Nathan's Angel

NATHAN ’S ANGEL

… The angel stiffened and bowed his head. “I do not know what overcame me. I am weakened and in a form I have not taken in millennia. I have no control, I… ” He trailed off, exhaling sharply. Nathan tugged at Ramiel until the angel turned to face him. “No matter what you are, you’re human now, and close quarters plus attraction equals lust, desire, whatever you want to call it. Trust me. I’m half human and half animal. If anyone can understand, it’s me. Your reaction was quite understandable.’” A half smile quirked the side of Ramiel’s mouth as Nathan repeated the angel’s own words back to him. Apparently not all humor was lost on the angel, then. He stared at Nathan through the gold silk of his bangs and Nathan’s chest went tight. Without thought, he reached up to palm Ramiel’s cheeks. The lost look in his eyes hit Nathan deeply and he was overwhelmed with the desire to kiss him, to ease the loneliness Ramiel must surely be feeling, exiled from his own kind. He raised up, tilting his head… Ramiel’s mouth crashed onto his, a hungry, elemental force that caught him by surprise. Pent-up need emanated from Ramiel, and Nathan speared his fingers through Ramiel’s hair, dragging the angel deeper into the kiss, letting him know it was all right, that he could take whatever Ramiel had to give. With a low growl, Ramiel hauled Nathan tight against his big body, his hands grabbing Nathan’s ass. Ramiel’s tongue licked along Nathan’s lips, then plunged deep inside, stroking and twining with Nathan’s…

ALSO BY MELISSA BRADLEY Dream On Encore Performances Love Haight Maxie Briscoe: Werewolf Michael’s Keeper

NATHAN’S ANGEL BY MELISSA BRADLEY

AMBER Q UILL PRESS, LLC http://www.AmberQuill.com

NATHAN ’S ANGEL AN AMBER QUILL PRESS BOOK This book is a work of fiction. All names, characters, locations, and incidents are products of the author’s imagination, or have been used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons living or dead, locales, or events is entirely coincidental. Amber Quill Press, LLC http://www.AmberQuill.com All rights reserved. No portion of this book may be transmitted or reproduced in any form, or by any means, without permission in writing from the publisher, with the exception of brief excerpts used for the purposes of review. Copyright © 2011 by Melissa Bradley ISBN 978-1-61124-191-4 Cover Art © 2011 Trace Edward Zaber

PUBLISHED IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

I’d like to dedicate this story to very special men who are some of the most amazing people I have gotten to know. This is for James Mann, Miroslav Bashich Palkovich and Dempsey Sanders. You three are the very best and I am so proud to know you. I wish you joy, happiness and many blessings in all that you do. Thank you so much for the love and friendship you have shown me.

NATHAN’S ANGEL

PROLOGUE Celestial Realm Ramiel grunted and swayed as pain lashed across his wings, the delicate feathers burning with Holy Fire, yet never disintegrating to ash. An eternal torment for those who had defied Heaven. “Ramiel!” Amitiel’s voice thundered through the Celestial Chamber, the explosion of a star gone supernova. “Thou art in violation of Our Law.” “I- ” “Silence!” Israefil’s harsh command reverberated through Ramiel’s skull and he gritted his teeth, white knuckling the Penitent seat. Israefil was ever Amitiel’s pet and if he were not in such pain, Ramiel would have laughed. 1

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An arc of heat lightning raced through him and he writhed in agony. He would not allow his fellow seraphim to break him. It was a near thing, though, as he no longer had his powers to shield him. They had been bound when the Council had taken him. “Dost thou deny being in the presence of a creature from The Other Realm, our loathed enemy?” “No.” Ramiel was more than prepared for punishment. He had consorted with a Fallen One, but there had been no other way. Someone had reincarnated his lover Xerxes and stolen his gentle soul from the eternal peace in the Elysian Fields. As an Angel of Death and Transformation, he’d sensed the familiar light returning to the realm of In-Between, Earth. Only someone with the powers of a seraph or an archangel would be capable of such a feat. “With whom didst thou speak?” Amitiel’s question seared his ears like a thousand licks of flame, burning through his flesh and mind. With a scream, he fought to remain upright, knew he had to focus on something to detract from the pain or he would betray his source. Xerxes… Ramiel had met the handsome young Persian scholar the last time he had taken corporeal form on Earth. Angels were solitary by their very natures and the life force of this young man had drawn him like nothing else. This wonderful creature had shown him the utter fulfillment and peace that human love could bring. He had fought his fellow angels to protect these beings, his Father’s creations, and had remained conflicted. Why should they be placed above the warriors of Heaven? Xerxes’ touch had soothed that part of him. Holding him in his arms, Ramiel knew why Father had wanted humans protected, 2

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cherished above all. With this beautiful soul, he was no longer alone, he was loved for the first time. He had remained with Xerxes for three Earth months until that instant, wrenching summons from his fellow Celestial Council members. There had been no chance to explain or even say good-bye to his lover. His fingers gripped the bench tightly as he fought the memories, until minute cracks formed in the marble. Fury mounted inside him, a red river of rage that helped him fight back against the torture. He no longer felt the pain as he remembered how the Council had made him watch Xerxes suffer after his disappearance. He’d seen his lover become a shell of the beautiful teacher he’d been, condemned to the hardened life of a soldier in King Darius’ great army. Most heartbreaking of all had been when Ramiel appeared to his love as the young man died on the battlefield. Xerxes had whispered his name, thinking they would now be together. Ramiel wanted to rage as Xerxes went on to the Elysian Fields alone. For centuries after, Ramiel’s life had become an insular existence. He had not taken corporeal form in nearly three thousand years, going about his duties in a peaceful, detached manner until he’d sensed the familiar bright light returning the world. Horrified, he had sought out Malachi, a Fallen One with similar powers and who had once been his friend. Fire shot up his arms as the Council forcibly returned his attention to them. “Ramiel, Angel of Death and Transformation, Keeper of Night and Storms, the Celestial Council hath determined that thy punishment for now shall be banishment. Thou shalt be stripped of thy powers and placed on the Earthly Realm,” Amitiel intoned. Everything in him froze. The Earthly Realm? Banished without 3

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further torture? He did not understand. Had another spoken on his behalf? Confused as he was over this strange twist, Ramiel hoped he’d be allowed a physical body. Being amongst humans as a shade was fine when one had full angelic powers, without them it would be horrible. “Dost thou accept and understand this consequence of thy actions?” “Yes,” he answered without inflection. He just wanted this over. “The period of thy banishment shall be determined by this Council.” Before Ramiel could respond, he was enveloped in a bright white light and felt himself floating, drifting like a cloud, his body formless, no thought… Nothing.

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CHAPTER 1 “… to be holdin’ Bobby’s body next to mine,” Nathan sang along to Janis Joplin as he swung off 93rd Avenue and onto the wooded lane that made up his street. He loved being the only house in this little isolated acreage near the town of St. John, Indiana. The split-level ranch couldn’t be seen from the road and he had plenty of running room when he shifted to his wolf form. He needed a good run after his rotten date tonight. Just a few more minutes and he’d be… “Holy shit!” He swerved, barely maintaining control of his Jeep Commander. A bright, meteoric light flashed across the sky, a ball of white fire like a Roman candle. He slowed, gawking at it, jaw unhinged like a broken gate and it occurred somewhere in his muddled brain that it could be a small plane in trouble. He fumbled 5

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at his waist for his phone, watching in horror as the plane or whatever dropped like a dead bird not far from… His house! Phone forgotten, he romped on the accelerator and nearly flipped over twice on a couple of tight turns. Roaring around a curve, his eyes widened and he slammed on the brakes. “Fuck!” Throwing the gearshift in park, Nathan cut the engine and sat, dragging in huge gulps of air as shock stuttered his system. Charred trees and small flames dotted the immediate landscape in the aftermath of the crash. He scanned for wreckage and saw none. That was weird. Come to think of it, he hadn’t heard an explosion, either. Then he saw it. A big, naked body lay in the road. What the hell? His canine senses came to the fore as he opened the door and stepped out. He gave the air a cautious sniff, his vision going black and white. There was no scent of death, only burned wood, but he detected a faint heartbeat. He walked toward the prone body, his teeth lengthening. The “body” was one big son of a bitch and from the looks of him, the guy had had one hell of a night. Nathan squatted and continued his assessment. Bleeding, with obvious bruises and burns, the fellow was a mess. There were strange black scar-like things on his shoulder blades and near his Achilles tendons. Sensing no immediate threat, Nathan took a deep breath and dialed back his Beast. Unclipping his cell from his belt, he prepared to punch in 9-1-1 when the man groaned and rolled onto his back. He started with a snarl as the stranger opened his eyes and looked around until he settled on Nathan. “Pardon.” The voice was a deep, soothing rumble like thunder as a storm grows distant. “I seem to require some aid.” He gingerly 6

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pushed to his elbow, then glanced down at himself. “Would you be so kind as to lend your assistance?” Those sexy vocals moved though Nathan like someone rubbing fur on his insides. The fella sure had a funny way of speaking, but with a voice like that, Nathan could listen to him read the phone book. “Y-Yeah, sure,” he said in a daze. The man stood with the grace of a big cat. And stood and stood. Nathan’s eyes widened as he realized that Mr. Speedbump must be well over six feet tall and, he noted with a bite of lust, perfectly proportioned. Happy Birthday to me . “Do you have a residence near?” “Huh?” Nathan gaped as the man stepped toward him. In the glare of the headlights, Nathan could tell the guy was Scandinavian blond. His favorite type. “Good sir, I asked if your establishment was near here or will we be required to travel some distance in your conveyance?” This dude sure was sure moving fast and Nathan’s Beast growled, snapping him out of his lust fog. “Stop right there.” Nathan may not have been an alpha, but he could fight like one. Naked Guy tilted his head, looking confused. “You do not need to fear me.” He reached out his hand in a friendly gesture. “Let’s get something straight… ” Nathan’s threat trailed off as the poor dude winced, then stumbled. Instinct and preternatural speed instantly had him at the man’s side, steadying him. Electric heat flared through him as he touched the mysterious stranger’s skin. It was warm, warmer than any human or even lycanthrope, like nothing he had ever felt before, and yet there was something weirdly familiar. 7

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Heat crawled through his insides, tightening his muscles. Get a hold of yourself, Wolf. “I should get you to a hospital.” Nathan helped his new friend toward the passenger side of his Commander. “Nay!” The guy halted, then lurched out of Nathan’s grasp. “I-I do not require your human healers.” That brought Nathan up short. “Look, you asked for my help. A doctor is a good thing seeing as how you’re obviously in pain, but if you don’t want that, fine. Let’s just get you out of the road.” With careful maneuvering, Nathan helped him lean against the hood. “Wait here. I got a towel you can use.” “I am not cold.” “It’s not for that. When you sit naked, things… you know, spread.” Nathan could have kicked himself for sounding like such an OCD weirdo. But the thought of dangly bits and other things being pressed into the expensive leather seats made his inner neat freak nuts. Nathan returned with the large bath sheet and helped the hunk settle into the vehicle. Closing his eyes, he took a deep breath and headed to the other side. What the hell was wrong with him? Picking up a total stranger like some dumb character in a low budget horror flick. Michael, the wolf king, would have a field day, not to mention all the others in his pack should they find out. As soon as he shut the door, the scent of fresh mountain air and sun-warmed leaves overwhelmed Nathan, sending all of his blood south of the Mason-Dixon line. He cursed himself for the quick, lusty reaction. What in the name of all that was holy was his problem tonight? It had been a long time since he’d been so reactive to the mere presence of someone. Damn, he needed to get 8

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out more. “I am called Ramiel,” Naked Man said quietly. “Nathan.” He keyed the ignition and put the Jeep in drive. He refused to look at his gorgeous passenger again until he was safely in his driveway. His concentration was so bad right now, he just might crash into a tree. Talk was better. “So, Ramiel, um, not to be rude, but how the fuck did you end up naked in the road? Frat party gone wrong? Lovers’ quarrel?” Ramiel gave a bitter laugh. “The circumstances remain somewhat unclear, but suffice it to say, this is punishment.” Punishment? “Er… The hell did you do?” “I have no exact memory, but I have committed a crime of some sort.” He shifted uncomfortably in the seat, then lay his head back. “I think perhaps my memories will be clearer after nourishment.” Nathan grinned. “Food I have. Now clothes? That might be a problem. You and I aren’t exactly the same size. The only thing in my closet that would fit you is a blanket.” “I suspect some covering will be preferable to you.” Nathan risked a sidelong glance at Ramiel. “Well, I don’t mind, but naked is not exactly the norm around here. Unless you’re a nudist, which in northwest Indiana, you won’t find very many.” The short drive to the house passed in silence as a million questions roiled around in Nathan’s mind. Ramiel stared off into the shadows as though he were already plotting how to get himself out of this situation. A pang of empathy rose up in Nathan. He’d been bullied plenty in his life until Michael had stepped in to teach him to fight. This guy looked tough, but hell, no matter the size, there was always someone or something bigger. 9

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He hit the button for the garage door as they rounded the last turn. Pulling smoothly inside, he made sure there was plenty of room between the vehicle and the bikes, snow blower and lawnmower to maneuver his guest into the house. It took two tries, but at last Nathan and Ramiel made it through the door and into the kitchen. “Wait here,” Nathan said as he propped Ramiel against the counter. He dashed to the hall closet and grabbed a blanket. Returning to the kitchen, he spread it onto one of the wooden chairs, then helped his patient sit. Ramiel closed his eyes with a sigh. “You want to lie down in the guest room? It’s just through there.” Nathan jerked a thumb toward the doorway he just came through. His guest shook his head. “I believe I am in need of sustenance more.” “Okay. What’ll you have? I got burgers, ribs, steaks, chicken, hot dogs… ” He trailed off as Ramiel stared at him. “Oh man. You a vegetarian? I’m a carnivore and need my protein. I got some salad stuff, vegetable soup if you want.” Ramiel’s light, almost silver, eyes were puzzled. “My apologies, but I do not know these burgers. Are they fowl, goat, pig? And these hot dogs. I assume they are canine meat?” Nathan gave a humorous snort. Naked, confused and definitely not from around here. He had his work cut out for him. “Uh well, the burgers are beef, er cow, and the hot dogs are definitely not dog meat, just pig processed into a tube shape.” “I believe I shall start with the cow burgers.” “Okay.” Nathan moved to the fridge and pulled out the ground beef. Setting it on the table, he turned to get a pan. 10

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“Interesting flavor, this cow burger.” Nathan spun around to see that Ramiel had opened the package and dug in. As a werewolf, Nathan had eaten plenty of raw meat, but that was the animal in him. “I was going to cook that.” Ramiel stopped with a scoop halfway to his mouth. “Ah, I should have remembered you humans cook your food.” He dropped the meat, looking a bit sheepish. Nathan wondered at the guy’s strange remark, but let it go. “You can eat it raw if you want. Don’t let me stop you.” It was one more weird instant in a night already on track to be one of his strangest. And he was a werewolf that investigated demons, ghosts and other paranormal situations. “My thanks, but I will wait for you to cook.” Nathan took the package and went to work. A little while later, he watched Ramiel blissfully chow down on the five burgers he had fried. “Thee ar dewicious,” Ramiel garbled as he crammed more burger into his already full mouth. “Slow down or you’ll choke,” Nathan said with a laugh. The way the burgers disappeared, it was like the poor guy hadn’t touched food in decades. Nathan had deliberately made the patties huge, too. Ramiel had already plowed through three of them with the appetite of a werewolf. The thought brought Nathan up short. Ramiel was clearly not an ordinary human, nor was he a lycanthrope. So what was he? A demon? Some other kind of supernatural being? Nathan needed help on this, that was for sure. He glanced at the clock, but really didn’t want to bother Ryanne, though he knew she’d come. However, she’d also bring Michael and he wasn’t ready to face his pack king just yet. More answers 11

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were necessary before he acted. He mentally ran through a list of pack mates he could call who wouldn’t go tattling to their fearless leader and kept circling back to one name. Nick. Damn it. Nick would come and keep his mouth shut, but he was so fucking annoying. Very large and very superior, Nick had been their pack’s third until he’d gotten into it with Michael. Now he was just an enforcer with a bad attitude. Still, he was of a size with Ramiel and he wouldn’t gossip. *

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“Mind telling me why the fuck I gotta come out to the ass end of nowhere in the middle of the fucking night, Pup?” Nick didn’t even bother letting Nathan open the door all the way, he just muscled in, shoving a duffel bag at him. “And why did I have to raid my closet?” He shot a look that said he clearly thought Nathan was out of his mind and that he would owe Nick big time. Nathan shuddered at the thought. “Thanks. I’ll get these back to you as soon as I can.” “Don’t bother. Dude’s gonna have to go commando because I do not share skivvies and I am not taking clothes back that have had another guy’s junk rolling around in ’em. So is this guy like your date or some shit? I’m not getting involved in anything kinky.” “Would you shut up?” Nathan was fast regretting his call. Maybe he should have just gone to the twenty-four hour Wal-Mart on Route 30. But, he hadn’t wanted to leave Ramiel alone, nor could he have left the guy sitting nude in his Jeep. Store security tended to frown on stuff like that. 12

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Nick shrugged out of his denim jacket, tossed it on the couch and sniffed. “He’s in the kitchen.” Before Nathan could say a word, Nick was headed down the hall. “Shit.” He dropped the bag and took off in the larger wolf’s wake. “What strip joint did he find you at?” Nick’s voice dripped sarcasm as he confronted Ramiel. “He has an eye for down and outers, but you don’t seem like one of those to me. You’re well fed and plenty healthy aside from some nasty scrapes. What gives?” “Nick, shut the fuck up.” The big alpha swung his gaze to Nathan and Nathan instantly regretted the outburst. That was the second time in less than two minutes he’d told a pack alpha to shut up. Where was this dominant behavior coming from? “You let me ask the questions,” Nick ordered. “Thinking isn’t always your specialty.” “Damn it,” Nathan growled. “Quit being a dick for five minutes and you won’t need to ask a fucking thing.” Shit, there he went again. He was going to get a smack down if he wasn’t careful. Nick’s eyes narrowed to slits and he looked as if he wanted to push the issue. Great. Nathan thought about the possible damage to the kitchen should things get physical and it wasn’t pretty. Nick could turn Nathan’s new table into splinters with a swipe of his claws. Better to suck it up and deal. “You got one big mouth for a beta wolf. It’s a good thing I like you.” Nick yanked out a chair, spun it and sat with arms folded across the top. “Start ’splainin,’ Lucy.” Nathan bit back a sarcastic comment and glanced at Ramiel, who had been watching them in silent regard. “I’m sorry.” 13

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“Don’t apologize.” Nick snorted. “Makes you look weak.” Shoving down his rising irritation, Nathan drew a deep breath, then turned back to his obnoxious pack mate. “Do you mind?” Nick rolled his eyes, but remained quiet. Nathan breathed a sigh. He should not be so mouthy with a member of the Alpha Circle, but he couldn’t seem to stop himself. “No apologies are required,” Ramiel finally spoke, his voice a soothing sound that cut through the testosterone in the air. He nodded at Nathan, then turned his attention to Nick. “I know that you are only trying to protect your friend. Please allow me to assure you that he is in no danger from me.” “Ramiel, you don’t have to—” “Oh I know my little brother is in no danger from you,” Nick cut in. “I just want to know what the fuck is going on. Like why are you naked in this house if you two aren’t hitting the sheets? Where are you from anyway? Did you pick Nathan on purpose? Are you playing some kind of fucking game?” His words descended to deep growl as he leaned in toward Ramiel. “Enough!” Nathan barked. “Nick, I’m thinking this wasn’t such a good idea. Maybe you should go.” “Excuse me? I came all the way out here on an errand for you, Pup. I think I deserve to know what the fuck is going on. I think our leader, bastard asshole that he is, just might be damned curious.” “You wouldn’t dare… ” Nathan started toward Nick, his Beast roiling just under his skin. If the prick wanted a fight… Nick shot off the chair. “I most certainly would. You can’t seem to stop taking in strays. Remember the last time?” Nathan’s Wolf fell away in the heat of embarrassment. More than a year ago, he had been suckered by a pretty rent boy with a 14

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hard luck story. The little hustler had cleaned him out of thousands of dollars before Nathan had wised up. Even after Michael and Nick had repeatedly warned him. “Fine. But, at least let the guy put on some clothes.” “Whatever.” Nick settled back as Nathan led Ramiel from the kitchen. He showed him to the guest room, then went to retrieve the duffel Nick brought. “Come back when you’re ready.” He turned to leave and noticed Ramiel staring at the bag like he’d never seen one. “You all right?” Ramiel hesitated, his ice colored eyes holding a mix of frustration, confusion and perhaps fear. “I believe that I will require your assistance.” Pressing close to that battered, yet smokin’ hot bod was the last thing Nathan needed. Distance and perspective were what the situation called for. Still, he knew Nick could not be counted on for something like this and it was obvious Ramiel could not help himself. Nathan gathered himself together. Here went nothing… Nathan eyed Ramiel’s large frame. “I think this’ll be easier if you’re sitting.” He maneuvered the man to the full-sized bed and gently pushed him to the mattress. “Sorry,” he muttered at Ramiel’s soft grunt. Nathan then opened the bag and pulled out an orange tee shirt, navy sweats and white athletic socks. Grabbing the sweats, Nathan knelt in front of Ramiel and promptly found himself face-to-face with the guy’s cock. It was thick and smooth with a flared pink cap. Nathan gulped at the sight, sweat breaking out on his scalp as he fought the urge to lean closer for a taste. “Uh, put your feet through here.” He guided Ramiel’s legs into the loose cotton and pulled them up partway. Averting his eyes 15

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from his guest’s impressive package, Nathan stood, then helped Ramiel up. He carefully pulled the pants to Ramiel’s waist. A tortured eternity later, they were headed back to the kitchen. “About time,” Nick grumbled. “Thought you two were getting it on. I was about to head in there with a bucket.” “Har, har,” Nathan flipped him the bird and took a seat. Ramiel grunted as he padded slowly to the chair he had vacated earlier. “Sorry,” Nathan muttered, feeling guilty. “I should have helped.” The big man waved him off as he eased onto the seat. “I must help myself if I am to remain in this realm as a human.” “What the fuck are you?” Nick half shouted. Nathan ignored the outburst. He was too afraid Ramiel’s next words would be that he was a demon. He looked at Nathan with an intensity that seared him like no normal human gaze ever could. “I am an angel.” “Holy. Hell.”

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CHAPTER 2 Ramiel regarded his two new companions. He sensed that the smaller man could be trusted, but he was not so certain of his friend. Still, his options were quite limited. He needed to survive in this place and avoid detection by Fallen Ones and demons who would love nothing more than to revenge themselves upon him. He also needed to find his grace in order to continue his quest for Xerxes and discover who had reincarnated him. “Are you fucking for real?” Nick growled. “Indeed.” “Well, God damn. A real live, wing-wearing angel. Motherfuckin son of a bitch.” He gave a sarcastic laugh. “Nate, you naive little puppy, you sure do know how to find ’em, don’t you?” He fixed Ramiel with a hardened look. “So why can’t you 17

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just flap your wings and fly back upstairs? Or did you crawl up?” Nick pointed to the floor. Ramiel did not care for the man’s tone and if he were still in possession of any of his angelic powers, he would have gladly burned the loutish cur’s male parts for his insolence. He was an Angel of Death and Transformation, a member of the Celestial Council, he had witnessed the destruction of empires, he… He had no powers and was now merely human. “I am not a Fallen One. However, my gifts were bound as part of my punishment.” “Missing spark plugs, huh? You’re up shit’s creek. Bet you’re expecting ol’ Nate here to supply a paddle?” Rather than answer the charge, Ramiel glanced at Nathan, who had thus far remained silent after his initial outburst. He seemed frozen in place, his gaze fixed on the table as if it held all the answers he needed. Ramiel called his name softly. After a long moment, Nathan’s brown eyes met his. He started at the mix of surprise, fear, curiosity and dread contained in the dark depths. Xerxes had had a similar look when Ramiel had first revealed himself. A sense of familiarity washed through him and he ruthlessly contained it. No. It was not possible that he had been found by the one spirit he sought. “How did you… ” Nathan began, then broke off and cleared his throat in an apparent attempt to get his words out. “Why are you here? You said something about punishment in the Jeep. Did you go against the other angels like Lucifer? And is there anyone after you? Did I just put myself in some kind of, pardon my language, holy shit storm by taking you in?” Ramiel wished he could quell the anxiety he detected in 18

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Nathan’s voice, but the truth was he could not. By helping him, Nathan had unfortunately put himself and possibly his friends in danger. Nick jabbed a finger at Ramiel. “This better not freakin’ come back on the pack. We’ve been through enough. I think you need to get the hell out.” The brute made a salient point. Perhaps if he left, Nathan would by some chance be spared any harm. Though he now realized that Nathan was a werewolf and could take more damage, the beings that came after Ramiel would be relentless and vicious. No, he had navigated this world corporeally before and he could do so again. It was best to leave the young wolf out of this situation entirely. He pushed to his feet. “Sit down,” Nathan snarled. “You’re not going anywhere.” Ramiel hesitated, then folded himself back in the chair, surprised at the iron will laced in his rescuer’s words. “What the fuck are you doing, Nathan?” Nick slapped his palms upon the table. “You don’t need this shit and neither does the pack.” Nathan speared Nick with a dangerous look. “In spite of what you and our king and the rest of the pack think, I can handle myself.” “Fine, but what happens if you can’t handle it, Pup?” “I don’t know, but it’s obvious Ramiel needs help and I intend to see that he gets it. I will try not to let anything spill over onto the pack, but I’m involved now and I can’t leave him alone and vulnerable.” His fierce words warmed Ramiel, but he could not bear the thought of the man getting hurt on his account. “Please, you must—” 19

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“You wait your turn,” Nathan ordered. Ramiel remained silent and allowed the man to speak his piece. Nathan waited the space of several heartbeats, then continued, “Nick, you need to go. I have a lot to talk about with Ramiel and I can’t figure anything out with your growling and carping.” The big man’s jaw unhinged. “You’re kicking me out? Unfucking-believable. You’re getting above yourself, Beta Boy. I came out here and—“ “I know,” Nathan interrupted. “Just go home. Please. You can kick my ass later.” Nick remained where he was, sullen and irritated, glaring at Nathan. Finally, he shoved to his feet and stalked out. Ramiel winced at the slam of a door. A rumble sounded as Nick’s vehicle started, followed by a horrendous squeal as he sped away. Silence hung heavy and expectant in the air, like calm before a battle. Ramiel waited to speak, unsure of exactly where to begin his tale. “I just threw a pack alpha out of my house and I could get in a lot of trouble if he makes an issue out of it. So why don’t you tell me everything from the beginning.” Needing to concentrate on just what to say, Ramiel took a deep draught from the glass of water Nathan had provided earlier. Should he divulge everything or just the recent punishment? He decided to start with the story of his life with Xerxes. He sensed that Nathan would respond best to the love and loss. It would be a relief, as he had not spoken of Xerxes to anyone, ever. He stared at the pattern of the woodgrain in the table as he formed the right words. “I am Ramiel, Ninth Member of the Celestial Council.” He 20

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talked and spared Nathan nothing. He spoke of Xerxes, of their love, of his death and how Ramiel had chosen to remain solitary and aloof in carrying out his duties. At one point Nathan covered his hands with his, the simple touch flooding Ramiel with feelings he had not experienced in three thousand years. Xerxes had been like that, caring, full of empathy and warmth. Ramiel tensed as other long buried thoughts rose to the surface. Primal thoughts that stirred his new human body. He felt his chest constrict, sweat break out on his neck and his penis stir. Swallowing hard against this tide of lust, he forced himself to concentrate on the present. “And so, after the judgment, I was delivered here to Earth, where you encountered me.” Nathan sat, staring at where their hands were joined. He was so silent and still, Ramiel started to worry that perhaps he had overwhelmed his new friend. Then Nathan looked at him and suddenly their hands were palm-to-palm, fingers intertwining. In that moment he was back in ancient Persepolis in Xerxes’ small house. Images of their love flitted through Ramiel’s mind and it was if Nathan sensed his thoughts. The air became charged with awareness and expectation, and Nathan’s eyes were brilliant like the morning star. Ramiel was seized with the urge to draw the man into his arms and kiss him. The thought terrified and excited him all at once. Nathan drew away just then, as though afraid of the surge of feeling between them. An unfamiliar hollow grew in the region of Ramiel’s new heart. “So um… you need to find this Xerxes and do what? Bring him back to this Elysian Fields place? What if he has a new life?” “It matters not. When I find Xerxes I will discover what entity brought him here, be it seraph or archangel. Whether he goes back 21

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there is not within my power to grant. Death will decide, but first I must find this being and put a stop to him.” “Man, I feel bad for this Xerxes. He didn’t do anything and yet, it sounds like he’s going to be punished, too. “Elysium is a great reward.” Nathan pierced him with an expectant look. “But he’s alive now. Doesn’t seem fair to snatch him away from that. Anyway, how will you do all this without your angel powers?” “I do not have my angelic gifts, true, but an angel’s grace cannot be bound. It is our soul, if you will. I have been separated from mine in the fall, but once I have it, I will be able to read souls and find Xerxes. Then I can discover who reincarnated him without Blessing. A soul who goes to the Fields is not allowed to be reincarnated because they have learned their lessons and earned their reward. Blessing can only come from God through Death Itself. Bringing a soul back without it is an abuse of great power.” “But aren’t you the Angel of Death?” “No. I am but one angel of death. I cross only those going to Elysium. Wraiths and lesser angels cross those going to Purgatory or to await direct reincarnation. Fallen Ones cross those going to the Other Realm or Hell as you call it.” Nathan pulled his hands from Ramiel and stood. He watched as his new friend paced the length of the room, his demeanor thoughtful, as if he were forming a plan of action or perhaps more questions. The young wolf shoved a hand through his dark hair, then flashed Ramiel a resigned look. “So how do we find this grace of yours? You don’t have a GPS tracker, I suppose?” “My apologies. I do not know this GPS of which you speak.” Nathan shrugged. “Never mind.” 22

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“I will not find my grace, it will call to me when I am near.” “So we just go back to where I found you and crawl through the charred trees and bushes?” Ramiel shook his head. Nathan expelled a heavy breath. “Figures.” “I became separated from my grace at some point during my fall. It will have saved itself.” “Is it like a whole person or something?” “No, more a shadow of me. When it became free, it would have found a safe place, another being to dwell inside.” Nathan’s eyebrows shot up. “You mean angelic possession?” “In a way. Angelic grace will give a human certain powers. We must look for someplace where extraordinary things are happening, someone performing miracles.” The young wolf exhaled sharply. “So in other words we just have to look for some kind of religious revival or one of those televangelist faith healer people. Should be easy, what with all the churches around these parts. Not too complicated.” “Yes, if that is who my grace has gone to. But there will be others looking for it and for me.” “Others? What others?” “Yes, Ramiel, explain the others to your new friend.” *

*

*

Nathan jumped back with a snarl at the stunning woman who had just materialized in his kitchen. Tall and dark-haired, she looked like one of those models in the fashion magazines some of the younger females in his pack were forever reading. He sniffed the air, wondering if the new arrival was a demon. They had a 23

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sulfur-tainted scent about them, an important sign for detecting demonic possession, but he detected only human. Still, this creature was hardly mortal. “Malachi,” Ramiel said, his voice hard like a stone. A sarcastic, predatory smile curved her elegant lips. “It’s good to see you, too, sweetheart.” Her gaze flickered over the angel with avarice. “My, my… Amitiel certainly has taste, doesn’t he? Nice form.” She tapped her full red lips with an elegantly polished nail. “So you have come to see for yourself what my punishment entails.” Ramiel’s words were flat, like he was trying to contain a strong reaction to the stranger. “You know I couldn’t resist.” “What unfortunate’s body have you stolen?” The gorgeous vixen rolled her eyes. “What’s the matter?” She spread her arms wide and posed. “Don’t you like? Oh that’s right, you’re not into breasts and curves, are you? Relax, I behaved. The poor girl was pronounced before I popped in. Gave the fellow in the morgue a heart attack. I have to admit, she’s not my usual preference either, but in an emergency, you have to take what you can get and I was not about to zap into an octogenarian grandfather of six.” “Who the hell are you?” Nathan was irritated by the sly tone and more than a little upset at being caught off guard by her appearance. Throwing Nick out may not have been such a good idea. Malachi pinned him with a superior grin. “Hell is the operative word, Baby Cakes. Sorry for the intrusion on your dinner for two, but it couldn’t be helped. You’ll both thank me, though. I came bearing a warning.” She cocked a slender hip against the table and crossed her arms beneath her breasts. “The Other Realm is all agog 24

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that the mighty Ramiel has been brought low and they’re chomping at the cage door, so to speak. It’s not often a Celestial Council member is kicked to the curb.” The newcomer’s expression turned serious. “You’re going to need more help than your new werewolf boy toy.” Ramiel shifted uncomfortably in the chair. “Malachi, your concern is much appreciated.” “Well, I couldn’t let my dear friend face the demons without a tiny bit of help for old times’ sake, now could I?” “What are you talking about?” Nathan asked, moving to stand next to Ramiel. Jealousy clawed his insides as strange, possessive feelings swamped him. His Beast trickled over him, pushing him to change and rip out her throat. He dragged in a breath to regain control. What was wrong with him? When had he started thinking of Ramiel as his? And more importantly why? He’d literally picked the angel up off the street only a couple of hours ago. Malachi looked at him as if she… it knew exactly what he was thinking. He tore his gaze from her and focused on the details in the floor tiles. “Not that it’s any of your concern, but let’s just say that Ramiel and I have a very long history, and while we may be on different sides, I don’t want to see him harmed while he’s down here being grounded because of someone else’s temper tantrum.” She turned her attention back to Ramiel. “I can help you find your grace, but I can’t take you to it. There are some rules even I’m not willing to break. And now I’ve got to skedaddle before I’m tracked here. Don’t look so sad kids, I’ll be back.” With a wink, she vanished.

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CHAPTER 3 Silence descended after Malachi’s departure. There were so many things Nathan had to say, but he was too keyed up to speak, not sure where to even begin. His thoughts unraveled as fast as they formed. “My apologies. Malachi can be somewhat overwhelming.” He heard Ramiel’s words, but they were muffled, as if the angel was underwater. Sucking in a huge gulp of air, Nathan gripped the edge of the table and bent his head in an attempt to calm himself. “I think that—” Nathan held up a hand and Ramiel went quiet. “Do me a favor. Don’t say a word. I need a minute.” A thousand minutes probably wouldn’t help. What he needed was a beer. Right freaking now. 26

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He stalked to the refrigerator, yanked it open and thanked God there were still some longnecks from the cookout last weekend. Snagging one, he twisted off the cap and took a huge gulp. The cold, hoppy taste went down smooth, going far to soothe his raw nerves. Two more swigs and he finished. He made to pitch the bottle in the recycler when the anger and fear he’d suppressed got the better of him. The glass shattered and blood leaked between his fingers. “Fuck!” Nathan hurried to the sink and turned on the faucet, hissing as he thrust his injured hand under the cold stream. Being a lycanthrope, he would heal by tomorrow, but right now it stung like a son of a bitch. Nice job, Wolf. He hated to lose control like that, but given the circumstances it was more than a little acceptable. “Allow me to help you.” Nathan twisted to see Ramiel limping toward him, moving better than he had when Nathan had first brought him home. Without his powers and injured, the angel was still an impressive sight to behold. He wore Nick’s faded orange Chicago Bears tee shirt and dark blue sweats as though they were the finest designer suit. The tightness of the tee across the broad expanse of muscled chest made Nathan’s breath seize, and the memory of helping a naked Ramiel into those clothes invaded his mind. He forced his attention back to his bleeding hand as his jeans started to feel a bit uncomfortable. Ramiel stepped next to him and wrapped his fingers gently about Nathan’s wrist, turning it so he could see the cuts for himself. “Quite shallow,” he stated, his warm breath teasing Nathan’s 27

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ear. The jeans got even tighter. “There are some shards. I will remove them.” Nathan no longer felt the glass as Ramiel gently worked, removing the embedded pieces. His heart raced and he searched for a distraction before he did something stupid, like kiss Ramiel. The angel shifted against him and Nathan felt the distinct press of a hard cock against his hip. He wasn’t the only one affected. “I have finished. Do you have toweling and bandages?” Ramiel stepped back and the sudden loss of heat made Nathan want to howl in frustration. “I don’t need them,” he snarled and dried his hand on his shirt. The angel looked calmly at him and Nathan instantly felt like a heel. “Sorry. Um, I don’t need anything because these’ll be gone in hours. It’s good to be a werewolf” Ramiel nodded. “You did not need to apologize, though. Your reaction was quite understandable.” “My what?” “Your behavior just now and your injury as well. They are understandable, as you are out of sorts.” Nathan stared at his guest. “Out of sorts?” “It happens after one has been in the presence of a Fallen One.” “You don’t say,” Nathan quipped. Ramiel tilted his head, a puzzled look on his face. “I just did say.” So much for his attempt at sarcasm. It seemed dry wit was lost on his new friend. Change of topic. “So this Malachi is a Fallen One, not some kind of demon?” “Yes. They are angels who reside in the Other Realm. You reacted as you did because they inspire the darker emotions such as 28

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anger and fear,” Ramiel continued. “What about lust?” The angel’s eyes widened slightly and he looked flustered. “Er, yes. Lust would most certainly qualify.” “So you’re saying that would explain the tent in my pants.” The angel’s gaze slowly dropped to Nathan’s fly. “Yes,” he hissed out, then turned away quickly as if he were embarrassed. Ramiel’s awkwardness touched Nathan. He sidled up behind the big guy and laid a hand on his shoulder. Nathan could feel the tension gathered there. “Malachi may explain some of my reactions, but not all. And correct me if I’m wrong, but I don’t think she was behind your own hard-on. I know what I felt when you were helping me with my hand a minute ago.” The angel stiffened and bowed his head. “I do not know what overcame me. I am weakened and in a form I have not taken in millennia. I have no control, I… ” He trailed off, exhaling sharply. Nathan tugged at Ramiel until the angel turned to face him. “No matter what you are, you’re human now, and close quarters plus attraction equals lust, desire, whatever you want to call it. Trust me. I’m half human and half animal. If anyone can understand, it’s me. ‘Your reaction was quite understandable.’” A half smile quirked the side of Ramiel’s mouth as Nathan repeated the angel’s own words back to him. Apparently not all humor was lost on the angel, then. He stared at Nathan through the gold silk of his bangs and Nathan’s chest went tight. Without thought, he reached up to palm Ramiel’s cheeks. The lost look in his eyes hit Nathan deeply and he was overwhelmed with the desire to kiss him, to ease the loneliness Ramiel must surely be feeling, exiled from his own kind. He raised up, tilting his head… 29

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Ramiel’s mouth crashed onto his, a hungry, elemental force that caught him by surprise. Pent-up need emanated from Ramiel, and Nathan speared his fingers through Ramiel’s hair, dragging the angel deeper into the kiss, letting him know it was all right, that he could take whatever Ramiel had to give. With a low growl, Ramiel hauled Nathan tight against his big body, his hands grabbing Nathan’s ass. Ramiel’s tongue licked along Nathan’s lips, then plunged deep inside, stroking and twining with Nathan’s. Ramiel’s taste was a wild kaleidoscope of flavor. Spicy and sweet with a hint of the meaty burger he had just eaten. It teased at the back of Nathan’s mind, a long forgotten treasure rediscovered. Pleasure overrode any more coherent thought like a tsunami, and Nathan was swept up in its wake, drowning in sensation. His erection pulsed behind his zipper, a primitive, throbbing heat that tightened his balls. Nathan wanted nothing more than to be skin to skin with Ramiel, exploring every plane and hollow of him. He needed to be closer, with no barrier between them. Ramiel groaned, stumbled and the two of them nearly toppled over. Nathan clutched him, balanced on his feet, and averted disaster. He locked eyes with Ramiel, their breath coming in rough gasps, and noted the pallor of the angel’s skin beneath the sex flush. “Come on. I think we need to get you into bed for some serious rest.” Ramiel stroked a finger along Nathan’s jaw, with a banked fire in the silvery depths of his eyes. Nathan regretted saying a thing. “I have no desire to sleep. I prefer very much to continue what has begun.” 30

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Belying his words, Ramiel swayed. Nathan tightened his hold. “Sweetheart, as much I would love to take you up on that, the truth is, you need to recover. Sex will deplete what resources you have left, then demand more. I can’t have you collapsing before you get to the end.” He flashed a teasing grin. “That would be no fun at all.” He helped Ramiel to the guest room, a painful trip considering both of them were still feeling the effects of their encounter. Nathan stopped beside the bed. “Do you prefer to sleep in these or shall I take them off?” “I prefer nudity.” “A man after my own heart. All righty then, let’s get these off first.” Nathan eased the sweats over Ramiel’s hips, then pulled the fabric away from Ramiel’s half mast. He sucked in a breath at the sight of the thick cock. Giving in to the temptation that had been torturing him for the last couple of hours, he pressed a kiss to the smooth, hot crown. To his delight, it stirred, Ramiel’s breath hissed. “Please.” Nathan looked up into those gorgeous eyes “It’s okay. I know what we can do to have some fun without exhausting you.” With careful maneuvering, Nathan got the rest of Ramiel’s clothes off. “Okay, sit on the bed.” The big guy eased onto the mattress with a soft, wordless sound that was part sigh, part moan. He spread his thighs just enough to allow Nathan to kneel between them. Ramiel’s erection bobbed slightly, his arousal increasing. Nathan stroked his hands over the angel’s firm thighs, the muscles bunching and flexing as he massaged them, the soft hairs teasing his fingertips and palms. Ramiel grunted. 31

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“Easy,” Nathan whispered. “I’ve got you. Lie back.” The angel did as requested and supported his weight on his elbows. “There we go,” Nathan encouraged. Leaning in, he buried his face in the soft dark gold curls, inhaling Ramiel’s scent of sun-warmed leaves and musk. He bathed Ramiel’s shaft with long, slow licks from root to tip, tasting and laving. Ramiel’s flavor exploded over Nathan’s palate, a wild, salty flavor with a bare hint of sweet. It was at once familiar, yet elusive, an insubstantial wisp on the very edge of memory “Nathan,” Ramiel groaned, lifting his pelvis in encouragement. “Please, I beg of you.” “Well, since you’re asking so nicely.” Nathan fastened his lips over the moist, weeping tip and sucked Ramiel in deep. *

*

*

Ramiel surged up as Nathan enclosed the tip of his penis, drawing the shaft inside the hot, wet cavern of his mouth. Wild, savage pleasure roared through him for the first time in millennia. His thighs sprawled wider as Nathan pushed farther in between them. Nathan used the tip of his tongue to trill the sensitive underside of his length. Ramiel shuddered in bliss, barely able to maintain control, the wet heat almost too much. Nathan’s fingers snaked down to tease Ramiel’s testicles and the soft, extra-sensitive skin underneath. Heat lightning shot through his loins as Nathan found a particularly responsive spot just behind his sac. “Like that, huh?” Nathan repeated the stroke several times, and 32

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Ramiel nearly went up in flames, bucking as a sharp cry rose from his throat and rent the air. He came back to himself at the sound of a chuckle. “I will definitely have to remember that one for future reference.” Ramiel swiped a hand through his sweat soaked hair and could not help but agree with the wolf’s assessment. Sucking in a huge draught of air, Ramiel watched Nathan start his torment all over again. Nathan’s head bobbed up and down, and the sight of his rod disappearing between the young wolf’s lips was most satisfying and one he would remember always. The scrape of Nathan’s teeth, the velvet rasp of his tongue all reminded Ramiel of the last time he’d been with Xerxes. Dear Heaven, it had been so long… A hollow of sadness opened in spite of his intense arousal, and Ramiel forced those thoughts ruthlessly away, concentrating instead on the present, on each lick, each nibble, each finger stroke. Dropping his head back, Ramiel gave himself over to the tide of sensation. He gloried in the white-hot frenzy, a driving urgency that pounded through him, tightening each muscle and ligament. His eyelids fluttered, and blood roared in his ears. Low, bestial sounds fought their way out of his throat, his mouth opening and shutting as if he could not draw enough air into his overheated lungs. Sweat pooled at the base of his spine, behind his knees and in his scalp as he thrust into Nathan’s mouth. Gripping the edge of the bed in one hand, he blindly reached out with the other until his fingers tangled in Nathan silky locks. He held Nathan’s head, stilling him, and took over the pace. Dark bliss surged, driving Ramiel ever nearer to climax. 33

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A sudden, violent orgasm ripped through him, every muscle clenching spasmodically as the velvet darkness claimed him. *

*

*

Nathan tucked his blissed-out angel into the bed, easily maneuvering the big guy with his lupine strength. As he studied the lines of Ramiel’s handsome face, Nathan wondered exactly just what he had gotten himself into tonight. An angel. Who would have ever thought that he, Nathan Rhodes, beta werewolf, would bring home an angel? It was like some bad Eighties rom-com. There was definitely something eerily familiar about Ramiel, but Nathan couldn’t nail it down. He felt as though he’d met Ramiel before or, at the very least, had seen him around somewhere. That probably explained why he had this deep-seated urge to help the angel. Ramiel’s problems were enormous, and Nathan felt bad the big guy had to face them all alone. Ramiel was also severely handicapped without his powers. From what Nathan had heard tonight, he would be facing some seriously bad shit on his mission to find this Xerxes fellow and put a stop the thing that had brought him back. For good or bad, Nathan decided to remain with Ramiel. He dragged a hand through his hair. There was some casework that had to be re-arranged so Nathan could do this, but it could all wait until morning. Exhaustion was moving in, and all he wanted was his bed. He turned to leave when Ramiel twitched and shuddered in his sleep. Nathan was instantly at Ramiel’s side. He sat on the mattress and laid a hand on Ramiel’s shoulder. The touch seemed to quiet 34

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his restlessness, and the thought cheered Nathan. “Xerxes?” Ramiel muttered. Nathan drew back, sadness settling in his chest. So much for making a lasting impression. He started to stand when he felt the angel’s fingers wrap around his wrist. “You are leaving?” Ramiel asked softly, his grip tightening. “I was. Why?” Nathan looked down into those brilliant silver depths and knew if Ramiel asked him to stay, he’d be a sucker and do it. “I… I would like for you to remain. I do not wish to be alone with my dreams.” Nathan smiled. “Then scoot over.”

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CHAPTER 4 Nathan came awake to the sound of his front door opening. Only two other people had keys to his place and one of them, his sister, was on vacation in Hawaii. It could only mean that Ryanne was here. He listened to the striding steps and knew it was Ryanne for sure. So Nick had gone and blabbed to her and Michael. Fucking perfect. Ryanne Night-Walker was his best friend, his pack queen and his new boss. She was also the Crossroads Gatekeeper, a human chosen at birth to protect humanity from demons and other monsters from the Other Realm. Considering the situation with Ramiel, she would actually be very handy. He regretted not calling her in the first place He climbed out of bed as fast and carefully as he could, to 36

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avoid waking Ramiel. The angel deserved a little more sleep after all he’d been through. Snagging his jeans off the floor, Nathan tugged them on, then padded out into the hall. She was halfway up the stairs when he reached the living room. “Looking for me?” he called out. Ryanne looked around until she spotted him, then bounded back down and headed toward him. If there had been pack members around, he’d have greeted her by exposing his throat to show his subordinate status to the queen. It was just the two of them, though and Ryanne never stood on ceremony with her friends. “Why did I get a phone call from the dick during morning sex today?” She flashed him a brilliant, teasing smile. Nathan pulled a face. “Too much information.” “I’m kidding. He called late last night while I was working on a protection spell for one of our clients. Nick was pissed.” “I, uh, sort of kicked him out.” Nathan grimaced. “It got a bit ugly.” “Of course it did. This is Nick we’re talking about.” Grabbing his chin, she forced him to meet her dark eyes. “Tell me who are you and what have you done with my friend? It’s not like you to challenge.” Nathan shook his head as she dropped her hand. “I don’t know. I can’t believe me either. I don’t understand it.” “Could be it was just a case of being tired and irritable after a long day.” Nathan didn’t think that was it, but he stayed quiet. Ryanne continued to look at him, and he started to squirm. She had this intense way about her, like she could see people’s innermost selves. “I think there might be something more, but I 37

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can’t put my finger on it.” She stepped back abruptly and glanced around. “You sure he didn’t do something? Break a table, smash a chair?” “Yeah, I’m sure. He left, no big scene, I swear.” She bit her lip, studying him. “You give Nick the heave ho and he just leaves? Scary. So why did you call him and not me or Michael?” Nathan shrugged. “I didn’t want to bother you guys.” Ryanne slugged his arm. “You’re never a bother.” “Thanks.” “So where is this guy?” She glanced over his shoulder. “Guest room?” He nodded. “He’s, uh, still sleeping.” “Good. You want to talk out here or somewhere else?” “Here’s fine.” “Did you stay in there with him?” Nathan flashed her an irritated look. “Ryanne… ” “Sweetie, I’m sorry, but I worry about you, so I asked.” He kept his mouth shut for a second before answering. “Yeah.” She pursed her lips, but didn’t press the issue. Grateful she let the topic drop, at least for now, Nathan slung an arm about her shoulders. “How about we sit?” He walked her to the overstuffed couch at the far end of the living room. “What exactly is going on?” she burst out as soon they were seated. “How much did Nick tell you?” She twirled the end of her high ponytail. “He was pretty sketchy, more upset that he’d let a beta throw him out on his ear.” “Figures.” Nathan snorted. 38

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“He did say that you had a guy here claiming to be an angel and that you were, in his words, out of your ‘fucking mind.’” “Of course.” Nathan felt his cheeks burn as he remembered how Nick had accused him of bringing home another stray that would screw him over. “Hey.” She gave his knee a gentle squeeze. “Forget about Nick. What makes you believe this guy?” “First, did you see the charred trees on the way here?” “What trees?” Nathan gaped at her. “You had to have seen them.” “No. I saw a couple that looked like lightning strikes, but nothing serious.” “Shit, when I found Ramiel, the trees by the road were all blackened and smoking like something had crashed there.” Nathan threw up his hand. “I don’t know. Then he was just there, lying in the middle of it all, naked as a newborn. Ryanne instantly came alert, her brown eyes cold and intent like when she was on the hunt. “Wait. Did you say Ramiel?” “Yeah. Why? What do you know?” “I know that name.” She scooted to the edge of her seat and gave him the same look she normally gave to clients who brought huge problem cases to her. “I need you to tell me everything, right from the moment you met this guy. Don’t leave out the smallest detail.” Nathan’s Beast roiled beneath his skin at the urgency in his queen’s voice, and dread tickled at the base of his spine. He knew there was going to be trouble, but apparently he really didn’t have a clue. Launching into his story, Nathan succinctly gave her every detail, leaving nothing to chance. “Oh shit,” Ryanne breathed when he got to the part about the 39

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Celestial Council. She shot off the couch and began to pace like a caged leopard. She stopped, then whirled to face him. “Is there more?” He nodded. She closed her eyes as if in pain, then sighed. “Let’s hear it.” He resumed his tale, talking about Ramiel’s missing grace and the visit from Malachi. She let out a choked sound at the mention of the Fallen One and put her head in her hands. “Ryanne, what the hell is going on?” He started to push to his feet, but she stalked back to stand in front of him, her eyes full of anxiety. She knelt and clasped his hands in hers. “Oh sweetie, you have put yourself in the middle of something very bad. And I can’t help you.” She let go only to wrap her arms around him and pull him into a tight hug. Startled by her strange behavior, Nathan patted her back and let her hold him. After a minute or three she pulled back and gazed at him, her eyes full of sorrow, sympathy and love. “You don’t understand, hon. This is Celestial Council business and I can’t help you or Ramiel. As the Crossroads Gatekeeper, I’m forbidden. In fact, I should be gone right now.” Nathan cursed. Total FUBAR. She climbed to her feet, then went to snag her purse. “Ryanne, wait.” Nathan stood and went after her. “I can’t. I don’t know what happened to Ramiel, but if the Council catches me anywhere near this, I— ” “Greetings, Gatekeeper,” Ramiel called from the hallway. *

* 40

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Ramiel was very happy to see Ryanne Night-Walker. He had championed her unorthodox ways many times to his Council brethren. She was the strongest and longest-lived of the Gatekeepers. There was deep magic within her that she was only beginning to understand. He remembered when she had first come into this world. Such a light he had not seen since Xerxes. A true champion of Heaven, though the Council did not always see. “H-Holy Ramiel,” she stuttered. “Since I am no longer on the Council, you need not stand on ceremony. The poor woman hesitated, hovering between taking her leave and staying out of misplaced courtesy. She went with the latter and walked slowly toward Ramiel. Judging from the shocked expression on her face, it was good that he had put on the clothes Nathan’s friend had brought last night. He knew that seeing him nude would have made her even more uncomfortable. Ryanne approached with great caution and, Ramiel sensed, more than a fair amount of curiosity. He and his fellow seraphim had held sway over her life since she came into her powers as a teenager. He held out his hand to her in a gesture of acceptance and friendship. She stood there, gazing at him, her brown eyes wide. Then to his relief and delight, she clasped his hand. “Wow,” she exclaimed. “You really are here.” She backed up, and Ramiel could tell that she was trying to understand what she was witnessing. “So, I understand that you’re here as some kind of punishment.” “Indeed.” “You also, um, got separated from your grace.” “That is also true. I must find it and soon.” 41

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She nodded slowly. “A lot of, uh, creatures will be after it.” “Yes. Which is why I am fortunate that Nathan has agreed to help me.” “I was hoping you would help us,” Nathan finally joined the conversation. She turned to look at the young wolf. “I can’t.” “So you said.” Nathan sounded angry. “I don’t understand. Ramiel was on the Council, he was one of them. Surely that counts for something.” Ramiel looked at him. “The truth is that I am no longer a seraph and, as such, the Gatekeeper is not bound to aid me. In point of fact, she is forbidden. By providing aid to me as the Gatekeeper, she herself could be punished.” A stricken look came into Nathan’s eyes, but Ramiel watched as he suppressed it ruthlessly. “I guess this means we are on our own, Ramiel.” His voice was steady, belying the fear that Ramiel sensed was just below the surface. “Wait a minute.” Ramiel turned back to the Gatekeeper. The shock of the situation was no longer so apparent on face. She seemed calmer, her expression thoughtful. “You are no longer on the Council, but they made you human and, as such, you sort of fall under my jurisdiction as far as demons. Maybe I can’t directly help you find your grace. However, I can help you fight off the Other Realm beings that will fight you for it. Plus, Nathan here”—She turned and smiled at the wolf— “is one of my pack, so I am bound to help him.” Nathan let out a joyful yelp and thrust his fist into the air. “Yes!” He picked her up into his arms and danced around with her. “Put me down,” she laughed. 42

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“Ryanne, you have the most wicked awesome brain, I swear.” “Indeed,” Ramiel agreed when they both turned their attention back to him. “You always were quite the most unconventional of Gatekeepers.” Ryanne sobered. “Thank you, Hol… er, Ramiel. That means a lot to me.” “You are most welcome, Ryanne Night-Walker. She glanced from Ramiel to Nathan. “How about we put a plan together?” *

*

*

“I have some things in the Cherokee you’re going to need, Nate.” Nathan walked Ryanne out to her vehicle. She’d spent the last hour warding his house for protection and educating him on how to keep himself and Ramiel safe as they hunted for his grace. Things like what to look for when demons were present, aside from the obvious sulfur smell. Apparently some upper level demons could mask the odor. Ramiel had also been a great font of information, sharing his knowledge of angels. It was enough that Nathan’s head was about to explode from information overload. And he’d thought that he had learned a lot in the few months he’d been working paranormal cases with her. Now, to top things off, Ryanne was about to lend him some stuff from her magical arsenal. She unlocked the back of her SUV and proceeded to open the various custom compartments. It never failed to amaze Nathan, the sheer volume of weaponry and assorted accouterments stowed in here. He’d only used a handful of these things when necessary, preferring the natural weapons of a werewolf. 43

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“First thing is to load up on salt.” “I know that much. I’ve gone with you more than a few times.” She gave Nathan a repressive look. “Just listen, okay? I know you’ve been doing this awhile, but it always helps to go over things again and again.” Nathan felt guilty for his outburst. Ryanne really was only looking out for him. “It’ll keep out ninety percent of the baddies. Rock salt is good because you can get it in such large quantities. Remember, salt not just the obvious windows and doors, but other entrances no matter how small, like we’ll do here. It’s a total pain at hotels and motels, but I’d rather pay the extra cleaning fee and be safe. You can also kick the salt power up a notch with these.” She handed him a purple silk bag. He peeked inside and saw several black crystals about the size of golf balls. “Those are black tourmaline. They repel negative energy and strengthen barriers.” Ryanne handed him various other crystals and stones, along with several amulets and blades in various materials. “Uh, I’m a werewolf, not a swordsman.” She gave him a sober look. “Not everything coming at you will be stopped with fang and claw. Michael learned that the hard way.” Nathan felt bad for trying to make light of the situation. He remembered all too well the demon that had nearly cost the pack their leader. It was one of the main reasons Nathan had started to work with Ryanne. “I’m sure Ramiel told you that you’ll need to look for places where there have been a lot of supposed miracles,” she said, locking the lid of a small box. “Yeah. I’ve got a program on my laptop that will help me track 44

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those. I’m going to call up a map and mark those places so we can start with the closest ones first. Hopefully, we’ll be able to stay in Lake County.” “I honestly don’t know exactly how angelic grace travels, but it seems to me that it would not be far from Ramiel. You could have to go into Porter County or Chicago. What worries me is the time factor. Ramiel’s grace could have been here before him for, say, decades.” Nathan’s eyes widened in surprise. “Ramiel didn’t say anything about that.” “He’s an angel and their concept of time runs different than ours. I don’t think it’s been that long because I would have gotten wind of miracles, but it’s just something to consider.” “I’ll factor that into my program, too.” “Good. Uh, one last thing.” Ryanne reached into a side compartment and pulled out a medium-sized blue plastic storage container. Opening it, she dug out a piece of quartz the size of a baseball that had a smooth side and rough side. “What’s this?” “Seer Stone Quartz. I think you’ll need it. There’s something different in your auric light. I don’t know.” His eyebrows shot up in surprise. “What are you talking about?” “Just that your yellow aura is a little dimmer, with a hint of green and grey. Green is the color of awakening, but grey is depression. Not too common. It may also explain your odd dominant behavior.” Ryanne’s words startled him. He stood there, dumbfounded, as she pressed the crystal into his nerveless hand and closed his fingers around it. 45

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“Take it, for my sake if nothing else. It helps one remember past times and gives one insight into the afterlife.” With that cryptic comment hanging in the air, they took everything into the garage and loaded some of it into Nathan’s Jeep Commander. The rest they brought into the house, then warded all the windows, doors and other possible entrances. Nathan walked Ryanne back to her vehicle, the weight of what he was about to do heavy on his shoulders. “Do you think I’m doing the right thing, Ryanne?” he asked, suddenly anxious to know if he was on the right path or if he was just out his mind. She gave him a considered look. “You are doing something that you feel deep down in your heart is right. You may have doubts, but you are, in the end, going through with this. I wish to God I could help you. You certainly are wading into one unholy mess, but I have a feeling you’re ready for it and that it will maybe give you some answers to question you didn’t know you had.” He hauled her against him in a bear hug. “Thank you for always knowing just what to say to me.” She squeezed him tight, then drew back. “You’re welcome. Call me anytime on this trip. I can provide answers even if I’m not actually there.” He smiled. “Will do.” She gave one last look. “Hey, none of my business, but I can see you falling for him. Just remember, even though he’s here on punishment, the Council could snatch him back at anytime.” “I know.” “You think you do. Just be careful, all right?” “Yes, Mom.” Ryanne climbed in her Cherokee and drove off, Nathan 46

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watched until she disappeared around the first bend, then went into the house. Time to get this party started.

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CHAPTER 5 Nathan caught a glimpse of Ramiel in the window as he turned to head back into the house. The angel had been pensive the entire time as Ryanne had helped the two of them create a search grid for possible locations to Ramiel’s grace and as they had discussed the beings that might be on the hunt. He stepped inside, locked the door and moved into the living room. “Hey, you want something to eat before we get started on mapping those locations?” Ramiel turned to him, a searing intensity that turned his silver eyes the color of storm clouds. “Nathan, I… Your… ” He broke off, seeming to struggle for what it was he wanted to say. Nathan laid a hand on Ramiel’s shoulder. “Are you all right?” he asked and gave a gentle squeeze. 48

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The angel continued to stare for a minute, then reached up a hand to cover Nathan’s. His gentle touch sent an electric jolt through Nathan’s system. He drifted just a bit closer. This time Ramiel twined his fingers with Nathan’s and held both hands to his body. “Nathan,” Ramiel’s voice was thick with emotion. “Last night you gave me a wondrous gift. I cannot begin to tell you what your affection and your belief has meant to me. I have been”—He swallowed—“alone since Xerxes’ death, and because I could not bear the pain, I chose to be solitary.” Hurt for Ramiel welled inside Nathan as he listened. He’d been on edge all day, wondering just what Ramiel had thought of their encounter last night and if he had thought of Nathan at all. That maybe he’d been focused on his lover, Xerxes, and the past, instead of the here and now. Nathan tugged his hand from Ramiel’s grasp and hauled the angel into him. He wrapped his arms tight about those broad shoulders and held on. Ramiel hesitated at first, then returned Nathan’s embrace. He could not imagine such a depth of pain and loneliness. Turning his face, he nuzzled into Ramiel’s neck, breathing in the intoxicating warm scent. He felt a tug on his hair and realized that the angel was stroking his hair, his fingers tangling in the locks, massaging his scalp. They stood there for long moments, absorbing each other’s presence until finally Nathan drew back. “That time is over. You have me right here, right now.” Ramiel nodded slowly as desire darkened his gaze. “I want to be with you, Nathan, I want to take you, to bury myself inside you until all I can remember is your face, your body. I am tired of this torment.” 49

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Nathan shivered at Ramiel’s words. The angel truly did want to be with him. He cradled Ramiel’s face in his hands and kissed him. They kissed and kissed, savoring and exploring, letting their hands roam the hard planes of their bodies until they were both shivering with need, their breath stuttering. He tore his mouth from Ramiel’s. “Shit,” he wheezed. “I think we need to take this to my room.” Capturing Ramiel’s hand, Nathan tugged him toward the staircase. “Come on.” Ramiel stood his ground for a moment, almost like he was afraid this was a dream. Nathan tugged a little harder, and this time Ramiel followed. They made it up in record time and fell on each other soon as they hit the bedroom. Grunts, heaving breaths and moans punctuated the air. They ground against each other, their erections pressing together. Nathan ripped the tee shirt from Ramiel’s body in his haste to see and taste more of the big angel. He slid his hands over the magnificent golden skin, reveling in the hotness of the firm flesh and the way the muscles quivered beneath his touch. He followed his hands with his tongue, licking a trail across the six-pack abs. Nathan kissed his way back to pay special attention to the dusky pink disks of Ramiel’s nipples. He licked around them, trilling each with the tip of his tongue. “Ah!” Ramiel gasped as Nathan ruthlessly worked each peak. Nathan skimmed his fingers down until he grasped the waistband of the sweat pants Ramiel wore. He wanted to feel Ramiel’s cock. The angel’s hands closed over Nathan’s wrists. “Not yet. It is my turn. “ Ramiel shoved Nathan onto the bed and fell beside him. He grasped at the hem of Nathan’s shirt and pulled it up over his head. 50

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Nathan growled as Ramiel’s tongue swept across his stomach, then dipped into his belly-button. He kissed his way up Nathan’s torso, nuzzling each delineation of muscle. As Ramiel’s hands worked free the buttons of Nathan’s jeans, Nathan’s dick throbbed. Ramiel shoved a hand inside the open fly, into Nathan’s briefs, and grasped his cock. He wrapped his fingers around the shaft and pumped. Fire roared through Nathan and he bucked up. “God!” His balls tightened as Ramiel continued his relentless attentions, thumbing the weeping slit with each upstroke. Ramiel tugged until Nathan caught his rhythm and thrust his hips, fucking Ramiel’s hand. His balls drew tighter and tighter. Then Ramiel bent and sucked Nathan’s penis into his mouth, all the way to the root. Nathan’s head thrashed, his hands clutching the sheets. His world narrowed to his cock and Ramiel’s mouth. The angel’s head bobbed up and down, ruthlessly driving Nathan higher and higher. “Gonna shoot,” he wheezed. Ramiel pulled off and chuckled. “Not until I am inside you.” Nathan almost swallowed his tongue at the promise in Ramiel’s words. He was so unbelievably hard, he was half afraid he’d bust his nut before he got his jeans off. He closed his eyes and thought about baseball box scores until the immediate urge to explode receded. “Why are you lying there?” Ramiel asked. Nathan felt the bed dip and his eyelids shot open. A totally naked Ramiel loomed over him. “I believe that you should be unclothed for this next portion. Lift your hips.” He grasped the waist of Nathan’s jeans and briefs, tugging them over his hips and down his thighs. Nathan’s cock 51

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sprang free, bobbing in the cool air. “On your hands and knees.” Nathan’s penis twitched at the authority in Ramiel’s voice. “There’s some slick and condoms there.” He pointed at the nightstand to the right. “Condoms?” Ramiel arched a brow. “Yeah, sheaths that go over your cock so you don’t catch any diseases.” Ramiel looked horrified. Nathan smiled. “I’ll even put it on for you. Crawling to the bedside, Nathan jerked open the drawer and got what he needed. He returned to the foot of the bed where Ramiel waited patiently, his cock still standing at attention. “Here we go.” *

*

*

Ramiel watched intently as Nathan opened a small package and took out a pale, thin sheath of material. He had never seen the likes before and was unsure of the experience. But he wanted to be inside Nathan’s tight hole and if he had to wear one of these condoms, then so be it. “Half the fun is getting the thing on,” Nathan said. Ramiel grunted as Nathan gave his shaft a few pumps. Then he took the sheath, placed it on the tip of his shaft and rolled it on. Ramiel rose to the balls of his feet as Nathan worked the condom on. He clenched his jaw as sweat dripped along his hairline. “All done.” His breath whistled as he fought to control the urge to climax. 52

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“Now for me.” Ramiel stared as Nathan opened a small bottle and handed it to him. “Some lubricant to ease the way.” Ramiel squeezed out some clear liquid onto his fingers and rubbed them together. It felt like oil, but he knew it wasn’t. “Lie back,” he ordered. Nathan lay on his back and raised his knees. The sight of Nathan’s pinkish hole sent a spike of arousal jolting through him. He reached down and worked his moistened fingers into Nathan’s ass, slowly twisting and widening the channel. Ramiel felt the clench of Nathan’s inner muscles as he caressed him. Finally, he could take it no longer and lined his cock up to the heated entrance. “Feel me as I push deep inside you, invade you,” he commanded as he stared down into Nathan’s dark liquid eyes, then drove through the tight ring of muscle. Slow and deep he pushed, reveling in the way Nathan’s body massaged and squeezed his. It had been so very long. “I do not think I can last,” Ramiel rasped, staring down into Nathan’s beautiful face. “It’s okay.” He smiled, stroking a hand along Ramiel’s jaw. “I don’t think I can either. It’s been a while for me, too.” Ramiel wanted to cry at the tender words. He lifted Nathan’s legs, draping them over his shoulders, then withdrew to the tip. With a guttural cry, he shoved all the way inside, balls deep. Nathan’s body tightened around his cock, a pulsing that Ramiel knew he’d been missing, been craving, for eons. He felt as though he come home. In and out. Thrust, retreat. He shifted, then angled Nathan’s 53

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hips so the wolf received the most pleasure from this dance. Broken, harsh cries emanated from Nathan as Ramiel pounded into him. Nathan shook. He reached between them and started pumping his own cock in time to Ramiel’s thrusts. “Want you to stay inside me.” Nathan cried, his fist working faster and faster as he climbed toward his completion. Ramiel wanted nothing more than to grant Nathan’s request, but it was too much and he gave himself over to the surging tide of orgasm. Liquid heat shot across his chest as a harsh groan sounded. He glanced down and saw Nathan’s face frozen in a rictus of tortured ecstasy. Pumping hard and quick, Ramiel’s balls tightened with the need to shoot. Climax roared through him at last, like a blaze in a dry forest. He held himself still as his body spurted, then he collapsed onto Nathan as he shook and trembled, his muscles disintegrating in the aftermath. He roused enough to disengage, then settled back into his lover’s embrace. Nathan stroked his hair as Ramiel drifted into a deep, satisfied sleep for the first time in an age.

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CHAPTER 6 “We are on the right path.” Ramiel’s voice held a hint of excitement for the first time since they had started this quest the day before. Every town they had hit had been a bust. Ramiel had grown quiet, barely managing three syllables when they had finally stopped for lunch. “You’re sure?” “Yes. There is a sense of rightness within me that is quite faint, yet expanding.” Nathan kept his eyes on the road and did his damnedest to ignore the pang of disappointment in his gut. He shouldn’t feel this way, he should be happy for his lover. Yet, he couldn’t help himself. Once Ramiel got his grace back, he would find this Xerxes and leave. 55

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Misery had become Nathan’s best friend. In little more than a day, he’d grown to care for the angel, liked having the guy in bed beside him, hell with him all the time, period. Such a minute amount of time and already Ramiel’s presence in his life was like a light being switched on. Everything seemed brighter. And why that did not terrify the shit out of him, Nathan couldn’t say. He only knew he was not ready for Ramiel to be gone. A shadow moved in his peripheral vision. Glancing out the window, toward the trees, Nathan could tell whatever it was moved at the same speed as they did. His Beast rose to the fore, an animal sensing danger. “We got trouble.” Nathan stepped on the accelerator, hoping to outrun the thing, but the shadow kept pace. “They are Familiars.” “They?” Nathan swiveled his gaze to Ramiel and caught sight of a similar shadow on the opposite side of the road. “Shit.” “Do not concern yourself. Familiars are low-ranking servant demons. They cannot harm us, only keep pace. They have been sent by their masters to watch us.” “So they’re going to stick to us like sweaty underwear until their owners figure out what they want?” “Your imagery escapes me.” “Never mind.” He glanced from left to right. “What should I do? Keep driving?” “Yes. You will not be able to, ah, ‘shake them’ as you humans are fond of saying. They are too fast. Their masters will confront us when we arrive in this town of South of the Bend.” “South Bend,” Nathan automatically corrected as he concentrated on the road ahead and tried not to stare at the demons. He hated being herded like this, waiting for an ambush. And that 56

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was a completely alpha thought. Another thing about Ramiel, since he’d crashed into Nathan’s life… Nathan now had some serious alpha tendencies. He wondered if maybe this new behavior was some leftover angel mojo affecting him by being in Ramiel’s presence. Like when Malachi’s presence had raised his anger, jealousy and lust. He’d have to ask Ramiel. “How much farther?” Nathan glanced at the GPS. “Not too much. We’ll be there shortly.” A shadow fell across his vision and he sped up, impatient to shake these bastards. *

*

*

“It is here.” Ramiel sounded on edge as he scanned the overeager crowd, all pushing forward to reach the charismatic preacher who’d been performing “miracles” at this storefront church in South Bend. “Okay. Hold your horses.” Nathan was ready to scream, but reined in the urge, knowing that giving into temper would not get them to the front any faster. He craned his neck, looking around for any sign of the Familiars, their masters, or other demon types. “I must get up there. We have to remove these people.” Irritation edged the angel’s voice and he sounded like he was getting to the end of his rope. “Can you not change and frighten them away?” Nathan cocked a brow. “Oh yeah, let me go all wolf and leave you unprotected. I’m a beta, I can change at will, but I can’t come back human for hours.” Ramiel flashed him a look that said he was clearly tempted to 57

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let Nathan go tooth and claw. “Look, let’s just go back to the Jeep and figure out another way. It’s here, it’s not going to run away,” Nathan paused. “Or is it?” The angel glared, then strode out, heedless of the people in his way. More than a few curses followed in his wake, evidence that even though these people were here to experience God’s work, they sure didn’t mind taking his name in vain. Nathan waited a few minutes to let Ramiel calm down, then strolled after him. He was in no hurry to be shut up inside the Jeep with the Sullen Giant. Nathan’s lupine senses kicked in as he stepped through the glass door and into the cool breeze. He stopped. His Beast scented danger and rose to the surface, just under his skin. He glanced down and saw his hand ripple. His teeth lengthened and he scented the air. The air held the scent of human, leaves, canine and… Sulfur. “Ramiel!” he snarled as he caught sight of his lover fighting a man and a woman, both in white suits. With Nathan’s preternatural speed, he was at the scene in an instant, jumping into the fray. He snagged the woman as she charged Ramiel and tossed her into the street. She rebounded faster than Nathan could blink. “Stay out of this, Wolf,” she hissed, forming a red energy ball in her hand. Nathan jumped to the side as she launched it at him. It hit the Cadillac across from Nathan’s Jeep and exploded the engine block. The hood sailed into the air. He heard people running toward them, drawn by the fracas. Sirens sounded in the distance and the demons vanished. “Fuck.” 58

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Fishing his keys out of his back pocket, he pressed the button on the fob and unlocked his vehicle. “Let’s move, Ramiel.” Nathan climbed inside and started the motor. Then he noticed the angel was not with him. The scent of fresh blood tainted the air. Nathan glanced around, then caught a glimpse of Ramiel in the passenger side mirror. He lay on the ground, blood pooling on his shirt. Nathan’s heart stuttered and he tore out of the Jeep. “No.” He reached the angel’s side. Collapsing to the ground, he felt for a pulse, nearly crying in relief when he detected the faint but constant rhythm. “You’ve got to get him out of here. I’ll cover you.” Nathan glanced up at an overstuffed, sweaty man holding the fluorescent pink leash of a tiny poodle. He was staring intently at Nathan from the folds of his face, and the look in his eyes was all too familiar. “M-Malachi?” Nathan croaked. “In the flesh.” He glanced at himself distastefully. “All three hundred and seventy pounds of it. I hate emergencies.” “I—” “Come on, Wolfie, you’ve gotta haul ass. That ambulance and squad car are only a couple of minutes away. Those two will be back shortly, as well, with a little more firepower. Go on. I’ll find you later.” In a daze, Nathan pushed to his feet, then bent and hefted the unconscious Ramiel into his arms. He stumbled, nearly bashing Ramiel’s head on the door. Even with his lupine strength, the angel’s size made carrying him a challenge. “That poor man,” someone exclaimed. 59

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“Hey mister, the ambulance is coming. Just wait.” Nathan ignored them and wrestled Ramiel into the passenger seat. He stared down at the handsome face, pale and bruised, and gingerly stroked a hand over the angel’s cheek. “Don’t you leave me.” In spite of the chaos that continued to whirl around him, Nathan managed to get himself into the Jeep, start the motor and speed down the street in the opposite direction of the sirens. He didn’t know South Bend, but knew he had to find some place safe, where he could check Ramiel’s wounds and figure out what the hell to do next. He drove toward the toll road and found the perfect spot, a divey motel boasting cable, hourly rates and encouraging people to try their new heated “POO,” the “L” having fallen off the sign at some point. The desk manager was a misshapen lump of grease with an unlit cigar clamped firmly between his yellow teeth. Nathan wanted to vomit, but the guy asked no questions. Simply took Nathan’s cash and handed him a key. Climbing back into the Jeep, Nathan checked Ramiel’s pulse once more, then drove down the lot, following the black room numbers until he found number twenty-seven. After Nathan managed to get Ramiel into the room, he went back for the salt, weapons and the crystals Ryanne had provided, as well as the first aid kit. He quickly salted the door and the window, charging the salt with the quartz. Next, he pulled out the chalk Ryanne had given him and drew ancient protective symbols on the walls and ceiling. With the magical barriers in place, Nathan turned his attention to Ramiel. Nathan dug out the medical supplies and set to work on 60

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Ramiel’s wound. Cutting away the bloody shirt, Nathan winced at the blackened and broken skin. Angry red lines snaked out from the wound like a slow moving poison. He rummaged through the kit and took out some alcohol pads and antibiotic cream. Wounds were wounds he hoped, magical or otherwise, and set to work cleaning the affected area. “It… not work,” Ramiel slurred. “Hey,” Nathan said softly, feathering a hand through the fine hairs at Ramiel’s temple. He wanted to cry at the pain in his lover’s eyes. “You just rest and let me take care of this.” The angel shook his head. “Need m-magic.” He swallowed. “Human medicine… not help me.” Nathan’s heart sank as he glanced down and realized that the wound was getting even worse. Ramiel groaned, his hand white-knuckling the bed sheet as he rode out a spasm of pain. Nathan grabbed his other hand and held it tightly. “Okay, baby. You just hang on.” He needed magical help, fast. Ryanne! He snagged his phone and hit speed dial. It rang and rang, then went to voice mail. “Son of a bitch!” Nathan roared. What the fuck was he supposed to do now? Panic clawed at his insides, his Beast pacing in his mind’s eye as he realized just how fucked this situation was. “They’ve poisoned him with Dark Light.” Nathan whirled, snarling at the extremely handsome man in a paramedic uniform. “Malachi?” “Indeed and in a much better suit of clothes, I might add.” “How did you—” “Salt, schmalt,” Malachi waved a hand dismissively, sauntered 61

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over and stared down at Ramiel, who was writhing on the bed, muttering incomprehensibly. The Fallen One had a far away, almost contemplative, look in his eyes. “There’s very few things on this Earth that could keep me from getting inside.” He raised his arms and held his palms over Ramiel like he was scanning him. “He needs his grace.” “It’s here, but we couldn’t get that close.” Nathan gently rubbed Ramiel’s knee, trying to soothe his trembling body. “The preacher may still be in town, I don’t know. But I don’t think I could get Ramiel to stand, let alone walk out of here. I could carry him, I suppose, but if he isn’t conscious, he won’t be able to call his grace forth from the preacher, should we catch up with the guy again.” Nathan pinched the bridge of his nose in a vain effort to squash the fear and frustration threatening to overwhelm him. “There’s always a way, my dear Wolf.” Nathan’s head shot up at Malachi’s words. “What are you talking about?” He definitely did not like the glimmer in the Fallen One’s eyes. Malachi arched a brow. “I can slow the poison so that Ramiel will be strong enough to take his grace back.” Hope warred with caution in Nathan’s gut. “What’s in it for you?” Malachi flashed a toothy grin. “Just a small favor.” Nathan’s Beast paced within him, sensing the danger in cooperating with Malachi. “How small?” “One teeny-tiny, itsy-bitsy little favor.” “No!” Ramiel surged up, his eyes fever-bright, chest heaving. Nathan gently pushed the angel back and held tight to his upper arms, restraining him. “Calm down. You’ll make yourself sicker.” 62

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“You m-must not,” he rasped. Glaring at the Fallen One, he fought Nathan’s hold. “It is nothing more than a trick.” “Come now, Ramiel,” Malachi chided. “You know me better than that. I don’t trick, merely trip up with a few twists.” “Nathan, please.” Ramiel’s gaze held Nathan’s, the pleading in the silver depths tearing at his heart. “But, I don’t know how to make you better, baby.” Tears stung Nathan’s eyes. Ramiel was getting weaker and there wasn’t a damned thing he could do except make a bargain with a Fallen One that would surely lead to more problems. “You’d better decide, Wolfie. Ramiel’s not going to last very much longer, and if he dies now without his grace, he’ll be a shade. Formless, voiceless and forever hungry for touch, for food, for the company of another.” “Shut up,” Nathan growled. Son of a bitch, he had to think. He glanced at Ramiel, who was now a pallid gray, his skin boiling to the touch. His chest rattled as his breathing grew more difficult. Nathan knew what he had to do. He could not let Ramiel die, not when it was within his power to save him. He looked up at Malachi. “What do I have to do?” *

*

*

Ramiel came awake, fluttering his eyes open and stared up at a dirty white ceiling bathed in bright morning sunlight. His other senses returned as if being lit one by one like torches on battlements. He swallowed, but his mouth was dry as the land around the Dead Sea. Pushing gingerly to his elbows, he slowly looked around. It was apparent he was in some kind of smallish room, a motel he believed. Nathan had made mention of these 63

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establishments when they first set out on their search. “You’re awake.” Ramiel shifted his gaze as the mattress dipped and Nathan sat next to him on the edge of the bed. The gentle, relieved smile the young wolf flashed as he brushed Ramiel’s hair back from his forehead sent a pang through Ramiel and made him think of Xerxes even more strongly. “What,” he started, then cleared his throat. “What happened?” A shadow darkened Nathan’s bright eyes. “You were really sick. Poisoned with Dark Light.” Ramiel’s stomach tightened as images from yesterday flitted through his mind. “Malachi was here. What did he say?” Nathan looked away, like it had become difficult for him to meet Ramiel’s gaze. In that instant he knew something very bad had happened. “Did he—” He broke off, unable to form the question. “He slowed the poison,” Nathan burst out, glaring at him as if he dared Ramiel to say another word. “He saved you.” In that moment Ramiel knew his lover had agreed to whatever the Fallen One had wanted. “What promise did Malachi exact from you?” The wolf remained silent and still, dropping his gaze. Moments passed, slow and tense as Ramiel waited to see if Nathan would admit to anything. Nathan blew out a sharp breath, then looked at Ramiel. “You were dying and I had no choice.” Ramiel fisted his hand in Nathan’s shirt and hauled the wolf toward him. “You did have a choice. I do not matter when it comes to your soul. Is that what he made you promise? Your soul?” Hurt, anger and resentment swirled in the depths of Nathan’s 64

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eyes. “I did what I had to do to save your ass.” “You did not save me, only slowed the advance and halted the immediate effects. Only my grace can truly save me from the Dark Light.” His grip on Nathan slackened. “I know,” Nathan said. “But at least now I can get you to your grace. You were in and out of consciousness, in no condition to go anywhere. You would never have made it to the preacher. Who by the way will be back at that church tonight.” He stared at Ramiel for a long moment, a sad smile curving his lips. “Besides, you have to live to find your Xerxes.” A soft crack sounded deep within Ramiel, like a branch being snapped from its tree. He was overwhelmed by the sadness that welled up within him at Nathan’s noble sacrifice. Ramiel could not bear for anything to happen to this beautiful, bright spirit he had come to care for. Wrapping his arms about Nathan, he crushed the wolf to him and buried his face against Nathan’s neck. “Oh my sweet love,” he whispered against Nathan’s heated skin. “You have no idea what you have done. I would give all that I am to break your unholy pledge.” Nathan’s arms slipped around Ramiel and he pressed a kiss to his shoulder. “I couldn’t stand by and let you die. You mean too much to me. We’ll finish this and worry about the rest later.” They held each other for a long time until finally Ramiel’s embrace slackened. Nathan slowly drew back, then stood. “Are you hungry? I have a couple of breakfast burritos, and if you’re not into that, some pancakes with bacon.” Ramiel kept quiet and allowed Nathan to change the subject. He hated that he had been so vulnerable that he had left Nathan to be taken advantage of by Malachi. He knew it in the marrow of his 65

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human bones that the Fallen One had cornered the werewolf into giving Malachi exactly what he needed. And there was nothing he could do at the moment. His stomach growled. Best to take care of his immediate needs. He would need all the strength he could muster. “I believe I will have these pancakes and bacon.” Nathan flashed a relieved grinned as he brought Ramiel a white container along with some utensils. “Breakfast is served.”

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CHAPTER 7 “Jesus is my Lord… ” Nathan glanced about the singing crowd. So far so good. He tightened his hold on Ramiel, the angel’s weakened state providing the perfect cover as they moved through the throng of people to the front of the small church. “Care to make a small donation, brother?” He turned at the question and saw an affable looking man dressed in somber black with a collection basket. “For Preacher Daniel’s mission, of course.” The guy smiled, an expectant air about him. “Absolutely, friend.” Nathan made a big production of steadying Ramiel, then fished for his wallet. He had a feeling that this donation was a necessary step in getting closer to the preacher 67

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and didn’t want to draw too much attention just yet by not putting out some cash. Tossing forty onto the growing pile, he slipped his arm back around Ramiel’s waist. “These people are moving quite slow,” Ramiel whispered, impatience underscoring each word. “I know, but unless you want to draw the eye of every person between us and the good preacher, we need to keep moving with the line.” Truth be told, Nathan was starting feel more than a little uncomfortable. He wondered how long he could stay inside the church in light of his deal with the Fallen One. The slow progress continued for another twenty minutes or so, when Nathan and Ramiel finally emerged at the front of the line. Nathan watched the preacher lay hands on a young woman. He spoke in stentorian tones, invoking the name of the Lord, then kissed her forehead. With a small cry, she dropped to her knees, the crutches she had collapsing like a crumbling erector set. When the men surrounding Preacher Daniel made to help her, she waved them off and pushed to her feet in slow, trembling movements. The crowd rejoiced as she turned to face them, and the look of utter joy on her face made Nathan feel like crying himself. “Come forward, please.” Nathan started as one of the men that had been standing beside the preacher walked toward them, hand outstretched. It was their turn at last. He led Ramiel to the stairs at the front of the altar, but instead of letting Nathan help him the rest of the way, Ramiel pushed away from Nathan and went up the stairs. Nathan saw the preacher freeze, his face a mask of disbelief and bitter acceptance. In that moment Ramiel grabbed the man’s upper arms, hauled him close and kissed him. A shocked silence descended, a surreal moment of unnatural 68

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stillness that Nathan knew he would never forget. Then the crowd came alive like someone had pressed a button. The security team shoved past Nathan, but it was too late. Incandescent celestial light emanated from the preacher enveloping both the man and Ramiel. It expanded and filled the room. People cried out as the light became brighter than a hundred spotlights. Nathan stood there stupidly, his vision clearing enough for him to see a brighter light emerge from the preacher. This was in the shape of a glowing creature. He could make out a head, a torso and… wings. Six pairs of huge wings spread out like a glorious giant bird as it twisted its way out of the holy man’s body like a caterpillar in a chrysalis. When it hovered above Ramiel and the minister, it reached out its dozen arms to embrace the angel. Ramiel was reunited with his grace, and it was the most glorious, breathtaking sight Nathan had ever known. He fell to his knees, stunned by the sheer beauty. Peace, happiness, love and joy filled him. He could feel them not as emotions, but more like they were living, breathing creatures writhing through him, embracing his essence. He didn’t know how long he knelt there, but he suddenly realized that the light was gone and the feelings that had been so overwhelming were now but faint shadows of what they’d been just moments, or was that hours, ago? A great wailing assaulted his ears, and he glanced to see the once-graced preacher in a weeping, forlorn mess on the floor. He seemed to be the only one moving, everyone else appeared frozen, like someone had pressed “Pause” on the DVD player. A presence drifted over him, and Nathan looked up into Ramiel’s eyes. The angel’s face held an expression of rapture, serenity and knowing. He stroked Nathan’s hair, then grasped his 69

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shoulders and raised him up to stand. “Xerxes.” The name echoed through Nathan’s mind as Ramiel sealed his lips to Nathan’s mouth in a tender, passionate kiss. No! The denial welled up inside Nathan, a sudden furious force as Ramiel’s mouth moved over his. He couldn’t be this Xerxes. No fucking way. How? Nathan James Rhodes was his name, he was the oldest child of John and Amelia Rhodes, big brother to Candace. He was a beta werewolf and member of the St. John pack. He knew his goddamned personal history. He shoved away from Ramiel’s embrace and the angel stumbled back. Shock lit Ramiel’s handsome features. “I do not understand. You are the lost love I have been seeking. Xerxes, we are together once more.” “Don’t call me that name.” Nathan stood there, anger and panic washing through him. He didn’t know what the hell to think. Know Ramiel? How could he? The angel had crash-landed in his life a few days ago. And now they were in the middle of a freakin’ church having this… this discussion or whatever it was, of Nathan being some reincarnated long lost love. It made no sense at all. His Beast was pacing back and forth in his mind’s eye, and Nathan knew he had to get out of there. The urge to tear and bite and claw winged through him and it was definitely time to leave. Before he could move, whatever spell had been on the people here had worn off. They swarmed around Ramiel, touching him. He shrugged them off as best he could, but they were starting to overwhelm him. Nathan knew he could not leave Ramiel to his own devices, so 70

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he reached out and snagged the angel. He shoved at people as they grabbed and touched, their hands everywhere. Finally, he reached the door and pushed outside into the cool night air. “Can you run?” he growled at Ramiel. “Indeed. I no longer bear the effects of the Dark Light.” “Let’s roll.” They ran to the Jeep and got inside as the crowd in the church burst outside. He gunned the engine and sped away, making several turns to avoid being followed. When he judged it safe, Nathan pointed the Jeep toward the toll road and headed for home. The decision to pack up before they left for the church had been one of Nathan’s better ones. He had not relished staying there after Ramiel had been reunited with his grace. It would be a risky drive home, but if they only had the Familiars follow them, then Nathan knew he could make the safety of his house. “I—” Ramiel started. “Do not talk right now.” Nathan white-knuckled the steering wheel, fighting the urge not to tell Ramiel to shut the fuck up. Shit! He felt like he was being swallowed into a black hole. “I need to think and I can’t do that with you asking questions.” “Yes.” Ramiel wisely remained silent, and Nathan continued to drive, blotting out all thought as he stared at the road ahead. *

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Two hours later, they arrived at Nathan’s, and Ramiel watched as the wolf stalked about, checking the barriers the Crossroads Gatekeeper had put into place. Ramiel followed at a discreet distance, his gaze never straying from Xerxes’ reincarnated form. 71

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It seemed inconceivable, yet Ramiel had indeed been brought to this Realm of In-Between to his lost love’s side. Yet, the knowledge that the young wolf was Xerxes pained him as well. He could never take Xerxes back to the Elysian Fields, now. He had been reborn as a being of magic, a cross between a human and an animal, no longer worthy to reside in paradise. He would be a shade when he died or end up in Purgatory. Ramiel would no longer be able to comfort himself that Xerxes had eternal happiness. Whoever had re-incarnated Ramiel’s lover had gone to great lengths to ensure that Xerxes would be punished as well. Whose heart bore such hatred? He would have to use his grace to read Xer— Nathan. He had to remember that the young wolf did not yet accept that he was Xerxes. He would have to read him to see how much he could determine about the rebirth. That was preponderant upon Nathan allowing Ramiel near him again. It tore at him to see the only being he had ever truly loved look so hurt and angry. Betrayed. Ramiel should have remembered that reincarnated beings sometimes had no memory of their previous lives. Instead, he had stumbled very badly. He had simply reacted in the moment, he had not thought his actions through as he should have done. The look on Nathan’s face when he uttered those words made Ramiel cringe. Yes, Nathan was Xerxes, but he, Ramiel, was an angel of death. He should have had more control. Knowledge like that could not be blurted out in front of hundreds of people. Ramiel looked over as Nathan stalked back into the kitchen. The tortured expression in his brown eyes broke Ramiel’s heart. He wished he could find a way to make this easier to accept. “Nathan, I— “That’s my name.” 72

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“Please, you must—” “I’m going for a run.” Nathan hurried past, headed toward the back door. “Wait,” Ramiel called. “What about—“ “Right now, I don’t care what’s out there,” he growled, then slammed outside, inadvertently scattering the barrier. Ramiel remained frozen where he stood, stunned. He wanted desperately to go after Nathan. The man was his heart, the only love he’d known in nearly three thousand years. But he was afraid. Afraid that Nathan would never come to understand, that he would deny his previous life and the love they shared. That with this reincarnation, Ramiel would lose Xerxes all over again. There was nothing he could do but let Nathan go for the moment. Without his powers, he’d be a hindrance to the young wolf should a demon attack—he couldn’t even properly defend himself. Ramiel did the only thing he could and repaired the safeguard. Aching with exhaustion and despair, he finished, then sank wearily onto one of the wooden chairs. Ramiel covered his face with his hands and prayed. *

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Nathan’s claws dug into the soft, springy dirt as he ran through the trees. The forest came alive with millions of scents and sounds, an artist’s palette that painted the night. He loved nothing better than to run in full wolf form, it cleared his mind and helped him think except for those times when he was under the influence of the moon. And he had a lot to think about tonight. He ran until he came to his favorite place on his property, a small lake with a stream that fed into two other nearby lakes. Nathan dropped onto 73

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his belly, then lay his head between his paws. The night breeze stirred his fur, soothing him. This is what he needed after the last couple of days, which had been the best and worst of his life. He listened to the crickets, the myriad small woodland sounds. This was his domain, his land, and here he could just be. Nothing else existed but the night and the forest. Too bad he could not stay like this forever. He didn’t want to go back, didn’t want to see the joy in Ramiel’s eyes as he called him Xerxes. It negated everything that Nathan knew about himself. This was his life. He was not the result of some trick or scheme. But he knew he had to go back. He could not hide out here in the woods any longer. Shoving onto all fours, Nathan took off at a run, headed the way he had come. He did not know how much time had passed, but the quarter moon was much higher in the sky than when he had first left Ramiel. Through thick undergrowth and trees, over a small creek and onto an overgrown path, he ran. When he reached the tree line just beyond his house, he willed himself to human form. In his mind’s eye he envisioned his human form and drew it to himself. His lupine body re-fashioned itself and, in almost the blink of an eye, he transformed, the night breeze now chilling his human flesh and blowing strands of hair into his eyes. Reluctantly, he started toward the glowing lights of the house.

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CHAPTER 8 The silence was a thick syrup on the air as Nathan approached the back door. Snagging his clothes from the pile where he’d stowed them, he shoved into jeans and tee shirt, but didn’t bother with socks and shoes. He padded into the house and found the kitchen empty. He continued down the hall, peeked into the guest room and found no sign of Ramiel. It was not until he got to the living room that he found the angel. The big guy was sitting on the couch, holding himself still, as though expecting some kind of blow. The sight of his lover in such distress made Nathan’s gut clench, but he could not give in to the urge to go to him, to touch him, until he had some answers. He moved to sit on the chair opposite the couch. Resting his elbows on his thighs, Nathan clasped his hands between his knees. 75

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Angry recriminations and questions burned the tip of his tongue, but he held back, not quite sure how to begin. He pinned Ramiel with a hard look. The angel met his gaze, his silver eyes filled with pain, guilt, resignation and hope. Nathan took a deep breath. “How can I be this Xerxes person? I mean, I don’t understand at all. This life is all I’ve ever known and you’re trying to tell me that it’s nothing but a damned lie, just a scheme concocted by some being and… ” Nathan trailed off, unable to speak around the boulder forming in his throat. Ramiel looked sick, as if Nathan had landed body blows. “I am sorry for the way I told you, but it is nothing less than the truth. You are Xerxes.” The bottom dropped out of Nathan’s world as Ramiel’s words hammered home the truth he had not wanted to hear. “Then… ” He swallowed painfully. “What about all of this? My life here and now.” His voice was thin and high, his vocal chords tight with fear and anger. “It is your real life,” Ramiel said quietly, as though trying to reassure Nathan. “When a soul is reincarnated, life begins anew and all the experiences the soul has, all the relationships that form… these are quite real. Your life here in the present is very real.” Some of the tightness in Nathan’s chest eased, but there was still one answer he desperately needed. “What about us? Did you know I was your reincarnated lover? Is that why you had sex with me?” He had to know, had to hear from Ramiel’s own lips that the sex between them was based right here, right now, and not the result of feelings leftover from another life. Ramiel sat forward, his eyes churning with emotion. “Never! I 76

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had not one clue that you were Xerxes.” He surged off the couch, sinking to the floor between Nathan’s legs. The look on his face was pure torture. “If you believe nothing else that I am telling you, you must believe that I did not have relations with you because I knew or thought that you were Xerxes.” Nathan gave a sad half smile, but the relief pouring through him was more potent than the wolf’s bane he’d toked as a teenager. “Thank God,” he whispered. Knowing that Ramiel had touched him because Nathan was Nathan was heady. Before he knew what he was doing, Nathan cupped the angel’s cheek and lowered his mouth to Ramiel’s. It was a brief touch of lips meant to convey so many emotions. It was insubstantial. Nathan kissed Ramiel again, a more lingering press of lips that Ramiel returned eagerly. Nothing was resolved, but Nathan could not help himself. Aching with a volatile mix of need, pain and a predatory desire to make his mark on the angel, Nathan took the kiss deeper, sliding his tongue along Ramiel’s lower lip, until he let Nathan inside. He boldly claimed the angel’s mouth, lashing inside. Teeth clicked as he ate at Ramiel, wanting to fill every part of the angel and blot out all memory of Xerxes. A hoarse moan escaped the angel, as if he were being overwhelmed by Nathan, and Nathan didn’t care. He growled deep in his throat and held the angel to him, plundering his mouth, unwilling to stop even for breath. Finally, he disengaged and drew back. The look of absolute satisfaction on Ramiel’s face called to the animal inside Nathan. He wanted to subdue Ramiel, to fuck him into oblivion. He’d never been filled with such primitive, alpha emotions before and it 77

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scared him. Yet, it touched off a surge of the most powerful lust he’d ever experienced. It rippled through him, spreading into every single molecule in Nathan’s body. “I want to fuck you,” he growled, curving an arm behind Ramiel’s neck and keeping the big angel locked tight to him. He slid a hand inside the button-down shirt the angel wore and ripped the fabric apart. Buttons scattered, pinging against furniture. His fingers played along the muscled ridge of Ramiel’s abs. “Y-You are acting very dominant.” Ramiel hissed as Nathan sucked up a mark on his neck. “Very unlike the other night.” “And?” Nathan muttered, his face buried against Ramiel’s tender flesh. “My presence has affected you from the start, not unlike Malachi, but— ” Nathan nipped his jaw. “Quit talking.” “I was simply saying that with my grace back, the feelings are even more potent. My effect on Xerx—” “Don’t say that name!” Ramiel swallowed and wisely kept silent. “I’m going to slide my cock so deep inside you, you’ll know exactly who owns your ass. Until you can’t remember anyone but me. I want to ruin you for all others.” He gripped the back of Ramiel’s neck, angled his throat like a submissive wolf to an alpha, then licked a path to the hollow of Ramiel’s throat. He scraped his teeth along the tender skin, reveling in the primitive thump of Ramiel’s pulse. He snarled, his Beast drawing close, and he surged to his feet, taking Ramiel with him. Without giving the angel a chance to react, Nathan bent and hauled him over his shoulder in a fireman’s 78

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hold, then started for the stairs. He wanted to take Ramiel in his bed, paint the sheets with their combined scents and fluids. “What are you—” Ramiel started. Nathan lengthened his teeth, turned his head and bit Ramiel’s ass through the denim fabric. Savage pleasure filled him at the angel’s hiss of pain. He kicked his bedroom door all the way open, then tossed Ramiel onto the bed. Not giving his lover a chance to move, Nathan dropped on top of his big body, shredding the shirt from Ramiel’s chest. Nathan bent and kissed his way along Ramiel’s collarbone down to the dusky nubs of his nipples. He licked each one thoroughly, then drew one into his mouth. Ramiel grunted, his muscles flexing beneath Ramiel as he worked the hard tip, alternately sucking and laving the tip of his tongue against the tender flesh. His cock throbbed against his zipper, painful and stiff. He knew just how to get some relief. Crawling up Ramiel’s big body, Nathan sat on his chest, knees pinning the angel’s arms to the mattress. He unfastened the button on his own jeans and eased the zip down. Raising his hips, Nathan slid the fabric open, then reached in and pulled his dick out. It was hugely erect and Nathan could already feel his balls drawing up tight. He touched the weeping tip to Ramiel’s lips. “Suck me.” Ramiel stared up at him with passion-glazed eyes, then angled his head and drew Nathan deep inside his mouth. His breath hissed as Ramiel drew on him, working his cock with lips and teeth. Nathan’s head fell back, his penis swelling harder, his balls rucking up against his body, the urge to shoot 79

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getting critical. He needed to back off, he didn’t want to blow his load now, yet he was not ready to give up the sweet sensation of Ramiel’s mouth. Using his right hand, Nathan tugged his sac, backing himself off the edge. Giving Ramiel’s mouth a few more strokes, Nathan tapped the angel’s cheek to let him know he was pulling out. He grunted as his dick slid free of the moist cavern. Chest heaving, he awkwardly climbed off Ramiel, then shed his clothes. Naked, he turned his attention back to Ramiel. The angel remained sprawled on the bed, his shirt in ribbons, a massive erection tenting his fly. “You need to get naked.” Nathan tugged Ramiel to his feet and commanded him to strip. He watched as his lover shrugged off the ruins of his shirt, then shimmied his jeans and underwear down his hips and thick, muscled thighs. They pooled at his feet, then Ramiel awkwardly toed his shoes off so he could step out of the pile of fabric. “On the bed, hands and knees,” he ordered. Ramiel threw him a look that held a hint of nervous fear. Nathan understood in that moment that the angel had either never been topped or it had been a very, very long time since that had happened. Raw, visceral pleasure radiated through him. The angel climbed to the middle of the bed, then went to all fours. Nathan’s cock twitched at the sight of Ramiel’s magnificent firm ass. His furred balls hung low between his legs. He stared for another minute or so, contemplating the prize that was his. Snapping himself out of his sex haze, Nathan moved to the nightstand, grabbed the bottle of lube and a condom. He tore open the foil packet, rolled the condom on, then poured some slick in his hand and stroked it over his sheathed erection, grunting as his shaft 80

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quivered in answer to the hard strokes. Satisfied with his prep work, he turned to look at Ramiel, who had been watching him stroke himself and was now working his own tool. “Up.” His lover returned to the doggie-style position. The mattress dipped as Nathan climbed behind him. Taking the bottle of lube, he squeezed some into his hand and eased two fingers into Ramiel’s passage. The tight ring of muscle gave way, and Nathan worked his fingers deeper, scissoring them to widen his hole. Ramiel groaned, his muscles quivering at the invasion. Curling his fingers up and in, Nathan pressed on the angel’s prostate. “Uhn… ” Ramiel jerked so hard, he nearly pulled off of Nathan’s fingers. Nathan chuckled. “Like that, huh?” “It feels amazing,” Ramiel hissed. He continued to work the angel, loving the bestial sounds emerging from Ramiel as he stroked. “No one has ever touched you here before, have they?” “No,” Ramiel wheezed. Nathan slapped a firm cheek. “And no one else will. Not as long as I’m around. I intend to be the only one. Understand?” “Yes.” When he judged his lover to be ready, Nathan pulled his fingers out, then lined the head of his cock against Ramiel’s ring. He probed the opening, pressing until the ring of muscle gave way and he could ease inside. Primitive noises emerged from both them as the tight passage gripped and massaged Nathan’s cock. He gripped Ramiel’s cheeks, holding them apart, and thrust deeper. 81

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He leaned over the angel, stroking a hand over his side, and scraped his teeth over the back of Ramiel’s neck. “I like knowing that my cock is the first and only to stretch and fill you.” He pushed, thoroughly loving the sight of his shaft disappearing between Ramiel’s firm cheeks. At last he hilted, his balls slapping against the underside of Ramiel’s ass. Ramiel made a savage sound, tensing, and Nathan held himself still, allowing his lover to adapt to the no doubt overwhelming sensation. He remembered the first time he’d ever been fucked, the burn as he adjusted to having a dick in his ass. He waited until Ramiel’s big body relaxed slightly, then Nathan pulled out, only to shove back in. Nathan cried out in pleasure as Ramiel pushed against him, his muscles squeezing Nathan’s penis until he was dizzy, sliding into a vortex of sensation. A tingling built at the base of Nathan’s spine, and he knew his climax wasn’t far away. Steadying himself against Ramiel, he reached around and took hold of Ramiel’s erection. He stroked and stroked in time to the rhythm he’d set. Ramiel shouted and a gush of hot cream coated Nathan’s hand, the scent of passion thick on the air. Nathan continued to piston violently until, at last, he exploded in a surge of white heat. The world splintered as Nathan and Ramiel collapsed on the bed. It was several minutes before they recovered enough to maneuver to a more comfortable position. Nathan continued his show of dominance and spooned Ramiel, holding the big body against him, back to chest. He drifted in and out of consciousness, basking in the visceral satisfaction that came with thoroughly fucking someone and bringing them to the heights of pleasure. He loved being the only man to ever lay claim to 82

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Ramiel’s ass, too. Xerxes hadn’t done that. He stirred, suddenly curious about this past life he supposedly had. “Ramiel?” A snore sounded in answer to his summons. Shaking his head, Nathan eased out of bed and went in search of the Seer Stone Quartz Ryanne had given him. A driving need to see what life had been like for Ramiel and Xerxes plagued him. He stepped into his jeans, commando style, and padded downstairs to the garage, the faint dawn light casting a soft glow. Rummaging through the bags of magical accessories, he found the crystal he was looking for. He took the large, flat-sided amethyst into the house and brought it into the living room. He set it on the coffee table and stared at it like it was a big spider on the wall. Maybe he could get some answers, figure out Suddenly, he was no longer sure that he wanted to do this.

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CHAPTER 9 “What are you preparing to do with the crystal?” Nathan started at the sleepy sound of Ramiel’s voice. He’d been so absorbed in his thoughts that he’d tuned out everything else. Ramiel walked over and sat beside Nathan. “That is a Seer Stone Crystal, is it not?” “Yeah. Ryanne gave it to me before we left. Said I might find answers in here to questions that I didn’t know I had.” The angel nodded. “They help with questions about the past.” He gave Nathan a sidelong glance. “Are you now curious about your past as Xerxes?” “Well… ” Nathan didn’t really know how to answer that. “Truthfully, I’m not, but then again I am. It’s complicated.” 84

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“Perhaps I can simplify it for you.” Ramiel scooted closer and grasped Nathan’s hands in his large, warm ones. “I must accept that the Xerxes I once knew is gone.” “Ramiel, I—” “No.” He brushed his thumbs over Nathan’s knuckles. “I have thought much on this and prayed.” Ramiel took a deep breath, looked at the ceiling, then shifted his gaze back to Nathan’s. “I know that my Xerxes is gone, that he is now you. And I do not want you looking back on a life that you will mostly likely never remember.” Nathan could feel his jaw slack open. Was Ramiel for real? “But… ” He trailed off, unable to form a coherent response. The angel loosened his grip on Nathan’s hands to trail a finger along Nathan’s temple. “I am sure that this is the right course. I have come to care for you, Nathan Rhodes, very much. While I am sad that the Xerxes I knew is not here, I do not want you to think for one moment longer that I would sacrifice you to have him here.” Nathan’s heart stuttered. “W-What about the whole reincarnation without blessing? How will you find this being if I don’t access your Xerxes memories?” Ramiel exhaled heavily. “My concern in finding Xerxes was twofold. To find out who did this and to find a way to cross Xerxes back into Paradise. I will find another to take care of the first, as this being’s identity is why I was sent here on punishment. The latter cannot happen as Xerxes is you and I cannot cross the soul of a werewolf in Paradise.” He shook his head sadly. “When I was taken from Xerxes millennia ago, I comforted myself that he was safe for all time in Elysium. But, a human soul, no matter how heroic or blessed, once it becomes a part of a being that is not 85

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completely human, is denied Paradise. You can never go back. Once you pass from this Realm of In-Between, you will be a shade or enter Purgatory.” “Sounds unfair and racist, if you ask me.” “It is, but then again the Celestial Realm is not a democratic society and the rules have existed since the creation of Time itself.” “Guess all dogs don’t go heaven.” Nathan hadn’t thought about dying, but it would have been nice to at least had the chance at some prime real estate when he got to the Other Side. “Well,” he said quietly as he shifted uncomfortably on the couch. “I shouldn’t really complain. My deal with Malachi negated any shot at the Pearly Gates.” Ramiel stiffened like rigor mortis at Nathan’s mention of his bargain. “You never mentioned what exactly you promised the Fallen One.” “Well I just—” “It really is pathetic the way you simper and fawn over them, Ramiel.” Nathan shot off the couch at the icy words. Standing not ten feet from him was a tall, spare man who looked as though he could have been Andy Warhol’s twin, if the artist had been carved from winter. White hair, silver eyes and skin that reminded Nathan of milk glass, he made Nathan shiver just looking at him. “Amitiel.” Ramiel’s voice sounded colder than frost on a cemetery gate. “Indeed my sorry little angel of death. I have come to take you back to serve out your punishment in other, less luxurious accommodations.” “No,” Nathan growled, his Beast coming to the fore as he 86

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moved to protect what was his. “So the little lapdog dares to approach.” Amitiel’s arrogant expression congealed and he negligently waved a hand as if dismissing the sight of a bug. Nathan froze in place. His mind raced while his Beast paced within him. He tried to speak, but an invisible hand closed about his throat, and everything went numb and cold, as if it had been frosted over. Ramiel spun and reached for Nathan, but some unseen force kept his lover from being able to even touch him. A puzzled look came into Ramiel’s eyes as if what just happened was not possible, yet… anger quickly replaced the confusion. “Now then, where—” Amitiel began. “It was you.” Ramiel whirled to face the angel. Nathan’s heart thumped wildly as panic set in. Remember your bargain, Wolf, Malachi whispered in his mind. Just relax and this won’t hurt a bit. Nathan barely had time to process the command before everything went black. *

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Fury swept through Ramiel, a hellish inferno that made his vision red at the edges. After all the ages they had served together on the Celestial Council, how could Amitiel have betrayed him like this? Surely it could not be… They had not been close in millennia. There had to be another explanation. “Why?” he demanded. A speculative gleam came into the seraph’s eyes. “You are still so blind. It is deplorable, really, the way you always looked after 87

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the humans. I knew when they made you an angel of death, you would be poisoned by their presence, and you were. Spending all your time in their world, forgetting your own kind. Then you took one of them as your lover, allowed it to put hands on you.” Everything Amitiel said began to make a sick kind of sense to Ramiel. He had once been close to the seraph, but their duties had kept them apart. “We were forbidden, Amitiel. Intimacy between Council members goes against the very foundation of our existence.” “So instead you turned to those disgusting little mongrels. I waited for you to come round Ramiel, to see sense. For three thousand years you seemed to, but I decided to test your loyalties. I reincarnated that toy to see what you would do, and you disappointed me straight away. Violating Council law by speaking to a Fallen One.” “You violated those laws, too, Amitiel. Reincarnating a soul from Elysium without Blessing. How is my behavior any different than yours?” A crazed look came into the seraph’s face and, in that moment, Ramiel knew he had gone too far. Amitiel was no longer looking to torture, but to kill. He instinctively backed up, moving to stand in front of Nathan, who had been rendered still by angelic powers. Except Nathan was no longer there. Shock stuttered his system. Where could he… ? There was no more time to think as a blade of celestial silver cut through the air beside him and burned along his side. He maneuvered as fast as possible for this body, taking small comfort in the fact that Amitiel, too, was hampered by human form. He danced around, trying desperately to keep furniture and other objects between him and the seraph. Ramiel kicked a table 88

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into Amitiel’s path and headed for the front door. He was almost there when he tripped and crashed to the floor. He rolled, only to see Amitiel over him bringing his blade down. He closed his eyes and prayed that somehow Nathan had escaped. A hideous scream rang out, and Ramiel looked up just in time to see a black blade protruding from Amitiel’s chest. A black and red inferno then enveloped him and swept the room like a blood and smoke explosion. Ramiel turned over, covering his head as hot rain stung him. Loud, shrieking noises rent the air, then everything went silent.

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CHAPTER 10 Ramiel stayed where he was to make sure that nothing else happened, then he slowly shoved to his feet. “Nathan!” he called, looking around the destruction of the room. It looked like the aftermath of battle. Fear trailed up his spine as he looked around for any sign of his lover. “There you are, Ramiel.” He whirled and saw Nathan standing there, hale and whole, but the look in his brown eyes was all Malachi. “This was your bargain? He let you possess him? Why—” He broke off as he caught sight of the black blade. “No!” “He can’t hear you right now, he’s on a little mental vacation.” “He had better be unscathed.” Ramiel said coldly. “Or… ” Malachi cocked a brow. “Or what? Get real. You don’t have 90

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any power at all right now. Anyway, Amitiel hadn’t only been crossing the Celestial line, as it were. His misdeeds got quite out of hand and Lucifer wanted him put down like the ah… rabid dog he had become.” “You are allowing Nathan to take the blame for killing a Council member.” Ramiel was horrified. Nathan would end up in the Other Realm, tormented forever for the crime. “He made the deal. Apparently he thought you were worth eternity.” “You tricked him.” Ramiel lunged at Malachi, but the Fallen One neatly stepped aside. “You don’t want to hurt your pretty boy’s face, now do you?” “I could kill you.” “Not while I’ve got hold of ol’ Nate, here. Besides, I saved your life. Granted there was a little wheeling and dealing, but then I don’t play for your team, do I?” He walked to an overturned chair, straightened it, then sat. “I couldn’t exactly go into the Celestial Realm and, well, Amitiel never exactly came to visit my neighborhood. So what was left but the Realm of In-Between? And a plain ol’ human can’t exactly wield a Dark Light blade.” Ramiel shoved a hand through his hair. He had to find some way of saving Nathan from this unholy bargain. The wolf did not deserve to be punished. A fierce need to hold Nathan clamored at his insides. “When are you leaving?” He glared at Malachi. A mischievous spark lit Malachi’s expression. “Oh, I’m sorry, did you want Nathan back for some victory sex?” A wordless, rage-filled sound escaped Ramiel. “Fine.” 91

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In an instant Malachi was gone. Nathan groaned and stumbled, but Ramiel caught him. He shoved Nathan’s hair back to see his eyes. “Nathan.” He shook the wolf. “Nathan.” Nathan’s head lolled, then he blinked and met Ramiel’s gaze. To Ramiel’s utter relief the look in those beautiful depths was pure Nathan. Ramiel held him tight against his body. “Thank the Father,” he murmured into the young wolf’s hair. The last of his fear and tension eased as Nathan settled into his embrace. They held each other for long moments until Ramiel drew back. “Why did you do that? Do you understand that you are now accountable for the killing of a Council Member?” Nathan grasped Ramiel’s forearms. “I did it to save you.” Ramiel shook his head. “I do not matter. I will most likely be taken back to face further punishment or, at the very least, be returned to my duties. I cannot allow you to spend an eternity in torment.” He pressed his lips over Nathan’s in an urgent, hungry kiss. Nathan kissed him back just as hard. Their tongues dueled in a rough, powerful, needy dance. Their mouths moved, their hands explored, caressing and fondling, yet comforting as well. Proof of life. It was Nathan who broke the kiss. “Let me be clear before we go any further. I am all about right here, right now. I don’t want you to be taken from me, but I would much rather have had this short time—angels, demons and all— than to have never had a chance to be with you again.” The word again clicked inside Ramiel. “You said again.” Nathan nodded. “Malachi showed me everything. You and I, 92

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we were pretty hot together.” He smiled, brushing his hand through Ramiel’s hair. “Stop borrowing trouble. Werewolves are pretty long-lived beings and hard to kill. And aside from helping the occasional lost angel and hunting up ghosts, I’m a pretty cautious guy. Let’s not worry about my eternal damnation just yet.” “But—” Ramiel began. Nathan put a palm over his mouth. “Enough. I’m taking you to bed. I’ve been possessed, killed a crazed angel and now face the cleanup effort of this FEMA disaster.” He swept his gaze over the room. “I think I deserve some serious hot sex.” Ramiel laughed. “I shall endeavor to please.”

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M ELISSA BRADLEY

Melissa Bradley grew up in a book-loving, storytelling family on Chicago’s southeast side. Some of her fondest memories are of her father regaling her with tales of giants and goblins. She has a passion for stories of history, romance, adventure, fantasy, science fiction and horror. Melissa's favorite places include bookstores, libraries and movie theatres. You can find out more about Melissa and her writing by visiting: *

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