…” She repeated as she cautiously approached, listening for signs of life. Please no. Don’t be Zach. This isn’t happening.

Sydney reached for the rusted lid and tossed it aside. Emotion rushed to her chest, her eyes locking on his. Zachery. The baby, still clutching his pacifier, released a blood-curdling cry. Sydney reached inside the bin and scooped him safely into her arms.

“It’s okay, baby. It’s okay. What did they do to you?” Sydney struggled to contain the anger that coursed through her. She gently peeled the crying child away from her to check for injuries. Aside from a small scratch on his forehead, he appeared unscathed.

“Thank the Goddess.” Trembling, she carefully inspected his tiny hands. “I should have never let you go. I promise you this will never happen ever again.”

As officers rushed toward them, Sydney protectively cradled Zachery to her chest. Instinctively, her fangs dropped, and she hissed.

“Whoa, whoa, whoa, Syd,” she heard a colleague say but her blind rage burned hot.

“I’m not giving him back,” she gritted out, dialing back her anger.

“You know protocol. The kid needs to be processed.”

“No way, Brian. I know this boy. He’s mine. They made me give him back to that wolf. Look what happened. No way. I’m not letting him go.” She shook her head. “You guys clean up the scene. See if you can find the mother. She might be here. I’m taking Zachery to the hospital.” Sydney shoved to her feet, clinging to the child, who’d settled against her shoulder, his eyes fighting to stay open.

“Hey uh, don’t you think ya oughtta wait for an ambulance?”

“No.” Sydney knew full well they would call the paramedics, but she struggled to remain rational as her thoughts drifted to Zachery. Who the hell did this? Why was his mother still in New Orleans? How could she let this happen to him? Tristan and Logan promised the child would be taken to a pack, raised as wolf. Never again.

Sydney rocked the child side to side as she walked out of the alley. She sucked a breath, stopping short as she caught sight of a crumpled body. With the face crushed into the pavement, she was unrecognizable. But the distinctive neon-purple hair trailing down her back raised Sydney’s suspicions.

“Hey, Annie.” Sydney acknowledged a female officer who approached her.

“Is that…Zachery? The kiddo from a few months back?” she asked, a sympathetic expression in her eyes. “Oh God. I’m sorry, Syd. This little fella…well, I know you guys wanted to adopt him…it’s just…the system’s all kinds of fucked up. What’s he doin’ here? Where did you find him?”

“In a trash bin.” Sydney could hardly believe the words as she spoke them. “Hey, can you do me a favor…see that body over there?”

“The one behind that pile of black trash bags?”

Sydney nodded. “Yeah. The one with the purple hair. I might be able to ID her. It’s one less vic you gotta chase down. Would you mind?”

“Sure thing.” Annie bent down toward the corpse and studied it. “No bullet exit wounds or knife wounds here on the back. Skin’s torn up pretty bad. Plenty of blood though, too, huh?”

“Yeah, there is.” Sydney’s lips tensed as Annie rolled the naked body onto its back. Bathed in a pool of dark fluid, the woman’s mottled skin flapped open. Tufts of white and brown fur adhered to the rotting skin.

Annie covered her nose as entrails spilled out of the abdomen. “Jesus, that reeks.”

“Ugh.” Sydney fought back nausea.

“Torn right open.”

“They’ve been mutilated.”

“NOPD was right to call P-CAP. I don’t think a human could’ve done this.” Annie shrugged. “Maybe with a machete? I don’t know, though. With all the fur, my bet is this one’s a wolf. Geez, that slice has gotta be at least 12 inches. Looks like it runs all the way up her sternum. What the hell does something like this?”

“A demon,” Sydney whispered. She shielded Zachery’s view from his dead mother.

“What’s that on her neck there?” The red tattoo still visible on the female’s throat read Larry’s Bitch. “Take her for a wolf, do ya?

“Yeah. Yeah, I do. It’s his, uh…birth mother.” Fucking Trinity. The twenty-five-year-old she-wolf had given birth to Zach in the back of a drug den while her piece-of-shit mate played cards with his friends. Two weeks later, she’d dumped the baby with a human she’d met at a nail salon. After paying her fifty dollars, Trinity took off for Vegas for five months.

When the child showed up in New Orleans, Logan tracked her down. She’d claimed she was forced by her mate to leave the baby behind. After a drug deal gone bad, the mate took a bullet between the eyes. After his untimely death, she’d escaped and took a bus to Ohio.

Sydney never believed her story, but the state of Trinity’s shredded remains confirmed her suspicion that the she-wolf had still been involved in criminal activity, no matter the lies that had spilled from her lips.

“Looks from the sight of all this fur, she tried to shift.” Annie blew out a breath. “Jesus. Whatever did this…something bad is out there in the city.”

Sydney paused and looked up to the yellow tape that cordoned off the scene. Officers continued to clear the area of random strangers hoping to catch a glimpse of the crime. “Annie, I’d stay around to help consult, but they’re not goin’ to let me work this case anyway. Look, I’ve gotta go.”

“But Syd.” Annie hesitated. “I know you want to take the kid. Believe me. I get it. But you can’t just walk outta here with a witness. You need to get him checked out. Social services…”

“He’s a baby, not a witness. I’ll take him to the hospital myself. No more strangers…” Sydney’s words trailed off as his presence rolled through her. His pure strength always took her by surprise, his energy a force unto itself. Kade.

After a brief visit to the children’s hospital, and receiving assurance Zachery was healthy, Sydney and Kade brought the baby home. Sydney had dismissed the call from the social worker with a text, aware her position within P-CAP would delay the inevitable fight. She needed enough time to either convince Logan to grant them custody or take drastic measures.

Sydney glanced to Zachery who lay quietly sleeping in his chestnut crib, his lips curled in a satisfied smile, his belly full. Sydney curled her fingers over the edge of the railing, the scent of baby powder still fresh in the air. Her heart tightened in her chest, as she replayed the evening in her mind.

She and Kade hadn’t spoken a word since the ride home. She didn’t want to argue. Nothing would change the fact that they were vampires not wolves. The Alpha would insist on taking the child, to keep him with pack. But her thoughts of escape ran far darker, knowing in her gut she wouldn’t ever give up her son.

“I know what you’re thinking,” she heard him say, his low voice rumbling from behind her.

“No you don’t.” She quickly slammed down the shields into her mind. Damn bonding connection.

“You can block me all you want, Syd. I know what you’re thinking because I’m thinking the same thing, but you know we can’t. It’s not possible.”

“I hate that you do that.”

“He must be returned. He’s pack.”

“He’s ours,” she whispered.

“Logan will want him raised by wolves.”

“I don’t care what Logan wants.” Sydney brushed her fingers over Zachery’s blanket-covered foot. “I’m his mother. I know we only had him for a few weeks but our bond with this child…he’s ours.” Hot tears rolled down her cheeks. Her heart tightened in her chest.

“Some things we do not control,” Kade reminded her.

“Some things we should fight for,” she countered. “I don’t care about what Logan thinks. I don’t care that Zach is lupine. Right now he’s just a baby. And he’s ours. I can’t give him back. I won’t.”

“We’ll figure this out.”

“Please,” she begged, turning to face Kade.

“Syd. I’m going to do everything I can, but you have to know.” He sighed, reaching for her. Bringing her into his embrace, he brushed his lips to her hair. “Logan’s got to take the child’s adoption through pack rules. If he gives approval to do this, it’s going to require some kind of a blood oath. The wolves prefer pups are raised within the pack. Tomorrow we should expect Logan and…”

“Don’t say it.” She knew the Alpha would come for him. The air rushed from her lungs. No. “But it’s Christmas? Where is he planning on taking him?”

“He’s going to keep him until the decision is made. He needs the agreement of Jax. Tristan. I know it’s not what we want but Zach will be safe with the Alpha.”

“No.”

“I’ll go talk to Logan again. If there is no one in his pack willing to take him, maybe we can…”

“This isn’t fair. If anyone can keep Zach safe, it’s us. You know what? I don’t care anymore. We don’t have to agree to this. We’ll leave New Orleans. Take him far, far away. Alaska maybe. No. We’ll take him out of the country. We can go to France. We can stay at Leo’s place on the Riviera.”

“Come on now, Syd. Let’s give Logan a chance. He knows we’ll make good parents.”

“We can buy a vineyard. Make wine.”

“Stop. Look at me, love.” Kade pulled away, Sydney’s wide eyes meeting his. His voice softened. “We’re not going anywhere. I swear to you I will straighten this out with Logan. He knows what just happened in the alley. For whatever reason, and we’ll talk more about it, someone…something killed all those wolves.” He glanced down toward the child and then focused back on Sydney. “Zachery could have been killed. Logan knows this. He also knows how much you love him.”

“Promise me.” Her voice cracked, she trembled in his arms. She needed to hear him say the words even if she knew he couldn’t keep the promise.

“It’s going to be all right. I’ll talk to him. You have my word. But you know I can’t go over Logan’s head. This is a pack matter. He must make the decision on his own. It’s not that vampires haven’t raised pups before, but this is a decision that only wolves can make. There is peace between us and forcing Logan’s hand could cause war. You know that not only is that not good for New Orleans, it’s not good for Zach.”

“I know that. I don’t want others brought into this either.” Sydney closed her eyes, her forehead lolling onto his chest. The thought of leaving New Orleans lingered in her mind as a last resort.

“Things will be as the Goddess intends.”

“She intends to gift us a son.”

“We must be patient. We need the blessing of Acadian wolves.”

“I’ll give Logan a chance to do the right thing, but I’m not giving him back. I can’t.” A small smile tugged at Sydney’s lips. “We’re a family. He’s home.”

“A family,” Kade repeated, his lips brushing her forehead.

Family. Having a baby had changed Sydney’s universe. Once always fearless, she spent her life giving one hundred and ten percent to the force. But with Zachery, all she could think about was hearing his laugh, taking him for walks in his stroller, reading him books.

Life had changed, and she’d protect her family at all costs. She’d kill whatever motherfucking demon was killing wolves. No one would ever touch her son again.

Chapter Four

Kade smiled as he trailed his fingers down Sydney’s bare skin, the fragrance of coconut oil in the air. After a hot shower and a glass of wine, she’d finally relaxed under his touch. Goddess, he loved this woman like no other.

He’d always known her wishes. I never want to be a vampire. But when she’d lost her battle with a demon, her lifeforce drained from her body. Kade acted out of pure instinct and desperation, turning her. He’d known it was wrong but the selfish desire to keep her superseded any thoughts of letting her die. The transition nearly killed her, but the Goddess saw fit to bless him with one more chance.

She forgave him. Sydney never lost what made her human…her soul.

When Zach came into their lives, it was fate, a gift. A pup. A lupine. Although Logan had initially given his blessing at their intent to adopt, Zachery’s birth mother’s wishes overrode all plans. When she took the child back, it was as if his heart had been ripped from his chest. But it was Sydney’s grief that brought him to his knees.

Her voice shook his contemplation and he focused his attention back to Sydney.

“I feel so bad about missing the bridal lunch today. We had all these plans. Kalli said it went well but I just should have been there.”

“Was Sam upset?”

“She understands. I mean, our son comes first. I wasn’t leaving him for a mani-pedi.” She sighed. “Besides, the ME is going to have preliminaries in a few hours. I’ve got to stop down at the station just to check on things. I won’t be able to relax for the holiday not knowing. Oh my Goddess…I forgot about Luca.”

“It’s okay. I’m sure he’s having the time of his life.” Kade laughed. “At home.”

“What? He didn’t want to go, did he?” Sydney smiled.

“You know Luca. The boys are out having drinks on Bourbon and going axe throwing. When I heard about the murders…I skipped out.”

“How did you know where I was?” She smiled up at him.

“Samantha texted Luca. You know I can feel your energy. I knew something was wrong, so I put a call into P-CAP. We’d only just started out and weren’t too far from the scene, so I left and came over. Don’t worry about Luca. He’ll be fine.”

“Ah, that feels so good,” she moaned as he applied a strong thumb to the knot in her neck. Her eyes stayed focused on the baby monitor.

“Can you sense him?” Kade asked. “I can feel him now as if he was my own blood. He’s strong…like you.”

“I love watching him sleep. Did you hear him giggling during the bath? He loves that rubber boat Leo sent him.”

“It’s a rubber replica of his yacht.”

Sydney laughed in response.

“Who does that? A yacht? For a baby?” Kade shook his head.

“Leo means well,” she replied. “Besides, Zach loves boats. He loves the baby gym Quintus sent him too.”

“Quintus,” Kade grumbled. “I don’t know about him.”

“I don’t know either. But he does seem to be making an effort to get to know Leo. Samantha knows more than I do about that situation, but it was nice for him to send a baby gift.”

“Can’t say I saw that one coming. Years have gone by without a word of the ancient and now he’s sending baby gifts? It must be his woman. Gabriella.”

“It’s the thought that counts. He’s trying. Sometimes family isn’t easy.”

“No. No it isn’t.” Kade leaned over, lifted her hair and brushed his lips between her shoulder blades.

“Hmm…you tempt me,” she began. “But I really have to get to the station and find out what’s happening.”

“The bodies aren’t going anywhere. This one, however,” Kade peppered kisses along her shoulder. “This one needs my full attention.”

“Hmm… that feels so good. One hour, Mr. Issacson,” she negotiated with a giggle as his lips brushed her ear.

“There’s no such thing as time.” Her fingers curled around his cock, and he smiled. “Hmm…impatient?”

“It’s not fair for you to have all the fun,” she growled, giving him a firm stroke.

Kade tensed as her fingers tightened around him. “Ah love, what you do to me.”

As his temptress rose and rolled him onto his back, desire jolted through him. Her lips found his as she straddled him. He tilted his hips, his dick grazing her inner thighs. She hovered above him, deliberately teasing its tip while she slowly circled her tongue over his flat nipple.

Kade sucked a breath as she bit at his skin, skillfully kissing over the chiseled ridges of his abdomen. Blood rushed to his dick, her taut nipples teasing over his rock-hard erection. Her silky blonde hair spilled over his thighs as she slowly descended between his legs. Sydney smiled up at him as she wrapped her fingers around his thick shaft and softly blew over his broad tip. At the first lap of her tongue, he hissed in pleasure, knowing she’d push him to the edge.

“Yes…fuck,” he groaned as his cock slipped between her warm lips. His hands clutched at the sheets while she worked her magic, taking him deep into her mouth. His fingers entwined in her hair, his body tense as she sucked him, teasing his balls with her fingers.

“Syd…no…ah fuck…I don’t want to…” he panted, fighting orgasm. Her energy spiraled through his body, bringing him ever so close to climax.

Wild for her fiancé, Sydney devoured his cock. As her fingers tightened around his shaft, Kade groaned once again.

“Ah woman, you’re killing me…” he breathed.

In one swift move he clasped her wrist and wrapped another hand on her waist, flipping her over onto her back. A breathless squeal escaped her lips as he slid between her legs.

“This,” he grunted, sliding deep inside her, “is everything.”

“Yes, fuck me,” she cried breathlessly. “Harder.”

Kade increased the pace, sliding in and out of her tight pussy. He groaned, her fingernails stabbing into his back as she wrapped her legs around his waist. His fangs dropped as she bit at his shoulder.

“Yes, fuck me now,” she demanded. “Don’t stop.”

The sound of flesh meeting flesh sounded as he slammed into her, his orgasm on the precipice. The deep craving for his woman drove his thirst, his fangs scraping over her shoulder.

“Please, yes.” Breathless she repeated his name.

“Sydney…aw fuck, yes.” With a slow deliberate thrust, Kade filled her, his fangs slicing deep into her flesh. Blood flowed down his throat, her pussy pulsating around his cock.

“Kade,” she screamed. As her orgasm rolled through her, she bit down onto his shoulder. She shook beneath him in ecstasy as he came hard, still pumping inside her.

He claimed her mouth, and she kissed him back with fervor. Love surrounded each tender touch. Kade gently removed himself from her and rolled onto his back. As they broke their kiss, she molded her body to his, her leg wrapped over his legs.

“I love you, baby,” she whispered.

“I love you, too.” Kade held her, love blooming in his chest. He’d do anything to protect her, his family. Nothing would ever tear them apart.

“Who’s daddy’s boy?” Daddy. Kade smiled as tiny fingers wrapped around his pinky. “We’re going to play ball. Baseball. Soccer. And of course, football.”

Zach squealed in delight as Kade picked him up and gave him a little bounce.

“That’s right. Who dat! We’re goin’ to go see the Saints play.” He laughed, suspecting the lad would catch way better than he ever did. “Can you keep a secret? I know you can. You’ve been a very good boy. Santa is bringing you and mommy surprises this year.”

Kade blew a raspberry and the child erupted in laughter. His heart caught as Zach reached for his chin. “Ah, my little pup. I know you’re an Alpha through and through. And even though I’m vampire, I’m going to raise you to be the best Alpha. You see, I’ve got some very good friends who are wolves. My friend Logan. I’m going to do my very best to convince him to let you stay with us.”

The baby whimpered as his binky fell out of his mouth, his daddy catching it midair. A broad smile broke across his face as Kade gave it back to him.

“You know what I think? Some things are just meant to be. Destiny has brought us together when we need each other the most. And when we went against fate, the Goddess brought us back together again. Just in time. You needed us. And we needed you. Your momma.” Sydney. “She loves you so much. And I love you too. It’s going to be the best Christmas ever. I promise.”

Kade moved toward the antique rocking chair that Samantha and Luca had gifted them, a felted fleece covering its seat. Three fluffy lambs hopped happily along the wall, the nursery exactly how they’d decorated it before they’d been forced to return him.

“Ah, ah, ah…” The babe’s eyes widened as he saw the bottle waiting for him on the end table.

“Who is hungry? You want your bah-bah?” Kade inwardly laughed. His formality had been lost into the world of kids. He’d happily transitioned from ballrooms and bottles of champagne to babies and bottles of formula.

Kade eased into the chair, reached for the bottle and gave it a shake. “Ah, yes. It’s a very fine year. Only the best for my gentleman.”

“Ah, ah, ah…” Tiny hands clamped around the bottle as Kade guided it into his mouth.

Kade’s mind churned as the baby happily drank. Both the birth mother and father were now dead. But if Zachery had any relatives, it was possible they could claim him. Kade planned to talk to Logan as soon as possible. Given what had happened to the child in the alley, he prayed the Alpha would agree.

Zachery abruptly spit out the bottle, shaking Kade from his thoughts. He leaned the baby upward, patting gently on his back until a loud burb erupted.

Kade’s chest tightened as he patted his lips dry with a bib. Love for his son bursting in his chest, he smiled broadly. I’m not giving you up.

“Da, da, da, da.”

“Wha…?” Excitement shot through him as Zachery’s chant grew louder.

“Da, da, da.”

“That’s right!” he exclaimed. “I’m your daddy!”

“Da, da, da…”

“Daddy,” Kade repeated.

Zachery giggled, then burped, spittle dripping onto Kade’s shirt. The vampire laughed, wiping it away. “Messy, messy Daddy.”

“Who’s your daddy?” A familiar low southern drawl rumbled from the doorway. Tristan.

“Did you hear him?” Kade asked excitedly. “You heard it right?”

“Yes I heard it. It’s the sight of you I’m not quite used to seein’.” Tristan laughed, and tapped a lamb attached to a mobile that spun above the crib. “I do believe it’s the first time I’ve heard a babe and not a female callin’ you Daddy is all I’m sayin’. It looks good on you.”

“I know, right? It’s…it’s crazy. It’s unbelievable.” His voice softened. “It’s amazing.”

Tristan sighed, continuing to twirl the lambs. “You know you can’t keep him.”

“I won’t give him up,” Kade stated without hesitation.

“Where’s Sydney?”

“She had to run down the office.” Kade set the bottle and cloth down on the table. As he shoved out of the chair, he held the baby up, inspecting him. “Good work, lad.”

“You’ve got vomit on you, bro. Somehow it doesn’t mesh with the usual debonair look you’re rockin’.”

A corner of Kade’s lips turned upward. “I’m a dad now.” He smiled at Zachery and continued to talk to him in a high-pitched voice. “Daddy.”

“Yeah, you know after you bailed on us, Luca jumped ship too. Loser.”

“He’s Luca. You know he’s not exactly a people person.”

“Or a fun person.”

“It depends on one’s perspective.”

“See and that’s what I’m talkin’ about. Vampires. Too many human hangups.”

“Like weddings?”

Tristan picked up the bottle with a wry grin. “Sydney works too much. You know she hit Tony up to go work with her? He comes down here for a little fun and she’s got him working. What the hell happened today anyway?”

“Half dozen or more dead wolves. Guessing rogues. Including his mother. Whatever did it, whoever did it…they left Zach alive,” Kade said, flatly. “Maybe by accident. Maybe on purpose. We don’t know yet.”

“That’s fucked up. It’s Christmas.”

“Crime never takes a vacation. My guess is that she won’t be working this case anymore. It’s too close to home. But you know Sydney. She’s not going to be able to relax without knowing the details. Especially since Zach was involved. Pretty sure it was a demon but she’s going to see the ME. Dominique is going to be here any minute to babysit. I’ve gotta go see Logan today.”

“He thinks the wolves came from Ohio.”

“You talk to him?”

“Just shooting the shit on the way back from the bar. He mentioned Syd texted him.”

“I need you to go with me to see him.”

“Ah, I don’t know. You know I’m not Alpha of Acadian Wolves. This is his call.”

“I need you to come with me. It’ll take a few minutes.” Kade held the baby up in the air, toward Tristan. “Here.”

“Here what?” Tristan eyed Kade then the baby, a wide grin breaking across his face. “Hey now…you sure you want me holdin’ him?”

“You’re kidding me, right?” Kade laughed.

“What?” Tristan held up his palms defensively.

“You’re a damn wolf. He’s a wolf. Now here, take him for me.”

“Oh Goddess,” Tristan groaned.

“Stop being a wuss. Take him.” Kade cocked his head in annoyance. “I’ve got to get changed. This formula smells dreadful.”

“It was formula. What you’re wearing is just plain ole throw up, dude.”

“He might have a little extra left in him for you. Now here…give me a hand, Alpha.”

“Ah, come here, pup.” Tristan took the baby from Kade’s arms. “Good thing you’ve got Uncle Tris around to stop you from using words like ‘dreadful’. Your daddy there’s a little too formal. Instead of dreadful, you say…I smell like ass.”

“Seriously?” Kade’s brows furrowed with disapproval.

“What?” Tristan laughed and Zach giggled in response.

“Language. I’m going to need a swear jar around here.”

“He’s a wolf. A damn fine one.”

“It’s a good thing he’ll be raised by vampires.” Kade strode toward the door.

Tristan smiled at Zachery who reached for his beard. “You like Uncle Tristan? Yes…yes you do. You’re gonna be the biggest baddest wolf ever. Fast too.”

“Five minutes.” Kade walked out the door, smiling as he caught a glimpse of Tristan making funny faces at the baby. “And no cursing.”

“Thanks for coming with me.” Kade pulled his Mercedes into Logan’s driveway.

“Didn’t have much of a choice, now did I?” Tristan replied.

“I need you to back me up,” Kade told him.

“Yeah, about that.” Tristan held up a dismissive finger, an eyebrow raised.

“I don’t want to hear excuses, Tris. You’re an Alpha. You’ve got influence.”

“Yeah that’s true but…eh…I don’t know how Logan’s gonna react.”

“You’re close friends. He’s your beta.”

“Was. As in past tense. Was my beta. He’s an Alpha now. He’s got his own pack and responsibilities. New Orleans is his territory.”

“He trusts you. I need your help. This is my son I’m talking about.”

The Alpha leaned his head onto the headrest. “Fuck me.”

“I don’t ask for favors very often, Tris.” Kade’s lips tightened in a straight line. He was not giving his son away.

“If the pup’s got family, he may have no other choice but to let them raise him. You know that’s the reality here.”

“His dad is dead. His mom is dead. Those are the only two people I care about. Trinity doesn’t have any family we know about anyway.” Kade paused and glanced toward Logan’s home. “We’re immortals. We live by different rules. I have to believe we are meant to be his parents. We found him twice; even after he was taken, he came back to us. I don’t want to get into a situation where there’s a pack/vampire war over this, but…we’re going to raise our son by any means necessary.” Sydney’s suggestion of leaving New Orleans flashed through his mind.

“No, don’t say another word. I don’t want to know anything,” the wolf protested. Tristan settled his palms on the dashboard and stared through the windshield. “Look, I’ll try. But I can’t make any promises. I want to but I can’t. I know we’re friends. But Logan and I are too. He’s running a pack of his own now. He has to live with the consequences of his actions.”

“Thanks, Tris.”

“Don’t thank me yet.”

“I have no other choice. Either Logan gives his blessing or…we disappear.” The statement lingered in the air with no argument. Tristan had known him long enough to know he meant what he said. It could happen the easy way or the hard way, but there wasn’t a chance in hell he was giving up his son.

The door swung open as Kade raised his fist to knock on it. A bouncing toddler dressed in candy cane pajamas with wide brown eyes stared up at him.

“Hello, love.” His heart warmed once again, seeing the sweet baby Sydney had given her life to save.

“Tane. Tane.” She held out her hand offering him a candy cane.

“Oh my. Looks like someone is ready for Santa.”

“Tane, tane,” Ava said louder, excitedly jumping up and down.

“For me?” Kade knelt down to meet her eyes. She placed it in his hand and smiled. “Why thank you. I love candy canes. I think I’m going to save it and share it with the reindeer.”

“Momma! Momma!” Ava giggled and reached for a fist full of plastic wrapped candy canes in her school bag. “Tane?”

Logan’s wife approached them and smiled, catching his gaze of wonder.

“Ava, sweetie. Put those back in your bag. You’re taking them to class today to give to your friends, remember?” Wynter waved Kade into the home. “Hey there. Come on in. Big day coming up for Luca soon, huh?” On her knees, she rummaged through the closet. “Hey Tristan. Sorry, I’m in a rush.”

“Hi Wynter. I see pups suit you. You look gorgeous.”

“Aw thanks, Tris. Complements will get you everywhere with me,” she laughed. “One sec.” She continued digging, opening up plastic bins. Gloves and scarves spilled onto the floor. Within seconds she held up a small shiny red boot. “Ah! How did this get in here? Here baby…go give this to Daddy. He’ll help you put it on.” Wynter released an audible sigh and gave a small laugh. “Sorry. We’ve been looking for that sucker for a half hour.” She reached for her cellphone on the foyer table, nearly knocking over a vase, and began tapping at its screen. “Oh geez. I’m going to be late.”

“No worries,” Kade responded. “Just here to see the Alpha.”

“Hey, do you know where Dominique is? She was supposed to come to dance class with us. Big pajama, Christmas party.”

“Yeah, I’m afraid that’s my fault. She’s still at my house.”

“Really? I could have sworn she said she was coming.”

“Sorry. Things have been a little busy.”

“The wedding?”

“It’s Zachery.” Kade’s face lit up in excitement. “He’s home.”

“Really, oh my Goddess. The baby? But, um,” Wynter cocked her head in confusion. “Isn’t he with Trinity? Where is she?”

“Zachery was found at a crime scene this morning in Holy Cross. Trinity… she didn’t make it.”

“Oh my Goddess. Logan mentioned he spoke to Sydney. He didn’t say anything about the baby. Is he okay? Were rogues involved?”

“Zachery’s great. They don’t know what happened yet. The ME is working on it and Sydney wanted to check on things before tomorrow. Tony’s in town so he went with her. Dominique is watching the baby while he naps.”

“It’s funny isn’t it?” Wynter paused in thought. “Dominique used to be, well, you know, so tough. Cold even. But since she returned…it’s just she’s so good with the kids. I mean…well, you know, after the incident with the demon.”

“She’s not the same Dom that we knew. She never really talks about what happened,” Kade sighed. “But yes, she is good with the babes. Dominique had children of her own. She’s a mother. Was a mother anyway.”

“She did mention it a few times but never went into much detail,” Wynter said, her voice somber.

“Her kids were murdered. But she’s always so tough. Unshakeable. Then the demon. And now I’ve kept her off duty. When we saw how great she was with Zachery…it’s why I recommended her last month when you guys needed someone for the pack run.”

“She’s been great. I really…”

“Momma! Momma!” Ava ran into the foyer, dressed in a red patent leather raincoat, matching boots and backpack.

“Look at you! Such a big girl.” Wynter smiled at Kade, who grinned broadly back at her. The toddler’s bursting energy was infectious.

She reached in her pocket and retrieved another candy cane. Tristan smiled as she blinked her eyes, her face tense in concentration. As she opened her palm, the candy floated up towards him and he snatched it out of the air.

The Alpha laughed. “Impressive, lil’ pup.”

Wynter shrugged. “What can I say? She’s got skills even if we don’t fully understand them.”

“She’s incredible.” Tristan knelt down to meet her at eye level. He held up his palm and Ava promptly gave him a high five. “Awesome.”

“Alpha,” Ava burst out, her eyes wide with fascination.

Tristan laughed, still amazed that even the youngest wolves could sense his power.

“I don’t want to be rude, but I’ve got to get going, guys.” Wynter slipped on her coat and slung her backpack over her shoulder.

“No worries. We’ll see you tomorrow,” Kade told her.

“Logan’s in his office. Go on back.” Wynter took Ava’s hand and guided her out a side door to the garage. “See you tomorrow. Bye!”

Kade and Tristan headed into Logan’s home. The Alpha’s voice boomed from the end of the hallway.

“Kade. Who’s that wolf with you?” Logan called as he strode out of his office. “Hey, brother!”

“Logan, my man. Alpha looks good on you.” Tristan laughed as he took sight of Logan’s pajama pants. “Rockin’ the SpongeBob?”

“You know it.” Logan gestured to his legs.

“Sweet.”

“Living the dad life, yo.” Logan shrugged and crossed over to sit at his desk. “Take a seat, gentlemen.”

As Kade settled onto the sofa, a hard object stabbed his thigh. Retrieving the offending item, he held it to the air, the corner of his lip ticked upward. “What is it about Legos?”

“Hurt like a mofo. Stepping on them in the middle of the night is the worst.” Logan leaned back in his chair and exhaled loudly. “So, big day tomorrow. What’s happening?”

Kade’s demeanor turned solemn as he placed the cube onto the end table. “Today was kind of a big day too.”

“So I heard. Someone just contacted me from P-CAP about the murder.” Logan glanced at Tristan then back to Kade.

“Then you know why I’m here, Alpha.”

“I do.” Logan tapped on his desk with his pen.

“I want the chance to play Legos with my son.”

“Kade…” Logan hesitated, and changed the subject. “P-CAP also mentioned the bloodbath. Possibly rogues.”

“Sydney’s down at the ME right now.”

“I heard the wolves weren’t organized. It’s possible it’s just a one-off situation.”

“What makes you think that?” Tristan asked.

“They found passports. Two males from Germany. Three from Greece. There were a couple of females with no identity. Trinity is from Montana. Not sure how or why she hooked up with them. .”

Kade tapped his finger on the armrest, meeting Logan with a cold stare. “Trafficking?”

“I don’t know,” Logan replied. “P-CAP will be on it. I confirmed again that none of my wolves are missing nor were they involved. But when they told me about the child…”

“This is all the more reason to allow us to keep Zachery,” Kade interrupted. My son. “Look what happened to him.”

“His mother has connections in Polson, Montana. An aunt. Now I don’t know whether she’s blood or not, but I’ve got a contact name.”

“I don’t care,” Kade replied without emotion.

“Come again?” Logan raised a questioning eyebrow.

“I don’t care. I don’t care about the aunt. I don’t care about the dead father. May Trinity rest in peace but she was a poor excuse for a mother. She lost her pup. Twice. No, Alpha. The only person I care about is Zachery. Six months ago when Sydney first found the babe, Trinity was nowhere to be found. Then after a month, she shows up here in New Orleans with some sob story. It’s all bullshit. Now look what happened. I’ll bet you any amount of money the wolves aren’t who they say they are on those passports. They’re all into some deep shit. Rogues. All here in New Orleans and don’t bother to check in with Acadian wolves. We don’t even know why whatever it was…” Demon. Kade refused to say the word. Hell had stolen way too many things from his life. “Why did it leave Zachery alone? Didn’t harm a hair on his head. What if it comes back? I’m not waiting to test fate by giving him back to some aunt.”

“She was his blood,” Logan countered.

“I don’t give a shit about blood. I only care about what’s best for Zach. And Trinity wasn’t it. And neither is some aunt from Montana. No one around her stopped her from hurting Zach, from putting him in danger. If this aunt actually exists, I’d argue she doesn’t care about Trinity or the pup.” Kade curled his fingers into his palm, his jaw tightening as his patience grew thin. “I am not wolf. But I am Tristan’s brother. I’ve laid my life on the line for him as he has done for me. You knew this as beta of Lyceum wolves. You know it as Alpha of Acadian wolves. And what about loyalty to Sydney? She gave her life to protect your mate and your daughter. You remember the day the demon came to your house? You remember the day she lay bleeding out onto the streets of New Orleans right in front of your door?”

Logan nodded. “Yes, of course I do.”

Kade turned to Tristan. “We are brothers, aren’t we? There is more to blood and breed. We have each other’s backs. We share memories. We fight for each other. I fought for Katrina.”

“Logan, you know it’s true,” Tristan agreed. “We’ve been together for over a century. I know it’s always best to raise a pup with pack. But in this case, Kade…you know he speaks the truth. He’s been there for me. For you. The child needs parents. Kade and Sydney…they are my family. Wolf or not.”

“The child shall run with Acadian wolves, but we will raise him,” Kade insisted.

“It’s not as simple as that,” Logan began.

Tristan leaned forward, interrupting. “Alpha. Have I ever in all these years steered you wrong? Have you questioned my leadership?”

“Of course not,” he answered without pause.

“Kade Issacson and Sydney Willows are good people. They’ve bridged our worlds. Humans to vampires to wolves.” Tristan glanced to Kade. “He’s my brother. I’ve fought alongside him and he’s been there for me and my family. This makes us blood, it makes us family, no matter what our breed.”

Logan sighed, and placed his palms on his desk, his lips tight. “I want you to know I hear you. Both of you. I’m taking your words to heart.”

“Then you will end this. Agree to let us keep our son?” Kade asked.

“You have to understand. I’m doing due diligence. Just give me a few days to suss out the situation with the aunt and I’ll render a final decision soon.”

“No matter what other relatives creep out of the woodwork?” Kade pressed. “You must make the adoption unbreakable.”

“I will do what is necessary to ensure what is best for the pup. But I cannot make any promises right now. You know I have great respect for both of you, but this is my call. It’s a pack matter.”

“Thank you.” Tristan leaned back into his chair.

“But,” the Alpha paused, his sight set on Kade, “if this woman is truly his aunt, I will negotiate to keep and raise the pup. If she is of pack and goes to her Alpha, I cannot go to war over this. Do you understand? It’s not fair to my pack to put us at risk over this child.”

Kade took a deep breath, reining in his anger. “I understand your situation, but you must understand mine. I need to be clear on this. Should you or another pack decide that this so-called relative is somehow better suited, I will not give up my son to this stranger.”

“What exactly do you mean?” Logan inquired, his tone somber.

“As we’ve established, I consider Tristan family. And you also, Logan. But you will not have my son. This town. Everything I’ve built. I don’t need this to exist. Perhaps it’s time I traveled more.”

“Are you saying you’ll skip town?” Logan asked.

“I’m saying I’m not handing my son over to a stranger,” Kade reiterated.

“Give me a few days,” Logan told him.

Kade stood and addressed the wolves. “I appreciate your help, Alpha. Sydney and I would very much appreciate it.” He looked to Tristan. “You coming or staying? I’d like to head over to P-CAP. I’d like to catch the tail end of whatever the ME has to say. As much as I’d like to ignore what happened, I need to know. There’re bound to be rumblings with the vampires about what did this. I don’t need any trouble the next couple of days.”

“Y’all know whatever killed those wolves, it wasn’t wolves or vamps,” Logan said, still sitting at his desk. “I saw pics. They were torn open worse than any wolf would do.”

“I have my suspicion about what could do this kind of damage. Saw the bodies myself. If whatever did it is still in New Orleans, we could have a problem on our hands,” Kade said.

“Why did it spare the pup?” Tristan asked.

“That’s a question that needs to be answered. It could have easily killed him, so my guess is it wanted the pup to live. It doesn’t make sense, but every other living thing was dead.” Kade shrugged. “We recently had spell work done to shore up the wards. After what happened with Quintus, I’ve got no time for the nonsense again. So whatever it was, it’s not coming in the house.”

Tristan and Logan stood, sharing a quick fist bump. “Catch you later, dude. I’m in town for a few days so we’ll get together for a run after the wedding, yeah?”

“Absolutely,” Logan agreed.

“Alpha.” Kade nodded.

“I’ll keep in mind what you’ve said. I should know something soon,” Logan told him.

“You do that, Alpha, you do that.” Kade gave a tight smile as he left, knowing it didn’t matter what the Alpha decided. His family came first even if that meant leaving New Orleans forever.

Chapter Five

Sydney stared at the body, no longer distracted by the putrid rotting flesh. She searched within herself for sympathy she knew she should have for the dead wolf lying before her but couldn’t summon any.

“Who were you?” Sydney asked out loud. Cold dark eyes stared back at her, silence filling the room. “What were you doing with those wolves? How did you meet them? Were you with the gangster who killed your mate? Whatever you were doing Trinity, you could have killed Zachery. How could you?”

Sydney sensed Tony lingering outside long before he opened the door to the morgue. She continued to stare at the lifeless body.

“I wouldn’t expect many answers,” Tony commented.

“I loathe her, you know.” The deep-seated hate for Trinity had been born the first day when she found the baby, alone without his family. “She may have been wolf, but evil lay within her heart.”

“Was she a user? Meth? H?” he asked.

“She’s clean. But she was carrying. Tox report is on the counter,” she commented, studying the bloodied clothing.

Tony raised a white sheet of paper into the air. “She had twenty pellets of fentanyl inside her stomach?”

“Yeah, she did.”

“Just where did she think she was going with all those drugs?”

“She rolled with some very bad people.” Sydney sighed. “All I know is that they were held up in a swanky penthouse. Airbnb in the quarter. They found tickets booked for London in the car.”

“Just one car? What was it? A party bus?”

“Escalade. Maybe the others took a taxi? P-CAP doesn’t know yet.”

“You workin’ the case?”

“Floriana Rizzoni’s got the lead on it. No way they’d let me work it. These days I’m just consult anyway. To be honest, with my, uh, transition and finding Zachery, I’ve had what you’d call an epiphany. Sometimes work isn’t everything. You know I was never crazy about working supe cases…even though I am one now. And with these special fangs of mine, I’m not exactly welcome at NOPD.”

“I can’t believe that, Syd.”

“It’s all good. Consulting works well for me. Keeps me in the game. But now that Zach’s back home? It feels like everything has changed. All I want to do is take care of my son. It’s the only reason I’m here. I had to see her one last time.” She shook her head, still studying the corpse. “Drug trafficking? Jesus, Trinity. It’s a good thing Zach will never see you like this.”

Sydney reached for a nitrile glove. As she snapped it on, a doctor dressed in scrubs pushed open the door.

“Couldn’t stay away, could ya, Syd?” he asked in a jovial manner, glancing at Tony as he entered.

“What can I say? You know this one is personal.”

The doctor looked to Tony. “Is it ‘bring a friend to work’ day?”

“Dr. Guillot, this is my friend, Detective Anthony Salucci. We used to work together.”

“Nice to meet you detective. Where y’all from?”

“Philly.” Tony set the lab report down on the counter.

“Eagles, huh?” He donned a pair of gloves while approaching the corpse.

“You know it.” Tony smiled, pumping a fist in the air. “Fly Eagles Fly.”

“Easy there, son. Y’all know I’m a die-hard Saints fan. Who dat?” Dr. Guillot adjusted his thick-lensed glasses and switched on the overhead lights. “Hard to believe she was packing all that powder.”

“Suppose she thought she’d get away with it because she’s wolf,” Sydney replied. “Even if it ruptured, she’d shift and survive.”

“That didn’t work out so well did it,” Tony said.

The doctor pointed to the victim’s arms. “Check out the bruising here. It’s pretty unusual because wolves generally heal from injuries. I mean unless it’s a serious injury.”

“Like having all your entrails explode out of your body?” Tony asked, his voice laden with sarcasm.

“Something about it is bothering me. Doesn’t seem quite right.”

“Silver?” she asked.

“It’s possible. Burns turned bruised? Maybe she was shifting to heal but didn’t get there so only partially regenerated,” the doctor theorized.

“Someone could have used it on her. Injected it,” Sydney suggested.

“It’s possible she was abused as a pup. The scars of childhood sometimes stay with a wolf.”

“Her clothes,” Sydney observed as she moved to a side table where he’d placed what was left of her belongings. The dried blood had stiffened the printed silk shirt. “Valentino. This blouse alone would run her a couple of thousand.”

“Drug money?” Tony offered.

Sydney reached for a boot and inspected it. “Lucchese. Two. Three grand.”

“She look like this when she came for the kid?” Tony asked.

“No. Something here’s changed. She must have found herself a new boyfriend.”

“Sugar daddy? Pimp? Maybe a new business partner.”

“She was eviscerated throat to pelvis with a sharp object,” Dr. Guillot continued.

“What kind of object?” she asked.

“Under these circumstances, with shifters involved, I’d usually say a claw of some kind, but I’ve never seen a wolf make a tear like this. Something about this case, the way they were all murdered…it’s off. This was a clean slice. I know it may not have looked that way at the scene, with all the fluids everywhere, but it was. No, something with precision did this. Not sure what yet. As far as DNA, there’s only hers.”

“Any fang puncture wounds? From vampires?” Sydney asked, still studying the clothing.

“No. I’m thinking this may have been a weapon of some kind but…”

“I smelled sulfur at the scene. I swore I sensed demonic…” Her words faded as she felt Kade’s presence. Although it had been months since he’d turned her, the sensation still took her off guard.

“Hello, love,” he greeted, his smooth voice rolling over her.

No matter how many times she heard him, even in the presence of death, Sydney’s heart caught in her chest. Like a force of nature unto itself, Kade’s power emanated from him, commanding Sydney and every supernatural around him.

“Hey babe.” She gave him a warm smile.

“How’s it going?” he asked.

“It is what it is.” Sydney gestured to the body. “I had to see her.”

“Any more visitors to the party I should know about?” the doctor asked with a sardonic tone. “Kade Issacson. Haven’t seen you round these parts in a while.”

“I’ve been busy, doc. Prefer to get updates these days as opposed to working cases.”

“Keeping the vampires in order?”

“I’d like to think my vampires are upstanding citizens. At least they’d better be.” Kade turned to Sydney. “You almost wrapped up here? I told Dom we’d only be a few hours.”

“I’m almost done. Is there anything else, doc?” Sydney asked, anxious for more information.

Kade approached the corpse, his lips drawn tight. “No bite marks?”

“None from vamps or wolves. A few scratches, presumably from claws, but that’s not what made these huge lacerations in the tissue. No, whatever did this, did it with precision.”

“You’re looking at some kind of demon. Could be a fae,” Kade guessed.

“She had drugs in her, but they weren’t taken,” Sydney told him.

“There is just one more thing.” The doctor held up a clear specimen bottle. “It’s a scale of some kind. Still analyzing it.”

Sydney reached for it, inspecting the contents. Yellow and red flecks of light appeared to dance on its surface as if it was on fire. “It almost looks… alive. It is dead, right?”

“I’m a warlock,” Dr. Guillot revealed. “I have it sealed with magic just in case. Whoever this belongs to…demon, fae…could even be some other kind of creature…we’re not going to find out tonight. But I’ve got one more thing to show you.” He set the jar on the counter and refocused on the body. “It’s about her brain. Here, take a peek.”

Sydney’s stomach rolled as the doctor lifted the scalp exposing the brain cavity. Her jaw tightened, the stench of the rotting flesh intensifying.

“I’m not sure if you can see here but a good part of the brain is missing. Almost as if it was scooped out like ice cream. Left a bit of this green residue. I’ve seen this once before from hellfire. So that’s what had me thinking fae. But then there’s that scale, and fae don’t have scales. Leaning towards demon on this one but not your everyday run of the mill. This is probably a lower level demon. Maybe a reptilian. Something that likes brains.”

“Obviously, because who wouldn’t like a tasty treat around the holidays?” Tony choked back a gag, covering his mouth. “Jesus.”

“The brains…” Sydney began, stunned at the empty skull. “I didn’t see that at the scene.”

“Depends on the timing. Looks like it was cut open and sealed with this gooey substance. When she came in here, it took me a while to pry it open.”

“Sounds like a zombie. Didn’t Quint just mess with one of those?” Tony asked.

“Yes and no. That was a demon.” Kade sighed. “But it didn’t have scales. This looks like something different.”

“Hey guys, I know nothing says Christmas like an autopsy review but time’s getting short and we have a wedding tomorrow,” Tony told them.

Sydney looked to Kade who gave her a small smile. Tony was right. Nothing was going to bring back Trinity or answer all the questions surrounding her murder.

“Text me if you get any more info about the scale. I’d say check with the high priestess but she’s getting married and it’s Christmas so…yeah, no.”

“I’ve got a few colleagues I can check with. I’ll let you know. I still have to process the other bodies. Rizzoni’s still working the scene. If there’s anything that comes up, I’ll shoot you a text. Or she’ll get to you. If any of these wolves have an Alpha come lookin’ for them, the case might move up in priority. But for now, Logan said none of his wolves are involved, and we don’t have any other crimes tied to this one so…well, you know how it goes around the holidays. Folks are busy.”

“Not a priority. I get it. No worries. Thanks, doc.” Sydney turned to Kade. “You guys ready?”

“One hundred percent ready,” Tony said.

“Whatever it was, it seemed to be after these rogues. No other reports of paranormal murder in the city. Let’s hope it’s not after anyone else.” Kade opened the door, waiting on the others.

Sydney slowly approached the body and took one last look at Trinity, the mangled skin dangling from the wolf’s face. Emotion curled in her chest. This was the woman who gave her everything yet treated her child like nothing.

“I don’t know how you came into this world or why you’d treat Zach the way you did. I don’t know what else to say. I guess…thank you for giving birth to him. I promise I will give him the love you never could. I will be there when he cries. When he laughs. When he discovers love. When he has his heart broken. When he meets his mate. I will make sure he runs with the wolves.” Tears streamed down her face. “Whether you found your way to the Goddess or are in the depths of Hell, your son, my son will always have a mother who loves him. Me. Thank you for this gift. I won’t ever forget it.”

As Sydney turned away, she straightened her back, and walked over the threshold. Strength stirred within, knowing the fight was far from over, but as the door shut behind them, a chapter was closed.

Chapter Six

Sydney’s eyes widened as she opened her front door and caught sight of the scene in her foyer. A plump bird waddled by her and she stepped around it, taking sight of its feathered friends. “Oh man. What the what?”

“Why exactly are there ducks in our house?” Kade asked.

“I thought Samantha said doves, not ducks.”

“I’m regretting hosting this wedding,” he grumbled as a worker passed by him, a stack of white linen tablecloths in his arms.

“I’m sorry, I…” Quacking echoed throughout the house and Sydney laughed. “I told her they could bring them today. Tomorrow is Christmas Eve and the farmer is busy.”

“What are we supposed to do with them?”

“They were supposed to be outside in the courtyard.” Sydney turned to Kade, wearing a sympathetic smile. “I guess ducks are kind of romantic…maybe.”

“Why ducks?”

“I don’t know. Samantha wanted it to be…you know…witchy. It’s a new moon tonight. She said something about good luck. I think they symbolize…something.” Quack. Quack. “Where is the wedding coordinator? She was supposed to be taking care of everything.”

“She’d better come get these ducks before they…” Kade turned toward the kitchen, losing his words as Dominque appeared holding the baby.

Sydney’s heart caught as Zach’s face lit up in delight.

“How is my baby?” Sydney cooed in a high-pitched voice, accepting him into her arms as Dominique transferred him. “You’re such a happy boy, aren’t you?”

Kade pressed a kiss to the top of his head and rubbed his back.

“Oh, Dom. Thank you so much for watching him today,” Sydney commented, enchanted with Zachery.

“My pleasure. He’s such a good baby.” Dominique glanced back to the kitchen. “I let that wedding coordinator in. She’s been causing a ruckus ever since.”

“Yes, I see,” Kade commented.

“If you don’t mind, I need to go pick up my dress for tomorrow.”

“Of course. You really should get some rest,” Sydney told her, taking note of the bags under her eyes. She hesitated to ask if she’d been feeding or sleeping.

“Hey, before you go. You wouldn’t happen to know where the wedding coordinator went?” Kade asked, stepping aside as one of the birds waddled by his feet. “There are ducks. In the house.”

Dominique sighed. “What the fuck are ducks doing in the house?”

Sydney shot a side eye to Kade, noting a slight change in the tone of her voice, reminding her of the badass vampire Dom had once been. “Ducks are lucky. At least that is what Sam said. She’s the high priestess. I don’t know. She just wanted them.”

“What the hell do ducks have to do with witchcraft?” Dominique asked.

“Well. I don’t know exactly. Do you know, Zach? No we don’t.” Sydney smiled at Zachery. “Is Mommy a witch? Noooo, Mommy isn’t a witch.” Mommy. She turned to Kade, grinning. “Something about a new moon, new beginnings. Yuletide and whatnot.”

“Ducks.” Kade rolled his eyes.

“If ducks makes her happy, sweetie….then ducks it is. She’s the bride, and it’s her big day. Besides I think Zach is loving the duckies. Aren’t we? You want to see the duckies?”

“Jesus Christ, already. Witches? Pagans? Wolves? They’re as bad as the humans with their stupid traditions. There had better be fresh blood at this shindig or I’m a no show,” Dominique sniffed, her tongue sharper than ever.

Sydney’s mouth widened in surprise as she eyed her with curiosity. This was the first time in months Dominique had expressed her true personality. “Dom?”

“Sorry. I, uh, I don’t know where that came from…Um,” Dominique averted her gaze, wearing a confused expression. “I…I’d better go. I’ll see you tomorrow, k?”

“Sure thing, Dom. No worries.” Sydney turned to Kade as Dominique scurried away into the kitchen.

“What was that?” Sydney whispered.

“I do believe she’s coming out of whatever fog the trauma from the demon caused. Let’s hope there aren’t any bumps along the way. You know how she is. When she comes to, I can tell you she’s going to be one pissed off vampire.”

“All hell is going to break loose. Maybe I should mention it to Wynter.”

“I’m sure it’s nothing to worry about,” Kade began.

A loud commotion erupted, screaming and quacking snapping his attention to the living room. “Say, how about you go up and put Zach down for a nap? I’ll be up in a minute. I don’t know what in the hell’s happening, but I need to make sure they get these ducks out to the courtyard before they crap all over the carpet and become very unlucky birds. Now that I think about it, I always did enjoy Duck à l'Orange.”

Sydney laughed, her attention still on Zachery. “Daddy doesn’t like the duckies, but they are very important to Auntie Sam.”

Kade brushed his lips to her cheek, sending a wave of gooseflesh over her skin. His vampire energy sizzled through her like electricity, reminding her of his power.

“Hmm,” Sydney flashed Kade a flirty smile, batting her eyelashes. “Daddy is being a very bad boy. He might need a spanking.”

“Is that an invitation, Mrs. Claus?” Kade winked at her as he turned to the flock of waddling ducks and shooed them out of the foyer.

As Kade walked away, Sydney took a deep breath and refocused on Zachery, who giggled as he played with her hair. Truth be told, she could have cared less if there was a herd of buffalo roaming through her house. The only thing that mattered was that her son was home.

Sydney swore as she read Dr. Guillot’s text. “Shit.”

Heads up. Found human DNA in the brain cavity. Going to see if we have a match with anyone in the database.

Thx. She shot back a text.

Sydney’s stomach tightened as her mind churned with the myriad of scenarios where a human would step into the world of killing wolves. Demonic possession? Drug trafficking? Was Trinity involved in human trafficking? Had she planned to sell Zachery?

Sydney glanced to the baby who lay sleeping in his crib, attempting to shove her worry to the back of her mind. She prayed he’d never remember the first months of his life, vowing to surround him with enough love to make up for this harsh world.

A soft knock on the door drew her out of her contemplation. She smiled, her heart full as Kade walked into the nursery.

“It’s getting late.”

“I didn’t want to leave him,” Sydney responded.

“We should go to bed.”

“Just one more minute.” The euphoria of having him home again made her feel as if she’d gone to heaven.

“He’s amazing,” Kade whispered.

“He fell asleep in my arms. I missed him so much.” She smiled, her face beaming. “He’s just…he’s just so…”

“Perfect.” Kade wrapped his arm around her.

“I know, right?” For several minutes, they both stood in awe, watching him sleep.

“Listen, Syd.” Sydney hesitated to respond, sensing his change in tone of voice. “I’ve got to talk to you about something. It’s about Logan.”

“And…” Her body stiffened.

“Trinity had an aunt.”

“No. It doesn’t matter.” She shook her head and took a deep breath as anxiety threaded through her from head to toe.

“He has to check to see if she’s blood.”

“I’m not giving him back. I don’t care about the aunt.” Her fingers tightened around the wooden crib rail.

“Neither do I,” he stated, his tone serious.

“What are you saying?” Sydney turned to him, her heart pounding. “Are you saying what I think you’re saying?”

“I’m saying I thought about it and I’m not giving him up because of a ridiculous rule. We did things their way. We trusted pack. We did as Logan asked by giving him back to Trinity and now she’s dead. Zachery could have been killed.”

“She had drugs inside her. How could she expose him to that?”

“I hear you. So if for some reason, Logan chooses in the favor of this supposed aunt,” Kade sighed, his lips tightened, “France is lovely.”

“Are you serious?” she asked, exhilaration rushing through her.

“Completely. I’ve already spoken to Leo. Quintus will back me up on this too. Once Zach is an adult, he can choose his own path. His own pack.” Kade reached in the crib and brushed his palm over the baby’s downy soft crown of hair.

“But New Orleans….” Tears came to her eyes.

“New Orleans will be fine without me for a few years. If we leave, it will avoid war. Luca can take over. He’s marrying the high priestess. They will be the ultimate power couple. Logan’s not going to risk an international incident over this.”

“Are you sure?”

“It’s not the first time there’s been disagreements between us. It won’t be the last.”

“And New Orleans? You love it. You’ve lived here for such a long time.”

“I love New Orleans but remember, I was just a lad from Yorkshire once upon a time. Perhaps it’s time to start a new chapter, lass.”

“We can visit once he’s grown,” she added. “Maybe move back to the states once he turns so he can run with wolves. Tristan would never turn me down.”

“Logan will be angry, of course, but he will not risk war over a pup that isn’t even from his own pack. The fact is that today as we stand here, Zach has no pack. But he does have parents. You and me.”

“You’re going to be a great daddy.” She smiled as Zachery shifted in his bed, rolling onto his side. “You sure about Logan?”

“He owes you, Sydney.”

“And he owes Leo too. Ava could have died if it weren’t for him finding her,” she agreed.

“Ava could have died if you hadn’t risked your life.” Kade turned towards Sydney, wrapping his arms around her waist. “I saw her today.”

“Ava?”

“Yes.” he laughed. “You should’ve seen her. She’s special. Telekinesis. It’s quite remarkable. She may be wolf but she has magick in her. My guess is they’ll find out just what it is when she’s older.”

“There was a reason Leo found her,” she told him.

“There was a reason you found Zach.”

“It’s true.”

“I think we should prepare to leave as soon as possible,” Kade suggested.

“When are you thinking?”

“Day after Christmas. I’ve already arranged for the plane. Anything of consequence can be shipped to France. We’ll stay at Leo’s place until we find one of our own.”

“I can’t believe this is happening.” Sydney squeezed him so tight she thought she’d never let go. “I wanted Logan’s blessing, but I can’t let Zach go back with strangers.”

“Home is where the heart is, love.” Kade pulled away from Sydney and cupped her cheek. “I’m sorry it took me so long to realize it.”

“I’m so happy right now. You have no idea.”

“I love you. You are the world to me,” Kade told her, his eyes locked on hers.

“I love you so much.” As his lips crushed onto hers, Sydney’s heart burst with love for her vampire. With Kade and Zachery in her life, no matter where they lived, her life was complete and filled with love.

“You look beautiful. You’re absolutely glowing,” Sydney smiled, her heart full seeing the high priestess in all her glory. The pure white bohemian-style bridal dress swept the floor, its lace train adorned in moons and stars.

“Your dress. It’s gorgeous.”

“Thank you. I’m so excited.” She did a small dance and shrugged, smiling from ear to ear. “I can’t believe today is the day!” Samantha beamed and stood in front of a wall-length antique mirror. She turned to Sydney. “A toast? They filled the champagne. Would you?”

“Absolutely.” Sydney lifted two flutes off the tray and handed one to Samantha. “We may not have met under the best of circumstances but I’m grateful to have you in my life. Maybe even that stubborn vampire you’re marrying too. I’ll admit he’s grown on me over the years.”

“Luca has always admired you. I know he doesn’t express it well, but he respects you more than you’ll ever know.”

“Thanks, Sam. Hey, how about a toast?” Sydney raised her glass. “To my beautiful friend. May the magick of the season on this blessed night forever bring you happiness.”

Samantha nodded. “To us.”

“To us.”

As their glasses clinked, a flurry of sparkling energy danced in the air. Sydney’s heart filled with an uneasy heaviness as she thought of not seeing Samantha. She’d miss their yoga sessions in the park, Thursday morning beignets, and family get togethers. Although Sydney was tempted to confess that she was leaving New Orleans, she could not bring herself to offer anything but positive thoughts on Samantha’s special day.

“Tell me about Zach,” Samantha said as she turned to face the mirror, smoothing her hand down over the front of her dress.

“He’s perfect,” Sydney responded dreamily. “He’s with Kade. We managed to get a little outfit for him.”

“Ah, good. He’s with the men. The little pup will teach them well.” She laughed. “I suspect Dominique will come to the rescue and play with all the kids when she gets there.”

Samantha reached for Sydney’s hand, drawing her to her side, gazing upon them in the mirror. “Come look at us.”

Sydney’s blood red sleeveless satin gown clung to her every curve. Her crimson dress stood in stark contrast to the high priestess’ dress, as white as virgin snow.

Samantha’s pure excitement was infectious. Sydney’s heart melted and she smiled as her friend’s magick danced over her skin.

“I know you better than you think, Syd.” They locked eyes in the mirror as the high priestess spoke. “Things are going to work out with Zach. Promise to have faith. Tonight there will be happiness and magick and miracles. And you never know, one of those miracles might be for you. It’s so rare to have a baby as vampire, yet here we are.”

“I love you, Sam. You and Luca deserve all the happiness in the world.” Moisture filled her eyes, emotion rising.

“So do you and Kade.” Samantha lifted Sydney’s left hand and glanced at her. “He loves you.”

“I love him too.”

“Look to your heart. The day that demon crossed your path, it was your destiny. Just as it was your destiny to be reborn. Immortality is a double-edged sword. But had Kade not saved you, turned you, your path would not have crossed Zach’s. It was all meant to be. Now…your family is together…”

“But…” Sydney attempted to interrupt but her words failed her.

“You once said yes to Kade. Don’t let the loss of your humanity stop you from living your dream. Seeing you with Zach, you are an amazing mother. You can have it all. All you need is a little Christmas magick.”

“Are you putting a spell on me?” Sydney half joked.

“I think that little baby and your hot vampire are the ones who have conjured up the spell. I see the way you look at them.”

“Sam…I’m really going to…” Miss you. Sydney quickly changed the subject mid-sentence. “You said Dominque left to go over to my house, right?”

“Yeah, she said she was leaving. I saw them a short while ago.”

“I have to tell you something.” Sydney paused, lowering her voice.

“Hmm…what?” Samantha took a sip of champagne.

“Yesterday, when I came home, she was watching the baby. And she gave him to me and then we were talking and then, I don’t know what happened but there was this switch in her. There was something in her tone, the way she said it. Talking about humans and blood. She was back,” Sydney whispered.

“Who was back?”

“Dom. Dom was back. Like old Dom. Badass Dom.”

“Pre-demon Dom?” Samantha’s eyes widened.

“Yeah. No. Well, sort of. It was mostly in her tone of voice, what she said but it was just like this tiny flicker. You know she never really talks about what happened to her, but Kade told me Quintus told him about her past.”

“What happened to her children was awful.” Sadness flashed in Samantha’s eyes.

“Yes. I mean I know she lost them.”

“There’s something else, Syd.” Samantha averted her gaze.

“What is it?”

“It’s nothing really.”

“Sam. Please. She watches Zach. I trust her but if there’s something I should know.”

“You have to promise not to tell her,” Samantha insisted. “When she’s ready, if it’s meant to be, I’ll tell her.”

“Tell her what?” Sydney asked. “I promise to keep it confidential.”

“I sometimes see them.” Samantha shrugged.

“See who?” The hair on her forearms stood up, aware she wouldn’t like the answer. Even though she was a vampire, Sydney still didn’t care for the paranormal. “No, don’t tell me. Okay…tell me.”

“The children.”

“Whose children?” Sydney asked, her heart pounding like a drum.

“Her children. Dom’s children.”

“You see them?”

“Yes, it’s okay. You have nothing to fear.” Samantha smiled, sensing her unease.

“Ugh. You know I’m not crazy about the demon ghost shit. I barely can accept what I am.” She glanced at her pale skin in the mirror, reminding her she needed to feed.

“You’re beautiful, Syd. A beautiful vampire.” Samantha gave a warm smile. “It’s funny how I never wanted to be a witch yet here I am. And you, brave detective, you’re scared of ghosts?”

“I’m cautious. Of everyone. Especially…” Demons. Ghosts. Zombie vampires. “Paranormals.”

“There is danger everywhere, isn’t there? Humans are capable of the evilest atrocities.”

“Yes, but as a human…let’s just say, ghosts aren’t exactly something I’d want to see. Dom’s kids…are they always around? Like are they in my house?”

“I think it’s more like when she’s around me. I can tap into the magick of the universe. And maybe her kids are drawn to it and that’s why I see them. Or maybe they’re drawn to Ava. They know I can see them whereas most people won’t.”

“Do you hear them?”

“Not yet. They remain silent for me. It’s only been a few months since they’ve begun showing up. My guess is their concern is for their mother. I’m just hoping that when the real Dom emerges, she’ll be okay. None of us really know how she’s feeling.”

“She’s going to be angry. Really angry. And I can’t blame her really. The way Jax found her.” Sydney shuddered at the thought of Samantha giving birth in the cave.

“That was one of the worst and best days of my life. I remember Dominque and how she looked. What that thing did to her.”

“I just thought you should know about what happened yesterday. Because one of these times, she might pop back and stay that way. And you and I both know the OG Dom isn’t watching kids.”

“Thanks for letting me know. I’ll see how it is after our honeymoon. We’re leaving for Key West the day after Christmas. Mom and Dad are going to Florida too. They’re taking Kate to Disney. I think she’s a bit young, but my mom wouldn’t hear anything about it. And I need some alone time with my husband if you know what I mean.”

“You’re a dirty witch.” Sydney smiled.

“You know I am.” Samantha winked and sipped her drink.

“Everything okay with Mom and Dad today? I can help run interference if you need me to.”

Samantha laughed. “If you count being at the wedding as a yes, Mom and Dad are okay today. They are over the moon seeing Kate. And that’s all that matters to them right now. I hope.”

“All of the ducks are still alive and quacking,” Sydney laughed, changing the subject. “You should have seen Kade’s face.”

“Thanks. They’re going to be good luck. I swear it. My mom knows to expect something unique at my wedding. They’re lucky I didn’t go full-on skyclad witchy on them. Luca and I agreed on having an ecumenical ceremony and we’re incorporating a handfasting. Luca is actually quite a traditional vampire. Well, sort of anyway.”

“I’d call him a lot of things but traditional wouldn’t be one of them, but that’s why you are marrying the lucky guy.”

Samantha laughed. “He just needed the right witch to come along.”

The antique wall clock struck, ringing out eleven perfectly spaced tones. Samantha’s eyes widened in excitement.

“It’s almost time. Oh my gosh,” Sydney exclaimed. “We need to go through the list.”

“The list?”

“Yes, you know. House is decorated. The flower arrangements look spectacular. Musicians and caterers are ready to roll. Guests are arriving. And you…you look absolutely amazing. Okay then. Let’s see. What’s the saying? Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.”

“Something old. My veil…it was given to me by the High Priestess of Baton Rouge. I understand it’s been passed down through generations. Something new.” She gazed at her reflection in the mirror. “My dress.”

“Something borrowed?” Sydney asked.

“My necklace. My mom sent it to me. It’s diamonds. My dad gave it to her on their honeymoon.”

“Something blue.” Sydney reached into her pocket and fingered the edges of the box.

“I had Luca and Ava’s names stitched in blue inside the lining of my dress. Too cliché?”

“I have a wedding gift. Well, it’s a bridal gift. For you.” Sydney retrieved the box and opened it, revealing a pair of sparkling earrings.

“Oh Goddess!” Samantha eyes brimmed with tears. “You didn’t have to…”

“Here. Put them on.” Sydney handed her the box.

“They’re beautiful.” Samantha held them up to the light. Diamonds framed the princess-cut gemstones.

“Sapphires. I hope they aren’t too big.”

“They’re perfect,” She declared, securing them to her ears.

“Laryssa helped me pick them out. She’d acquired them for her antique store. It’s rumored they were once owned by an Austrian duchess.”

“Get out of here,” she laughed.

“No, for real. Turn of the century. It’s what the owner said.”

“That’s an amazing story.” Samantha turned to Sydney, smiling. “So how do they look?”

Emotion welled up in Sydney’s chest, a hot tear running down her cheek. She sucked back a small sob, struggling not to cry.

“Oh sweetie.” Samantha reached for her friend’s hands. “What is it?”

“You’re just so beautiful. Inside and out. Who would think when we met, you and I would be who we are now? A vampire.”

“A high priestess.”

“Friends.”

“Mothers.”

“Luca’s bride.” Sydney took a deep breath. “It’s time, girl. You ready?”

Samantha nodded. “Yes.”

“Okay, let’s do this, future Mrs. Macquarie. It’s time we…”

A loud knock sounded, startling them.

“Ah, ma chérie. Vous êtes belle.” Léopold held his arms open, then opted to reach for her. “I don’t want to mess you.”

“Leo!” Samantha smiled, her eyes lit with excitement.

“I still can’t believe you decided to run off with that cantankerous Aussie. He’d better treat you like a queen.”

“You know he will. He’s my king.”

“Oui. Oui.” Léopold turned to the detective. “Ah, the human policewoman. Lovely to see you too.”

“I’m a vampire, now,” Sydney mustered, surprised at her words.

“Well then. Bravo! Look at you. Accepting fate.” He clapped his hands together.

Sydney grinned, resisting his bait.

“Very good then. Now, my high priestess.” Léopold extended his arm.

“Merci monsieur.” Samantha reached for him.

Sydney’s heart softened, catching the pride gleaming in the vampire’s eyes. He loved the witch. We were all once human.

Chapter Seven

“You look fine. Stop messing with it,” Kade told Luca, who pulled at the edges of his tie knot, undoing it. “Here. Let me help you.”

“It’s like I’ve never tied a tie before,” he mumbled, staring at himself in the mirror.

“You’re daft. Suppose getting married will do that to you.” Kade laughed.

“I thought I was nervous when we had Kate. But this is different…everyone’s watching.”

“Well, you are committing for an eternity. Literally.” Kade straightened the knot, tugging at the silk.

“You like the suit?” Luca nervously fidgeted with a shirt button, smoothing it flat.

“You can’t go wrong with black,” Tristan offered. “You’ve got that James Bond look goin’ on.”

“As do you,” Luca responded. “And Kade.”

“Well, we can’t help it if we’re three studs.” Tristan looked in the mirror, smoothed a hair with a finger. He turned to Kade and blew him a kiss.

“There’s something wrong with you,” Luca shot back. “What’s the wolf doing at the wedding anyway?”

“He’s ours.”

“No. Not mine. He’s yours.” Luca waved Kade’s hands away and gave his tie a final tug. “I’m surprised he’s actually wearing clothes for once.”

“Hold on there, big man. Who says I’m wearing all my clothes?” Tristan gave a devious smile. “I’ll let you in on a little secret, boys. I’m freeballin’ it tonight.”

“There is definitely something wrong with you,” Luca said. “Why are you telling me this? You’d better keep those pants up tonight. No naked wolves. Period.”

“I won’t make any promises I can’t keep. Gotta be ready at any moment. It’s a full moon. Kalli’s looking hot as fuck tonight. Santa’s coming to town.”

“All these years and he’s every bit as uncouth as the moment you picked up his mangey hide off the street.”

“Have you been drinking?” Kade asked the Alpha.

“High on life, bro. That and I’m taking it all in, watching mister I’m a tough vampire go soft. Not just soft soft but ewy-gooey hot fudge with a cherry on top soft.”

“Fuck you,” Luca growled. “Who are you kidding with your big talk? You both have females. I’m simply formalizing what uncivilized wolves are incapable of doing.”

“Wolves are destined mates from the Goddess. We don’t need to dress up as penguins to claim our women.”

“Humans, my lupine friend. You forget.”

“And that is why we are superior,” Tristan joked. “I do look sick in this tux, right?”

“You’re not superior. You’re animals.” Luca turned to Kade. “Why did I invite him to be in this wedding?”

“Because we’ve known each other for years. And on occasion we’re friends.” Kade smiled at Tristan. “He enjoys taking the piss out of ya. I’ve missed the Alpha.”

Luca stood in front of the mirror, his expression serious. “So. I’m getting married today.”

“You okay?” Tristan asked, concern in his voice.

“I’m…I’m getting married.”

“You’re not having second thoughts, are you?”

“No, no, it’s just that…you know as a lad, I was engaged.”

“Yes.” Kade nodded, aware she’d died.

“I thought I was in love with her, a human. But my witch. She is the one. Do you remember how I went to get her in Pennsylvania? And you?” He laughed and looked to Tristan. “Naked as always.”

The wolf nodded with a smile.

“Leo burned the damn cabin down, leading us on that wild chase. And now here I am marrying the high priestess.”

“Destiny, brother,” Kade said.

“True dat. And it’s time for you to get married. Or it’s going to be your destiny that Samantha kicks your ass for being late.”

“It wouldn’t be pretty,” Kade agreed.

“Ready big guy?” Tristan asked.

Luca took a deep breath and blew it out. “Yes.”

“Let’s do this,” Kade ushered Luca toward the door. As his friend walked past him to meet his bride, a twinge of jealousy stung Kade, knowing Sydney might never want to get married.

“How long?” Luca asked, nervously tapping his foot. “Where’s my bride?”

“She’s in the guest room off the patio where she will be making her entrance. Don’t worry. Everything is on schedule.” The mousy blonde wedding planner checked her cell phone for the tenth time. “In approximately five minutes, I’ll come back to get you. You wait here in the den. All guests are accounted for and are in the courtyard. They’ll be finding their seats shortly.”

Kade set his hand on Luca’s shoulder. “Nip of cognac?”

“No. I’ve got this. Just a little nervous.” Luca closed his eyes and breathed deeply.

“Gentlemen. I’ll be right back. No leaving the office. I can’t risk you coming into contact with the bridal party. Bad luck and such. Stay put,” she told them, her voice firm like a primary school teacher speaking to third graders.

“She’s a tough one,” Tristan commented as she left the room. “I bet she’s the kind of girl who’s working all day long with brides, all demure and shit, then comes home, takes off her glasses, lets her hair down and breaks out a whip. Giddy up!”

“It’s always the quiet ones,” Kade commented as he reached for the brandy and set two snifters on the bar. “You want a glass?”

“Hell yes,” Tristen responded, easing into an oversized chair.

“Look, everyone is outside already. Maybe we can move to the foyer. Meet her there.” Luca paced toward the door and peeked into the hallway. “I can’t believe I’m listening to a human. This is utterly ridiculous.”

Kade handed a glass to Tristan. “Cheers, mate.”

“To Luca and his beautiful bride.”

“Indeed.” As the warm smooth liquor slid over his tongue, Kade stilled as a loud chime sounded from the hallway.

“More guests?” Tristan guessed.

“The planner just said they were all here. I don’t know who else would be ringing at this hour.” Kade blew out a breath and set his glass back onto the bar. The bell rang once again. “Well shit.”

“I can go get it if you want me to,” Tristan offered.

“No….” A chill stabbed through Kade as he checked the time. “I’ll just be a minute.”

“She just said stay in the office,” Tristan began, but before he could finish, they both headed out of the den. “Hey, where you goin’?”

Luca didn’t answer as he headed into the hallway.

“Aw…come on. Samantha’s going to kick all our asses,” Tristan said under his breath. He set his glass on the end table and shook his head in confusion before heading out after them.

The scent of sulfur drifted in the air as Kade opened the door. An eerie silence blanketed the driveway. A ripple of wind blowing from the east caught his attention yet not a soul was present.

“Something’s not right. Someone was here. I can smell them.” Kade sniffed. “Demon energy.”

“The house is guarded. Yours and mine. Ever since the attack in my garden, Samantha set up barriers. Tougher wards are in place,” Luca reminded him. “Tonight will draw attention, so she added extra protections.”

“What are you thinkin’?” Tristan asked Kade.

“I’m thinking some wolves were killed today, and my son is still alive. Maybe whoever had a hand in it is testing the waters.”

“Someone’s playin’ ding dong dash.” Tristan craned his head around the door to get a better look. “I smell it too, but I’m not feeling anything.”

Kade withdrew his phone and tapped at the security app. “Fucking hell.”

“What?” Luca asked.

“Look for yourselves.” Kade played the clip. Black smoke swirled into a human form, yet never fully materialized. “It’s there and then it’s not.”

“Shadow person,” Tristan surmised.

“The high priestess attracts attention. Sometimes entities,” Luca explained. “We anticipated this.”

“Yes,” Kade agreed. “But I can’t get that scene out of my mind. Trinity. The wolves.” Demons. “The way they were killed. I didn’t want to talk about this today, but I got a look at the bodies yesterday. They were totally gutted. Whatever did this isn’t natural. And there was something else.”

“What?” Tristan asked.

“In addition to fae and demon evidence, human DNA was found in the brain cavity of one of the victims,” Kade disclosed, plowing his fingers through his hair.

“What?” Luca asked, surprise evident in his voice.

“Human. As in humans involved in a mass killing of wolves. Trinity’s brains were scooped out. She was completely eviscerated.”

“I can see how a uh,” Tristan hesitated and looked into the yard, “a demon might be capable of doing that kind of damage. A human? Not so much.”

“Not usually, no. But human involvement is an issue.” Kade glanced at the time on his phone. “Fuck. Fuck. Fuck.”

“What is it now?” Luca asked.

“The wedding.” Sydney is going to kill us.

“Samantha is going to kick your ass.” Tristan grinned and slapped Luca on the shoulder.

“Goddammit. That planner told us not to leave that room,” Luca grumbled. “There’s nothing out here anyway.”

“Come on, big guy. Let’s get you to the church on time,” Tristan gestured toward the hallway. “Demon’s gonna hate. But demon’s gotta wait.”

“It’s not a church. It’s a garden.” Luca paused to address Tristan. “I don’t miss your colloquialisms, wolf.”

“Hey, just making a little levity, bro. I mean, we just smelled sulfur and saw a black shadowy whatever the fuck it was. Kade’s got human DNA in wolf brains.”

“In her cranial cavity,” Kade corrected.

“Sorry.” Tristan laughed. “Um, that would be a cranial cavity.”

As Tristan and Luca turned into the house, Kade paused and scanned the yard one last time. His jaw tightened as he caught sight of the black smoke drift through a streetlight toward the end of his driveway. Like a flash of darkness, the shadow blocked the light only momentarily.

Although tempted to investigate, he set his focus back on the task at hand. Wedding.

Kade forced a smile as the wedding planner strode toward him like a bat out of Hell.

“One minute.” She held up a dismissive finger and tapped furiously at her iPad.

“I’m sorry, what…” Kade began.

“One minute to get to the altar,” she huffed. “Our bride is situated and ready to walk. Guests are seated.”

“But we had to check on…” Kade let his words trail off, deciding not to needlessly alarm her. “Never mind.”

“Where’s the groom?” She pointed to Luca. “Ah, there you are. Thank you, Mr. Macquarie. Please follow me. The rest of you come as well.” She turned on a dime, her fake smile falling flat as she led them through the mansion, her heels tapping loudly upon the marble floor. “We don’t want to disappoint our bride. The high priestess is waiting.”

“No we don’t,” Tristan said, flashing Kade a cheeky smile. ‘She’s gonna kick his ass,’ he mouthed.

Kade laughed, concealing his concern over the demon energy lingering outside his door.

‘“We’re not going to mention to the ladies what just happened here with the doorbell,” Luca told them.

“Mum’s the word,” Tristan agreed.

“The wards are up. We’re not doing a repeat of what happened at your house,” Kade said.

“I said it’ll be fine. Sam took care of it,” Luca affirmed.

“It’s time,” the wedding planner interrupted. “Best man?”

“What?” Luca asked, appearing confused.

“Who is the best man?” she turned to Tristan and Kade.

“Not me,” the Alpha said.

“That would be me,” Kade confirmed. He turned to Luca, sensing his rapid pulse. “Deep breaths, man. You’ve got this.”

“Yes.” He nodded.

The sound of violins streamed through the air, drowning out the rumble of voices coming from the courtyard.

“I’ll be sending up your bride in just a few minutes. She’s waiting with her maid of honor and her father. It’s time for you both to go take your place.”

“It’s go time.” Luca balled his fists.

“You’re a lucky man. Now you heard the lady, it’s time to take your place. You go first. I’ve got your back.”

“Okay. Let’s do this.” Luca nodded.

“Always.”

“See you on the flip side brothers.” Tristan waved and walked out the door, towards Kalli who was already seated.

Kade smiled, elated for Luca as he stepped into the courtyard. An intimate affair, nearly twenty guests sat in attendance on white velvet chairs. A path of red rose petals led to an illuminated arc of willow branches intertwined with white hydrangeas. Crimson pillar candles flickered upon a bloodwood altar. Lights twinkled in the trees and fountain, a magical hum sizzled through the air.

As Luca approached the altar, Kade scanned the familiar faces in attendance. Tristan and Kalli sat next to Logan and Wynter. Dimitri caught his eye and gave him a thumbs up. Gillian, swollen with child, beamed, smiling.

Across the aisle, his loyal friend, Xavier, gave a small wave, which Kade returned with a nod. Laryssa sat alongside Quintus and Gabriella. The ancient vampire’s energy streamed through him as if he’d read his thoughts. Kade acknowledged him with a deliberate nod, and a friendly but cautious smile. He’d enjoy the protection of Quintus after he left New Orleans and planned to speak with him privately at the reception.

Kade refocused and took a deep breath, setting a hand on Luca’s shoulder. “It’s showtime.”

“I never thought I’d be this nervous, but…I am. Where’s Leo?”

“I just saw him in the…”

“Bonsoir, messieurs!”

Luca startled as Léopold appeared from behind him. “Jesus Christ.”

“No, just moi.”

“Easy.” Kade sucked back his laughter.

“I’m not sure how I allowed Samantha to talk me into letting you officiate,” Luca muttered under his breath. “I knew this was a terrible idea.”

“Oui. But of course I should officiate.”

“You aren’t even a minister,” Luca replied, smiling at guests in the crowd.

“But I am. Now anyway. I just received my certificate. You’re never too old to learn something new,” he declared with a smile.

Kade raised a questioning eyebrow. “You’re sure?”

“Oui. Don’t be ridiculous. I’m serious as a vampire feasting on his dinner.” He laughed. “That’s me.”

“Please tell me you can do this.” Luca asked, anxiously anticipating his bride.

“Of course I can. Your lovely fiancée asked me to do this and so I shall.”

“I’m regretting it.”

“I took an online course a few weeks ago. Passed with flying colors.”

Kade laughed. “It’s going to be fine.”

“Says you. You’re not getting married by Léopold.”

“If it makes Samantha happy…”

“She’s like a niece to me. I’ve memorized that handfasting the priestess taught me.”

“He took an online course and got a few lessons from a witch. We’re good,” Kade joked.

“I’m telling you you had better…” Luca’s words trailed off as the doors flung wide open, the string quartet roaring to life. “This is it.”

“Indeed it is. Now straighten up, mate. Look sharp,” Kade advised.

Dressed in matching red satin dresses, Ava and Kate toddled down the path toward the altar, throwing fistfuls of rose petals. Laughter erupted as Ava dumped the entire basket and set off running toward Wynter. Following suit, Kate ran toward Luca but was quickly intercepted by Xavier, who scooped her up in his arms and sat in the front row.

Kade’s heart squeezed as Dominque followed the children, holding Zach, who sucked feverishly on his binky. When she reached Kade, she presented him with the wedding rings, which had been delicately tied to a small white satin pillow.

“Da, da, da, da.” Zachery repeated, smiling wide at Kade, his pacifier falling out of his mouth. Without missing a beat, Dominique caught it before it hit the ground. Kade waved to the babe, his heart tight, taken aback by how much he’d fallen in love with his son, a little pup.

“We’re going to sit right here next to Kate.” Successfully distracting the baby, Dominique stood next to Xavier. Her expression teemed with mischief, a cool smile and a hidden secret swimming behind her mysterious eyes.

Kade’s heart caught as Sydney stepped into the moonlight, her ice blue eyes fixed on his as she made her way down the aisle. Suspended in time, Kade reached to her, stunned by her beauty. Marry me. She returned his message with a silent smile. As she took her place, she blew him a kiss before smiling at Zachery. Goddess, he loved this woman and would stop at nothing to make her his wife.

The roar of trumpets broke his contemplation. Silence descended upon the guests as the radiant bride appeared upon the threshold.

An orchestra played The First Time I Saw Your Face as Samantha took her father’s arm, appearing hopeful that her very human parents would accept their new vampire son-in-law. As they reached the altar, her father dusted a kiss to her forehead before turning to Luca. The vampire extended his hand and shook her father’s.

“I’ll take good care of her, sir,” Luca promised with a wink to Samantha. “And I’m sure she’ll take care of me and Kate.”

“Don’t disappoint me, son,” her father told him.

Magick danced in the air as Léopold spun through the ceremony, recounting their infamous introduction, setting fire to her cabin. The ancient vampire helped her to discover the greatness of her magick, encouraging her to embrace her nature.

The scent of frankincense, rosemary and lavender filled the air as Samantha tossed a match into a cauldron. Léopold gestured for the rings which Kade promptly provided.

As Luca slipped the ring onto her finger, he paused with a small smile, gazing at his bride. “Darlin’. I’ve waited lifetimes to meet my soulmate. And today. Today I humbly stand before you, my beautiful priestess. I pledge to you my eternal loyalty and love. My friend. My lover. The most incredible mother to our daughter. My inspiration. My everything. I love you.”

Tears streamed down Samantha’s face as he slid the ring on her finger. Her hands trembled as she held Luca’s ring to his hand. “My love. I…I never thought I’d be here. To be so lucky to find someone like you. You’ve supported me in every single thing I do. My journey with magick. Within the coven. You are an amazing father. Our protector. Our cheerleader. And each day I wake up in your arms I pinch myself, feeling like I’m living in a romance novel. Our romance. Our love. Our family. I’m honored to be your wife. You are the magick in my life.”

“My friends. Today I bind Luca and Samantha.” Léopold bound the crimson handfasting cord around their hands. “I’ve lived centuries. I’ve watched love. I’ve lost love. I’ve fallen in love.” He winked at Laryssa and continued. “Pure love between souls is rare. It’s a gift from the Goddess that eludes many for eternity. If you’re lucky, the brass ring comes around the carousel. But you have to be ready to grab for it. You must be determined. Patient. Put it above all else. Go through whatever is necessary to reach and snatch it or you might miss the opportunity.”

Léopold placed his hand over Luca and Samantha’s. “So it is not surprising that these special individuals rose to meet the challenge. With Luca’s love and support, Samantha embraced her role as high priestess even though she was once scared of her magick. And Luca…well, Luca…he’s ugh, he’s still stubborn as an ox. There’s that.”

Laughter erupted from their guests. Luca shrugged with a half-smile, giving him the side eye.

Léopold continued. “At one time, Luca could not see the brass ring because he only embraced his own species. But what he came to realize is that he was so much more than vampire. The Goddess sparked his humanity. She brought the beautiful witch into his life and turned it upside down. And through the magick of their love, his vision became clear.” He smiled and paused. “Today the brass ring is before him. And so it is with these ribbons of love two become one. In this very human tradition, a wedding, a marriage, we celebrate our humanity and the love of the Goddess who presented the gift. I ask of both of you, do you commit to eternity, to embrace the brass ring and never forget the magick that brought you together, to love each other beholden to no others until the end of time?”

“We do,” they answered together.

“Oui!” Léopold clapped his hands together. “Je vous prononce maintenant mari et femme!!! Vous pouvez maintenant embrasser la mariée!”

Luca and Samantha beamed with excitement, gazing into each other’s eyes.

“Come on now, kiss your witch.” A jazz band roared to life as Luca wrapped his arms around Samantha and kissed her.

Thunderous clapping and whistling burst forth in the courtyard as guests rose to their feet. The band played When the Saints Go Marching In as the newlyweds broke their embrace and raised their joined hands.

“Congratulations!” Kade shook hands with Luca, overwhelmed with pride. His prodigy. Trusted confidant and friend. Devoted father. And now husband.

Kade glanced to Sydney who blushed. I love you.

I love you too, she mouthed through the din. She winked at him before attending to Samantha’s train. Kade reached for a black umbrella and handed it off to Luca.

The bride and groom, with umbrellas in hand, began to dance down the aisle to the music. Friends waved white handkerchiefs and moved to congratulate the couple.

But as Kade wandered into the crowd, making his way toward Sydney, the hair on the back of his neck stood up, sensing the intruder. The evil came swift, furiously whipping at the dome of shields. He glanced upward to the sky and caught sight of the demon, its hideous face appearing from darkness. Iridescent silver flames shot from the eyes of its six-horned head.

“Get inside,” Kade shouted as the roar of the entity blasted the courtyard. It appeared to ram at the shields, blasting fire towards the guests.

“Zach!” Sydney called as she ran to Dominique who still held her son. “I’ll get the kids.”

“Here,” Dominque, with eyes black as coal, handed the baby to Sydney.

“It’s okay. They won’t get in here.” Samantha stepped toward the middle of the courtyard, her voice oddly calm. “Not my wedding.”

“Sam. What are you doing?” Luca called to her.

“The wards will hold,” she insisted. “Get Kate.”

“Get inside,” Luca told Dominque and Xavier as they huddled around the crying toddler.

“Look at them,” Samantha cocked her head. “All bark and no bite.”

“What the hell is that?” Kade asked.

“Asmodeus. And his minions. He’s here to syphon energy in an attempt to make us weak. To steal life, joy, to inflict pain. He’s got a penchant for weddings. Brides. I suspected he might show his face after what happened before with Quintus. They’d poked a hole.”

“A hole? I thought whatever happened was a one-time thing, that it was sealed,” Kade yelled through the devil’s loud screeching. “You’re the high priestess.”

“That I am. And I’ve gotta do something. Stand back everyone.”

“Get the kids inside,” Kade ordered, suspecting whatever was about to happen could be dangerous.

“These are my wards. I’m going to blast them back to Hell. Evil is always going to exist, it might be back, but tonight…these assholes aren’t wrecking my wedding.”

“Sam…” Luca protested.

“Is everyone inside?” she replied, never taking her eyes off the sky.

“Everyone’s in.” Kade trusted the high priestess. Far from the subservient human she once was, Samantha was one of the most powerful elemental witches he’d ever known.

“Take my hand.” She reached for Luca’s arm. “Brace yourself.”

“Do it!” Kade called as the power of the demon began ramming the ward, pounding against it in an attempt to penetrate their circle.

Samantha took a deep breath and held up her hands, still clutching Luca’s. Her body glowed like an angel, power emanating from her body as she spoke.

“Tester numine divae. Evocant et elementa. Voco super caelum. Sume ignem uidet inferos. Producat in candorem nivis, et gratia Dei dea. Cum potestas dea mitto vos ad infernum!!!”

A great wind swept across Kade’s face, white handkerchiefs spun in the air as if caught up in a dust devil. He caught sight of Sydney’s expression through the French doors, her fear washing over him. With deliberate intention, he sent his power flooding through her, reminding her of his strength and protection.

Samantha’s voice grew louder and louder dominating the creature’s deafening screams. “Tester numine divae. Evocant et elementa. Voco super caelum. Sume ignem uidet inferos. Producat in candorem nivis, et gratia Dei dea. Cum potestas dea mitto vos ad infernum!!!”

As the high priestess repeated the words, ice crystals formed on the protective dome, spreading to the demon until it began to freeze, shrinking into the night. Kade wiped a fleck of frozen water off his face as he kept focused on the night sky. Within seconds the demon disappeared into a swirling grey cloud. Silence descended into the courtyard as snow begun to fall from above, coating the ground.

“Samantha. Just…wow.” Kade’s eyes widened, stunned at her power. He held out his hand, astonished as a cold snowflake brushed his palm.

“I always wanted a white wedding,” Samantha declared, smiling proudly.

“Jesus. Samantha.” Luca embraced her. “Are you okay?"

“I’m fine,” she told him. “I’m better than fine. I’m fantastic.”

“Never a dull day.”

“Jesus Christ.” Kade shook his head, wondering if leaving New Orleans might be a good thing. “This is the second time in just over two months.”

“I’m sorry, Kade,” Samantha apologized. Her excitement faded, her expression turning serious. She glanced to Luca, who nodded. “It’s just…well…ever since that demon first showed up here with Léopold. It’s like I said. I suspected there was some kind of a hole. Almost like there’s a crack in our realm and it’s leaking into the underworld. Without engaging with it, I can’t be sure what it is or what it wants. My magick is holding it back. I was prepared. But I think it could be more than that. Like this demon activity is being driven with a purpose. It’s possible someone is summoning it. I can’t tell yet. It might be hard to stop long term.”

“And…you’re telling me now? At your wedding?” Kade’s eyes locked with Luca’s. “Seriously?”

“It’s something we’ve discussed since the breach at our home.” Luca reached for Samantha’s hand. “We can keep up the wards but it’s like she said…we don’t know what’s causing it.”

“The good news is everyone’s okay.” Samantha placed her hand onto Kade’s arm. “No one was really in danger tonight. I know it looked bad, but they’re gone. If there’s something here in New Orleans summoning demonic energy…”

“Someone…” Luca added.

“It could be an object too but I’m leaning toward a person. Maybe a remnant energy or new. I don’t know yet. I can barely detect it but it’s there. It feels like something is slowly and deliberately testing the waters. It’s just an ember. But if we don’t douse it, we could have a fire on our hands.” Samantha gave a tight smile and shrugged. “Sorry I didn’t tell you before this. I didn’t want to worry anyone.”

“We’ll deal with it,” Kade told her, knowing he might well be gone. No matter what happened in New Orleans, he’d support them.

“Together.” Luca hugged Samantha, while keeping his eyes on his friend. “Now can we get on with the celebration?”

“You know it.” Kade waved a hand toward the guests huddled inside the mansion. The doors flung open and Sydney stepped outside, her jaw dropping open at the sight of all the snow. “What the…”

“I always knew she was cold as ice. A savage ice queen,” Dominique commented with a side smile. She set Kate on the ground, who then ran to her mom. “Luca doesn’t know who he’s dealing with.”

Kade turned to Sydney and wrapped his arms around her, gently placing a kiss to the top of Zachery’s forehead. They swayed to the music. Lost in the moment with his family, they slow danced in the snow.

“Merry Christmas, baby,” he whispered.

“Merry Christmas, Daddy.”

Kade waved goodbye to Léopold and Laryssa and closed the door. Dominique had retired to the guest house earlier in the evening and Zachery slept soundly upstairs in his crib. Caterers and housekeepers milled about the kitchen and living areas, tidying up and readying to leave.

As he glanced to Sydney, still saying her goodbyes, his thoughts drifted to the future. Ever since the wedding ceremony, Kade had been anxious to give Sydney her gift. From the moment he’d met the detective, he’d known they were meant to be together. Although darkness often overshadowed their relationship, Zachery brought light into their home, to their family. Within a day, life had changed. Their son returned home. A wedding. Snow. Christmas magick. Miracles.

Kade heard Luca call his name, breaking his contemplation.

“Hey, there you are.” His friend approached.

“Congratulations again. Look at you. A married man.” Kade smiled as Sydney came up behind him, molding her body to his and wrapping her arms around his waist.

“I just want to thank you again so much for everything. Letting us celebrate here at your home,” Luca said.

“Sorry for the little snafu,” Samantha apologized.

“No worries. The snow was beautiful and so were you,” Sydney replied. “Excited for your honeymoon?”

“Yes, I can’t wait,” Samantha answered, her eyes wide in anticipation. “I’m finally getting to see the Florida Keys. Margaritaville. I’m a bit of a Parrothead.”

“It will be perfect,” Sydney replied with a smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes.

Kade glanced at her, detecting the sadness she tried so very hard to hide, knowing they were leaving. Luca would understand for certain, but he couldn’t risk saying a word until they left New Orleans. Logan eyed him from across the room, while he and Wynter packed up Ava’s belongings. Both the toddlers lay sleeping on the sofa.

“Guess a night wedding was a little much for the girls,” he commented.

“They’re adorable.” Sydney gave Kade a squeeze.

“Aren’t they, just.” Samantha yawned. “Guess we’d better get to sleep. Big day tomorrow.”

“Santa’s coming,” Kade winked.

“Yes he is!” Samantha hugged Sydney, brushing a kiss to her cheek, and then quickly squeezed Kade. “Thank you so much.”

“Sam…I’m really going to mi…” Sydney began but caught herself. “I’m…I’m going to enjoy our first holiday with Zach.”

“Yes, that little pup is going to make your day.”

Luca gently picked up his drowsy toddler, her head lolling onto his shoulder as he cradled her. “Merry Christmas, guys. Thank you again. Time to get my wife and daughter home.”

Wynter glanced at her cell phone. “The driver’s here. I’ll follow you all out.” She scooped up Ava and turned to Logan. “I’m going to go get her settled in the car. I’ll meet you out there. Bye you guys. Thank you.” She blew Sydney a kiss, and quickly left the room.

“Hey,” Logan said, retrieving a stuffed polar bear lodged between the sofa cushions. “Good thing I saw this. Ava can’t go an hour without Rocky. Santa or no Santa, we’d be having a full-on Christmas crisis if he was missing in the morning.” He laughed.

“No worries. Good thing you found him.” Kade attempted to conceal his intentions from the Alpha, knowing they planned to leave New Orleans.

“The girls were so cute today,” Sydney offered.

“Yeah, they were. But I have a feelin’ we’re going to be in big trouble when they get older.” Logan gave a small laugh, his expression turning serious as he admired the tree. “Before I go…well, with it being Christmas tomorrow, which I guess is today, since it’s after midnight. I know it’s a human thing, but we’re giving it a go with the Santa routine, you know, for Ava. It’s a beautiful holiday, though isn’t it? The decorations. The spirit of the season and all. A celebration of family.”

“Is everything all right, Alpha?” Sydney asked, her voice soft.

“Yes. Everything is great.” Logan refocused on Kade and Sydney. “So after you came to see me, I had a talk with Wynter. We’ve known you both a long time and you know we trust you to be good parents. But there’s no getting around pack rules and this thing with Trinity…now the murders. Anyway, I called Jax and Hunter and we discussed things and we all agree. You see…I didn’t want to wait, so I personally did an investigation into her aunt, and the thing is… I discovered she isn’t really Trinity’s aunt. Not by blood anyway.”

Kade heard Sydney’s pulse race at the Alpha’s words. “What are you getting at?”

“The short of it is that we’ve agreed among Alphas to permanently place the child with you. Zachery has been bounced around too much. It’s not good for him. He’s already bonded with you, and so this is in his best interest. I was going to tell you earlier, but I didn’t want the news to distract from the wedding.”

Sydney went limp against Kade as a small sob escaped her. “Don’t joke about this, Logan. Please.”

“Is this a final decision?” Kade asked, struggling to contain his surging emotions.

“Yeah, it is.” Logan smiled.

“You’re serious?” Sydney said, her voice raised.

“Yeah, yeah I’m serious.”

“Promise me we have your word,” Kade told him, his heart beating fast. “No take backs or any other Alphas dissenting?”

“I’ll have the final adoption papers over to you in a few days. There’s a few things I’ll need you to do with regards to raising him with my pack, especially when he’s older and shifts. They’re stipulations with regards to his upbringing once he shifts. He’s going to need to be around wolves. Zach will be Acadian Wolves and as such I’ll be his Alpha. But yes. I promise. You both have my word. Zachery is yours.”

Sydney rushed to Logan and wrapped her arms around the Alpha, tears streaming down her cheeks. “Thank you, Logan. Oh Goddess. I can’t believe it.”

“You’re going to be a great mom. Zach is lucky to have you. I’m really sorry that we had to put you guys through this,” Logan apologized.

Sydney broke her embrace, bringing her hand to her mouth, both smiling and crying at the same time.

“I will never forget this, Alpha.” Kade hugged Logan and patted him on the back, finally releasing him. He wiped his eyes, drying them, overwhelmed with happiness.

“Well, happy holidays, guys. Hate to run but it’s late and gotta get my girls home. I can see myself out.”

“Thank you, Alpha.” Sydney rushed into Kade’s arms. “This is the best Christmas I’ve ever had in my life.”

“I guess we’re not moving.” Kade brushed his lips to the top of her head, his heart pounding. “We’re parents. Official parents. I never thought…”

“You’re going to be an amazing father. No, you are an amazing father,” she corrected.

“I can’t believe he waited all night to say something.” Kade released an audible breath. “I was prepared to leave.”

“I love that about you. That you were willing to do anything for Zach and me.”

“Today when I held him…there was no other choice. The Alpha could have easily denied us. Insist he be raised with the wolves.”

“My faith is restored. It really is a time of hope. Miracles.”

“Speaking of faith.” Kade pulled away slightly, but still held Sydney close, losing himself in her eyes. “Human traditions are a choice, you know. I’ve lived a long time, and this is the first time I’ve ever felt like celebrating any holiday. Truly. You’re my family now. We have so much to be thankful for.”

“We do. Next year, will you dress as Santa? For Zach and for me,” She winked.

“You know I will. And I look forward to it.”

“And I’ll bake cookies. Wrap presents.”

“Speaking of presents…”

“I thought we were waiting until tomorrow, Kris Kringle.”

“No love, Santa Claus came tonight.” He reached toward the top of the tree, and gingerly removed a silver heart ornament. Kade focused, deliberately slowing his pulse, tamping down his excitement, so as not to spoil the surprise. “I’ve been thinking for quite some time now that Mr. Claus needs to work on making Mrs. Claus a missus.”

“Hmm… is that so?” She flashed him a flirty smile.

“I’ve wanted this for a long, long time, but I want to make it official.” Kade knelt before Sydney, still holding her hand.

“What are you doing? Kade…I…”

“I gave you my heart years ago when I first met you in Philadelphia. I asked you that day, and now I know more than ever this is what I want. We’ve been through Hell and back. I almost lost you forever. I won’t ever regret doing what I did, because I love you, Sydney. And like a miracle, Zach was brought into our lives. I’ve watched you. I’ve seen the woman I love more than anything in this world fall in love with our son. You’re an amazing mother. My best friend. My cheerleader. My lover. I want you in my life forever. Not just bonded…but bonded for eternity as my wife.”

Tears streamed down Sydney’s face as Kade presented the silver heart. She gave a small gasp as he opened it, revealing a ring, an enormous emerald surrounded by diamonds.

“Sydney Willows, will you marry me?”

Chapter Eight

Will you marry me? Time stopped as she heard Kade’s words, her heart only beating for the one man she’d ever truly loved.

She smiled and gazed into his eyes, her heart full of eternal love for her vampire. “Yes.”

“Yes,” he repeated, nodding.

“Yes.” Sydney’s heart pounded against her ribs as he slid the ring onto her finger. She knelt to meet him, cupping his cheek.

“You’re everything to me.” Their foreheads touched, as she spoke softly. “I wasn’t ever expecting to meet you. I never thought I’d find love. But that day on the docks. Your eyes.” She smiled, dragging her thumb along his jaw. “That sexy accent.”

“You were feisty and beautiful. There was no way I would have let you go.”

“Everything has changed. It’s different but everything is better now. I’m sorry I took so long to say yes,” she laughed. “To say yes again. To realize that it’s okay to remember being human. To raise a family. To get married.” Her lips brushed his. “To be your wife.”

“I love you,” Kade whispered.

“I love you too…” Her words were lost as his mouth crushed onto hers.

Breathless, she kissed him back with desperate urgency, tasting her fiancé. His fingers tunneled through her silken locks. Demanding, he devoured her, and she willingly submitted to her vampire.

Her body trembled with desire as his fingers moved to the back of her neck, deftly unzipping her dress. Cool air danced over her bare skin as the fabric pooled to the floor. Frantically she tore at the buttons of his shirt, sending them flying as they popped.

Sydney sighed as Kade’s mouth found her nipple, and a bolt of desire sizzled down between her legs. “Kade.”

“Don’t move,” he commanded, his lips tasting and nibbling a path down her stomach.

He knelt before her, brushing a delicate kiss to her hip. She cradled his head, her fingers entwined in his hair. He reached his hands around her thighs, guiding her to sit on the sofa. Cool air danced over her pussy as he spread her knees open, settling between her legs.

“Beautiful,” he said, admiring his prize.

As he flicked his tongue over her clit, she heaved a breath, tendrils of arousal threading through her body. The tip of his finger filled her, teasing her sensitive strip.

“Oh my…” she hissed as he plunged inside her.

“Hmm,” he hummed, lapping at her swollen nub.

With her fingers speared through his hair, she gazed into his hungry eyes as he feasted on her like a starved man. She gasped as he added another finger, filling her, lapping at her clit. Panting, her breath grew louder with each lash of his tongue.

Relentless, Kade sucked her pussy, still flicking his tongue over her bead, milking her orgasm. Sydney’s fangs dropped as her climax slammed into her. Wild, she clutched at the cushions, tilting her hips upward as he teased every last tendril of her release.

Kade rose before her like a Greek god ascending to Olympus, the light of the fire reflecting off his chiseled abs. She gasped as he reached under her thighs, to swing her onto the sofa. He hiked her legs up into the air, her feet resting against his shoulders as he held onto her ankles.

Sydney moaned as he slammed his cock deep inside her, their eyes locked on each other’s. “Oh, Goddess, yes.”

“Hmm…You feel so, ugh,” he grunted, “Good.”

“Please,” she begged, mesmerized by the intensity swirling in his eyes.

“Fuck yes,” he cried. Still deep within her, Kade released her legs, guiding them around his waist. His mouth captured hers as he made love to her.

Sydney lost herself in ecstasy and moaned into his kiss, her tongue sweeping against his. Tasting her vampire, she reveled in his touch. His thumb grazed over her clitoris, tipping her over the edge once again.

“Kade…yes…I’m…” she murmured with her lips on his. “I’m coming.”

“That’s it, love” he urged as he plunged inside her with slow deliberate thrusts.

“Ah yes!” She sank her fangs into his flesh, the energy of his essence flowing down her throat.

Pleasure rocked through her, his teeth slicing into her neck. She came hard, her pussy quivering around his cock. She sealed his flesh with her tongue, lapping each drop of her mate’s blood.

“Sydney.” She heard him call her name, still floating in the afterglow. “You’re beautiful,” he said, brushing his lips to her shoulder. He rolled to his side, his arm over her waist. “I love you, Mrs. Claus.”

“I love you more, Mr. Claus.” With a sleepy smile, she gazed into his eyes.

“I do think we’ve started a new tradition.”

“Making love under the tree?” She gave a soft laugh, intertwining her fingers with his.

“We made love under the mistletoe again.” He looked upward to where it was precariously hung in the center of the apex of the cathedral ceiling.

“Hmm…at least we made it to the sofa this time.”

“I love you, Syd,” Kade told her, his voice soft and sincere.

“I love you too. I never thought…” She smiled, emotion welling in her chest. “I love us. I love our family. I never thought I’d ever have any of this. You and Zach. You’re my miracles. My everything.”

“You’re ours.”

“Merry Christmas, baby.” Sydney cuddled into his embrace, her heart full of love.

“Merry Christmas.” Kade brushed his lips to her hair, kissing her. “Remind me next year to hang mistletoe in every room.”

“Most definitely.”

Epilogue

“I told you not to leave any evidence,” the master growled. “The child is alive.”

“So what?” the demon spat at him. “You pay for what you get.”

“If you want to stay in this realm, you’ll do my bidding.”

“The wolves are dead, including the bitch you hated. I took care of it,” the creature hissed. “The babe is inconsequential.”

“The shipment is gone. I will not tolerate sloppy work.”

“Humans,” it mused, the beast transforming, taking the form of its master. “So demanding.”

“Aerris,” the master screamed, dousing it with the blessed water.

“Better?” it asked. A gorgeous blonde woman in black patent leather appeared, her lips red as blood.

“Better, yes. Come. On your knees,” he commanded.

“I promise to do better next time, my liege,” she groveled, rubbing her bosom upon his thigh. “Please forgive me.”

The master sat back in his chair, stroking the demon’s blonde mane. “I brought you here, Aerris. Don’t ever forget that.”

“Please don’t send me back,” she begged. “I’ll never get out again. I can’t go back.”

“There there, my sweet. We have work to do. We will assemble the coven, show them the way. The vampires must be stopped. Do you see how they run things? I will not allow it. Humans have always and will always be God’s supreme beings.”

“Yes, master.” A flash of sadness shone in the beast’s eyes but was quickly concealed by a cool smile.

“Sing to me my darling. Tell me the perils of Hell.”

“I shall,” she conceded, her head resting on his knee.

“Someday, we will rule again. All the beasts of blood shall be returned to the underworld, to live a life of torture in Hell. Ah what a glorious day it shall be.”

The master smiled with his work. Soon, the vampires would be gone. One by one. Two by two. All sent back to Hell where they belonged. His holy work would be blessed and welcomed by all.

Viktor lay on the white velvet sofa, staring at the twinkling silver tree. He mused how humans gathered on the holidays, lamenting being alone, yet he reveled in the perfection of solitude which gave him time for reflection. The ancient vampire took a satisfying sip of fresh blood from his champagne glass, admiring his lavish, modern penthouse.

Miami was a favorite destination during the winter, the lights of the city twinkling upon the water. With flesh and blood plentiful, he’d typically indulge in the holidays, immersed in carnal temptations, frequenting the most exclusive nightclubs and making love to a different woman every night.

This year, however, the ancient vampire resigned himself to his responsibility. Having sired a half breed, Viktor tamped down his desire to roam. Soon the wolf would return to the Alpha, yet even he wondered if Rafe could be assimilated back into his pack.

The satisfying sound of a moan echoed from outside, and he shoved to his feet, determined to keep a watchful eye on his ward. As he crossed the room, enjoying the warm gulf breeze, he smiled at the sight of the couple making love upon the day bed. Rafe sank his fangs into the gorgeous donor, leaving her screaming and writhing in ecstasy. Ah, the first taste of the blood rushing down your throat is always the most delectable, he mused.

Feliz Navidad played in the distance, beckoning Viktor to play in Miami. Just a few minutes in a blood club would satisfy his craving. His own hunger intensified, the scent of sex and blood pungent in the air. The decision made, he glanced once again to Rafe and his lovely donor.

Wolf, he commanded telepathically. Rafe’s attention snapped to his, still lying nude by the pool. Get her on her way. Do. Not. Kill. Her.

The wolf nodded silently in agreement, sated with his feast.

Accidents happened, but with it being in the spirit of the holidays, Viktor wished no harm to the innocent human. The wolf had learned discipline, but it was early in his training.

Children were indeed a great responsibility, he thought. Perhaps he’d play Santa and bring the wolf back a special treat for breakfast, he thought to himself as he dematerialized.

Behave wolf. I’ll be back soon.

As his feet settled onto the cold cement floor, he smiled. The deafening beat of the music pounded throughout the darkened club, the scent of young blood all around him.

A blonde, scantily clad in a fishnet dress, approached him, flashing a sexy smile. She flipped her hair, exposing the creamy flesh of her neck.

“Here to fill my stocking?” she purred.

“Depends if you’ve been naughty or nice,” Viktor smiled, immersed in his element. As he took her hand and pulled her close, arousal rushed to his cock, her breasts grazing his chest. His fangs dropped, his lips brushing over her shoulder. “I do believe Santa has brought you something. Fancy a bite?”

Author Notes

Thanks so much to all of my readers! I enjoyed writing my very first holiday themed book and plan to follow up sometime with a Christmas in New Orleans Wedding Novella so we can read more about Kade, Sydney and their special pup, Zachery. Viktor is the next book to be released, and many more books in the Immortals of New Orleans Series are planned, including stories for Julian, Rafe, Dominique and new characters to come.

From my family to yours, I wish you the happiest of holidays and a happy new year! May the magick of the season be with you!

Romance by Kym Grosso

The Immortals of New Orleans

Kade's Dark Embrace (Immortals of New Orleans, Book 1)

Luca's Magic Embrace (Immortals of New Orleans, Book 2)

Tristan's Lyceum Wolves (Immortals of New Orleans, Book 3)

Logan’s Acadian Wolves (Immortals of New Orleans, Book 4)

Léopold’s Wicked Embrace (Immortals of New Orleans, Book 5)

Dimitri (Immortals of New Orleans, Book 6)

Lost Embrace (Immortals of New Orleans, Book 6.5)

Jax (Immortals of New Orleans, Book 7)

Jake (Immortals of New Orleans, Book 8)

Quintus (Immortals of New Orleans, Book 9)

Hunter (Immortals of New Orleans, Book 10)

Christmas Embrace (Immortals of New Orleans, Book 11)

Viktor *Coming 2021*

Club Altura Romance

Solstice Burn (A Club Altura Romance Novella, Prequel)

Carnal Risk (A Club Altura Romance Novel, Book 1)

Wicked Rush (A Club Altura Romance Novel, Book 2)

Hard Asset (A Club Altura Romance Novelette)

Crushed (A Club Altura Romance Novel, Book 3) *Coming 2021*

About the Author

Kym Grosso is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the erotic paranormal series, The Immortals of New Orleans, and the contemporary erotic suspense series, Club Altura. In addition to romance novels, Kym has written and published several articles about autism, and is passionate about autism advocacy. She is also a contributing essay author in Chicken Soup for the Soul: Raising Kids on the Spectrum. In 2012, Kym published her first novel and today, is a full-time romance author.

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