Amethyst Moon

An Ellora’s Cave Romantica Publication

www.ellorascave.com

Amethyst Moon ISBN 9781419912603 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Amethyst Moon Copyright © 2008 N.J. Walters Edited by Mary Altman. Cover art by Syneca. Electronic book Publication February 2008 With the exception of quotes used in reviews, this book may not be reproduced or used in whole or in part by any means existing without written permission from the publisher, Ellora’s Cave Publishing, Inc.® 1056 Home Avenue, Akron OH 44310-3502. Warning: The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. Criminal copyright infringement, including infringement without monetary gain, is investigated by the FBI and is punishable by up to 5 years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000. (http://www.fbi.gov/ipr/) This book is a work of fiction and any resemblance to persons, living or dead, or places, events or locales is purely coincidental. The characters are productions of the authors’ imagination and used fictitiously.

AMETHYST MOON

N.J. Walters

Dedication To my wonderful husband, Gerard, who understands my dreams and encourages me to reach out and embrace them. To my amazing editor, Mary—thank you for keeping me honest and making me a better writer.

Amethyst Moon

Chapter One Olivia Fifield was happiest when she was alone and digging in the dirt. Right now, she was ecstatic. She wasn’t digging in the dirt, not exactly, but she was carefully brushing away the dust from a carving on the wall just inside the door of an Egyptian mastaba. Her bags were still unpacked in her tent and she was feeling the effects of jetlag and the journey across the desert country, but she hadn’t been able to resist having her first look at the mastaba. It was, after all, why she was here. Armed with only a flashlight, she’d made her way to the site. She promised herself that she wouldn’t venture further than the first room, not until she had her equipment assembled and had talked to the members of the team who’d already been inside. Chills had raced down her spine as she’d entered the dwelling, leaving the blistering sunlight behind her. The first thing she’d seen was the beautiful carvings and paintings that decorated the walls. While the walls of the pyramids were generally left unadorned, mastabas contained the actual history of the people, their images depicting scenes of everyday life. But this mastaba was special. Sitting on the ground with nothing more than a flashlight against the encroaching darkness, Olivia traced the intricate lettering on the wall just below one particular carving. She pushed back a lock of long blonde hair that had escaped from her braid, ignoring the dust and grime that coated her fingers, her khaki pants, her long-sleeved shirt and her boots. Nothing else mattered but the fact that she was here on an archeological dig in a remote section of Egypt. All her life she’d struggled to live down her past. Well, her grandfather’s past and ultimately his legacy to her. Dr. Amos Fifield had been a respected archeologist and 5

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lecturer at universities around the world until one fateful day, fifty years ago, when he’d uncovered a small stone tablet and a few pieces of jewelry on a dig here in Egypt. The writing on the stone tablet was different from anything anyone had ever seen. Not hieroglyphics, but strangely similar. The jewelry was beautifully handcrafted—a pair of three-inch wide silver cuffs, inlayed with deep purple amethysts, and a silver torque that matched. Olivia pushed up the sleeves of her cotton shirt and admired the bracelets. She’d leave them stored safely in her tent when she started excavating, but other than when she was working, she always wore them. Always. There was something about them that compelled her to wear them. Not that it was any hardship to do so. The silver was heavy, and although the bracelets had never been cleaned, they continued to shine. Symbols were etched into the metal, but it was the amethysts that drew her attention. One round piece of the deep purple stone was flanked on either side by two smaller pieces carved into the shapes of crescent moons. Placed as they were, they showed the stages of the moon from waxing to full to waning. It was beautiful and there were two of the amethyst moon symbols on each cuff—one facing the top, the other facing the bottom. From the moment she’d fitted the cuffs around her wrists, they’d felt right, as if they somehow belonged to her. She’d spent hours staring at them, wondering about the person who’d crafted them and whom they’d belonged to. That night, she’d had the first in a series of dreams that had been coming more and more frequently. They’d been especially strong since she’d been invited to be a part of this dig. At first, the dreams were about a foreign land that seemed somehow familiar to her. She spent hours there, examining what looked like a temple. The writing on the wall was so beautiful and she’d longed to know its meaning. An altar had stood at the front of the temple, filled with sweet-smelling incense, flowers and candles that flickered in the moonlight. And the moon—it drew her like a magnet. The purple orb hung low in the sky and Olivia had longed to reach out and touch it.

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Then the dreams had changed. At first they frightened her. She’d never had dreams of a sensual nature before and these had become positively erotic and incredibly powerful. They had come to her in the dark of the night. Two warriors, both strong and proud, one dark in coloring, the other light, and they’d made no secret of the fact that they wanted her. She licked her lips as her body heated at the memory. Her breasts swelled and her nipples puckered tight against her bra. Her panties were damp as cream seeped from her core. Oh yeah. Those dreams were explosive, but last night’s had topped them all…

Olivia stood outside the temple in a fragrant garden, wearing nothing but a filmy shift made of fine linen. The unfamiliar garment flowed around her ankles and left her arms and shoulders bare. Although it was night, many of the flowers were still in bloom, their subtle scents surrounding her. A stone bench beckoned, but she ignored it. She was waiting. Anticipation thrummed through her body, pulsing in her veins. They would come to her tonight, her two lovers. Up until now, one or the other had taken her hand and led her away to pleasure her, but she knew tonight was different. Tonight they would both touch her, here in the temple garden under the light of the purple moon. The cuffs on her wrists warmed her skin and she knew that her lovers were close. They stepped into the garden side by side, their strides never faltering as they walked toward her. The blond was slightly taller, but both men were at least a foot taller than her with broad shoulders, wide chests, muscled abs and trim waists. Their legs and arms were powerful, muscles rippling with every move. The warrior on the right was dark. His straight, midnight-black hair swept away from his face, hitting the tops of his shoulders. His features were harsh but not displeasing. Rugged was the word that came to mind. His lips were thin, his cheekbones high and his nose had been broken, maybe more than once. But it was his

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eyes that drew her. Golden-brown, almost amber in color, they seemed to burn with an inner fire that warmed her to her very core. The warrior on the left was his total opposite, but was no less appealing. Long blond hair went straight to his waist and framed a classically handsome visage. His full lips turned up at the corners in a slight smile. But again, it was his eyes that captivated her. Like his friend, he had long, thick eyelashes that would be the envy of most women. But somehow, on him, they appeared anything but feminine. Dark blue eyes, the color of a night sky, seemed to see beneath her skin all the way to her soul. She didn’t know their names, but she knew them on a cellular level. On a soul level. Something masculine in them called out to the femininity that she kept buried deep. Somehow they had ripped the self-imposed shackles away to unleash the woman beneath the staid, academic façade. She wanted them. Both of them. Rather than being shocked, it somehow felt right that they should all come together here in this place. The dark-haired warrior reached out and stroked the curve of her face, his fingers threading into her hair as he tilted her head back. His eyes burned with unrequited lust as he bent and captured her lips. Firm and warm, they molded against her mouth and when she parted her lips, his tongue snaked inside. Her toes curled into the grass beneath her feet, her nipples were painfully tight and her pussy wept with need. She pushed closer, reveling in the hard press of his cock against her stomach. His fingers tightened in her hair as his kiss became more insistent. His tongue thrust in and out of her mouth, mimicking the sex act and making her moan as she dug her fingers into his broad shoulders for support. Hands clamped down hard on her hips as the other warrior pressed up against her back. His erection nestled against the small of her back as he shifted his hands to the front, stroking her belly before moving lower. The thin fabric of her gown was no barrier to the heat of his fingers as he explored the damp folds of her pussy. 8

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“Part your legs.” She didn’t know which one of them spoke, but she obeyed and was rewarded when strong fingers touched her heated flesh. The dark-haired warrior pulled his lips from hers and stared down at her. Ever so slowly, he slipped the two straps down her shoulders, exposing her breasts and her stomach. The warrior behind her shifted away long enough for the fabric to slip over her hips and land at her feet in a puddle. The warrior behind her cupped her large breasts in his hands and held them for the other who leaned down and lapped at her turgid nipples. Never had she imagined anything quite this erotic in her life. The sight of two huge hands cupping her breasts while another man nipped and lapped and sucked drove her desire even higher. Her pussy clenched hard, demanding more. As if he could read her thoughts, her dark lover smoothed his hands down her belly and slid them between her thighs, spreading the slick folds wide. The night air surrounded her heated flesh, brushing over it like a tender caress. Olivia whimpered with need. Swearing, her dark lover fell to his knees in front of her. Her blond lover nudged her head back until it was resting against his chest and then he leaned down and kissed her. His kiss was different, but no less commanding than his friend’s. There was no hesitation as he claimed her mouth as his own. His tongue delved deep, leaving nothing unexplored. At the same time his hands shaped the mounds of her breasts as his fingers teased the tips, plucking at them, pinching them gently. She could feel warm breath on her core just before a rough tongue lapped at her folds. Her knees buckled, but her blond lover held her tight in his embrace as he continued to fuck her mouth with his tongue. Two thick fingers pressed deep into her pussy and she groaned and flexed her hips toward them, wanting more. Her dark lover teased her clit, swirling his tongue around the tight bundle of nerves before sucking it gently. Olivia screamed, pumping her hips

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wildly. But one lover held her upper body while the other had her legs spread wide with his shoulders and she was practically immobile. The fingers in her cunt began to thrust in and out. Slowly at first, but then picking up speed. The hands cupping her breasts became slightly rougher as her whimpers and moans demanded more. She tore her mouth away from the torrid kiss, gasping for breath. “Fuck me. Fuck me now.” “Not yet,” her lover whispered in her ear before he nipped at her sensitive lobe. “Not until you come. Watch him.” He tilted her head downward until she was watching the dark head buried between her spread thighs. “Oh God,” she moaned. “Goddess,” he whispered as the man kneeling at her feet inserted a third finger inside her, stretching her impossibly wide. Olivia gasped as she sucked air into her lungs. Fire shot from her breasts to her groin where it burned out of control. Her blond lover pinched her nipples as he bit down on her neck. Tilting her head back, she screamed her release, her hips pumping wildly as her dark-haired lover continued to suckle her clit and thrust his fingers in and out of her core. Her feminine muscles contracted hard. Her body quivered as she stared blindly up at the purple moon, which captured the three lovers in its glow. She reached for the man at her feet, but he began to disappear before her very eyes. Crying out, she turned to the one behind her only to watch him fade as well. She knew that within seconds her perfect picture of them would fade and she’d be left with little more than an indistinct memory. The glow of the moon dissipated and she was alone…

Olivia sucked in a deep breath as she came back to the present. Sitting on the dirt floor of the underground mastaba, she shivered as the cool air wrapped itself around

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her. The dream had been so real. She’d awoken shaking and crying, her panties soaked, her breasts tender. She felt bereft without the two men beside her. And how silly was that? They weren’t real. They were just a dream brought on by her overactive imagination and her loneliness. Her grandfather had been her only relative and, now that he was gone, she was alone in the world. The bracelets were the only things she had left to remind her of him. That and her memories. In their last moments together, he’d gripped her hand in his and told her to follow her dreams and not be afraid to face the unknown. God, how she missed him. She tugged her sleeves back over the bracelets. They were hers now. Fifty years ago her grandfather had turned the stone tablet and the jewelry over to the proper officials, but they had been returned to him when the authorities had deemed them to be of no historical value. She’d found them tucked away in the wall safe in his study six months ago when he’d passed away, along with his note telling her their intriguing history. He’d also entreated her to wear the bracelets always and remember him fondly. She might remember him fondly, but not all of his former colleagues did. Amos Fifield had become obsessed with the writing etched on the stone tablet and on the jewelry. He was convinced it belonged to an entire new people who had never been discovered before. All the pieces had been subjected to intense scrutiny and carbon dating. The workmanship on the torque and bracelets had not been consistent with ancient jewelry making. In fact, it appeared much more advanced. Then there was the fact that the silver didn’t seem to tarnish. Scientists hadn’t been able to figure out why, but they assumed it was some kind of modern preservative. The carbon dating had been inconclusive as well. The age of the stone was not in doubt, but when the writing was placed there, no one could say for sure. As the writing seemed to be a hybrid mixture of hieroglyphics and some unknown language, experts were divided on whether or not the stone had any scientific value at all. The results had

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been a blow to her grandfather—the “experts” had deemed neither piece was old at all, but instead were fine copies. In short, a hoax. But Amos Fifield had been adamant. He’d taken back the stone tablet and the jewelry and began to work on finding more evidence to back up his theory. Throwing aside all other work, his obsession with substantiating his claims of a new culture had consumed him for the rest of his days. One by one, former friends and colleagues had drifted away. He’d been scoffed at and later laughed at and ridiculed when he refused to give up his ideas. He’d spent his life scouring the artifacts and writings of other ancient cultures, searching for clues to the identity of these unknown people. Surprisingly, he’d found a few references in other ancient texts and had correlated all his findings to come up with quite a bit of solid information, but not enough to convince the academic establishment of his theory. But he’d shared his ideas with her and using the Egyptian language as a key, together they’d deciphered some of the symbols and were able to read part of the stone tablet. At least they thought they could. Her grandfather had become her sole guardian from the time her parents had been killed while on an archeological expedition. She’d been little more than a toddler when the mighty Amazon River had claimed her parents’ lives. Other children grew up with fairy tales and nursery rhymes, but Olivia had been lulled to sleep at night with tales of lost civilizations, of cultures unlike any that existed in modern time. He’d taken her all around the globe, teaching her and letting her explore the world around her. She’d loved her grandfather, but his life had not been an easy one. As the years went on, his teaching positions had become fewer and fewer until he’d died in relative obscurity. Olivia was just glad that she’d managed to make enough money to keep him comfortably in his home until he’d passed away. “I hope you remember that this is a real archeological dig, Dr. Fifield,” a male voice sneered. 12

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She jerked slightly, shaken from her musings. Closing her eyes for a moment, she sighed. Why now? Knowing there was no use in ignoring him, she wiped her hands on her pants legs and stood to face her nemesis, Dr. Robert Bartlett. “What do you want, Robert?” Robert Bartlett had made no secret of the fact that he hadn’t wanted her on this dig, but the university had overruled him. Since it was their money paying for everything, they got to choose who went. Ironically, it was her knowledge of the “hoax” civilization—or rather, what she’d learned from her grandfather—that had brought her here. Archaeologists had uncovered a small, hidden room in this ancient mastaba. Somewhere between four and five thousand years old, the mastaba was definitely Egyptian, but some of the strange markings on the wall had matched those of the stone tablet her grandfather had uncovered all those years ago. Because of the scandal caused by the supposed hoax, many people still remembered her grandfather and his work and that had brought the university officials knocking on her door. She was the only person in the entire world who even had a clue about what the markings might mean and what kind of people might have drawn them. He sauntered toward her, invading her personal space. Robert was a big man, not fat, but strong. His height, build and good looks had taken him far in his chosen profession. Charming when he chose to be, he had a way of getting money out of wealthy patrons. That made him very popular with the university administration. His physical attributes made him a favorite among the female students, but not her. Olivia disliked him the first time she’d laid eyes on him, not trusting his glib tongue and smooth style. She’d taken a graduate course from him years ago and had spent an entire semester fending off his not-so-subtle advances. Her marks had suffered some, but not enough to cause her grief. She’d felt unable to report him to the university. Who would believe Amos Fifield’s granddaughter? After all, half the academic world considered him a liar.

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The other half had thought him little more than a crazy old man. It was her word against Robert’s and she had no real proof of any wrongdoing. She’d been afraid of losing her funding if she complained, so she’d sucked it up and gotten through the course, but it hadn’t been easy. He chucked her under the chin with the edge of his hand and she jerked her head away and scowled at him. He’d been watching her every move since she’d arrived earlier today. “I just wanted to check on you and make sure you don’t need anything.” He slid his hand down her back and squeezed her ass. Placing both hands on his chest, she pushed him away. “Keep your hands off me.” He chuckled. “No need to be so unfriendly, Olivia. A word or two from me could make or break your career.” She didn’t betray her growing distress by so much as blinking, but inside, her stomach was roiling. She’d prayed that no one would find out she’d been unable to secure a tenured-track position, but realistically she’d known it was only a matter of time. “I heard you were just let go from your latest teaching position.” He made a tsking sound. “That’s what? Four universities in the past four years? Too bad your grandfather’s reputation keeps dogging you.” Anger surged through Olivia. “What do you know about my career?” “I’ve been keeping an eye on you, dropping a word into an ear here and there.” “You. It’s you who keeps sabotaging my career.” She could hardly believe it. She’d done nothing to this man except say no to his sexual advances, and for that reason alone, he wanted to destroy her. It was bad enough she’d had to sell her grandfather’s home and all his belongings to pay off his debts when he died, but to find out that her contract hadn’t been renewed at her last four positions because of this man was too much. “Who the hell do you think you are?” “The man who can get you any job you want.” He paused and raked his eyes over her body, leaving no doubt as to what he wanted in return. 14

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Not for the first time in her life, Olivia cursed her five-foot-two frame and her ample curves. By an act of nature, her breasts and hips were lush, her waist small. Most people failed to see the intellect behind the heart-shaped face, high cheekbones and eyes the color of violets. Even though she played down her looks, didn’t wear makeup and dressed in shapeless clothing, there was always some jerk on each dig who wanted to treat her like a blonde bimbo. “I’d rather starve,” she spat. His eyes narrowed as he crowded her against a wall. She glanced toward the entrance, but none of the local workers or grad students were around. He laughed. “They’re all gone for the day. I thought they deserved some time off, so they’ve all taken off for the nearest town to eat, drink and make merry.” A trickle of real fear went through Olivia, but she didn’t show it. “That’s fine for them, but I’ve got work to do.” Her fingers tightened around the flashlight she held in her hand as she turned to leave. It wasn’t much of a weapon, but it was something. Robert grabbed her shoulders and spun her around, catching her hand before she could strike him. He squeezed, exerting pressure until she was forced to drop the flashlight. “No need for violence.” He thrust his pelvis against hers and there was no mistaking his arousal. Olivia felt sick as he nuzzled her neck. “Just play nice and no one gets hurt.” “You bastard,” she snarled as she brought her knee up quickly. The unexpected movement caught him off guard and he howled, releasing her to cup his groin. She feinted to the right and then threw herself to the left, trying to make a break for the door. At the last second, Robert threw himself in front of her, blocking her only escape. Having no other choice, Olivia bolted down a narrow corridor off to the right. She hadn’t been down this way yet and had no idea where she was going. She only knew that she had to get away from Robert. The meager light from the outer room faded into blackness. Swallowing her fear, she slowed her retreat and reached out her hands, using the walls to guide her through the dark.

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“You’ll pay for that, you bitch. I’ll have you kicked off this dig by the end of the day.” His voice shook with anger and Olivia had no doubt he’d not only try, but possibly succeed. Right now, she didn’t care. Pushing her fear aside, she continued down the dark, twisting corridor. She doubted he’d chase her through the ruin, but she wasn’t taking any chances. All she wanted to do was put some distance between them until the others returned from town. Dr. Augustine Mitchell, respected archaeologist and Olivia’s friend, would be with them. Augustine’s presence would help keep Robert at bay and maybe even keep Olivia from being booted off the dig. At least she hoped so. It was rotten luck that her friend had been gone to town for the day when Olivia had arrived. That was one of the main reasons she’d been looking forward to this dig—beyond the obvious of the discovery of the unusual language on the walls. Augustine was one of the few people in the world who Olivia trusted. Pausing, Olivia leaned against a wall and listened. She couldn’t see a hand in front of her face, as the light didn’t penetrate the gloom. She couldn’t hear Robert, but that didn’t mean he wasn’t still in the outer chamber or perhaps waiting just outside the mastaba. What she needed to do was find a place to hide until she was positive Robert had given up this game. If nothing else, Augustine would come looking for her when she got back from town. After all, they were sharing a tent and all Olivia’s belongings were in there. Knowing she couldn’t stay in one spot, she placed one hand on the cool stone wall and carefully put one foot in front of the other. Her hand passed over what felt like several doors, but she wasn’t fooled. Mastabas had many false doors. The real doors were often hidden to protect the mummies and their physical possessions from being plundered. Focusing all her attention on the wall, she let her hands drift over the carvings. Eventually her eyes became accustomed to the darkness and she noticed a sliver of light in the distance. Her first thought was that it was Robert with a flashlight, but she realized that the light was from the opposite direction. There was no way

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Robert could be ahead of her. It was probably a place where the outer wall had crumbled enough to let in some daylight. Cautiously, she made her way toward it. The light seemed to be coming through a tiny hole in the wall. Olivia traced the area, smiling when she realized it wasn’t a solid wall after all. She’d discovered a secret door. It took her a few minutes to actually figure out how to open the door. Surprisingly, it opened easily once she found the mechanism. She’d half expected to not be able to get inside. She entered the room, using the walls as a guide and testing each step carefully. The last thing she wanted to do was trip and injure herself, or worse, fall through a hole and possibly get herself killed. The main source of light seemed to be emanating from a tiny slot in the ceiling. Blinking, she tried to examine her surroundings. The room was small, but the walls were carved with symbols. She couldn’t tell if they were Egyptian or belonged to the unknown others. The only other thing in the room was a stone chair. One step at a time, she cautiously moved toward the chair. She knew she shouldn’t touch it until she had the proper light and tools. The risk of damage was high with her blundering around in the dark. Still, something drew her toward it. The air was charged with expectation and excitement as she reached out her fingers and touched the carved stone. She sucked in a breath as her entire body began to hum with energy. Adrenaline, she assured herself. It was nothing more than the mass of chemicals surging through her bloodstream that was making her feel this way. The scientist in her believed that, but the woman didn’t. Olivia could feel the chair calling to her. The urge to sit in it was overwhelming. Olivia chewed on her bottom lip as she stared at the vague outline of the chair. What could it hurt if she just sat in it for a second? Plenty, she reminded herself. She debated for another minute, but in the end, the compulsion was too great to ignore. Very carefully, Olivia lowered herself down onto the stone seat. She held her breath.

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Her shirt and pants were stuck to her body and she began to shiver with the cold. She ignored her discomfort as she slowly placed her forearms on the sides of the chair. Her wrists began to burn and she shoved up her sleeves. In total disbelief, she stared as the amethysts began to glow, bathing the room in a soft purple light. She could now see that the arms of the chair were intricately carved and her breath caught as she saw the familiar shape of the full and crescent moons. The air thickened and pressed in around her. She could almost hear voices whispering to her, urging her to turn her arms and match the bracelets with the markings on the chair. She resisted, not knowing why. “Not a smart thing to do.” Her voice echoed around her, bouncing off the walls. But the force from outside her was pressing harder. Almost without thought, she began to rotate her wrists. Her back straightened as she matched the gemstones on her bracelets to the corresponding indentations in the chair. Power shot though her and her body arched upward even though her forearms never lost contact with the chair. I’m going to die was her last thought as purple lights danced in front of her eyes. A brilliant flash blinded her and then everything went black.

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Chapter Two Tor scowled at Dak as he watched his friend pace back and forth in front of the altar. The light from the amethyst moon shone through the windows of the temple, bathing the altar with its majestic glow. They were keeping a vigil in the temple of Layla, the Goddess of the Moon—protector and mother to the people of T’ar Tal. Both of them had been spending their nights in the temple for the past week, praying and waiting for a sign of some sort. Their patience was at an end. They were men of action and this waiting was wearing on them both. “Is she coming to us or are we supposed to find some way to go to her?” Dak asked the question that they’d both been thinking. Tor sighed as he shifted to try to find a comfortable spot. The benches were fine enough to sit on for an hour or so. Tor had been sitting for the past three. “I don’t know.” He eyed his friend, who continued to pace. “All we can do is wait and hope that all becomes clear to us.” “Hope,” Dak spat as he wheeled around to face him. “We have little of that left. If what the priest has said is true, then the answer to our prayers is out there somewhere, unprotected and alone.” Tor stiffened and slowly gained his feet. “I am well aware of that.” He didn’t need Dak to remind him that this unknown woman who was meant for them was wandering alone in another realm. She was the hope of their people, a woman who would have the ability to communicate with the Goddess. Priests and priestesses were not chosen at random, but were born. Only a select few each generation had the special gift to be able to communicate with the deity. Priests and priestesses mated with the chosen of their people in an attempt to produce more children who might have the special gift. Now their numbers had dwindled 19

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dangerously until there was only a single priest left. The last priestess had passed on two weeks ago, sending the people into despair. Dak raked his hand through his dark hair, his amber eyes seething with a mixture of anger and fear. “The dreams are the worst of it.” Tor swallowed hard as his cock stirred. The dreams. They both started having them the night after the priest had summoned them six months ago. They’d each seen her, touched her and tasted her in their dreams. She was unlike any woman he’d ever known—a curious blend of confidence tinged with an alluring uncertainty, almost shyness. Her hair was as brilliant as the sun. Long and thick, it cascaded to her waist. Tor wanted to feel her shiny locks skimming over his chest and his belly and even lower. His cock flexed and lengthened, pressing against the soft placket of his pants. Reaching down, he adjusted himself, but the pressure remained. “Her eyes are the color of amethyst. The color of the Goddess.” Dak leaned against the altar and bowed his head for a moment. Pushing away, he turned to face Tor. “They darken when she is aroused and lighten when she is happy. And her taste…” Tor began to pace now, needing to work off some of the sexual tension that was thrumming through him. Every muscle in his body was tense. Waiting. He licked his lips, remembering the sweet taste of her skin. His fingers curled into fists at his sides. Her skin was so soft, her breasts substantial, her nipples incredibly responsive to his touch. “Last night,” Dak began and then broke off, cocking his head to one side. “What is it?” Then he felt it too. A ripple. A disturbance in the air. “Something is wrong.” He didn’t know what it was, but he knew it had something to do with her. “She’s in danger,” Dak growled, his hand reaching for the sword belted to his hip. Tilting back his head, he cried out to the darkness, “Let us protect her. Send us to her.” Frustration, anger and fear all warred within Tor. Like Dak, he wanted to cry out to the heavens and curse the Goddess, but he didn’t. Inactivity gnawed at his body and soul as he paced faster and faster. The air around them crackled with power. They both 20

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whirled to face the altar as a wind howled past, knocking aside the floral tributes to the Goddess. Candles were snuffed and the fragrant incense that burned in heavy copper urns was tossed to the floor. Tor fell to his knees as the heavy gale struck him like a blow. Dak called out to him, but whatever his friend said was swept away by the wind. As suddenly as it started, it was over. Tor shook himself and staggered to his feet. Dak was standing, staring at something beyond the altar. Tor blinked, almost afraid to believe his eyes. Sitting in one of the intricately carved stone chairs of the priestesses was a small woman with long blonde hair. Her clothing was foreign, but he knew her. Had touched her in his dream, had longed for her in his waking hours. He stumbled toward her still form. Dak got to her the same time he did and they both stretched out their fingers to touch her. Her head fell back, but she didn’t open her eyes. He noticed his hand was shaking as he stroked her cheek. It was soft, although her flesh was incredibly pale. Dak had captured a lock of her hair between his thumb and forefinger. “She’s so beautiful, but so tiny.” She was also unconscious. Tor bent forward, pushing one arm behind her back and the other beneath her knees. Straightening, he scooped her into his arms. Satisfaction filled him as he carried her out of the temple and toward the home that had been prepared in anticipation of her arrival. Her slight weight felt comfortable and right in his arms. Her beauty transfixed him, but his attraction went much deeper than that. Through their shared dreams, he felt as if he’d come to know her intimately. He’d sensed her strengths and her weaknesses. He knew she was courageous but had insecurities. And, if the priest was to be believed, this small woman could hold the spiritual future of their race in her hands. He glanced over at Dak who kept pace beside him. He had no doubt that his friend was as taken with her as he was.

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Tor was thankful it was the middle of the night and people were at home tucked safely in their beds, or he had no doubt they’d be fighting their way through the throngs who would want to see her, to touch her, to reassure themselves that she was real. This was better. If the priest was correct, they’d have their work cut out for them to convince her to stay. And it had to be her choice. They couldn’t force her to remain here. Free will could not be subjugated. Dak hurried ahead as they reached the house and swung the door open. Tor carried her into the snug home the two of them had constructed over the passing of the last six full moons. Constructed of stone and wood, it was well made and cozy. He passed through the kitchen and living area, ignoring them both, and went straight up the stairs to the largest bedroom. The bed he’d made with his own two hands was large enough for three. He laid her gently on the mattress. The scent of sweet grass and herbs wafted around them as she rolled to her side and sighed. Dak was already at the end of the bed, removing the leather boots that were laced to her feet. Tor sat on the bed beside her and stroked his fingers over her face. Dirt marred her cheeks and her clothing was soiled. Fury ripped through him. What had happened to her? Had someone hurt her? That thought was untenable to him, as there was nothing he could do to avenge her. A heavy hand dropped to his shoulder and he reluctantly turned away from her still form. Dak stared down at him, understanding etched on his face. “I know, my friend. But she is here with us now and that is all that matters. Our biggest task will be convincing her to stay.” He nodded. She’d only been with them for mere minutes, but already he could not imagine life without her. He felt her in his heart, in his very life’s blood. There was something about her that brought all his emotions to the surface. He wanted to protect her, to laugh and live with her, to make love to her gently and then fuck her hard until she screamed with pleasure, to grow old with her. He felt possessive and protective and a whole host of other emotions that swirled around inside his chest, making him

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lightheaded. His body ached for her, his groin heavy with need. She was meant for him. He felt it in his bones and he would not give her up without a fight. Tor saw the same determination on his friend’s face and knew that they wanted the same thing, had the same goals. “She is ours.” Dak spoke softly, but there was no mistaking the steely determination in his voice. He nodded, echoing his friend’s vow. “She is ours.”

Olivia snuggled tighter into her pillow, not wanting to wake up just yet. The sweet smell of flowers, possibly lavender, reached her nose and she inhaled deeply, sighing as she felt her body relax even further. It was one of her favorite scents. She hadn’t expected to smell it here in Egypt. Maybe Augustine had some lavender perfume or body lotion. She frowned, trying to sort through the possibilities. Her mind felt sluggish. Augustine didn’t wear perfume. She was allergic to it. And Olivia certainly didn’t wear any. She never liked to bring attention to her femininity. Not while she was on a dig. She saved scented lotion for when she was home alone in between semesters at the university. Her frown deepened. She was still in Egypt. Wasn’t she? Had she dreamed the entire thing? Her pillow moved. She wasn’t alone. She jerked upright in bed, her heart pounding. Blinking to try to bring her vision into focus, she stared at the strange surroundings. She didn’t recognize anything. A heavy hand settled on her hip and she scrambled backward, practically falling out of the huge bed in her haste to put some distance between herself and the unknown person. Had Robert found her after all? Her memory flooded back with a vengeance. Robert cornering her, her desperate escape into the mastaba, the secret room. Her head ached as she tried to make sense of everything. She felt lightheaded and disoriented. A large man lay sleeping in the bed. The covers were bunched around his waist, leaving his chest uncovered. She’d never seen a chest quite like this one up close and 23

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personal. Heavily muscled and lightly furred, it was impressive. His shoulders were wide, his neck thick and a tangle of blond hair fanned out on the pillow. She swallowed, trying not to give in to panic. She was still wearing her clothing and seemed to be physically fine. That was a definite plus. But who the heck was he? She’d never met him before, she was sure of it. A woman didn’t forget a man who looked like this one did. But yet, he seemed familiar somehow. She stared at his face, which was no hardship. He was gorgeous. His features were strong and his aquiline nose and square jaw suited him. She tore her gaze from him and examined the room. Think, Olivia, think! As much as she racked her brains, she couldn’t remember how she got here. Her last memory was of sitting in the stone chair in the hidden chamber she’d stumbled across. Her bracelets. She held both arms up in the air and studied them. Relief filled her when she realized that they were safe. The stones looked more vibrant, more alive than she’d ever seen them. The deep amethyst seemed to glow. Olivia smiled, unable to stop herself as she tugged her sleeves back down to cover them. Whatever had happened when she’d sat in that chair, the bracelets had been unharmed. She frowned as she tried to recall what had transpired next. She was so intent on remembering, she hadn’t realized that someone else had entered the room. He was so close to her she could feel the heat from his body. She jerked her gaze upward and froze. If the other man was gorgeous, this one was devastating. Black hair flowed to his shoulders, framing his rugged face. His nose had a bump in the center and his eyes were hooded. His brows were dark slashes that only served to emphasize the golden amber of his eyes. He was a predator and she was very afraid she was the prey. Scrambling away, she fell smack into the arms of the first man. His heavily muscled arms closed around her, immobilizing her totally. Yet his hold on her was gentle. “I didn’t hear you awaken.” His sleep-roughened voice went through her like a physical caress. Her nipples tightened and her pussy began to tingle.

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“Who…” She lost her train of thought when he lifted her hair off her neck and began to nibble on her sensitive nape. It took all her strength not to just drop her head forward and let him do as he pleased with her. Instead, she forced herself to lean away from him. “Who are you? Where am I?” He followed, placing openmouthed kisses on her neck before nipping at the lobe of her ear. “I am Tor, son of Jabari and Hasina.” Streams of pleasure shot from where he was gently biting her earlobe, spreading throughout her body. Breathing became harder, thinking almost impossible. Her breasts grew heavy and her pussy ached with a growing need. What was wrong with her? Olivia pulled away from him and he let her go. She shifted until her back was against the headboard and she could see the two of them. God, they were both incredibly virile. They were so male that the testosterone in the air almost choked her. The dark-haired man slowly lowered himself to the mattress. “I am Dak, son of Rashidi and Panya, and you are in the city of Tarnoc on the planet of T’ar Tal.” It took her a moment to process what he’d said. Disbelief and anger filled her. “Look, I don’t know what you guys are up to, but I’ve had just about enough.” Easing off the bed, she glanced toward the door. She was in her stocking feet, but she didn’t care. All that mattered was getting away and figuring out what the hell was going on. “What is your name?” The one called Dak sat casually on the side of the bed and watched her. She had the feeling he could pounce at any moment. A thrill raced through her body and she creamed her panties at the thought of being caught by him. Shaking her head, she tried to focus. She wasn’t the kind of woman to entertain such blatantly sexual thoughts about a complete stranger, but she couldn’t help herself. She couldn’t explain it logically, but for some reason she felt as if she knew these men— intimately. She took a step toward the door. “I’m Olivia.” “Olivia.” Tor said her name slowly. His strange accent made it sound exotic.

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Strange accent! Olivia felt all the blood leave her face as she came to a dead halt. They weren’t speaking English. None of them were. Her hand flew to her throat. “What’s wrong with me?” She swayed on her feet. Dak was beside her in a flash, wrapping his arm around her shoulders and leading her back to the bed. “Sit down, Olivia. Rest.” The sound of her name on her lips sent chills down her spine. She could swear she had a memory of him saying her name like that before, except during the throes of passion. “I don’t understand.” She allowed Dak to seat her back on the bed. She glanced from one man to the other, desperately trying to place them. Then it hit her. “I’m dreaming.” She laughed at herself as relief filled her. “I must have fallen asleep in that room and I’m dreaming again.” Both men were staring at her with worried frowns. She waved Tor away when he reached for her. “I’m not crazy. The fact that I’m speaking a strange language and actually understanding it means that this is a dream. Not to mention that I finally figured out where I’ve seen both of you before. It’s all very logical.” A slow smile covered Tor’s face. “If this is a dream, then let us touch you, pleasure you.” Olivia knew that she needed to wake up. If she was hurt, she needed help. If Robert was still searching for her, she wasn’t safe. Yet what was the harm in staying in her dream for a few more minutes? This one seemed more vivid, more vibrant than the rest. Her body was thrumming with need and she had two gorgeous men wanting to pleasure her. What was the harm? She nodded. “Okay. But I can’t stay in this dream much longer. I have to get back. I have things to do.”

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The men glanced at one another and determination seemed to fill them. Tor reached for the buttons on her shirt. Her hand reached up to cover his and he stopped immediately. “Let me,” Tor murmured. His finger stroked her collarbone as he spoke. She felt silly. If it was just a dream, it didn’t matter. Plus, it wasn’t as if she hadn’t been naked in front of him in her dreams before. For some reason, this time it felt different. Dak slid his hands up her thighs, the heat of his palms practically burning her through the sturdy fabric. He kept moving them higher until his fingers were resting on the button of her pants. “Let me strip them from you. Let me touch you.” Leaning forward, he pressed his lips against hers. His mouth was firm and warm and when he pulled back, she swayed toward him, not wanting to lose the contact. “Yes.” Decision made, she relaxed. She was going to enjoy this. After all, what woman wouldn’t enjoy a dream where two gorgeous men wanted to pleasure her? Tor made quick work of the buttons of her shirt and spread the fabric wide, exposing her bra. He made a low hum of pleasure as he ran his fingers along the lacy edge. Olivia arched her back, wanting his fingers on her skin. Dak struggled with the zipper on her pants, but he quickly had them open and eased them down her legs. He pulled off her socks as well, leaving her lower half clad only in her panties. He sat back on his haunches and yanked his shirt over his head and dropped it to the floor. She hadn’t even noticed what he’d been wearing and only had a moment to admire the deep blue of his woven shirt before his torso captured her attention. Bands of muscle covered his abdomen. His was the kind of muscle that came from hours of hard work and not from a gym. She licked her lips in anticipation. She planned to touch every inch of that chest. While her attention was diverted, Tor had stripped her shirt off her. Both men were staring at her wrists. The amethysts on the bracelets were a brilliant purple, glowing as if with some inner light. Self-consciously, she crossed her arms over her chest and pulled her knees up, trying to hide them. 27

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“No.” Dak wrapped his hands around her ankles and gently tugged until her legs were straight out in front of her again. Tor ran his hands down her arms and carefully unwound them. He covered the top of her hands with his and twined his fingers through hers. With Tor behind her and Dak in front of her, she couldn’t move. She should have felt afraid. Instead she felt safe, as if she had come home. Tor began to nibble on her neck again. “Let us pleasure you.” God, the man was incredibly good at that. Olivia tilted her head to one side to give him better access. Dak pushed her legs apart, his eyes never leaving hers. He scooted closer and traced his finger over the band of her panties before letting them slide lower. His eyes narrowed as he stroked over the damp silk. “You’re already wet for us.” There was wonder as well as a wealth of male satisfaction in that statement. “And you’re already hard for me, aren’t you?” She could see the hard ridge tenting the front of Dak’s pants. If Tor hadn’t been holding both her hands, she would have reached out to touch Dak’s hard-on. With one hand, Dak unlaced his pants and pushed the fabric aside. His cock popped out, long and thick, and she could see it pulsing. The veins were prominent and the head was dark and wet. With his other hand, he slipped his fingers under the elastic band of her panties and feathered them over her slick folds. Olivia’s hips surged upward, seeking more of his touch. Dak laughed. “We are both ready.” She cried out when he removed his hand from her heated flesh. But he was already pulling her panties down her legs. Behind her, Tor fumbled with the hook of her bra. When it gave, he yanked the lacy garment down her arms. Kicking the covers aside, Tor eased her higher on the mattress, exposing his nudity to her. His cock was slightly longer than Dak’s, but not quite as thick. Olivia licked her lips at the thought of being fucked by both of them. She squirmed as cream seeped from her core to slide down the dark crease of her ass. Dak got up long enough to strip his pants off and then climbed back between her thighs. This time, he skimmed his hands up the insides of her legs, pushing them wider. 28

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“I want to taste your cunt.” She shivered, her thighs falling open to accommodate him. He didn’t smile, but she could see that she’d pleased him. Both men were incredibly different and she was already learning their personalities. Dak was the more impatient of the two of them. He went straight for what he wanted, never veering from his course. Tor, on the other hand, was patient. He liked to take his time and savor everything. Even now, he seemed content to stroke her skin and kiss her neck. But even his patience had a limit. Of course, she’d had six months of these dreams to learn more about them, to become accustomed to them. She felt as if they’d been lovers forever, yet they’d never actually consummated the union. They’d pleasured each other with lips and tongue and hands, but never had either of her lovers fucked her. Tor propped himself up on one arm, leaned over her and took her mouth. The man could certainly kiss. He inhaled her. Consumed her. Devoured her. Breathing was almost impossible, but Olivia didn’t care. Nothing mattered but these two men and what they were sharing together. She cried out as Dak’s tongue lashed the sensitive flesh between her legs. Tor swallowed her cry and palmed her breast in his hand, his thumb flicking the hard peak. Heat rushed through her like a wildfire. She wanted this to last but knew that she didn’t have long. Tor dragged his mouth from hers and left a hot trail of kisses down the line of her jaw, the curve of her neck and across her collarbone. He cupped one breast in his hand, molding and kneading the plump flesh. His mouth closed over the tip of her other breast and she gasped as he took it inside and sucked hard. Dak continued to stroke his tongue over the swollen folds of her labia, teasing her as he finally made his way to the hard nub of nerves at the apex. His lips wrapped around her clit and he sucked. Her inner muscles clenched. She thumped her feet on the bed. She was so close.

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A thick finger slid past the entrance of her core and another soon followed. Olivia tilted her hips upward. The feeling was incredible, but it wasn’t enough. She wanted Dak’s thick cock thrusting into her core. She wanted it hard and fast and then she wanted Tor. The thought of having two men didn’t bother her at all. For some reason there was no right and wrong between the three of them. Besides, it was only a dream. Her heart pounding, her blood racing, Olivia felt as if her body was going to explode. She didn’t want it to end, but couldn’t stop the flood of desire rushing through her. When Tor tugged on her breasts with lips, tongue and fingers, she cried out. Between her thighs, Dak flicked her clit with his clever tongue as he thrust a third finger into her cunt. Her climax hit her hard. Her body jerked as spasms rocked through her. Olivia cried out, clutching at Dak’s head with one hand and Tor’s with her other. Pleasure unlike anything she’d ever experienced rushed through her. She held on tight to both men as she rode the waves of completion. It was her turn now to touch them, to stroke them, to taste them. That was her last thought as another ripple shattered her. Exhaustion overtook her and she melted back into the mattress and closed her eyes, letting the pleasure take her away. When she finally came back to herself, both men were stretched out on either side of her, gently stroking her. Tor’s hand was touching her hair while Dak’s was heavy on her belly. “I know that you’re a carpenter,” she said. Tor’s hand stopped for a moment before he continued sifting his fingers through her hair. “I am.” She swiveled her head so she could see Dak better. “I know that you’re a blacksmith and that you create weapons and jewelry as well.” “That is so.” Dak stroked his fingers across her stomach and she sucked in her breath. “We know about you too. Your work is all-important to you, but your life has not been easy. You have buried the woman and her needs in order to succeed.” 30

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Tears pricked her eyes, but she blinked them back. It hadn’t been easy for her to try to make a name for herself in her chosen field, not given her family history. She didn’t want to think about that right now, wanted to focus on the here and now, which felt oddly familiar and comforting. “I know so much about your daily lives.” She shook her head, bemused and confused. “This is all just a dream, isn’t it?” Olivia yawned, exhaustion weighing her down. She just couldn’t think logically at the moment. She felt something hard press against her hip. “You didn’t come. Neither of you did.” It was a testament to her muddled state of mind that she’d forgotten that fact even for a few moments. “That does not matter. For now, you need sleep.” Tor feathered his fingers over her eyelids. Olivia closed her eyes and sighed. She’d rest for a few minutes. “Sleep,” Dak whispered as he kissed her temple. Snuggled between them, she drifted off to sleep.

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Chapter Three Olivia stretched. She felt good. In fact, she felt great. She’d had the most incredible dream… Memory returned in a rush. She was still lost in the tunnels of the temple and had to find her way out. There was only one slight problem. She was naked and she sure as heck wasn’t sitting on a seat of stone. The mattress was soft and warm, and covers were tucked tight around her. She was almost afraid to open her eyes, but she’d never been a coward and wasn’t about to start now. Light spilled into the room from the window and she blinked until her eyes adjusted. “You’re awake.” She turned toward the voice, knowing that it was Dak. Fully dressed, he stood with his arms folded over his chest. This time he was wearing a loose pair of beige pants, topped with a matching shirt that pulled over his head. The light color emphasized the darkness of his hair and the bronze tone of his skin. Even though it appeared to be a deep golden tan, she knew it was the natural color of his skin. Either that or the man sunbathed in the nude. His amber eyes watched her much like a hawk examines its prey. Gone was the indulgent lover of the night before and in his place was a formidable man. When he shifted, she saw the sword belted at his side. “I’m still dreaming.” There was no other explanation. She sensed his growing frustration as he prowled toward the bed. “No, Olivia. It is not a dream. You have crossed time and space and are now in our world.” “That’s not possible.” Maybe she was weak with hunger and was hallucinating.

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Dak wrapped his hands around her wrists, covering the wide bracelets. “These make it possible. These bracelets are special. The stones are the living embodiment of the Goddess Layla, infused with her power.” “I don’t understand.” Her head was spinning, she was hungry and her body ached from last night’s lovemaking. Oh God. Last night hadn’t been a dream. She tugged the covers closer. Dak turned away, but not before she saw the flash of pain in his eyes. When he turned back, no emotion showed. “Last night was not a dream. There is water for bathing, clean clothing and a light repast. When you are ready, we will talk further.” He turned on his heel and stalked away. The door closed heavily behind him. Scooting out of bed, Olivia padded across the floor. Curiosity drove her to the window. The wood floor was warm beneath her feet, heated from the sunlight. Heedless of her state of undress, she stared out at the world beyond. Already the sun was high in the sky, its brilliant rays almost blinding. It was either late morning or early afternoon. Without a watch, she couldn’t be sure. She blinked several times and shaded her eyes with her hand. She could see buildings made of some sort of stone that looked almost like adobe. They were all white, but the front doors were painted vibrant colors. People walked the street below, all going about their daily business. The women mostly wore sleeveless dresses with slits in the sides that left their legs exposed from ankle to mid-thigh. They appeared cool and comfortable and were very colorful. Some wore them belted at the waist while other women wore them loose. Other women wore long, flowing skirts and sleeveless blouses that were more like vests. They all wore jewelry of some kind. The men either wore loose pants or a kilt-like garment reminiscent of the ancient Egyptians. Some of the men were bare-chested while others wore colorful shirts, vests or robes. Snippets of conversation filtered through the air. The language was one she shouldn’t know, but she understood it perfectly. Calls of greeting and laughter reached her ears as people went about the business of daily life.

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She sucked in a deep breath of the fresh, warm air, trying to make sense of everything she was seeing. This was unlike any other place she’d ever seen. Delicious, spicy smells wafted through the air, reminding her that she hadn’t eaten in quite some time. The bracelets seemed to warm against her skin the longer she watched. She stared down at them, trying to wrap her thoughts around the fact these pieces of jewelry had brought her here to this strange and fascinating place. The only other explanation was that she was either still dreaming or she was dead and this was some kind of afterdeath experience. The problem was that she didn’t think she was dreaming. Her aches and her hunger felt all too real. And she really didn’t want to be dead. That left the only other explanation—she really had somehow jumped space and time. It was next to impossible for her to truly comprehend the magnitude of that idea, if it was indeed the truth. Her scientific mind said she needed more proof, while another part of her urged her to accept it and just enjoy the experience. Her thoughts circled endlessly. Finally, her hunger drove her away from the window and she turned to examine her immediate surroundings. A massive bed with a gorgeous headboard, intricately carved with symbols that she recognized from the tablets, dominated the space. Just as she could speak the language here, she found she could easily read it as well. Shocked, she stumbled toward the bed and sat on the mattress. Leaning forward, she carefully traced her fingers over each character, speaking each word aloud. She instinctively knew that Tor had carved the headboard. She could picture him lovingly running his hands over the grains of the wood as he shaped it. Swallowing hard, she pushed away from the bed and examined the rest of the room. Two small cabinets flanked either side of the bed and a chest sat at the foot. The walls were made of the white stone and she rubbed her hand across the slightly rough

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surface. A small door was off to one side, so she padded toward it. A curtain was strung across the opening and she pushed it aside and peeked into the other room. It was smaller than the bedroom and was obviously meant as a bathing room. A large tiled tub was filled almost to the brim with water. Thick towels and a bar of soap had been laid on the wide rim of the tub. A platter of bread, cheese and fruit sat on a low table that was situated alongside the tub. She suddenly felt sticky and grubby. From her journey to Egypt and her digging in the mastaba, coupled with a night of lovemaking and the morning heat, Olivia was in dire need of a bath. Her stomach growled, but she ignored it. Bath first, food after. Olivia moaned with pure pleasure as she stepped into the tub and lowered herself into the warm water. The bath had obviously been drawn much earlier, but the heat of the day had kept it more than warm enough. Indeed, the tepid water felt heavenly. Unbraiding her hair, she immersed herself totally, letting the dirt and sweat soak away. Rising from the water, she grabbed the soap and began to wash. Her mind worked as she ran the soap over her arms and legs. A fresh floral scent, much like lavender yet slightly different, tickled her nose. Putting her thoughts away for now, she concentrated on enjoying her bath—the glide of the thick cloth against her skin, the fresh scent of the soap, the sheer pleasure of just being clean again. When she finished washing her hair, she sat back against the rim of the tub and helped herself to some of the food. The bread was dark-grained and fresh. She topped a piece of it with a yellow cheese that was sharp and tasty. Groaning, she chewed and swallowed, reaching for the cup to wash it all down. Water had never tasted so good. It was almost sweet. She took another bite of the bread and cheese and then another, devouring the slice before reaching for a deep purple grape-like fruit. When she finally felt full, she patted her tummy and sat back in the tub, content to loll for a few more minutes. Her mind was sharper now that she was rested, fed and clean, and her thoughts returned to the problem at hand. 35

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If somehow she’d managed to do what Dak had said, then she had to figure out how to get back home. With her knowledge of the language and what she could learn from Tor and Dak, she could finally translate the stone tablet. If she could find a way to take back a few more artifacts, maybe she could prove her grandfather’s theory and clear his name. Universities all around the world would want her on their staff and people like Robert Bartlett could kiss her ass. Excitement filled her. This could be the answer to her prayers. Stepping out of the tub, she grabbed a towel and quickly dried herself. Spying a wooden comb, she worked through the tangles in her hair. When she was done, she quickly braided it, securing it with her elastic. As promised, clean clothing was laid on top of a cabinet. Olivia pulled on the long skirt and top, admiring the workmanship that had gone into the embroidery around the hem and in the sash that belted at her waist. The fabric was very fine and, if she wasn’t mistaken, linen. Ready as she’d ever be, she hurried out of the room in search of Tor and Dak.

Dak stared out the window, watching the world go by. Impatience ate at him like a gnawing hunger. He wanted to go upstairs and demand that Olivia talk to them, but the hunter in him cautioned him to wait until she came to him. He sensed her presence before he heard her. Her bare feet made no sound on the stone stairs, but the material of her skirt swished as she walked. He turned and almost stumbled backward. He felt as if he’d been hit hard in the middle of his chest. He’d thought her beautiful before, but clean, rested and wearing the traditional clothing of his people, she was a vision. Her hair hung like a golden rope down her back and he longed to wrap it around his hand, holding her captive as he took her. Her eyes ran over him and her full lips curved up slightly in a welcoming smile. His body began to stir. The long skirt she wore fell to her ankles but exposed a length of shapely leg with each step she took. The top had three buttons, each made of silver that held the material

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together over her ample breasts. It showcased her lush cleavage and left a swatch of her soft tummy bare. The skirt was white, but the vest was purple. She might not know the meaning of the color, but to him and his people, it signified her standing with the Goddess. The color matched the stones of her bracelets, which appeared even deeper this morning. Her skin was much paler than his. That would change once she’d been here a while. The sun was relentless and would give her skin a golden glow in no time at all. They’d have to guard against sunburn until she was accustomed to it. Her tentative smile vanished the longer he stared and he realized that he was making her uncomfortable. “Come.” He held out his hand to her. “Tor and the priest are waiting for us.” She stopped, ignoring his outstretched hand. “Priest?” Dak kept his hand suspended in front of him. “He will help us explain things to you and answer all your questions.” She shook her head and gave a small laugh. “Of course.” His patience paid off when she came down the last few steps and placed her hand in his. He closed his fingers lightly around hers. He’d studied her last night while she’d been sleeping. Hers was not the soft hand of a pampered woman. No, hers had calluses and scars. They were the hands of a woman accustomed to hard work. He led her through the downstairs of the house but didn’t give her time for more than a cursory glance. There would be time for that later. “The house is beautiful. Is it yours?” He halted by the front door and went down on one knee in front of her. Picking up a soft leather sandal, he slipped it on her foot, securing it with the leather laces before doing the same with the other. Satisfied, he stood, took her hand and tugged her out the front, closing the door behind him. “The house is yours if you choose to stay.” “What?” She dug in her heels until he stopped. “How can that be?”

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Dak wanted to scoop her up into his arms, take her back upstairs and fuck her senseless. He’d give her so much pleasure that she’d never think of leaving him. His cock swelled at the mere thought and his balls hung heavy between his thighs. He hadn’t taken any satisfaction last night and his body had been in a state of low-level arousal ever since. Knowing he wouldn’t be slaking his lust any time soon was only adding to his frustration. “Tor and I built it after the first dream started six full moons ago.” He wrapped his arm around her and ushered her toward the temple. Already they were beginning to draw a crowd. Everyone knew about Olivia, but the priest had warned them all to stay away from her until he’d had a chance to speak with her. As much as his people respected the priest, Dak didn’t expect them to stay back much longer if they just stood there on the street. “Come. Tor is waiting.” He could sense her confusion, but her curiosity got the better of her. She was staring at the houses, the marketplace and the people as they passed them. Her violet-colored eyes were wide as she took in every detail. He could tell she wanted to stop, but he kept up a steady pressure, moving her forward. “There will be time to explore later.” “Promise?” Her voice, low and husky, had him swallowing back a groan. “It will be your decision. Your choice.” She frowned at him, not understanding. He didn’t want to think about the next few minutes. Their fate now rested in her small, capable hands. What she would choose to do, only she knew for sure. Dak looked up at the sky. Even though the sun was shining brightly, he could still see the purple outline of the moon. He prayed to the Goddess that all would be well. He ushered her out of the hot afternoon sun and into the cool confines of the temple. Tor was waiting for them and strode forward. Not giving Olivia time to protest, he swooped down and planted a long, hot kiss on her delectable mouth. Dak scowled. He hadn’t dared to kiss her when they’d still been at the house. One kiss would have led to another and they’d never have made it to the temple.

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The priest cleared his throat and Tor reluctantly stepped back. He smiled down at Olivia as he skimmed his hand over her hair. “You’re looking better.” She stared at him, bemusement in her eyes. “Thank you, I think. I didn’t know I looked that bad to begin with.” Before Tor could continue, the priest stepped forward. “Come in, my dear. My name is Lamat—welcome to the temple of the Goddess Layla.” The old man cupped her shoulders in his hands and embraced her warmly. “We have much to talk about.” He led her inside and both men followed. “I’m sure you have many questions.” “I’m not sure any of this is real.” Dak tensed at her words. What would it take to make her understand that this was not a dream? “That is understandable.” The priest led her toward the altar and urged her to sit on the stone bench in front of it. “But unfortunately there is not much time to make you understand. There is only a two-day window where the moon is considered full and at her peak of power. You came here last night, so you must make your decision by the end of today, dawn tomorrow morning at the absolute latest. After that time has passed, I don’t know if you will be able to return.” Olivia’s hand flew to her throat. “You mean I’d be trapped here.” Dak wanted to howl and rage. It was obvious that she hadn’t even considered staying. But then why would she? This was a foreign land and they were total strangers. Yet he felt betrayed by her words. He glanced over at Tor to find his friend scowling as well. “Why don’t you two sit down?” It took Dak a moment to realize that the priest was talking to him and Tor. They both sat, flanking Olivia on the bench. The priest nodded and then began. “Let me tell you a story.” Dak allowed his attention to wander slightly as the priest told Olivia the story of how thousands of years ago, the Goddess had come to a jewelry maker in a vision and commanded him to fashion two silver cuffs and carve them with special symbols. When 39

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he’d done as she’d requested, she brought him the twelve amethyst stones to complete the project. Four of the stones were perfectly round, four were crescent shaped like the waxing moon, the remaining four like the waning. All the aspects of the moon were represented. When the jewelry maker had finished setting the stones in the bracelets, he’d taken them to the temple and presented them to the priests and priestesses, telling them what had happened. They had blessed the bracelets and spent many years meditating on them before discovering their true power. Through a series of dreams, they became aware that a small handful of priests and priestesses of Layla, focusing the power of the Goddess through the crystals in the bracelets, had the ability to travel through time and space. These people were considered blessed by the Goddess. It was an extremely dangerous thing to do and not something that was taken lightly. Through their travels they’d discovered a place called Egypt, which was very similar to their own world, geographically speaking. In many ways the cultures were two halves of a whole. The Egyptian faith had many gods and goddesses, but the most powerful was the Sun God. Here, the Goddess Layla ruled supreme. A select few had traveled there and the two cultures shared their knowledge, enhancing both worlds. Caution was needed not to upset the balance of either world, which could lead to the destruction of one of the cultures, if not both. The people of T’ar Tal were the visitors, and as such, the responsibility to make sure this didn’t happen fell to them. Abnal was a priest who’d abused his power. He’d not only stolen from the Goddess, but he’d used her power to cross time and space. He’d taken a large amount of jewelry and precious metals and traveled to Egypt. With his wealth and superior knowledge, he’d lived like a god among the Egyptians, forever altering their culture. With the bracelets gone, no one from T’ar Tal had been able to go after him and bring him to justice.

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Olivia leaned forward, obviously enraptured by the tale as the priest continued to elaborate, telling her more about how this had changed their world. The front of her blouse gaped slightly as she did so, giving Dak a view of the tops of her breasts. Dak’s erection, which had subsided, sprang to life again. Cursing under his breath, he jerked his attention back to the priest. “Priests and priestesses are not chosen at random.” Lamat told her. “They are born. Only a select few each generation have the special gift to be able to communicate with the Goddess. We have no way of knowing for sure if the loss of the bracelets had anything to do with it, but since that time, the number of priests and priestesses has slowly dwindled.” Lamat paused, as if choosing his words carefully. “In an attempt to produce more children who might have this special gift, priests and priestesses began to mate with the chosen of our people—those strong and exceptional men and women who might pass those traits on to a child.” Olivia nodded, her brows furrowed as she followed the priest’s story. “I am the last of them, child.” Lamat shook his head and sighed. “The last priestess passed on several weeks ago, holding on as long as she could. She had seen over one hundred summers.” “I’m so sorry.” There was no mistaking Olivia’s sincerity. The priest nodded. “I had a dream. I dreamed of another place and time and of a woman who could be the key to our salvation. This woman would not only be able to use the sacred bracelets to travel through time, but she would be blessed with the ability to speak with the Goddess. She would, in turn, be the mother of several new priests and priestesses. Through them, T’ar Tal would have a new spiritual beginning. A reawakening. That is, if she did indeed find her way to T’ar Tal and decide to stay.” He paused and stared at her through soulful brown eyes, which were tinged with hope. “You are that woman.”

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Olivia’s imagination was captivated by the tale the elderly man was spinning. Lamat was so like her grandfather it almost brought tears to her eyes, she missed him so. It was all fine and good until he got to the part about her staying and being the mother to future priests and priestesses. She held up her hand. “Just hold on a second. Do you mean to tell me that you think I’m some sort of priestess and that my purpose in coming here is to save your people?” That was too much for any woman to handle, especially since she hadn’t had anything resembling a cup of coffee. The priest shuffled toward her, a tired expression on his face. “I’m sorry to place that kind of a burden on you, my dear, but I’m afraid it is so. I have dreamed it and the Goddess has fulfilled that dream. Here you are. But it is your choice to make. We cannot force you to do anything.” “But you’re not above using guilt to do it.” She stood, wrapping her arms around herself, suddenly feeling very cold and alone. Walking away from them all, she stared up at the large amethyst that graced the altar. About two feet in diameter, it was as round as the full moon and carved with symbols of devotion. It obviously represented the Goddess at her fullest power. Flanking either side of the large circle were crescent moons—one to represent the waxing moon, the other the waning. She was familiar with the symbol, as it was part of some spiritual practices on Earth. Had it originally come from here? Olivia could hardly comprehend such an idea. The bracelets on her wrists warmed and she stared down at them. The amethyst symbol on her wrists matched the one on the altar except for size. The etchings on the silver cuffs were a perfect match for those carved on the huge altar stone. There was no denying that the jewelry had come from here. Whirling around, she faced the three men. “I can’t be responsible for an entire race of people. I’m no priestess. I can’t talk to your Goddess. Besides which, I have a life of my own on my world.” Dak and Tor looked hurt and angry. The priest appeared resigned.

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Anger filled her. Who were these people to ask such a thing of her? She certainly hadn’t asked to be brought here. She hadn’t asked for any of this. Her grandfather had started this series of events years ago by discovering the tablet and jewelry and passing them on to her when he died. She glanced down at the bracelets wrapped around her wrists, wishing that she’d never laid her eyes on them. “So be it.” The old man nodded as he spoke. As Olivia started to pry the bracelets from her wrists she broke out in a sweat and her heart began to pound. A part of her didn’t want to remove them. They belonged to her now. That thought made her even angrier and she pried harder. For some reason they weren’t coming off easily. The priest strode toward her, placing his hand over hers. “Wait.” She stopped, half relieved that she had a reason to keep the bracelets on. “I ask only one small thing of you.” She could do that. “Okay.” “Sit for a few minutes in front of the altar and see what happens.” Her stomach jumped and she felt a bead of sweat roll down her temple, but she chided herself for her fear. Nothing would happen. She was a scientist first and foremost. She didn’t even pray, hadn’t since she was a child. Olivia was firmly convinced that she was the last person in the world any deity would choose to speak to, if indeed such a thing was even possible. “If I do that, then you’ll let me go?” Dak swore and turned away, but Tor came to stand beside her. “Olivia, we cannot keep you against your will. It was your choice to come here in the first place.” His voice was tender, but what he said struck her like a bolt of lightning. She blinked hard, trying to digest his words. Had she really chosen to come here? She had so many questions, but the men were already leaving the temple. Dak pinned her with his amber gaze before he left. “We will be outside if you need us.” Sighing, Olivia sank down on the step in front of the altar. She was close to tears and didn’t quite know why. She took several deep breaths to calm her mind and focus 43

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her thoughts. She needed to think. The bracelets felt warm against her skin, much like a gentle hug. She rubbed her chest. Her heart ached for what the people here had been through and though she sympathized with their plight, this wasn’t her world. And no matter what they thought, she wasn’t any kind of priestess. She wasn’t special at all. Yes you are. The soft, feminine voice startled her. “Who are you?” She jumped to her feet and turned in a circle, searching for the source of the voice. There had to be someone hiding in the temple. I am Layla and you are the one I have been waiting for. “Show yourself.” Olivia moved behind the altar, searching for the unknown woman. She didn’t for one moment believe she was talking to a Goddess. Why do you deny your senses? The voice echoed in her head instead of in the room. Olivia clapped her hands over her ears. “Stop it! I don’t believe you.” Whether you believe in me or not, I am here. “I’m going home.” This was all so crazy that Olivia just wanted to wake up and find herself in the secret room of the mastaba. That is your choice. She’d searched the entire room, finding no one or nothing to account for the disembodied voice. Her skin prickled and the hair on the nape of her neck rose. “I didn’t ask to be chosen for anything. I don’t believe this.” Her heart was pounding so hard she could hardly hear her own thoughts. It was your grandfather who was chosen, child. He fathered your father, who then fathered you. Without him, you would not be. I gave him a love of this world, one he instilled in you. Anger swamped Olivia. “You ruined his life, you mean. He was a laughingstock among his peers. No one would believe him. He died alone and in obscurity.”

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She expected anger in return. It probably wasn’t wise to anger a Goddess, or some crazy person who thought she was one, but Olivia was past all wisdom. A purple light flooded the temple, practically blinding her. Olivia fell to her knees, shading her eyes with her hands. The light was warm, wrapping around her like a blanket. As it faded, she blinked to clear her vision and was confronted with the sight of a luminous figure floating toward her. Olivia scrambled backward until she was brought up short by the altar, the heavy stone digging into her back. “Who are you?” It was almost impossible to make out the features of the figure, though it was obviously female. Purple light encircled the woman who was swathed in flowing robes. She swallowed hard, rubbing her moist palms against her skirt as she stood and faced the apparition. I have told you who I am. The voice was calm and Olivia took a step toward her. The scientist in her was fascinated, wanting to know more. The woman within her was cautioning her to be careful. This place was not hers. She couldn’t deny she was drawn to Tor and Dak, but she wasn’t any kind of priestess. She didn’t even go to church, for heaven’s sake. This was totally surreal. Light, feminine laughter filled her ears. My child, you are what you are and whether you deny it or not is up to you. Going to a church or coming here to pray does not make you any more worthy, just as not going to one doesn’t make you less worthy. It is your destiny if you choose to reach out and take it. There was a pause and the lady continued. Just as I am what I am, you are what you are. Your choices will craft the life you live. It is entirely in your hands. Olivia didn’t know what to believe. Her scientific mind wanted more proof, but in her heart she knew she was in the presence of a spiritual being—a Goddess. The bracelets heated around her wrists as she sank to her knees and lowered her head. There was no fear as she felt the Goddess coming toward her, only love and comfort. Her grandfather had been right. He had been ridiculed his entire life, but he 45

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had been right. Furthermore, he’d been chosen specifically by this deity to help these people. Olivia’s mind was swamped with thoughts and she tried to sort them all out. She was awed, she was angry, she was enthralled and she was afraid. She tensed as she felt the lady’s arms wrap around her. They were strong and comforting. Olivia was suddenly overcome by her memories. The Goddess held her, drawing her close, as she cried for her grandfather and his lost life. He did not die alone, Olivia. He had you, did he not? I will make amends whether you stay or go. But first I must show you something. Olivia wiped her eyes and opened them cautiously. The light had been dimmed somewhat and although it was still bright, she could now see with no problem. The figure of the woman wasn’t quite distinct, but her features seeming to become clearer as Olivia watched. Her skin was smooth, her eyes glowed a rich amethyst and her lips were full. Although she appeared young, there was a timeless quality to her. Close your eyes. Olivia let her eyelids fall shut again. They felt gritty from her tears and the dark soothed them. Images began to form in her mind, one after the other, slowly at first, but quickly gaining speed. As trite as it sounded, her life flashed before her eyes. She saw herself first as a child being left behind by her parents as they left on yet another dig in some dangerous location. How young they looked. She felt tears spilling down her face as she relived their deaths. She began to chuckle when she saw a memory of her grandfather acting the fool to try to make her smile. He’d been a good man and a good surrogate parent. He’d taken her everywhere with him, the two of them traveling from one exotic local to another. His beloved face appeared and he was so real, she felt as if she could just reach out and touch him. Live life and don’t be afraid to take a chance. It was something he’d always told her and it was certainly how he’d lived his own life. Her entire life unfolded before her as she watched, right up until the moment she’d flung herself into the dark recesses of the mastaba to escape Robert. At that point the 46

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images changed, splitting into two—one showing her possible future on Earth, the other her life on T’ar Tal. Both were positive, but only one was possible. If she went home, she would eventually make a name for herself in her chosen field. Articles on her research would be published to great critical acclaim. She would teach and travel, speaking at conferences all over the world. With the respect of her peers, she’d have everything she’d worked so hard to achieve. The second choice was incredibly different. If she remained in T’ar Tal, the world of science that had been her entire focus since childhood would no longer be a part of her life. Instead, she would learn to use the untapped potential within her and become a much more spiritual person. She would have children. She counted them. One, two, three—her mind whirled—four, five. She’d have five children! Three would be boys and two would be girls. Most of them were fair-haired, but there was one dark-haired boy who looked so much like Dak it brought tears to her eyes. And then there were Dak and Tor. They would be part of her life forever. She wasn’t quite sure if she was married to both of them or just one of them, but she would certainly bear children for them both. The images faded. The light disappeared. The voice of the lady was soft in her head. It is your choice, Olivia. None will disparage you no matter what decision you make. Olivia felt bereft when the Goddess left her, but somehow she still felt the other woman’s presence within her. She sat on the cold stone floor as the sun faded and the purple moon rose, spreading its soft glow across her. She no longer had any doubts that she had indeed met the Goddess Layla. The memories that had been shown her had contained things that no one else knew, and some that she hadn’t even remembered herself. They had also evoked emotions she’d thought long buried. She knew that a more scientific take on what had just happened would be that the figure she’d seen was nothing more than a hallucination brought on by stress. The memories were hers to begin with and her colleagues would scoff at the idea that some sort of spiritual being had brought them forth. But Olivia 47

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knew better, felt it in the very marrow of her bones. There had been enough proof for her. It had been real. She pondered both her choices, listing the facts in her head. She was first and foremost a scientist. On one hand was a life with everything she’d every longed for. In order to have that, all she had to do was go sit in the chair behind the altar and the bracelets would do the rest of the work. The Goddess had shown her that much before she left. If she stayed, she might never be able to go back, but the possibility existed that once she learned more about the Goddess and the power of the bracelets, she might be able to use them to travel as other priestesses had in the past. But she couldn’t count on that. If she decided to stay it had to be with the knowledge that this was it. The life she’d seen herself living if she stayed was quite unlike anything she’d ever experienced. She saw herself being loved and accepted for who she was. She had friends and people in the community who respected her. Then there was the opportunity to learn from Lamat. She sensed that the elderly priest was a wealth of untapped knowledge just waiting for someone to share it with. She might not have believed such things in her own world, but here on T’ar Tal the spiritual realm was a part of everyday life. She’d already experienced it firsthand and it was incredibly powerful. No wonder the people here were desperate to maintain that connection. When you looked at it, was learning and experiencing things on the spiritual or psychic realm much different from science? They were both about knowledge and experimentation. Weren’t they? The more she thought about it, the more excited she became. Still, she forced herself to calm down. It wouldn’t all be fun and games. She’d have her share of hardships no matter which road she went down. If she stayed there were many things from her own world that she’d never experience again. Chocolate came quickly to mind, followed by all the modern conveniences that people in her world took for granted like cell phones and computers. She hadn’t seen any modern modes of transportation. This world was a

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throwback in many ways, yet seemingly advanced in others. What was medical care like here on T’ar Tal? That thought sobered her quickly. She had no idea how long she’d been sitting there when she finally pushed herself to her feet, groaning as her stiff muscles and joints protested. Shuffling to the altar, she laid her hands on the huge amethyst, feeling its power flood through her veins, giving her the strength to do what she knew she had to do. With purpose in her stride, she headed toward the entrance of the temple.

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Chapter Four “Why didn’t you take me last night when you had the chance?” Tor jumped up from his seat on the temple stairs and whirled around to face her. She could see the concern etched on his face. “Because we didn’t want to chance there being a child until you’d made up your mind.” Olivia closed her eyes and sent up a quick prayer of thanks to the Goddess. When she opened them, both Dak and Tor were staring at her. “Take me back to the house. We need to talk.” Flanking her, the three of them walked back to the house in silence. She sensed Tor’s resignation and Dak’s impatience, but she said nothing to alleviate it. She was still much too busy trying to sort out her own thoughts. The streets were quiet and lights flickered inside most of the homes they passed. She wondered if they were lanterns or candles. She had so many questions about this place. Olivia could feel both men’s eyes on her, but she said nothing. She was about to make the most monumental decision of her life. The air was beginning to cool down and she shivered. Immediately, a strong arm wrapped around her shoulders. She glanced up at Dak. His face was stoic, his eyes giving away nothing. It struck her then that these men would let her go rather than keep her against her will. No matter that it meant the very basis of their spiritual culture might be destroyed, they only wanted what was best for her. Her stomach jumped and her palms began to sweat as Tor opened the door to the house and ushered her inside. He quickly lit several lanterns. The sweet smell of the lantern oil permeated the air. That was one question answered, although there were candles on the table as well. She just wished that all her questions could be answered so easily.

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“Are you hungry?” Tor was watching her, his dark blue eyes filled with some emotion she couldn’t name. She placed a shaky hand on her stomach. She was afraid she wouldn’t be able to hold anything down, her insides were in such a jumble. “No. I’m fine.” “Are you sure?” Dak wrapped his hands around her shoulders and then began to knead the tense muscles in the back of her neck. “You haven’t eaten in hours.” She almost groaned aloud, his hands felt so good. “I’m sure.” She forced herself to step away and head for the stairs. She was halfway up when she realized that neither man was following her. Turning, she licked her lips, which were suddenly dry. “Please come upstairs. We need to talk.” Continuing up the stairs, she never looked back, but she heard the heavy tread of their footsteps behind her. Entering her room, she went straight to the window and peered out at the night. How different it was from cities on Earth. There were no cars, no power lines and no flashing neon signs. The air was clean, the sky was clear and the only light came from the lanterns inside the homes and the purple moon hanging low in the sky. The room was lit only with the glow from the moon. It seemed appropriate somehow. Olivia stood soaking up the purple rays and felt the bracelets on her wrists warming. She glanced down and wasn’t surprised to see the amethysts glowing, their deep purple light mysterious and somehow invigorating. She felt charged with energy, yet she felt strangely at peace. Taking a deep breath, she turned and faced Tor and Dak. Both men were standing just inside the door. Side by side, they made a splendid picture of masculinity. But it was more than their looks that drew her—much more. Through her dreams she’d gotten to know both of them well these past six months, just as they’d gotten to know her. It had been a courtship of sorts, albeit a strange one. She knew both men were fair and honest but were not men to cross. They were trained in the art of warfare, but both had trades as well. She longed to watch Tor in his 51

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carpentry shed as he patiently shaped a piece of wood into a useable work of art. It was incredibly easy for her to imagine Dak stripped to the waist, pounding away on a piece of hot metal, creating a weapon or a fine piece of jewelry. These men were incredibly skilled tradesmen as well as being expert hunters and trackers. But after her time in the temple, she now knew their hearts. Her hands went to the waistband on her skirt and she tugged at the cloth belt. “Olivia?” She could hear the strain in Tor’s voice. Smiling, she dropped the belt to the floor and shimmied her hips. The skirt followed the belt, leaving her clad only in her sandals and top. Dak took a step toward her and then froze as she slowly began to undo the buttons that were the only thing keeping the top closed over her breasts. When the last one gave way, she shrugged it off, letting it fall to the floor behind her. She sauntered toward him, feeling his gaze on her breasts and then lower. There was no awkwardness between them, only heat, desire and… She hesitated to name it, but knew that she was already half in love with both men. “Are you sure?” Dak’s voice was hoarse and rough and Olivia shivered as his hands gripped her shoulders. Heat and tension radiated from his big body. Olivia shifted closer, rubbing her pelvis against his, reveling in the hard feel of his shaft against her mound. He was still clothed, but the light linen pants were no barrier at all. She could feel every hard inch of him straining against her, seeking her. “Yes,” she whispered. Going up on her toes, she kissed him. The heat between them burst into flames, quickly burning out of control. His lips covered hers, his mouth consuming her as if he were starving and she his only food. Never breaking their kiss, he scooped her up into his arms and carried her to the bed. The soft mattress hit her back and she felt Tor at her feet, removing her sandals. Dak cupped her face in his hands as his tongue plundered her mouth, sliding in and out of the moist confines. When he pulled away, she was gasping for breath.

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Tor was naked, having already shucked his clothing. When Dak rose to strip off his shirt and pants, Tor took his place on the bed, cradling her in his arms before kissing her. His tongue leisurely traced her lips before slipping past her teeth. He then began to explore every inch of her mouth, slowly and thoroughly. They tasted different, yet she craved both of them. Tor was a more skillful kisser, but Dak was the more intense of the two. The bed dipped and she felt Dak’s hand on her stomach before it moved upward, cupping her breast. It amazed her how quickly she could differentiate between their touches. Then thought no longer mattered as feeling took over. Tor’s lips left hers and he began to kiss her cheeks, her temple, her forehead, her nose and chin before leaving a heated trail down her neck. Her skin tingled wherever his mouth touched her and Olivia tilted her head back, giving him better access. Her legs shifted restlessly on the mattress as heat bloomed between her thighs. Her pussy was wet and throbbed with an unrelenting hunger. She wouldn’t stop this time, not until she’d had both their cocks inside her. But first, she wanted to taste them. Pushing their hands aside, she sat up, curling her legs beneath her. Both men rolled up until they were kneeling in front of her. She shifted closer, touching first Tor and then Dak. She traced her hands over their faces. How quickly they’d become so important to her. Maybe not so quickly, she realized. They’d been part of her dreams for months. They’d come into her life when she was most alone, comforting her, giving her pleasure. Dak turned his lips into her palm, planting a quick kiss there. Tor closed his eyes, savoring her touch. Her hands slipped over their strong necks, their wide shoulders and down their heavily muscled chests. She could feel their muscles twitching beneath her hands. The hair on Tor’s torso was light while Dak’s was much darker. She shivered as she stared

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down at their cocks. Both men were erect, their shafts straight and hard, reaching for her hand. Using her nails, she lightly scratched their stomachs as her hands dipped lower. They both sucked in a breath as she continued downward, not stopping until she was gripping them tight. Light velvet over steel, she thought as she stroked her hand from the base of their shafts all the way to the top. Both men groaned. Olivia’s breasts ached, her nipples puckered into tight buds. And between her thighs, her pussy wept with need. Releasing Dak, she turned to Tor, cupping his heavy sac in her palm before she lowered her head. His hips arched up to meet her as she swirled her tongue around the plum-shaped head. Liquid seeped from his slit and she lapped at it eagerly. His fingers tangled in her hair as he tugged her mouth closer. Olivia smiled as she parted her lips and took his cock inside her mouth. He was large, but she took as much as she could before slowly sliding her mouth back up to the tip. Up and down she bobbed as he moaned his pleasure. She felt Dak’s hands on her and then felt her hair spreading across her back as he loosened her braid. Giving the head of Tor’s cock one final swirl, she released him and turned to Dak. With his hands fisted on his thighs, he sat there waiting for her. The veins in his shaft pulsed with need and she licked her lips in anticipation. Shifting closer to Dak, she lightly ran her fingers over his balls before squeezing gently. A low growl came from the back of his throat as he cupped her head in his hands and drew her down to him. She opened her mouth as he pressed himself deep, guiding her head in the rhythm he desired. Olivia gasped and then groaned as Tor slid behind her, cupping her breasts in his hands. As Dak fucked her mouth, Tor played with her nipples, tugging gently on them. Cream slipped down her inner thighs and her hips began to move restlessly. Dak pulled himself out of her mouth with a wet pop and before she knew what was happening, she was flat on her back. Dak straddled her chest and stuffed some pillows 54

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behind her head, raising her up. He stroked the head of his cock over her lips and she opened her mouth, lapping at it with her tongue. He groaned and slipped inside. She reached her hands out to cup his testicles, but he swore under his breath, grabbed her hands and held them down on the bed next to her head. Strong hands parted her thighs and she felt Tor’s hot breath on her sex just before his tongue stroked over her moist folds. She cried out, arching her hips. Tor wrapped his lips around her clit and sucked as he slid two thick fingers inside her. Her inner muscles squeezed tight. She cried out, but the sound was lost as Dak continued to fuck her mouth. Tor’s mouth and hands disappeared and then she felt the unmistakable pressure of his cock as he slowly but inexorably pushed his way inside her until he was buried to his balls. Olivia sucked in air through her nose, her chest heaving as Tor eased back until only the head of his cock remained inside. Then he pushed forward, a bit harder this time. She felt surrounded by them. Their heat and the musky smell of sweat and sex permeated the room as she sucked Dak’s cock and Tor fucked her. Tor’s thrusts quickened, getting harder and deeper with each one. Her inner muscles clutched at him as he withdrew and plunged again and again. Dak suddenly pulled away and shifted off her. His mouth crushed hers, his tongue laying siege as his large hands cupped her breasts. It was too much. She cried out as her orgasm exploded within her. It felt as if her entire body was on fire. Spasms rocketed through her and Dak swallowed her cries as Tor continued to drive into her. Her inner muscles clamped down hard and Tor yelled his own release. She felt the hot flood of his seed fill her. Sweat rolled down her temple as aftershocks rippled through her. She turned away from Dak, breaking their kiss, sucking desperately needed air into her lungs. She cried out as Tor pulled out of her and slumped onto the bed beside her.

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Gradually her heartbeat settled and her breathing returned to normal. She felt sated and totally relaxed. Both men were stroking her arms, her hair, her breasts. She opened her eyes and smiled at Tor. He leaned over and brushed a gentle kiss across her lips. Sighing, she turned to Dak. Golden-brown eyes caught and held her in their gaze. She swallowed hard as desire began to stir low in her belly. “Come to me.” He sat up on his haunches and held his arms out to her. His cock was swollen and heavy as it bobbed in front of him. She took his hands and he pulled her into his arms. His thick shaft pressed hard against her stomach. “I want you, Olivia.” Her name sounded exotic as it rolled off his tongue. She rubbed her breasts against him, barely stifling a moan when her tender nipples were abraded by his chest hair. “Yes.” She pressed her lips to the strong cords of his neck and licked at his skin. He tasted warm and salty. He lifted her easily. She clasped his shoulders for balance as he held her poised above him. The head of his shaft pressed just inside her opening. He paused and stared at her, his jaw clenched, his eyes intense. “I love you,” he gritted out as he pulled her down, burying himself to the hilt in one stroke. Olivia cried out as her already swollen inner muscles protested. She felt full to overflowing with him, but it felt so damn good. The words he’d uttered were still ringing in her brain when he gripped her hips and urged her to move. With his help, she lifted up and then came down heavy on his cock. She bit her lip to keep from screaming. She wanted him deeper. Harder. Tor settled his hands on her hips and helped raise and lower her over Dak’s erection. Olivia dug her fingers into Dak’s wide shoulders. “Look at me,” he murmured, and she could not resist his dark plea. Her eyes stared into his face and she knew then that she loved him too.

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She swallowed hard as the passion climbed higher between them. Pure liquid heat flowed through her veins, making all her muscles tingle. Even though she’d come a short time ago, she was poised on the edge of another orgasm. Dak’s thrusts got harder and his cock went impossibly deep. They were no longer two separate people, but one, joined by their bodies and by the depth of emotion between them. Her inner muscles clenched hard one final time. Her body heaved as she screamed her release. She would have toppled over if it weren’t for Dak’s and Tor’s strong hands holding her upright. Cream gushed from her core, bathing Dak’s shaft in heat. He cried out, throwing his head back as he came. His cock pulsed as he emptied himself into her. And she gladly took his essence inside her, feeling his pleasure as if it were her own. Slumping forward, she rested her head against Dak’s chest, feeling the heavy thud of his heart against her cheek. Her skin was covered in a sheen of sweat and her hair was plastered to her scalp. Her muscles ached and she felt sticky and tired. She’d never felt better in her entire life. Tor lifted her off Dak and tucked her into bed beside him. Dak quickly followed, stretching out on her other side. She was sandwiched between them, protected by them. She was filled with the knowledge that this image wasn’t an illusion. There was nothing that these two men wouldn’t do to make her happy. Tor brushed his lips over her temple. “I love you, Olivia. You are the answer to my prayers.” Tears pricked her eyes and she swallowed hard to keep from crying. Dak nuzzled her neck and she turned to him. His face was more relaxed than she’d ever seen it, making him appear younger, less hardened. “Thank you. I know your choice was not an easy one. I don’t know if I could give up my world for another. I am awed by your bravery.” She nodded, knowing that both men understood just how difficult this decision had been for her. “I’ll admit that I’m frightened. I know nothing about being a priestess, 57

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although I think I’ll have plenty of help.” The amethysts on her bracelets shimmered as she raised her arms to stare at them. The Goddess had shown her plenty. If she went back, she could add more depth to her grandfather’s theories and make a name for herself. She’d have a long, acclaimed academic career. People would flock to hear her lectures. It was everything she’d always wanted. But it was also very lonely. Here, her life would be much different. She’d be wife, mother, priestess and woman. There were no cars or takeout or malls. That meant no coffee, chocolate, Italian pizza or bookstores. There were no computers, cell phones, stereos or televisions. But there was so much more. All of those things were just that—things. They paled in comparison to what was being offered—acceptance, friendship and above all else, an abiding love, which would remain strong and steadfast in the years to come. “I love you. Both of you.” She heard the sharp intake of their breath and then both of them smiled. She could see the love as well as the relief shining from them. As she lay between them, it occurred to her that they were the embodiment of the bracelets and the carving in the temple. She was the moon, full and ripe. On one side was Tor, light and fair, the waxing of the moon. On the other side was Dak, dark and mysterious, the waning of the moon. It was how it should be. The three of them together. Tor stroked his hand over her belly. “I know what you’ve gone through in your lifetime, what your grandfather endured. The Goddess explained it all to us in our dreams over the past few months.” He fingered a strand of her hair before tucking it behind her ear. “I know what it would mean to you to clear your grandfather’s name. I’m sorry that you won’t be able to do that.” The corners of her mouth tilted upward. “Funny that you mentioned that…”

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Epilogue “Over here!” Several members of the search team hurried toward the cry. They all feared the worst. Dr. Fifield had been missing for over two days now. Lantern light filled the small room as the five members of the search team squeezed inside. The room had been cleverly hidden, which is why Augustine had missed it even though she’d walked by it several times during the past two days. The walls of the room were intricately carved with a language none of them could read, but they all recognized it. Amos Fifield had brought it to the world’s attention more than fifty years ago. They all knew that they were standing in the middle of an important discovery. Augustine could feel all the blood drain from her face as she examined the sheets of fine linen parchment. She’d already read and pocketed the letter that Olivia had left for her. It had been quite a shock to see the folded sheets of paper with her name scribbled on the side sitting on the stone chair in the center of the room. It seemed her friend had done what they’d all thought impossible. “What is it?” another member of the team asked. “A note from Dr. Fifield.” “What does it say?” Augustine took a deep breath as she scanned the sheaf of papers. “It’s a complete translation of the language.” “That’s impossible.” Dr. Robert Bartlett burst to the front of the room, pushing several people aside in the process. Dr. Augustine Mitchell pulled her professional mantle around her and glared at him. “It’s obviously not as impossible as you think.” She kept quiet about the accusations that Olivia had made in the private letter, but she planned on keeping an eye on Robert. 59

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“That’s absurd,” he sputtered. “Give me those papers. They’re probably another hoax. After all, she is Amos Fifield’s granddaughter.” “I think not.” Augustine drew herself up to her impressive six-foot height and narrowed her gaze. “I plan to study these pages and compare them to the writing on the wall. After that, you’re free to say what you like about it.” No way she’d let him get his grubby hands on them before she was done with them. He’d either destroy them or use them to further his own career. Neither was an option as far as Augustine was concerned. “If the translation proves to be legitimate, then Dr. Fifield will be getting the credit for it. Both Dr. Fifields, ” she added. Robert swore and blustered, but Augustine ignored him. Finally he turned and stomped from the room. If Augustine had her way, he’d never get his hands on these notes until she’d published a paper vindicating her friend, Olivia, and her grandfather. “But where is Dr. Fifield?” Augustine turned to the graduate student who’d asked the question, not quite knowing how to answer it. Augustine wasn’t exactly sure where Olivia was. All she’d said was that she’d be in touch at some point in the future. “She decided to go away for a while.” The student nodded, but she could tell he didn’t understand. Heck, she didn’t understand either, but she didn’t blame her colleague for the choice she’d made. She’d been the butt of jokes and prejudice for years. Couple that with the sexual discrimination and assault at Robert’s hands and it was no wonder Olivia had left. But why she would leave such valuable information behind was a mystery. Olivia would contact her when she was ready. In the meantime, Augustine would pursue the research on this previously unknown language. Olivia had also left a few locations where Augustine might find some more artifacts from this undiscovered people. Where she’d gotten this kind of information, Augustine didn’t know, but she did know that she would check them out. However, she would do so quietly and without fanfare until she was sure the sites contained what Olivia promised. 60

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Her entire body quivered at the thought. What a discovery it would be when it was brought to light and finally accepted by the academic establishment. She only hoped she heard from Olivia before that happened. Her friend deserved all the credit for the find and Augustine would make sure that she got it. Tucking the note in her pocket, she turned to face the group who stood waiting. “Okay, everyone. Let’s get to work.”

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About the Author N.J. Walters worked at a bookstore for several years and one day had the idea that she would like to quit her job, sell everything she owned, leave her hometown and write romance novels in a place where no one knew her. And she did. Two years later, she went back to the same bookstore and settled in for another seven years. Although she was still fairly young, that was when the mid-life crisis set in. Happily married to the love of her life, with his encouragement (more like, “For God’s sake, quit the job and just write!”) she gave notice at her job on a Friday morning. On Sunday afternoon, she received a tentative acceptance for her first erotic romance novel, Annabelle Lee, and life would never be the same. N.J. has always been a voracious reader of romance novels, and now she spends her days writing novels of her own. Vampires, dragons, time-travelers, seductive handymen and next-door neighbors with smoldering good looks all vie for her attention. And she doesn’t mind a bit. It’s a tough life, but someone’s got to live it. N.J. welcomes comments from readers. You can find her website and email address on her author bio page at www.ellorascave.com.

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Also by N.J. Walters Anastasia’s Style Annabelle Lee Awakening Desires: Capturing Carly Awakening Desires: Craving Candy Awakening Desires: Erin’s Fancy Awakening Desires: Katie’s Art of Seduction Dalakis Passion 1: Harker’s Journey Dalakis Passion 2: Lucian’s Delight Dalakis Passion 3: Stefan’s Salvation Dalakis Passion 4: Eternal Brothers Drakon’s Treasure Ellora’s Cavemen: Dreams of the Oasis IV anthology Ellora’s Cavemen: Legendary Tails IV anthology Ellora’s Cavemen: Seasons of Seduction III anthology Heat Wave Jessamyn’s Christmas Gift Tapestries: Bakra Bride Tapestries: Christina’s Tapestry Tapestries: Woven Dreams Three Swords, One Heart Unmasking Kelly

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