I'm not sure how long I've been holding her, but when I hear footsteps approaching, I don't have to open my eyes to know who it is. The scent of earth and rosemary surround me before I feel his warm hand on my shoulder, stopping my constant rocking.The gentleness in his movement says enough. I know he can feel what I'm feeling and he slowly moves closer, tenderly taking my arms away and replacing them with his. Slowly, he lays Aunt Kelly's body back down, silently pulling the white sheet back over her. I'm shaking all over and without a word, he scoops me in his arms, cradling me like a baby."It is time to go, my love," he says, his voice vibrating on my cheek. "I have you now."His strong grip and steady pace comfort me as he carries me out of the infirmary. Without warning, images of Aunt Kelly's wrists and how small she looked lying on that gurney slam into my head. I nestle my face harder to his chest, trying like hell to erase her deep gash wounds from my mind. I take in a

GRAVEYARD WATCHMAN: BOOK TWOTHE DEMON WARS"Skylar!" I scream, Get away from him!" His face changes like he's confused and Zull begins to laugh."Well, aren't you the protective one?" he leans a little closer like he's about to tell me a secret, "Um, he can only hear the words that I want him to hear."All the blood in my body rushes to my face, "What have you done with him you freaking monster!" I scream even louder, hoping Skylar can hear me but he just stares at me like he can't make out my words.Zull cocks his head as if impressed with my bravery then glances up at Dominic. "She's pretty feisty for someone who's half naked," he looks me up and down and I swear I see a sick lust in his eyes, "I'm sure she's absolutely delicious."Dominic jerks forward but stops himself, biting out, "What do you want, Zull?!""Me?" his mouth curls into a sadistic smile, "I can't believe you haven't figured that one out yet.""You cannot have her!" Dominic shouts and I watch Zull's exp

I feel something firmly grasp my shoulder and whip around. Dominic is standing above me, eyes glittering dangerously and I look over to what looks like the remains of Zull in a lifeless, bloody heap. I glance back up; relieved he's in one piece but my focus remains laser sharp. I need to help this man. "Hurry!" I shout, "Do you have a crystal?""You cannot help him!" Dominic shouts, his tone heavy with anger."What? Yes I can!" I shout, scrambling to get the Fighter on his back but Dominic pulls me back around the waist. "No you cannot!" "Why!" I scream, trying to break free but his grip is too strong."Because he is already dead! He died with honor now leave him! We must give him the respect he deserves!"I stop fighting because he suddenly lets go, leaving me to catch myself by my wrists before falling flat on my face. "What is your problem?" I stare up at him, "Why won't you let me help him?""What is my problem?" his face changes to pure rage and I instinctively step b

Without a word, Skylar drops into the wingback in sudden defeat, covering his face with his palms, "What a mess. What a fucking mess." His muffled voice clear with anxiety, I can practically feel the dread radiating from him. "I'm so sorry you have to be involved, Skylar. But, for your protection, I understand why Zack pulled you back in." I say, trying to justify the situation but even I know my words are only making it worse."It makes a lot more sense." Skylar says, his hands still covering his face."What?" I ask.He pulls his palms away, "Dominic. Now I get why he was always there, at the cemetery. He was protecting you."Three quick knocks sound at the door and the latch pops up. Victoria's voice calls out before she walks in, "Your majesty," she drops into a deep bow and looks up, "Oh, I see we have a guest." she smiles politely at Skylar and looks back at me, "Should I prepare him a room?"Skylar's head is already shaking and he grins, "Holy shit," the sarcasm in his ton

I lift my cup and drink deeply, then set it down, sinking back into the stacked pillows. I'm suddenly embarrassed my own selfishness. Dominic not only lost his men, he lost his friends as well. It makes sense that he would honor them in such a way. But, I should be the one in that chapel. I should be the one sacrificing and praying. Wait! That's it! I yank myself up with renewed energy, grabbing her arm."Hurry, take away the tray! I want to join him."Victoria shakes her head, gently pulling herself away from my grip."You cannot, your majesty. He is doing what is customary when sacred lives are lost." Her head shakes again when I draw breath to plead my case and her hand goes to my shoulder."He would not allow it, anyway. You must respect his grieving period."Rubbing my temples in frustration, my eyes chase her every movement. "This isn't right!" I protest, "Dominic is paying for something I feel is my fault, not his. I have to do something!"Victoria places her hands