Vanessa’s P.O.VSummer arrived back at my apartment an hour before our girls’ night began and thoroughly attacked me with makeup brushes and tight-fitting outfits. After telling Summer, “I am not going out in public in that,” multiple times, and trying on many scandalous outfits, we finally settled on a simple black slip dress and strappy heels. Summer had worked my blonde hair into a French twist with accented pieces hanging down around my face. The makeup was a bit more than I usually applied myself, but I had to admit, I felt stunning. Summer had chosen a far more exciting outfit which included a tiny strapless blue dress with cutouts on the side and matching blue stilettos. A knock on the door signaled it was eight. “That must be Arie and Leah!” Summer squealed. She opened the door to find not just Arie and Leah, but Alpha Marcus and Darren as well. Summer glared at the men. “No. No boys allowed.” Alpha Marcus glared back at her. “With everything that’s going on, I’m a

Vanessa’s P.O.V “Relax, Vanessa . I’ll answer all your questions, but just one at a time.” Nick said with his soothing and relaxing voice. “And remember, we’re all on the same side now. You made sure of it or have you forgotten.” He continued. How could I forget that I had negotiated a peace treaty between Alpha Marcus and Alpha Ace and their packs . “To be honest, am a bit disappointed, I thought you’d be happier to see me . We shared some good moments back then.” Nick said as he glared into my eyes. “I won’t lie. Am glad that you are here but it is your motive that makes me doubt your presence.” I answered. “You know I’d never do anything that may bring you harm, I just wanted to get closer to you and this was the only way.” He admitted and I could tell he was being genuine. Nick was the only genuine friend I had made over the years and something about him always drew me to him but there was always an obstacle ahead of us. Maybe something about the forbidden fruit made me crave mor

Vanessa’s P.O.V A tightness formed in my stomach, realizing I had been the one who killed him. “Though they have never attempted to breach the complex before, they’re clearly becoming desperate now. We need a way to secure our borders. I’ve spoken with Aria who believes she knows someone who can help. Aria.” He looked over at the beautiful blonde.“As lycans,” Aria began, “you all have incredible speed and strength. There is no question of how you can handle everyday threats. The Collectors have put us in an interesting position by pitting us against a magic we do not possess. It’s time we started to gathersome magic on our side as well.” Aria’s gaze fell onto me. “While Vanessa is extremely powerful, she is still a new Celestial and cannot be expected to defend us all single-handedly. I will be contacting the local covens in hopes of recruiting new Chosen to our cause. In particular, we are seeking someone who can draw wards to defend our building. This would keep the Collectors fr

Vanessa was returned to her apartment by Leah. Nick apparently had to take care of some things for the Alpha. A few minutes later, she heard a knock at the door. Her heart beat wildly as she pulled it open. Instead of Nick, a squealing Aria came running inside. “What an exciting day!” She grabbed Vanessa by the hands and walked her over to the couch. “So tell me about this Traveler. He’s a gypsy right? Is he cute? Can he teleport anywhere? Maybe he’ll teleport me out of here so I can finally get some…” Aria was speaking so quickly, Vanessa didn’t even have time to respond. “Speaking of which.” Aria’s eyes glittered, “So you and Nick, huh?” She stared at Vanessa eagerly. “Please, I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Aria tilted her head, those deep blue eyes burning straight into Vanessa’s guilty soul. “Okay, fine!” Vanessa relented. “Some stuff happened.” “Eeep!” Aria squealed. “I need to know everything, all the juicy details!” There was another knock at the door. “But first…

It was then that Vanessa noticed the two women next to Laurie. One was an elderly woman, her skin wrinkled and drawn. Long grey hair trailed down her back. A variety of glittering rings covered her arthritic fingers. Though the body had aged, her bright mossy eyes gleamed with vitality. Next to her was a younger woman, probably near Vanessa’s age. She had soft-looking red hair that fell past her shoulders, and striking turquoise eyes. The fiery-red hair and brilliant eyes shone brightly against her pale, freckled skin. She was one of the most unique-looking people Vanessa had ever seen. “Please give a warm welcome to Matlena and Brona. They have come to help us strengthen the complex and protect those within it.” The older woman’s gaze moved to Vanessa. She studied her carefully. Vanessa did not feel the need to look away. A maternal energy radiated from the woman they called Matlena. She spoke with strength behind her aging face. “We are glad to be here and happy to help in this ma