Stairway To Heaven

STAIRWAY TO HEAVEN

Rhea jumped in response to the first touch of his fingertips against her arm. Her eyelids flew open and she sat straight up. “Where am I?” “You’re asleep,” came the man’s deep-voiced reply. Rhea glanced about her surroundings. White billows blocked her view on all sides. She felt as though she floated on a cloud. She held her hand out before her. Her fingers look fuzzy, as though her vision weren’t quite clear. She turned it over, brought it a little closer to her face, then gently placed it down next to her hip. Her palm contacted smooth satin. Rhea’s gaze dropped to the strange surface upon which she sat. She pressed downward with her palm. Ashen puffs of smoke swirled into the air and the surface gave, letting her hand sink into a shimmering pool of silk. She jerked back her arm, quickly studied her hand, then dropped it into her lap. “Am I dreaming?” Another brush against her shoulder caused her to yelp in alarm. She whipped around, but no one was there, just another poof of iridescent vapor that roiled toward her, then faded out until it dissipated into the hazy background. “Show yourself!” A wave of heat washed over her face as his masculine chuckle warmed the air. “Are you sure you’re ready for that, Rhea?”

PRAISE FOR STAIRWAY TO HEAVEN

“Stairway To Heaven brings love, magic and hot sex together to create a story I fell in love with. I highly recommend this book to all readers of romance.” —Nikita Enchanted In Romance

“It’s sexy, creative and light-hearted, and has an intriguing paranormal twist to the plot. Can a reader really ask for more from a novella?” —Cheryl Jeffries Heartstrings Reviews

ALSO BY SHANNON LEIGH Chinatown Buffet Greenwood Manor More Than Prophecy

STAIRWAY TO HEAVEN BY SHANNON LEIGH

AMBER QUILL PRESS, LLC http://www.amberquill.com

STAIRWAY TO HEAVEN 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 © 2005 by Shannon Leigh ISBN 1-59279-414-9 Cover Art © 2005 Trace Edward Zaber

Layout and Formatting provided by: ElementalAlchemy.com

PUBLISHED IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

For my friends at work, who put up with my crazy ideas!

STAIRWAY TO HEAVEN

CHAPTER 1

Rhea shifted uncomfortably. They’d been on the plane for several hours now, and her rear end was protesting. As she glanced over at her friend in the seat next to her, she wondered how Ashley could possibly manage to sleep through all the turbulence their little commuter plane had suffered. But somehow, her lab assistant had slumbered through it like a baby. As though sensing Rhea’s stare, Ashley yawned and opened her eyes. “Hi.” Rhea smiled. “You’ve been out a long time.” Ashley stretched her arms above her head. Her layered, blonde curls bobbed around her ears as she tilted her chin up and opened her mouth in another wide, unladylike yawn. “We almost there?” Rhea glanced out the plane’s tiny window. The glass was hazy with age, and moisture from the warm air outside had collected along the edges, blurring the view outside. “Yeah. We’re flying over the jungle 1

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now. I think the airport is just a short way ahead.” There were only ten other passengers on the small plane—ten passengers and one pilot. Rhea had never liked flying. And when she found out her company had booked passage for her and Ashley on something smaller than a 747, she’d almost refused to go. Providian Pharmaceuticals had one of the largest drug research labs in the world. She knew they could afford to send her and her lab assistant to the Amazon on nothing less than the best airfare, and secure them with the most luxurious lodging available. But as Rhea stared out the foggy glass at the wispy billows of humidity rising up from the treetops of the mighty rainforest below, she couldn’t help but wonder if this hadn't been the best airline there was to offer. The world below them was totally unlike anything she’d ventured into before. And she wasn’t too sure if the realization was exciting or scared her to death. This trip was important. And Rhea couldn’t help but feel a small measure of self-pride in the fact that she’d been chosen to go—chosen over Lydia MacDonald. Rhea giggled. “What’s so funny?” When she turned away from the window to look at her friend, a lock of brown hair fell across her forehead and into her eyes. Rhea swiped the irritating swatch away. Then she smiled at Ashley. “Oh, I was just imaging the look on Lydia’s face when she found out I was going to Peru instead of her.” Ashley’s green eyes lit up with mischief. “Ha! I bet that heifer nearly blew a gasket! She didn’t deserve it anyway. You’ve done most of the work on this project, and she always seems to get recognition for it.” Rhea swished her hand through the air. “Aw, Ash. I don’t care. All that matters to me is finding a cure for cancer. This is the biggest break we’ve had in five years. I’m just glad to be a part of it.” 2

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Ashley’s eyes narrowed with skepticism. Her full, peachy lips curled into a perceptive smile. There was no mistaking the amusement in her knowing grin. “Yeah, but I bet that back-stabbing, over-made-up whore nearly fell out of her chair when Steve gave her the news. You think it was before or after he decided to quit sleeping with her.” Rhea hid a stab of jealousy behind a low chuckle. The whole department knew about Lydia’s affair with the lab manager. And Rhea’s past association with him wasn’t a secret either. Steve had been her first true love. Or so she’d thought. That was, until Ms. MacDonald came aboard the lab crew. Rhea chewed the inside of her lip, willing the painful memories of deceit to disappear. She didn’t know why finding him in bed with Lydia had been such a surprise. The signs were all there—unreturned phone calls, unexplained late nights at work, the lingering smell of women’s perfume on his coat. And yet, she'd been the last one to find out about his affair. Of course, she'd treated it as no big deal. Laughed it off with the rest of her co-workers as nothing. But deep down inside, it had hurt. Rhea turned back toward the hazy window. Her vision blurred with unshed tears, but she refused to cry. That had been six months ago, and there were better fish in the sea. Far better. “Hey, girl. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to—” Rhea glanced over at Ashley. “It’s all right. I don’t know why it even bothers me. He’s a jerk and Lydia’s a slut. They deserve each other. Besides, he’s a terrible lover.” They stared at each other a long moment before busting into laughter. Several of the other passengers turned to glare at them for disturbing the peace. Other than a few hushed whispers, the plane had been as quiet as a morgue the entire trip. Being one who didn’t particularly care for tight spaces anyway, 3

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Rhea was beginning to feel stir crazy. After several hours of near silence, this little bit of entertainment was just enough to calm her nerves. The two struggled with a few lingering giggles before finally getting their mirth under control. Seeing that they were still \ receiving several disapproving stares, Rhea waved in apology. “Sorry,” she called, then hunkered down with embarrassment. “You’re going to get us thrown off the plane!” she whispered, before delivering a playful slap to Ashley’s thigh. Ashley slid down in her seat until her head rested next to Rhea’s. “Maybe we’ll land in an uncharted Indian camp, inhabited only by luscious, dark-skinned warriors.” Rhea couldn’t help but join in fun. “Yeah? With my luck in men, they’ll all be gay!” They broke out in another round of uncontrollable giggles, which were immediately followed by a harsh "Shhhh!" from one of the others. Rhea clamped her hand over her mouth to stifle her humor. “You bad girl,” she whispered against her palm. Ashley smiled. “No, they wouldn’t be gay, they’d be deprived. We’d be like goddesses. And each night, we’d have our pick of the litter. The best-hung males in the village. Yeah, dark skinned dudes with big—” “Ashley!” Rhea hissed. Her eyes widened with shock and her mouth formed a horrified O. She couldn’t believe her lab assistant would even consider such a thing. Then again, yes she could. Ashley definitely liked men. In the five years they'd been friends, she’d seen Ashley change beaus like one would holiday decor. Every few months, Ashley would come to work with a new hunk hanging on her arm like an expensive fur. If there was one thing Rhea could give her friend credit for, it was 4

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her impeccable taste in the male species. Ashley only screwed the best of the best. And when she got tired of one, there was always another one waiting. Of course it wasn’t hard to see why. Ashley was the proverbial blonde bombshell, built like a brick-shit-house. And she knew it, too. With her size D breasts and tiny waist—thanks to modern medicine and having no kids—stunning green eyes, and thick, waist-length platinum curls, she was nothing short of beautiful. Compared to her, Rhea oftentimes felt insignificant and selfconscious. It was likely most women did. But her friend wasn’t the typical stuck-up snob who thought her shit didn’t stink. Ashley was truly a good, fun-loving person, a real hoot to be around. And Rhea wouldn’t trade their friendship for anything. She just wished Ashley would settle down before her loose ways either caught her with a horrible disease, or landed her in the lap of Mr. Wrong. Not all men took too kindly to being dumped for the next available stud. And Rhea feared that one day her friend would meet one who wouldn’t let go. Shaking the unpleasant thoughts out of her brain, Rhea cleared her throat and tried to look as composed as possible, all the while hiding a grin when she turned to Ashley and asked, “You mean, you haven’t already got a dark-skinned Indian prince in your collection?” in the calmest voice she could muster. Ashley pretended to be engrossed in her fingertips, but Rhea could see the impish smile lurking at the corner of her lips. “Oh, well, I didn’t say I haven’t had my share of dark skin…” She briefly held a hand full of flawless pink fingernails out before her, then turned to Rhea and wagged her perfectly shaped brows. “It can be a nice change. There really is a difference, you know.” Rhea rolled her eyes and huffed in feigned disgust. “You’re incorrigible. What am I going to do with you?” Then she shook a finger 5

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at Ashley’s dainty little nose. “Don’t you be wandering off in search of men. Do you hear me? I don’t want to have to go traipsing through the jungle in search of my lab assistant.” Ashley laughed, then waved the idea away as though it were ridiculous. “I’m serious Ash, you might find yourself in a dangerous situation. The men of this place aren’t…civilized. If you go teasing one who decides to take a fancy to you, you might just disappear. Do you know how many miles of vegetation are out there?” Rhea jerked a thumb in the direction of the window. “Hundreds. Thousands. Really, I don’t want to lose you to some sex-starved cannibal who might as well just eat you when he’s done ravishing you.” One of Ashley’s brows rose with interest. “Hmm…that might be interesting. Eat me—” “Ashley! I’m serious.” Rhea’s voice echoed through the quiet plane. But this time, no one turned around. Everyone seemed to be as stiff as statues. No doubt listening to every word the two of them said. Ashley made a pressing motion with her hands, indicating for Rhea to keep it down. “Okay, Mom. I promise I won’t wander off too far. Cross my heart.” She made a childish X sign across her ample breasts with one fingertip. “All right?” Rhea nodded. But she knew Ashley had no intention of living up to her promise. Mom. She snorted and turned her attention back out the foggy window. Sometimes she felt like Ashley’s mother. No one else seemed to be looking out for the girl’s best interest, not even Ashley herself. It was strange though, only two years separated them in age, and yet sometimes Rhea felt a thousand years older. The long plane ride had finally caught up with her. Rhea knew they were close to landing, but she couldn’t seem to keep her eyes open another minute. Finally giving up on her battle to stay awake, she 6

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closed her lids and let her senses drift into a light slumber. Fifteen minutes later, the captain’s voice boomed over the loud speaker, setting her pulse and nerves racing once again.

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CHAPTER 2

When Rhea stepped off the plane, she merely stared at the dense, uncivilized scene stretched out before her for several long moments. This can’t be right. Her overstuffed duffle bag fell unheeded to the ground by her feet. Dotted between the thick trunks of towering trees and tangle of climbing vines were several small, run-down wooden shacks with caved in, palm-leaf roofs. Ashley, equally stunned by their primitive lodgings, slowly backed toward the plane. “This is…it?” Her distressed squeak nearly did Rhea in. She had the overwhelming urge to rush back up the plane’s small metal stairwell and yell, “Take me back! Take me back!” But duty kept her rooted in place. She’d been picked for this assignment, picked over several others. And she’d be damned if she’d let little things like shoddy quarters and no running water keep her from doing her job. 8

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When Rhea squatted to pick up her fallen bag, she noticed for the first time that they were the only ones who’d gotten off the plane. The other passengers were apparently traveling on to another location. She stared, forlorn, as the plane’s door closed, shutting her and her unhappy lab partner out of its comparatively welcome interior. Then, as though not caring at all that two of its previous occupants were being left behind in the midst of the mighty Amazon Forest, the plane began pulling away. Slowly, the small aircraft picked up speed. Just when she thought it would surely crash into the impenetrable vegetation at the end of the runway—which consisted of nothing more than a ridiculously small dirt road obviously forced within the heart of the surrounding forestry—the plane jerked upward. Several small limbs and leaves of varying sizes drifted to the ground as the bottom of the aircraft clipped the tree tops in its nearly failed effort to escape. Rhea watched as their only means of getaway disappeared into the distant horizon like a fleeting dream. Well, that’s it. We’re stuck here. God help us. The sound of breaking glass suddenly drew her out of her surreal trance. “Hey! Be careful with that!” She rushed over to snatch a large box of lab supplies from the young boy who was clearly struggling to heft it onto his shoulder. Sometime during her stupor, all of her equipment had been retrieved from the plane’s storage compartment and was now being hauled off by a group of natives dressed in short, leather-like skirts—and in some cases—nothing at all. Momentarily forgetting the boy in front of her, Rhea stared at the others in silent wonder. “¿Señorita?” Rhea returned her attention to the waiting child. He mumbled something indecipherable, all the while keeping his eyes cast to the ground. Then he shifted from one foot to the other, seemingly uncomfortable in her presence, before moving on to another latent box. 9

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“Wait! You can’t take that! I need it for—” “It’s all right, Rhea. These are the Huitoto Indians. They’re taking your supplies to the village for you.” A tall, middle-aged man with a closely cropped, salt and pepper beard, groomed brows the color of a raven’s wing, and thin, wirerimmed glasses stepped out from between two of the shacks. A light brown hat with a wide brim sat upon his head, partially hiding his long gray hair, which was pulled back into a ponytail at the nape of his neck. Jon! Rhea rushed over to give her mentor a hug. “Jon! I’m so glad to see you. I thought we were—” “Lost?” He squeezed her in a surprisingly strong bear hug, momentarily robbing her of air. “Well, I was going to say stranded. But lost’ll work.” Rhea looked up at the older man who’d been almost like an uncle to her for the last ten years of her life, and for the first time since embarking on this expedition, she felt a measure of comfort. “You look good, sweetheart,” he said gently, giving her another squeeze. “And you look like Jacques Cousteau,” she replied, teasingly tugging on the rim of his hat. He chuckled. “It’s quite a different world here, Rhea. Quite a different world. I think once you get used to the…limited facilities, you’ll find it to be the greatest enigma you’ve ever encountered.” Jon’s eyes strayed past her. “How ’bout her, she gonna be okay? She looks a little pallid.” Rhea glanced over at her lab partner. Ashley was still rooted to her spot, staring at the sky where the plane had disappeared from sight several moments ago. “Yeah, she’ll be all right.” Jon took her bag, then approached Ashley. “Hello there,” he said, extending his hand. Momentarily sidetracked from her distress, Ashley looked down at 10

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Jon’s waiting palm, then up at him before placing hers within it. Rhea knew her friend was quickly sizing up the man before her for a possible rendezvous later on. Even though he was over ten years her senior, Jon was still quite attractive. Especially considering how limited Ashley’s male supply would be for the next few weeks. “Hello, yourself.” Ashley’s voice was sultry purr. Rhea rolled her eyes. Poor, Jon. If he only knew. “Speck. Dr. Jon Speck,” he announced, still holding Ashley’s hand. “But you may call me Jon.” Ashley’s eyes strayed to his mouth. “I will,” she returned, before giving him one of her seducing smiles. Jon stared at her a moment in stunned silence, then released her hand and cleared his throat. “Okay…then,” he began, reaching for Ashley’s bag on the ground. “Let’s…get going.” He almost seemed to choke on the words. Rhea crossed her arms and cocked her right brow. She had to commend Ashley on her skills. Jon was actually blushing. And that was something she rarely saw. Of course, how often did beautiful women throw themselves at him out here in the middle of nowhere? Which was practically what Ashley was doing. Handsome or not, he’s certainly no Sean Connery, she decided. Although, he did sort of favor him—minus the specs. “It’ll be dark soon,” Jon declared, cutting into her thought. “You don’t want to be away from the village at night. Stay close. The Amazon is a beautiful place, full of exotic wildlife and colorful flora. But it can also be deadly.” Rhea nodded. “Come on, Ash. Unless you’re waiting for that darkskinned prince to come get you…” Jon stared at Rhea, the question already forming in his hazel eyes before he voiced it. She shook her head. “Don’t ask. Secret joke.” His dark brows arched and his chin lifted a notch, as though understanding, even though Rhea knew he didn’t have a clue what she 11

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was talking about. Thank God. Jon had never been happy about any of her past love affairs—the one with Steve was no exception. So he was sure to be even more appalled by Ashley’s. Although, in her case, he might make an exception, Rhea thought wryly. As though waking from a mind fog, Ashley shook her head, then glanced at Rhea. “What? You mean…we’re not staying here, at such a lovely resort?” Her gaze shifted to the retreating backside of a rather large, halfnaked Indian man who was disappearing down the trail with two crates of supplies balanced on his thick shoulders. A sparkle of interest glittered in her lovely green eyes and her full lips curled into an interested smile. “Please tell me we’re following him…er, I mean them.” As though knowing he were the topic of conversation, the darkskinned man suddenly turned to look back at them. His gaze first went to Ashley, which didn’t surprise Rhea. That’s how it always happened. Look at how Jon was behaving! But when his stare shifted to her, Rhea felt her knees grow weak. His dark eyes were like two pools of melted chocolate. And although Rhea had never been real big on eating a lot of sweet confections, she found herself wanting to dive in and gorge herself to oblivion. Then his lips pulled back into a devastating grin and Rhea could only stare at him in appreciation. He had a smile that could melt steel. Heat instantly spread through her limbs, moisture between her thighs, and her face grew warm. “Uh, Rhea?” Ashley tugged on her arm. “Earth to Rhea.” Rhea blinked. Then turned to look at her friend. “Hmm?” Her voice was a dreamy purr. “I told you they had princes here.” Ashley lifted her shapely brows up and down, then glanced back down the trail. “I hope they all look 12

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like him.” Rhea returned her attention to the lingering man. He looked as though he could stand where he was all day, like the heavy crates he carried were no burden at all. She quietly studied him, while he in turn did the same, each sizing up the other. Once she absorbed the shock of him actually affording her more than just a casual glance—especially since Ashley was standing next to her—Rhea began to notice that he really didn’t look like one of the natives at all. Sure, he wore the typical skirt, which she noted scarcely left much to the imagination, and he had the same beautifully bronzed skin, but his build and features were definitely different than any of the other natives passing around him. He was tall, around six-foot-five, and his frame was well stocked with fully formed muscle, unlike the other natives who were considerably shorter with thin arms and legs, narrow shoulders, and protruding bellies. The bangs of his mahogany hair were pulled back out of his face in a thin ponytail at the crown of his head, while the sides and back hung freely in cascading waves around his face and neck. Strangely, Rhea’s palms itched with the desire to bury themselves within the silky locks. His facial features were sharp and distinct, like God himself had carefully sculpted him from granite. His broad chest and washboard abs were smooth like melted caramel, void of hair. And his wide-legged stance was proud, as though he owned the very ground upon which he stood. Unlike the other natives, who would scarcely make eye contact with her, he hardly seemed shy or inhibited as he boldly raked her body from head to foot, obviously scrutinizing her as intently as she were him. If she were to guess, Rhea would say this man didn’t have a bashful bone in his entire gorgeous body. In fact, she was starting to feel a little self-conscious herself. It was 13

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almost as if he were mentally undressing her, right down to her pink push-up bra and lace trimmed, satin panties. The sensation was a bit disturbing. The man smiled once again. But this time, there was a cocky, arrogant tilt to his sensual mouth, as though he knew his bold appraisal was unsettling. Rhea felt the prickle of annoyance. Then a strange tingle worked its way down her spine. “Who is that?” The question was directed to Jon, who had adjusted the straps of their bags, one on either shoulder, and was starting down the trail, right toward the man in question. He stopped in his tracks and looked back at her. “I don’t know,” Ashley butted in before he could respond. “But he seems to like you.” Jon frowned, glanced down the trail, then back to Rhea. “Which one?” Rhea lifted a brow in question. Which one? What’s he mean “which one?” How could he not know “which one?” “The big guy.” She gave a quick nod of her head, indicating the direction in front of him. “Yeah, the one with all the muscles,” Ashley chimed. “The one with the hot bod—” Rhea gave her a stern glare. Ashley shrugged. “Just tryin’ to help,” she said cheerily, then started down the trail behind a couple of young boys who were lugging armfuls of journals and various other books. As she passed by the outof-place Adonis, she glanced up at him and smiled. He briefly grinned down at her, then returned his attention to Rhea. Jon took off his specs, rubbed both lenses with the hem of his shirt, then replaced them on the bridge of his nose and looked once more down the trail in the direction the rest of the group was heading. After a few seconds, he shook his head with bewilderment. 14

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“Rhea, honey, I don’t see any big guy. All I see is a group of native men, some young boys, and your lab assistant, who seems to be enjoying the canopy.” Rhea hated to point, because she knew it was rude and the guy would obviously know she was talking about him, but she couldn’t believe Jon didn’t see him. Who could miss him? Ashley was enjoying the view, but it certainly wasn’t the treetops that had her beaming like a foolish schoolgirl. “That one right—” She looked past Jon to indicate the man in question, and he was gone. But…he was just there. Rhea blinked with confusion. “He was there, Jon. I saw him.” She walked toward him, her hand still held out before her, pointing to the spot farther down the trail where her mysterious man had just been. Jon’s brows furrowed even deeper, and his lips pursed together into a tight line of concern. He stared at her in silence for a few moments, seemingly pondering her sanity. Then he placed a reassuring palm on her shoulder. “You’ve had a long trip, sweetheart. Have you eaten anything?” Rhea looked up at him. “What?” Her mind had lapsed into a dazed stupor. She was tired. Hell, she was exhausted! And, no, she hadn’t eaten in several hours. Maybe I imagined him. The biologist in her desperately wanted to bring some logical reasoning back into the situation. But…Ashley had seen him too. Hadn’t she? Rhea glanced back down the trail. Jon was right, there was no giant, tanned man with bulging muscles and decadent eyes. Just a group of typical natives—none of which could even mistakenly be construed for the man she thought she saw—and Ashley’s retreating backside. She closed her eyes and rubbed her temples. She’d just spent what? Twelve, thirteen hours on a plane? With no food. No sleep. Her nerves 15

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were frazzled and she was starving. It seemed very likely she was seeing things as well. Rhea was surprised her brain hadn’t concocted a giant smorgasbord instead of a man. Of course, she’d take him as the main course any day. Stop it, Rhea! You’re imagining things. There is no mystery guy. But she knew she’d seen someone. “You know, you’re probably right, Jon. I’m bushed. And I haven’t eaten. I’m practically delirious right now.” She gave him the most reassuring smile she could muster, even though her instinct belied her concocted logical reasoning. Besides, whoever she saw was carrying two of her crates. Surely he was going the same place they were. And when they got to the village, she’d point him out to Jon. Then they’d see who was hallucinating.

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CHAPTER 3

Rhea was pleasantly surprised when they entered the village. Unlike the dilapidated shacks at the “airport,” the Huitoto lodges were seemingly well built with sturdy materials. The huts were placed haphazardly, as though each new addition was simply erected where room allowed it. Central to the community stood an enormous structure without walls or doorways—a community gazebo perhaps, where the society members could get together for meetings or fellowship, or whatever entertainment they cared to enjoy. A large fire-pit, surrounded by what looked like log benches, was cut into the ground at the foot of the massive pergola. Rhea couldn’t help but picture a dozen half-dressed Indians, painted with various colors, dancing around a roaring fire beneath a moonlit sky. She smiled at the image in her head. She hoped to observe some of the Huitoto traditions while she was there. Her projected length of stay was six weeks. But if the recent lab 17

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results were accurate and these people had truly stumbled onto a potential new drug for cancer, then she’d remain as long as necessary. Especially now that she knew she’d be working directly under Jon. She couldn’t ask for a better adviser. A middle-aged Indian man approached them, with two women trailing closely behind. He yelled something in his foreign tongue, and held his hands out before him. Jon leaned close to Rhea’s ear. “This is Victor, chief of the Huitoto. He is welcoming you to his home. Bow your head with acceptance. He’ll be pleased by the gesture.” Rhea did as Jon suggested. “Thank you. We appreciate your hospitality.” Even though she knew the chief probably didn’t understand her words, she hoped the sincerity in her voice would serve to portray her gratitude. To her surprise, Jon relayed her message in the Huitoto’s tongue. She didn’t know he could speak their language. Of course, it only made sense. How else could they hope to stay with these native people while conducting their research? Someone had to be able to talk to them. How long has he been here? As though reading her thoughts, “I’ve been staying with the Huitoto off and on for five years now. It’s taken nearly that long to learn their language,” he said, matter-of-factly. Rhea nodded in admiration. Now she understood his prolonged absences. He’s been here. Victor smiled broadly at her, then pointed to each of the women beside him and launched into another undecipherable dialog. Rhea knew he was trying to introduce them, but she didn’t have a clue what he was saying. So she merely smiled in return, and tried not to stare at the two half-naked women any longer than what would be considered polite. “His wife and daughter,” Jon whispered. “The females traditionally 18

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don’t wear tops.” “I see,” she whispered back through her plastered smile. “Come,” Victor cut in, waving for them to follow him. Rhea glanced at Jon, her brows lifting in question. “I’ve managed to teach them a little of our language as well. Some have learned faster than others,” he explained. Then he placed his palm on her lower back and ushered her along behind Victor and his female companions. Suddenly realizing they were short one person, Rhea scanned the village. “Where’s Ashley?” Oh, God. I’ve lost her already. She’s been— As if on cue, she heard Ashley’s voice float to them from a nearby hut. She turned toward the sound and saw her lab partner speaking with one of the native women as though they completely understood each other. Ashley vigorously nodded her head, then took what looked like an article of clothing from the young woman’s outstretched hands. “I better go collect my assistant before she gets herself into trouble,” Rhea mumbled. Jon nodded. He called to Victor, then pointed to Ashley. Rhea heard her name mentioned, and something about bartering. Victor’s aged features curled into a pleased grin. “Yes, go see,” he said, indicating the hut with a wave of his hand. Then he yelled instructions to two young men standing idly by. They hurried over to take their bags. Jon thanked them, took her by the elbow, and led her over to what appeared to be the village store. As they entered the doorless structure, Rhea could only gape in astonishment. The inside was filled with the most beautiful works of art and craftsmanship she’d ever seen. Masks, dolls, rattles, jewelry, blankets, purses, and various other items hung on the walls and sat upon multiple tables. “Look!” Ashley squealed with delight. “She gave me a skirt like 19

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hers!” Rhea’s brow furrowed with skepticism. “You sure she gave it to you?” Ashley nodded excitedly. “Yeah! She said a gift, and handed it to me. Isn’t it beautiful?” Ashley held the garment up to her midriff. The Indian woman seemed pleased by Ashley’s joy. Quickly snatching a similar skirt from a nearby table, she held it out to Rhea. “A gift.” Unsure, Rhea glanced up at Jon. He smiled down at her. “Take it. To refuse would bring her embarrassment. Although it’s not expected, you should offer her something in return.” Rhea smiled and nodded her head, then took the garment from the woman’s outstretched hands. “Thank you.” Ashley quickly removed her silver bangle bracelet and handed it to her. “A gift,” she said proudly. The woman bowed her head several times, each time muttering what Rhea guessed to be a word of thanks. Then the woman turned to Rhea, obviously expecting a token from her as well. Rhea nervously chewed the inside of her cheek as she racked her brain for a suitable souvenir while the young woman merely stared at her with hopeful eyes and waited. What can I give her? As an unexpected solution dawned, Rhea smiled. Reaching up behind her neck, she unclasped her necklace. Then she took one of the woman’s hands and gently placed the chain and ruby pendant in the middle of her palm. It had been a present from Steve. “A gift.” Rhea felt proud of herself. She thought parting with the piece would be a lot harder than it was. It looked as though she was truly getting over her two-timing ex. Just the excited expression on the young 20

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woman’s face told her that she’d get more enjoyment out of the small bauble than Rhea ever had. The woman held up her two gifts, one in each hand, and grinned broadly at Rhea and Ashley. Then she attempted to put them on. She didn’t have much difficulty with the bracelet, but when it came to the necklace, she obviously couldn’t unclasp the lock. Rhea took a step toward her. “Do you want me to help you?” Jon quickly translated for her. The woman bobbed her head with enthusiasm, then handed the necklace back to her. Rhea walked around behind her, carefully swept her thick, onyx hair to the side, then lifted the chain over her head and brought it down around her neck. After securely clasping the lock, she gently pulled the woman’s hair free of the chain and stepped back around to face her. “There now. It looks quite beautiful on you,” Rhea said with a smile. The ruby pendant nestled perfectly between the woman’s bare breasts. “I think it looks far better on you than it ever did me.” The woman placed her hand over the bracelet, now dangling from her right wrist, and bowed to Ashley. Then she repeated the process with the necklace to Rhea. Rhea responded similarly with the skirt. “I shall wear it proudly.” Just then, an elderly woman entered the hut from the back. When she saw the four of them, she began to yell something in Huitoto. Her tone was harsh, as though she were perturbed. The young woman quickly rushed off. “I hope we didn’t get her in trouble,” Ashley said with a frown. “That’s Uri’s mother,” Jon said, waving at the older woman. “She told her to quit bothering the doctors and get back to work.” Rhea chuckled. “They think we’re doctors?” Jon smiled. “They’re having a celebration tonight, in your honor. The Huitoto are very pleased that you have come to stay with them 21

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while doing your research, and they wish to show their gratitude.” “Oooh! A party? We’re having a party, tonight?” Ashley’s eyes sparkled with excitement. “That’ll give me the perfect opportunity to wear this skirt.” She held the article out before her, adoring it once again. “You must wear yours, too, Rhea.” Rhea glanced down at the garment in her hand. She ran her palm over the strange material. “What’s this made out of?” Jon grinned. “Tree bark,” he declared smartly, apparently knowing his answer would surprise her. “No way.” Ashley gawked at the item, her expression filling with admiration. “Yup, tree bark,” he confirmed. “You see, they take the inner bark of a palm tree and beat it until it’s thin, like cloth. Then they make it into clothes or purses or whatever they need.” “Amazing.” Ashley lovingly hugged the skirt to her chest. Rhea held the stiff garment up to her waist, pondering whether or not she really wanted to wear it. She rarely wore anything besides jeans or khakis. Even if she did, she certainly wasn’t going without a top. Not with Mr. Drop Dead Gorgeous running around here somewhere. Speaking of whom, she had yet to see again. “Just wear a blouse with it,” Jon commented, seemingly reading her mind. “You’ll honor Uri and her mother.” Rhea nodded. “I suppose I can suffer through one night of discomfort.” Jon rolled his eyes as though feigning annoyance. “Always a tomboy, aren’t you, Rhea.” Rhea shrugged. Growing up with five older brothers hadn’t taught her much else. Besides, she didn’t have time for girlie stuff. Her job monopolized most of her waking moments. And she’d already made the mistake of trying to combine love and work. Nope, she treasured her independence. Ashley, on the other hand, 22

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rarely went anywhere without an escort—her friend thrived on male attention. It was like she had to have it or her whole world fell apart. Rhea preferred being alone. It prevented her from getting hurt. Although, she wouldn’t mind hearing she was beautiful every now and then. Especially from a gorgeous male who wasn’t her relative.

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CHAPTER 4

Rhea and Ashley sat on a log by the fire and watched as members of the tribe performed one of their traditional dances. Strong male voices floated through the air around them as the men sang out a beautiful tune in their native tongue. The women would join in every now and then for a chord, their soft feminine voices melting in with the masculine ones to add just the right amount of tenor. Rhea was glad she’d worn the skirt Uri had given her. It really wasn’t as uncomfortable as she'd thought it would be. Ashley had hers on a well. Needless to say, they both wore tops, even though Ashley had started to leave the hut without one, and wasn’t at all pleased when Rhea had stopped her. As the Indian women danced around the undulating flames toward them, Rhea couldn’t help but feel a strange sense of awe about these people. Untouched by most modern conveniences, they seemed innocent and pure. And they appreciated everything given them by both 24

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man and nature. When dinner was brought out, the chief and his wife had gone through a touching display of giving thanks to their god for supplying them with sustenance. Then, before anyone was allowed to eat, a heaping plate was prepared and set before an enormous stone statue in the center of the gazebo. “Their god,” Jon had explained. The ground at the sculpture’s feet was littered with various offerings of pottery and jewelry. No doubt these people gave some token of gratitude for every reward received. Any hardship likely brought forth even larger contributions in a plea for forgiveness. So caught up in her thoughts about the Huitoto god’s effigy, and the primitive behaviors of its servants, Rhea was stunned to look up and find that the female dancers had formed into a straight line, and were heading her way, seemingly on a mission. As each one passed by, they gave Ashley and her a small gift. Before the assembly had finished, both of them had an armful of necklaces, bracelets, beaded purses, and various other items. Rhea felt overwhelmed. She wished she had gifts to give each of them in return for their wonderful presents. But as she wasn’t prepared for this, she had nothing to give. “Now what do we do?” Ashley asked out of the corner of her mouth, all the while smiling back at the groups of women before them. “I don’t know,” Rhea returned. “I didn’t bring much jewelry.” “Me neither.” Rhea glanced down at the horde of goodies in her lap. Not knowing what else to do, she began slipping the necklaces over her head. They were made of varying materials—beads, grasses, seeds, feathers. But one in particular caught her attention. It was about eighteen inches long, made out of what appeared to be fish scales, and had the jawbone of some sort of creature attached for a pendant. 25

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She gingerly fingered the sharp teeth, drawing back with a muffled yelp when one pierced her skin. Then she glanced at Ashley. “What do you think this is?” Ashley slipped a similar necklace over her head. “I have no idea. As long as it’s not human, I don’t care.” Rhea had to agree. She returned her attention to the waiting group. In a gesture similar to Uri’s, she placed her hand over the necklaces, nodded her head with appreciation, and muttered what she hoped meant thank you in Huitoto. An older woman with graying hair separated from the group and stepped forward. Rhea recognized her as the one from the hut earlier— Uri’s mother. The woman bowed her head with respect, then placed a headband decorated with colorful feathers on Rhea’s head. Ashley got one as well. “Gifts from Juanita,” the woman announced. “You like?” “Oh, yes! Very much. Thank you,” Ashley exclaimed, touching the band at her forehead. Rhea nodded in agreement. The woman’s chocolate eyes sparkled with delight and she clasped her hands together beneath her chin with almost child-like glee. “Is good!” Then she turned and said something to the others in Huitoto, while making a shooing motion with her hands. The women giggled and rushed off to rejoin the men waiting on the sidelines. Within moments, the dancing and singing started up again. Rather than leave, as the others had, Juanita seated herself beside Ashley on the log and began to talk. Of course, Rhea understood very little of what the woman was saying. Every now and then, she’d hear a familiar English word, but most of it was indecipherable. Nevertheless, she tried to appear as attentive as she could. After a few moments, a rustling to their left drew her gaze past 26

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Juanita’s aged features to the darkened forest behind her. Rhea thought she caught a glimpse of someone standing in shadows. She blinked, and the figure was gone. Am I imagining things? She refocused on Juanita, smiling and nodding her head as though following every word the woman said. Then a movement in the brush caught her eye and Rhea couldn’t help but lean over sideways to try to get a better look. This time, there was no mistaking the phantom-like silhouette standing just beyond the reach of the fire’s glow. Recognizing the large frame as belonging to none other than her mystery man from before, Rhea jumped to her feet. “There he is!” She turned to find Jon and quickly spotted him chatting with an elderly man at a table under the gazebo. “Jon, there!” Rhea knew she probably looked ridiculous, yelling and pointing at the trees, but she didn’t care. “You see him?” Jon hurried over. He stared in the direction she indicated for a long moment, then turned to look at her, a puzzled expression contorting his features. “I think you better go lie down, honey. You’ve had a long—” “Don’t you see him?” she cut in, pointing once again. Rhea knew, even before she looked for verification, the shadow would be gone. Someone was playing tricks on her. And she didn’t appreciate it one bit. The man who’d been chatting with Jon approached them. “Is everything all right?” he asked, in perfect English. Rhea looked blankly at him. Her head suddenly felt funny and she thought she might just close her eyes and go to sleep standing up. She had the same sensation of being on some kind of painkiller, like morphine. What was in my drink? She veered a little to the side before catching herself. Jon steadied her with a hand on her upper arm. “I think she’s just 27

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tired,” he announced, then turned to Rhea. “This is Gabriel, the Huitoto shaman. He knows a lot about the medicinal plants of the rainforest. He’ll be going with us tomorrow in search of the Yagana—the plant we think may treat cancer. Which is all the more reason for you to get some sleep.” Gabriel said something to Juanita in Huitoto. She nodded, then took Rhea by the arm and started to lead her away from the group. “Come.” “But…I saw him,” Rhea protested. “I’m telling you—” Juanita clucked her tongue in disapproval. “Come. Now,” she repeated, tugging on Rhea’s arm. “You saw him, Ash. Didn’t you?” Rhea began to feel desperate. She knew she wasn’t crazy. Yet, her lack of evidence looked grim, even to herself. Ashley started to reply, but a stern look from Juanita instantly silenced her. Helpless, she held out her hands, palms up, and shrugged. “I—” “No talk. Come. Both.” Juanita waved for them to follow, then started toward their appointed hut at the other end of the village. Rhea followed along behind Juanita in silence. Her mind refused to accept that she’d been hallucinating again. She quickly glanced back at the shadowed tree line. Nothing. Maybe I was seeing things… No, there had been someone there. She’d get to the bottom of this sooner or later. And when she finally saw this man face to face, she was going to give him a piece of her— “Rhea?” Ashley whispered, cutting into her escalating thoughts. “I did see him. You weren’t imagining him. But…I don’t think anyone else can.” The sincerity of Ashley’s tone chilled her to the bone. Rhea’s brows furrowed with bewilderment as she glanced at her friend from the corner of her eye. How could no one else see him if we did? 28

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“We’ll talk privately,” she whispered back. Then gave a slight nod toward Juanita’s retreating backside. Ashley subtly nodded, then fell silent. When they arrived at the hut, Juanita pointed to the door, much like a mother issuing a command to her unruly children to go to their room. “You sleep now,” she said loudly, as though making sure others heard the command as well. “Feel better tomorrow for big hunt.” Rhea and Ashley entered the shelter without argument, both eager for Juanita to leave so they could discuss the mysterious man they’d seen. But to their dismay, she followed them inside. Rhea glared at the woman, wondering if she planned on staying for no other purpose than to ensure their silence. Juanita stared back at her for a long while, seemingly trying to decide what to say. “He’s…the Guardian,” she announced. “The Guardian of what?” Ashley asked incredulously. “Ashley!” Rhea hissed, indicating for her to shut-up for once in her life and listen to what the woman had to say. “The Guardian of the Stairway to…” Juanita’s brow furrowed. She wrung her hands together, seemingly at a loss for the right word. Then she pointed upward. “Stairway to—” “God? The Stairway to the gods?” Ashley butted in. Juanita shook her head. “To Heaven,” Rhea announced, suddenly understanding. “He’s the Guardian of the Stairway to Heaven.” Juanita smiled and nodded. “Yes. Stairway to Heaven. Only female see him. No male.” Rhea felt a prickle of unease. Jon didn’t see him, but Ashley did. “Did you see him, Juanita?” The woman frowned, as though not quite understanding the question. Rhea pointed to Juanita. “Did Juanita.” Then to her eyes. “See 29

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him?” Juanita shook her head. “No. Very few see him. Different for all.” “You see! I told you I didn’t think anyone could see him but us,” Ashley exclaimed. Rhea ignored her excitement and concentrated on trying to make sense out of all this. “Why us, Juanita. Why did he show himself to us?” Juanita stared at both of them for several long moments. Rhea was just getting ready to re-ask the question when the woman suddenly answered. “Him wants one.” Rhea’s heart lurched in her chest. He wants one? One what? Us? The next question that popped in her head was even more disturbing. For what? Something else Juanita said bothered her as well. Different for all. What did that mean? She quietly pondered the old woman, who suddenly seemed very uncomfortable in their presence. Juanita’s gaze had dropped to the floor, as though she were trying to…hide something. “You’ve seen him before,” Rhea declared. Juanita backed toward the door. “I go now,” she whispered. The words were almost inaudible. “Juanita has seen him. Haven’t you?” Rhea repeated, almost demanding an answer. Juanita stopped her retreat. She audibly sighed, then glanced up at Rhea. “Yes. I see him. Long ago. But no more.” “Why?” Ashley cut in. She took a step toward the old woman. “Why can’t you see him anymore?” This time, Rhea didn’t intercede. She wanted to know as well. “I go to him once. Then, no more. Ever.” Juanita glanced out the hut’s door, seemingly trying to assure herself of their privacy. When she turned back to face them, her expression was almost pained. “I 30

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went for my Uri.” Rhea closed her eyes and rubbed her temples. None of this made any sense. Part of her wanted to go get Jon so he could translate Juanita’s words. But she knew if she did, Juanita would leave and then she’d never learn any more about this Guardian. She could tell the woman was fearful of talking about him, as though it were taboo or something. But she had to know what was going on. And if this man wanted one of them, was she in danger? Was Ashley? Hold on, Rhea, she told herself. Just calm down. “Please tell us, Juanita.” She pleaded to the old woman with her eyes. “We must know.” Juanita laced her fingers together, stared up at the hut’s ceiling, and began to chant something in Huitoto. Every few words she would raise her hands above her head, then return them to just under her chin. After several moments of this, she fell to her knees on the palm covered floor and kissed the ground. Rhea and Ashley looked at each other, confused by the woman’s odd behavior. “What’s going on?” Ashley mouthed quietly. Rhea shrugged. “I don’t know,” she whispered, then returned her attention to the woman on the floor. “Juanita? Are you all right?” When the woman finally got up, her appearance was calm, as though she were suddenly at peace with whatever she would tell them. “Come. Sit. We will speak.” They followed her over to a small table and four chairs nestled in the far, left-hand corner of the hut. A candle was already lit in its center, affording them just enough light to safely see their way without tripping, and to vaguely make out the shapes of the two cots against the back wall. Their bags of personals and several crates of supplies were stacked on the right. 31

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Juanita waited for Ashley and Rhea to sit down before taking a seat for herself. Then she launched into her story, telling it to them in a mixture of Huitoto and enough fragmented English that Rhea was able to follow along. For nearly two hours, the old woman told them as much as she could of the mysterious Guardian, and what his purpose was. By the time she was through, Rhea wasn’t sure if she should go seek him out, or run like hell. When Juanita had finished, she merely stood up, walked to the door, and exited the hut without so much as a backward glance.

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CHAPTER 5

Unable to sleep, Rhea lay on her bed that night, mulling over what Juanita had said about the Guardian. From what she’d gathered, he only appeared to a select few. And, only because they needed something he could supply. In Juanita’s case, it had been a child. Whether the old woman was barren, or her dead husband had been sterile, Rhea didn’t know. But apparently, she had wanted a baby so badly that this Guardian had appeared to her, offered his services, and she’d accepted. Even though the air in the hut was uncomfortably hot, a strange prickle raced down Rhea’s spine, causing her to shiver. An image of Juanita and this man in a passionate embrace popped in her head. She cringed. It was a vision she’d rather not dwell on. Then something Juanita had said forced its way into her thoughts. Different for all. “Different for all…” Rhea mumbled into the darkness. Different. 33

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What does that mean? Rhea wondered… “Hey, Ash?” she called quietly. A soft snore echoed in response. Rhea waited. No answer. “Ashley!” she said a little louder. Ashley snorted, rolled over, then sat straight up. “What? What is it? What’s going on?” Her voice rose an octave as excitement settled in. “Is he here?” Rhea could just make out her lab partner’s silhouette in the darkness. She rolled her eyes and shook her head. “No, just us.” Ashley grunted, then flopped back down on her cot. “What’d you wake me up for then?” Rhea rolled over and hugged her pillow to her chest, contemplating asking Ashley the question nagging at her gut. If she understood Juanita’s words to mean what she thought they did, then she wasn’t at all sure if she was ready for the verification her lab partner would likely supply. But the scientist in her refused to let it be. “Ashley?” After a short pause, “Hmm?” came her friend’s sleepy reply. Rhea bit her bottom lip. Last chance to back out. “What did he look like to you?” Although Ashley rolled over to face her, Rhea couldn’t make out her friend’s expression in the darkness. A long silence followed and she felt that unnerving chill once again. “Who?” Ashley finally asked. “You know who,” Rhea shot back, starting to get a little irritated by Ashley’s attempt to play dumb. “What did he look like to you when you saw him this afternoon.” “All I saw was a shadow in the brush. I figured it must be the same—” Rhea sat upright on the edge of her bed and leaned forward toward 34

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the other cot. “Ashley! Quit eluding the question. What did he look like?” Ashley sat up as well. “I…don’t want him to look different from what you saw.” Her words were drawn out in a long whine as if she were a young child trying to get out of trouble. “Because if he does then—” “Then Juanita is right. He appears differently to each of his…chosen…” Chosen what? Victims? “And that means he also wants…” Ashley’s words were scarcely a whisper. “He wants one of us,” Rhea finished. They grew silent, both lost in their own thoughts about the Guardian. After several long moments, Ashley spoke softly, breaking the uncomfortable stillness in the air. “Great build, blond hair, and blue eyes the color of a robin’s egg. Just like the first man I fell in love with.” More silence. “Yours?” Ashley’s voice came out as a choked squeak. Rhea cringed. She didn’t want to answer. Now she felt like the little kid in trouble. It seemed the only description their mystery man shared was a hot body. The rest was as different as night and day. “Brown hair so pure it looked like the finest of stained wood. Eyes of chocolate so decadent I think I gained ten pounds just by staring.” Her voice was equally soft. Rhea heard Ashley draw in a long shaky breath. “What do you think it means?” she whispered tersely, before exhaling soundly. “I don’t know, Ash. I just don’t know.” Rhea laid back down on her cot and stared up into the darkness where she knew the ceiling would be were she to reach up and touch it. Everything around her was tactile, objective, constrained by the 35

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laws of reason. Her whole life had revolved around science, theory, and provable facts. This…this was a whole new realm of which she knew nothing. She had no bearings, no structure, no security. This just can’t be. Ashley continued to sit on the edge of her bed, seemingly waiting for her to say something. But what could she say? She had no explanation for any of this, no answers. For the first time in her life, Rhea felt out of control, and she didn’t like it. Not one little bit. And it seemed the outcome depended on this Guardian and his Stairway to Heaven. The next move was his. “Go on back to sleep, Ash. We’ve got a long day tomorrow, and I think we’ve reached a dead end on this Guardian issue. We’ll just have to wait and see what happens.” Her partner’s silhouette nodded and slowly rolled down onto the cot. “You think we should barricade the door?” Ashley asked, now lying on her back as well. “Do you really think it would do any good?” Rhea returned. Ashley cleared her throat. “I guess not.” Then, as though considering the glassless window beside her bed as a potential place for intrusion, she turned over to face it. There was a second window over by the table and chairs. Rhea thought perhaps she should follow her friend’s lead and turn toward it. But she was torn between keeping watch over the window, and keeping watch over Ashley. If Juanita was right, then this Guardian would likely come after one of them. But which one? Or does he want us both? Rhea hadn’t considered that possibility. The old woman said he only appeared to those who needed something he could give. So why had they both seen him? Was he confused? Trying to pick between the two? 36

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Juanita had also said he wanted one. So maybe that was it. He was trying to decide between them. Rhea’s lids felt heavy. Thirteen hours on a plane had finally caught up with her. As her mind began to drift off into sleep, a final question stuck in her brain. Only, it seemed as though someone else was asking it. Would you have believed what you saw, Rhea, if you were you the only one to see it? Rhea struggled to stay awake and dispute the matter. Every logical fiber of her being demanded it of her. But logic couldn’t win over exhaustion. And before she could offer up some reasonable contradiction to the galling accusation, she fell asleep.

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CHAPTER 6

Rhea jumped in response to the first touch of his fingertips against her arm. Her eyelids flew open and she sat straight up. “Where am I?” “You’re asleep,” came the man’s deep-voiced reply. Rhea glanced about her surroundings. White billows blocked her view on all sides. She felt as though she floated on a cloud. She held her hand out before her. Her fingers look fuzzy, as though her vision weren’t quite clear. She turned it over, brought it a little closer to her face, then gently placed it down next to her hip. Her palm contacted smooth satin. Rhea’s gaze dropped to the strange surface upon which she sat. She pressed downward with her palm. Ashen puffs of smoke swirled into the air and the surface gave, letting her hand sink into a shimmering pool of silk. She jerked back her arm, quickly studied her hand, then dropped it 38

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into her lap. “Am I dreaming?” Another brush against her shoulder caused her to yelp in alarm. She whipped around, but no one was there, just another poof of iridescent vapor that roiled toward her, then faded out until it dissipated into the hazy background. “Show yourself!” A wave of heat washed over her face as his masculine chuckle warmed the air. “Are you sure you’re ready for that, Rhea?” Rhea struggled to her feet, fumbling and veering as the surface beneath her bounced and rolled. She felt like she was inside once of those gigantic moonwalks at the carnival, much like the ones she used to love as a kid. Only, this was no amusement park. There were no rides, no balloons, no booths of greasy foods fit to clog your veins with cholesterol galore. No, this was an unearthly place, harboring something strange and inhuman. And Rhea didn’t much like it. Not knowing what else to do, but unwilling to wait until the thing that brought her here tired of his game, Rhea started to walk. She’d only made it a step or two when the swaying surface beneath her feet welled up into a big wave and tossed her backward. She cried out in alarm before landing on a pallet of downy pillows. More puffs of ashy smoke escaped into the air above her. Rhea scrambled to her hands and knees. “What do you want?” Her breath hitched in her chest as fear gripped her innards. A chilling silence surrounded her. “What do you want?” she repeated, trying to sound braver than she felt. She felt movement through her hair. Fingers started at the base of her skull and slowly slid up her scalp to the crown, then slipped free. Rhea held her breath. “The question is, what do you want, Rhea?” His voice was next to 39

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her ear. She felt the sweep of his breath upon her cheek. Rhea spun around, but he was gone once again in another puff. Glittering sparkles briefly hung in the air where his form had been, the only proof that someone or something had recently fled. She reached out to catch some of the shimmering dust within her palm. Ever so slowly, she opened her hand. As though the twinkling particles were alive, they spilled over the edges of her fingertips and crept up her arm, leaving a tingling trail in their wake. Rhea squealed and tried to shake them free. But like a marching army of militant ants, they continued to swarm her skin until she felt their invasive tickle on every inch of her body. As the strangely enticing sensation moved down to the juncture of her thighs, Rhea panicked. “Stop it!” The feeling instantly ceased and the sparkles disappeared. His amused laughter filled the air once again. Taunting. Teasing. “Why did you bring me here if you’re merely going to hide behind a shroud of smoke and play these childish games? Guardian? Is that who you are? Or do you have another name?” The hand tangled in her hair once again, only there was no tenderness in the way it yanked her head back. Rhea screamed, more in shock than pain. Then she slung her fist upward and back. Her knuckles slipped through the mist like a knife through melted butter, contacting nothing but air. When he seized her wrist to prevent any more blows, Rhea let out a terrified yelp. Helpless, she could do no more than lay there, imprisoned within an invisible, yet steely grasp. “You wouldn’t like me in this state, Rhea.” His voice was suddenly angry, harsh. Too frightened to look upon the thing that held her, Rhea squeezed her eyes shut as the shimmering particles returned and slowly began to take shape. She felt his mouth hover above her neck. A sweep of heat. Then a 40

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quick searing sting that was gone almost as soon as it started. Rhea inhaled sharply. “What…do you…want?” she choked out. He released her wrist and his fingers loosened in her hair. “Only to give you what you need.” Rhea immediately pulled away. Her hand went to the side of her neck. But there was no evidence of injury, no blood, no cut, no pain. Only a strange prickling remained. “What did you do to me?” “Nothiiinnng…” His voice trailed off, as though he were walking away. “You’re lying! What did you take from me?” He chuckled in response. “Beauty and brains, such a lovely combination.” The words came at her from varying points within the mist. “What did you take from me?” Rhea screamed, a new sense of panic overriding her fear. “Nothing you’ll miss. Just a small token that I require in return for my services.” Rhea clenched her fists. “I didn’t agree to your services!” “Yes you did.” His words were spoken matter-of-factly, as though sure of his claim. “No, I—” Rhea felt a finger lay gently against her lips. “Shh… Lie back, Rhea. Lie back and enjoy.” Rhea jerked away from his touch, shaking her head with vehemence. “No!” “Are you afraid?” She bit her bottom lip to still its trembling. There was no point denying it. She was terrified. And he likely knew it. “Yes.” She felt warm palms push against her shoulders, pressing her down 41

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upon the pillows until she was lying on her back. Despite her attempt to be brave, a tiny squeak escaped her throat. The sound was her undoing. “Please, don’t,” she begged, struggling to sit back up. He held her in place. “Don’t what?” he asked with a lazy drawl, as though he were slowly inspecting her from head to foot. Rhea imagined she could feel his careful gaze moving along her flesh, looking for the most vulnerable point of attack. “Don’t hurt me.” Her voice was a tremulous whisper. “Oh, I’ve no intention of hurting you, Rhea. On the contrary, I plan on giving you pleasure unlike anything you’ve ever known.” Rhea felt the air leave her lungs and the color drain from her face. As though seconding his intent, her body shuddered violently in response. Then a strange heat crept along her lower limbs toward her thighs, and she realized it was his hands. “No!” She tried to scoot away, but his fingers gripped her calves, preventing her escape. “No? Why do you deny what your heart desires, Rhea?” Rhea shook her head as she stared into the glittering haze hovering above her. “No, you’re wrong. I don’t desire anything from—” “Rheaaa…don’t lie to me. I know what longings lurk within your soul. I only wish to fulfill them.” Rhea tried to push herself up once again, and this time, he let her go. She scrambled back a few feet while her gaze darted about, desperately seeking some indication as to where he might be. But the churning clouds kept their secret, skillfully hiding their mysterious master within their billowing depths. Rhea felt movement behind her. The soft brush of a hand against the back of her neck. She let out a startled scream and quickly moved away. He chuckled softly, seeming to mock her once again. “What are you?” Rhea demanded, feeling like a terrified rabbit 42

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being hunted by its prey. “A rabbit? I think not, Rhea. You’re a seductive tigress. You just don’t know it. Yet.” His words seeped through her skull to caress her mind. It felt as though a million bees were let loose in her brain. Rhea clasped her palms over her ears. “Stop it! Get out of my head!” The invader immediately retreated; the buzzing stopped. She slowly lowered her hands, searching the billows once again. “You took my blood, didn’t you? You’re a…a vampire.” He roared with laughter, apparently finding her accusation amusing. The deep sound filled the air with echoing waves, causing the satin to roll and vibrate beneath her. Rhea struggled to keep from being unseated by the undulating waves. “No, Rhea. I didn’t take your blood. And I’m not a vampire. At least, not in the sense you think.” The clouds began to thicken a few feet before her. Then the satiny ground weighed down, as though someone were walking toward her. Rhea hurriedly got to her feet and backed away. “Then, what are you?” she demanded, throwing out her arms for balance as another wave threatened to tumble her over. “And what did you take?” The bouncing stopped, his approach momentarily halted. “I am…the Guardian of the Stairway to—” “I know that!” Rhea felt on the verge of hysterics. His mind games were driving her crazy! “But you took something from me. I feel it. What was it?” She was nearly screaming. “Your essence, Rhea. I took your essence.” The satin sunk down a few feet away, then bulged upward, as though he’d just jumped into the air. Rhea let out a shriek of distress as the residual wave threw her backward. But she didn’t fall as expected. 43

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“Why?” Rhea cried, as she felt his arms encircle her from behind. “What do you want with it?” He held her effortlessly above the shifting satin before gently placing her feet down. But even though she now stood safely on the surface, he didn’t let go. “I am bound to my duty as Guardian. And I can only gain freedom through the essence of another. So in exchange for my services, you shall give me a doorway to the living.” Rhea’s insides turned to ice. “No…please. I don’t want to—” “Shhh… I am not the monster you think me to be, Rhea.” His arms tightened around her, hugging her even closer. Rhea looked down to where she knew his limbs encircled her. But a band of smoke speckled with glitter was the only visible indication to his presence. “You will see me, when next we meet, Rhea. But you must not tell anyone about the stairway. Do you understand? When you find it, you must not tell. Very few are allowed to see it. And I am offering it to you. Do you know where the stairway leads, Rhea?” Rhea shook her head, overwhelmed with all he was telling her. She didn’t understand what he meant by a "doorway to the living." And she wasn’t sure she wanted to, either. “Whoever ascends the stairway shall find their own personal Heaven.” His voice caressed her earlobe. “And what part…do…you…play?” The question came out in choked gasps as she felt his mouth move along the curve of her neck. “Why, I’m the…tour guide.” Although she couldn’t see his face, or any part of him for that matter, Rhea could sense he was smiling. Before she could respond, he swept her into his arms, then carefully laid her back down on the pile of downy pillows. Rhea held her breath when she felt him drop down beside her. 44

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There were so many questions she wanted to ask. Clarifications that needed to be made. Her mind demanded she not fall prey to this…Guardian. Yet, her body seemed inexplicably drawn to him. His fingertips stroked along her jaw line, then moved down to her collarbone. When his palm closed over one of her breasts, Rhea’s calm gave way. She sat up and scooted a few feet away. “I have to know some things first.” “Ask,” came his reply. She could just make out his form, lying casually across the pillows—if one could consider a thick mound of sparkling mist a form. Rhea instantly thought of the man she’d seen earlier on the trail. Was that what her mind wanted her to see? Was that what she desired? “Yes,” he answered, even though she hadn’t asked him anything at all. “Stop that!” she snapped, feeling rather than hearing the return of the buzzing she’d felt before. “Stop what?” he asked innocently. Rhea huffed with annoyance. “Stop reading my mind.” He chuckled. “As you wish, my love. As you wish.” “What do you mean by ‘I’ll be your doorway to the living?’ Juanita said she only went to you once. It’s…not going to be the same for me. Is it?” The last words were more a declaration than a question, for Rhea already sensed the answer. “It was different for Juanita. She happened upon the stairwell, I fulfilled her need, then set her free.” Rhea felt a jolt to her insides. “You’re not going to set me free, are you?” The sparkling mist seemed to thicken, the glitters intensified. “Will you want to be freed?” “Stop talking in riddles! How am I supposed to know what I’ll want? I don’t know what the price is.” 45

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“There is no price, Rhea. Only a mutual agreement.” His form sat up. Rhea crossed her arms over her chest. “Which is?” “No matter where you are, I can be with you, if I want—walk among the living in human form, dine at an expensive restaurant, dance on the veranda, live as I so yearn to live.” “And what do I get in return?” she asked, hating the question even as it left her lips. She’d never cared about getting her share of anything. In reality, she’d always been the one to give, and the one who ended up being used. A picture of Steve flashed through her mind. “The thing you need most, a loyal companion, a giving lover, a…” He hesitated, as though not sure he should say the next word. “A what?” Rhea asked, although she felt an intuitive sense of unease. His arms encircled her from behind once again. But this time, the action was strangely inviting. Before logic could kick in and remind her to be rational, she leaned back against him. “A husband.” Rhea closed her eyes. This was crazy! She could never agree to this. How could she even consider being joined to a…a…a what? What was he? “Guardian,” he supplied. “But what is a Guardian?” Rhea insisted, pulling away and turning to face the sparkling cloud behind her. “And what of your duty? How can you be with me all the time, and still guard the Stairway?” “I won’t have to any more.” Rhea felt all her strength give out from beneath her; she collapsed down onto her butt on the satiny cushion below. “You want to use me to be free of your responsibility,” she said softly, her voice barely audible even though there were no other sounds around them. “I’ve no intention of using you, Rhea. I’ve guarded the Stairway for five centuries. I’m tired. I want a life of my own now. With a wife and 46

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children.” “Children? You didn’t say anything about children before.” He laughed, apparently finding her distress at this new suggestion amusing. “Let me put it into to terms you’re likely to understand. The rules of Guardianship state that a Guardian may relinquish his obligation to the next chosen one in line, when he finds his mate.” “That’s it?” Rhea asked incredulously. “You just find the woman you want, and she becomes your…mate? And what if she doesn’t want to? Doesn’t she…don’t I have a say so in this?” His form dispersed. Silence enveloped her. Rhea glanced about, but there were no glittering sparklers, no thickened clouds. It appeared as though he’d left. “Isn’t that like a man,” she harrumphed. “To leave when things aren’t going his way.” “I haven’t left, Rhea.” She squealed in response and nearly leapt to her feet. “Don’t do that! It’s really unnerving.” “I’m sorry.” The apology was a silken purr. “Would you prefer I did this?” She felt his hands grip her shoulders, pull her forward, then his lips gently pressed against hers. Rhea didn’t struggle, didn’t fight. She wasn’t sure she wanted to. She wasn’t sure about anything at the moment. Her eyes fluttered closed. It was strange indeed, to be kissing someone who…wasn’t there. Perhaps if she could imagine him in her mind, give him a form. When he pressed her back down onto the satin, Rhea didn’t resist. “That’s it,” he whispered next to her cheek. “Close your eyes and see me as you did before. See what you want, what you desire.” Rhea inhaled sharply as his mouth moved along her jaw and down her throat, leaving a tingling path in its wake. “You’ll never be alone 47

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again, Rhea. I won’t allow it.” She arched her back, pressing herself more fully against his palm as it closed over her breast and began to knead. A soft moan escaped her parted lips. “Oh, dear God. Is this only a dream? Will it end?” His tongue flicked against her erect nipple, making her gasp in response. “Not if you don’t want it to,” came his heady reply. Then his lips closed over the taunt bud and drew it more fully into his mouth. Rhea longed to tangle her fingers in his hair, but when she reached to do so, they merely passed through the mist, as though nothing were there. His hands and mouth moved downward, across her abdomen, and along her thighs, leaving a tantalizing trail of devastation behind. Rhea knew she should stop him, demand he not follow through with his obvious intent, but the words refused to come. And as she felt him carefully spread her legs and position himself in between, she knew she couldn’t stop him even if she wanted to. Not now. No, it had gone too far. “I don’t even know your name,” she said with a pout, as his mouth moved up the back of her leg toward her feminine vee. “I don’t have a name,” he replied. The words were a warm breath against her inner thigh. “At least, not one you could pronounce.” Rhea shuddered. “Then, what shall I call you?” “Whatever you wish.” His tongue touched her throbbing nub and Rhea’s insides convulsed. Even before his mouth came down to possess her, shivers of desire crept of up legs and culminated at the apex of her womanhood. As she felt herself careen over the edge into orgasmic bliss, she called out his name. “Valos!”

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CHAPTER 7

The sound of her own voice jolted Rhea awake. She bolted upright, eyes bulging, breaths gasping. Sweat trickled down along her hairline and between her breasts. Remnants of her orgasm slowly faded away, like the aftereffects of a fleeting dream. Clearly alarmed by her cry, Ashley jumped up as well. “What? What’s wrong? What happened?” Daylight filtered in through the glassless windows, illuminating Ashley’s features just enough for Rhea to read the concern in her expression. Swinging her legs over the side of the bed, Rhea turned toward her friend, wanting to tell her all that had happened in her dream. But how could she explain what she’d seen? What she’d felt? How could she tell Ashley that the Guardian, Valos, wanted her to be his mate so he could live among them in a human form? She’d think I’m crazy. Hell, I think I’m crazy! 49

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Rhea chewed at the inside of her cheek. She’d better keep her visit from Valos a secret. At least until she had time to sort things out. Perhaps it had been a dream after all. Rhea swiped at her brow with her forearm. “It was nothing, just a bad dream. I think. I…can’t even remember it now.” Ashley collapsed back onto her pillow with an irritated huff. “This was the worst night’s sleep I’ve had in a long time, thanks to you.” Rhea smiled. “Aw, you’re just upset because you were alone.” Ashley giggled. It was a mischievous sound that made Rhea roll her eyes and groan with dismay. “Oh, Lord. Who’ve you scoped out now?” Ashley flopped over onto her belly and turned to face her. “Well…” She bit her bottom lip, as if unsure she should speak her mind. “Dr. Speck is…rather…nice-looking.” Then she cringed and gave Rhea a half smile, obviously expecting retaliation. I knew it! Well, she could do worse. “He did tell you to call him Jon, after all,” Rhea replied in the snootiest English accent she could muster. “I must agree; he is a rather handsome fella. And a doctor no less. A girl could certainly do—” Ashley launched a pillow at her head. “All right, smart ass. I get the hint.” Rhea caught the down-filled square just before it smacked her in the face. The two women glared at each other. Several seconds passed in terse silence. But neither one was able to maintain their farce and both finally busted out laughing. Rhea tossed the pillow back to her friend. “I’m just kidding, Ash. I don’t care if you like Jon. I’ve never considered him anything beyond a good friend. More like an uncle, really. And he did seem to like you as well. Actually, I’ve never seen the man blush before. But you had him flaming like a green schoolboy.” Ashley’s eyes lit up with delight and her sensual mouth curled into a stunning smile. “You think so?” 50

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Rhea nodded. “No doubt.” And Jon will likely never get any better than that. Not at his age, anyway. Then Ashley grew silent. Cocking her head to the side, she stared at Rhea a long moment, one of her finely shaped brows arching with suspicion. Feeling as though she’d been caught doing something she wasn’t supposed to, Rhea became increasingly uncomfortable. “What?” “You seem…awful giddy this morning. You sure you don’t remember your dream? I’m thinking you do, down to every last detail.” Rhea felt heat rise in her cheeks. She bit her bottom lip, unsure of what to do. Should she tell her friend about her visit from Valos? “I…uh. You…probably wouldn’t believe me if I told you,” Rhea blurted out. She could tell Ashley was about to protest, but a soft rap on the hut’s palm door interrupted her objection. “Rhea?” It was Jon. Rhea sighed with relief. “Come in, Jon. We’re decent.” “Damn!” Ashley looked down at her oversized, shapeless T-shirt with an air of disgust. “If I’d known he was coming, I’d have made sure to wear something a little more appealing.” “You mean a little more revealing!” Rhea whispered quickly, just as Jon stepped through the doorway. Both women snapped to attention. Rhea quickly pasted on an innocent smile and offered a, “Hi.” But Jon wasn’t paying any attention to her; his vision was locked tight on Ashley, as though he’d just discovered a rare breed of flower. Rhea quietly watched the appreciative glances between her lab partner and mentor with amusement. Perhaps Jon was just what her friend needed. Ashley’s world had been filled with temporary beaus, men who came and went. Great for sex, but certainly lacking in emotion. Barring 51

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the age difference between them— “And what of our age difference, Rhea? Will that bother you?” The questions were as audible in her head as if Valos were sitting right next to her and had whispered them into her ear. Rhea let out a startled shriek and jumped up from the cot, spilling her pillow and blanket onto the floor. Eyes glued to the now empty bed, searching for the faintest shimmer of his presence, she slowly backed away. Jon was instantly at her side. Her gripped both her shoulders with gentle, but firm, fingers and turned her to face him. When she refused to look up at him, but rather continued to stare past him at her empty and disheveled bed, he gave her a gentle shake. “Rhea! What is it? What frightened you?” His fingers tightened on her upper arm. Rhea squinted, straining to see the fine sparkles she knew had to be there. After several more seconds of silence, Jon dipped his head down and to the side, sufficiently blocking her view of the cot. She blinked a few times before meeting his concerned stare. “Rhea, sweetheart. What did you see?” His voice was calm but persistent. “Uh…nothing. Just a spider. They give me the creeps.” When she pulled away, he instantly let her go. “A spider?” he asked incredulously. “You screamed like that over a bug? Honey, you’re in the Amazon. There’s gonna be bugs.” “Yeah, girl. Get a grip. There’s bigger things than bugs out there,” Ashley chimed in, pointing to the window. Rhea silently agreed. Bigger and definitely more dangerous. Jon took a step toward her. “You okay? You look a little pale. If we need to hold off the expedition this morn—” “No,” Rhea cut in. “I’m fine. Really. It just…startled me. That’s all.” “And if not, I’ve got some bug spray,” Ashley added cheerily, 52

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holding up a small squirt bottle she’d pulled from her duffel bag. “This stuff’ll keep anything away.” Jon turned to her and smiled. “Good then. Breakfast is ready. Let’s get going. We’ve got a lot of ground to cover today.” He started for the door. But when he reached the threshold, he paused. “Oh, and we’ll be camping away from the village tonight. So be sure to bring a small pack with your personals and a change of clothes.” Then, as an afterthought, “Only the necessities mind you,” he added, wagging a finger in their direction. “I’m not carrying any extra bags.” “Cross my heart,” Ashley said with a strangely husky purr. Then she made a crossing motion over her left breast. Jon gave her an appreciative stare, his gaze dropping to just below Ashley’s manicured nail. Then, realizing he was staring, he cleared his throat with a nervous cough. “We leave in twenty minutes. Breakfast is in the gazebo.” He turned and left. Rhea absently nodded. “Okay,” she said softly, her mind on things other than hunting for plants today. How did Valos do that? She thought about her dream. He’d taken something from her… My essence. And in doing so, had apparently created a link with her she was powerless to deny. “Oh, dear God,” she said, sinking onto the edge of her cot. “What? What is it?” Ashley demanded, sitting down next to her. “What’s happened?” When Rhea didn’t answer, Ashley grabbed her shoulders, forced her to face her, then shook her none too gently. “Rhea! Don’t zone out on me. What’s going on?” Rhea looked at her friend. “He wants me,” she said quietly, calmly. “What? Who? Jon?” Rhea collapsed back onto the cot with a frustrated huff. “No. Not Jon. He obviously wants you.” 53

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“Really? You think so? I mean, I thought he kind of liked me. But I’ve never really…hey! Don’t change the subject! This isn’t about me. It’s about you.” Rhea drew in a long breath, then let it slip noisily through her pursed lips. What was she going to do? Apparently, Valos had already claimed her as his mate, whether she agreed or not. But she couldn’t… Wait, what had he said about being with her? “No matter where you are, I can be with you, if I want,” came the voice in her head again. “Stop it, Valos!” Rhea jumped up from the bed. Ashley jumped up as well. “Whoa! What’s going on? Who’s Valos?” “Stay out of my head!” Rhea didn’t care that her voice likely carried across the entire village. This was insane. He had no right to just take up residence in her thoughts. “It’s only for a little while, Rhea. When you come to me, I’ll be…tangible.” “The hell you will!” She shook her fist at the bed, sensing, rather than seeing, that he was there. “I didn’t agree to this, Valos. You can’t—” “Rhea! I don’t know what’s going on here, but you’re really scaring the crap out of me.” Ashley stepped between Rhea and the cot. Suddenly realizing how ridiculous she probably looked and sounded, Rhea instantly dropped her hand to her side. Not knowing what to say or how to explain her bizarre behavior, her gaze drifted to the floor, unable to meet her friend’s terrified stare. After a long moment of uncomfortable silence, Ashley declared, “It was your dream, wasn’t it? He came to you in your dream.” Then she took a step toward her. “What’d he do to you, Rhea? You’re talking like a crazy woman.” Her voice grew shrill with panic when Rhea didn’t answer. “What’d 54

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he do?” Ashley reached for her shoulders again with the apparent intent of shaking some sense into her. Rhea glanced up at her lab partner, anger filling her every pore. “He took something from me,” she replied in a voice that was strangely calm despite the raging emotions assaulting her soul. “Without my permission.” Ashley immediately dropped her arms to her sides. “What?” She shook her head as if trying to clear her thoughts and assure herself she was hearing Rhea correctly. “What did he take?” she finally asked. “My essence,” Rhea replied with a low growl. “And I’m gonna get it back!” She snatched her duffel bag from the floor by Ashley’s feet, then headed for the table across the room. “He’s here,” Rhea called over her shoulder. “Right now. He thinks I’m going to be his mate, let him come and go in the human world at will, give him children, be a faithful and doting wife. But he’s wrong. Dead wrong. I won’t have a man who thinks he can just pop in for a quickie, then leave. If that’s his idea of giving me what I need, then he’s got another think—” “Who said anything about leaving?” Rhea’s spine stiffened. She slowly turned to look toward the bed, ignoring Ashley’s bewildered expression and the toiletry items that fell unheeded to the floor. “What?” she whispered softly. “I plan on staying forever.”

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CHAPTER 8

The day had proven useless. By nightfall, the group had no more found any evidence of the elusive Yagana plant, than Rhea had the Stairway to Heaven. All proof of Valos and his insane suggestions seemed to have disappeared. And Rhea wondered for the hundredth time if perhaps Juanita’s story hadn’t merely jolted her normally restrained imagination into overdrive. Ashley and Jon had scarcely paid any attention to anyone but each other, and the small band of natives, including Gabriel, the Huitito shaman, had been so intent on searching for traces of the Yagana, that Rhea had pretty much been left to her own defenses. She’d traveled along at the back of the group, admiring the passing scenery and trying not to think on the Stairway’s Guardian. By the time they’d set up camp along the Amapayaco River, they were nearly twenty miles from the Huitito Village, and Rhea had almost convinced herself that Valos didn’t exist. 56

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She knew she needed to return her attentions to the purpose of her trip, and quit allowing herself to be sidetracked by Juanita’s fictional Guardian and promises of a happily-ever-after. Those were endings found in fairy tales, not everyday life. And they only happened to important people, certainly no one as insignificant as herself. I’m just a biologist. “You’re not insignificant, Rhea. Not to me. You are my world.” It took everything she had not to scream out loud. Rhea gripped the fallen log upon which she sat so tightly her knuckles turned white. “I thought you were gone!” she snapped in a terse whisper, making sure no one else could hear. Her lab partner already thought she was losing her marbles. The last thing she needed was for anyone else to suspect her sanity. “I told you, my love. I’m not going anywhere. I’ve just been busy today, preparing for our meeting.” Rhea felt a brush against her shoulder, a sweep of her ponytail away from her neck, then a gentle kiss as soft as a rose petal caressed her flesh. She gasped when a shudder worked its way down her spine, around her waist, and centered itself at the juncture of her thighs. The muscles in her pelvis contracted as orgasmic tremors rocked her core. A rush of heat flamed her cheeks. “Stop it!” she whispered again, swiping at the back of her neck. “You all right over there?” Jon called from the other side of the fire pit. He and Ashley were sharing a meal of fish that one of the natives had caught while the others had set up camp. “Uh…yeah. Just these darned mosquitoes,” Rhea returned with a nervous laugh. “You want…my bug spray?” Ashley asked between mouthfuls. “Nah, I’m fine. Really.” Rhea waved her hand out before her as though dismissing the suggestion altogether. Ashley shrugged with indifference, then turned her attention back to her meal, and to Jon. 57

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Rhea glanced to her right, sensing Valos’s presence. “What do you want from me?” she asked softly, trying not to draw any more unwanted attention to herself. “You know what I want, Rhea.” “Why me? Why not Ashley, or one of the Huitito women?” “Because, you need me.” “What makes you think Ashley doesn’t need you? Why do—” “Look for yourself, Rhea. Ashley has what she needs. Everyone has one true mate in life. Ashley has found hers, as you have found yours.” Rhea chanced to look over at her lab partner and mentor. They did seem rather pleased with each other. Jon’s eyes never left Ashley’s beautiful face as she placed a chunk of food between his lips with her fingertips. And she didn’t flinch or pull away when he leaned forward and captured her mouth in a gentle kiss. He’s right. As much as she hated to admit it, there was no denying the obvious. Ashley and Jon needed each other. And their meeting had to be more than coincidental; it was— “Destiny. As was ours.” “But—” “It’s time, Rhea. Time for you to find the Stairway to Heaven. Time for us to join.” Although Rhea knew she should argue, should refuse to find his stairway, refuse to join with him, refuse to do anything at all he wanted, she found herself rising from her seat and turning toward the shadowed rainforest behind her. Then, without so much as a backward glance to see if any of the others would notice, she disappeared into the darkness. *

*

*

Rhea only felt a vague sliver of fear as she stepped off the trail and began to work her way deeper and deeper into the maze of trees and curling vines composing the mighty Amazon Forest, and farther and 58

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farther away from the safety of the camp and her friends. Regardless of the outcome, she had resigned herself to the fact that she had to find the stairway, alone, and she had to face Valos, if not for anything else than to assure herself of her sanity. But how sane was traipsing through a rainforest loaded with poisonous dart frogs, venomous snakes, and God only knew what other types of dangerous creatures, with no weapons, no flashlight, and no— “Don’t worry, my love. I shall keep you safe.” Rhea nodded, suddenly feeling comforted. She could scarcely see more than five feet in front of her, and yet something inside told her that Valos was sincere. He would protect her from any harm. “That’s it. Now turn to your left and continue straight ahead. The stairway isn’t much farther now. You’re doing just fine.” Rhea did as instructed, feeling more like a puppet on a string than a living person. Hands held out before her to break a fall in case she tripped, she started forward into a gaping black hole, which seemed to swallow her and everything else around her. Not even the steady hum of locusts, the occasional chirp of frogs, or the squawk of an irritated macaw permeated the darkness into which she crept. A shiver raced down her spine. The creatures of these woods wouldn’t venture here. “So why am I?” she wondered out loud. Even though she’d barely spoken above a whisper, her voice broke the stillness around her with a resounding echo. Before she could change her mind or ponder the question, her hands bumped into what felt like a wall of tangled vines and leaves. As though innately knowing which direction to go, Rhea turned to the left. Carefully running her fingertips along a single thickened and corded vine—almost as one would a banister down a long, darkened hallway— she started forward. After she’d counted out fifty feet, she stopped, turned to her right, and stepped through the opening to the Stairway to Heaven without so 59

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much as a single scrape from the thorny vegetation around her. Once across the threshold, Rhea stopped. Still facing the inevitable stairwell, which had barely begun to take form, she slowly reached her hand behind her. It contacted thick brush; the hole was barricaded. No one else could get in. Or out. Rhea knotted her fists at her sides and closed her eyes, willing herself to be strong. You’re going to go up there, demand he return your essence, and leave. That’s all, she chided herself. But as she broached the first step and heard Valos’s responding chuckle, Rhea knew there was no going back. With each step she took up the stairwell, her path began to manifest. Granite walls extending as far upward as the eye could see, tunneled along both sides. And one quick glance over her shoulder confirmed her worst fear—there was nothing behind. Truly, the steps seemed to drop off into darkness as close as the one just beneath her heel. Rhea wondered, if she were to fall— “I would catch you, my love.” Feeling rebellious, she chanced a step back. But when her shoe came down where the step should have been, her foot merely passed through space and she felt herself teeter backward. Rhea let out a startled shriek and lunged forward to keep from falling into the abyss below. She landed on all fours, hands on one step, knees on another. Valos clucked his tongue in disapproval. “Walk or crawl, it makes no matter to me. There’s no going back now, Rhea.” Rhea bristled at his sarcasm. “What if I jump? What then? I die and you choose someone else?” Her voice bounced off the cavernous walls and raced up the tunnel before her. Valos merely laughed at her outrage. “You won’t jump.” Much as she’d like to prove him wrong, Rhea knew he was right. There was no way in hell she’d leap to an uncertain death. And yet, was 60

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she possibly ascending to one as well? Valos clucked his tongue once again. “So pessimistic. Come along, Rhea. You’re wasting time. I’m anxious to get started. Aren’t you?” Deciding not to grace him with an answer and likely boost his already over-inflated sense of self-importance, Rhea gritted her teeth and climbed to her feet. Concentrating on putting one foot in front of the other, she began to make her way upward. The stairwell seemed to last forever. Rhea didn’t know how many steps she’d climbed, but she was starting to feel weak. Just when she thought she couldn’t lift another foot, a white door with a silver handle magically appeared before her. Rhea chewed her bottom lip, contemplating opening the door. She really didn’t have a choice, since the stairwell behind her had vanished. She could either stand at his stoop for the rest of her life, or… Before her common sense could get the better of her, she grasped the handle and pushed the door open. She was immediately assailed by a blast of gray mist that nearly knocked her backward. Letting out a startled yelp, she threw her arms over her face in self-defense. Ever so slowly, she brought her guard down and peeked about her surroundings. It was much like it had been in her dream. Swirling clouds and puffs of white smoke obliterated what lay beyond. Here was her true test of courage. Taking a deep breath, Rhea stepped forward into uncertainty.

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CHAPTER 9

As soon as Rhea had crossed the threshold, the door and stairwell disappeared, leaving her standing within the midst of a realm of swirling vapors. Forcing herself to remain calm, she silently waited for Valos. But after several long moments, her patience began to wane. “Well, I’m here. Now what?” she demanded. “Are you going to hide as before?” His resounding chuckle filled the air around her, bounced off a nearby billow, and pummeled her ears. “Not a chance.” Then, as though on command, the mist and clouds began to vanish. As Rhea’s eyes took in her new surroundings, she saw she was within a spacious room. With the exception of a single door to her left, which was cloaked with flowing, white satin panels that gently flapped as though caressed by a slight breeze, the walls were composed of solid sheets of mirrors, as was the ceiling. Everywhere Rhea looked, she saw herself in perfect form, with no cracks or seams marring her reflection. 62

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At first glance, she thought the floor was made of onyx marble, but as she concentrated on the strange surface, she realized that it wasn’t black at all, but rather clear, as though she stood on a massive pane of glass. And beneath her was nothingness, a starless void of night. Rhea felt dizzy. She wanted to run to the satin-draped doorway, the only visible means of escape from this crazy room. And yet, she was too terrified to move lest her footsteps cause the glass to break and she plummet into the bottomless chasm below. Her gaze darted about the room as desperation settled in. Her breaths quickened, bordering on hyperventilation. Her heartbeat pounded through her teeth making them chatter as though she were cold. “Where…are you?” she choked out, imagining the floor giving way as she took a tentative step toward the door. Valos didn’t reply. With the exception of her labored breathing and hammering pulse, there was no sound at all within the mirrored room. Rhea’s attention dropped to the translucent floor. Holding her hands out by her sides as though balancing on a tightrope, she started forward. Okay, this is a test, she assured herself. I’m terrified of heights, and he knows it. So he’s— Just then, large puffs white of smoke wafted up beneath the floor’s lucid surface in roiling waves, successfully obliterating her view of the darkness below. “Is that better?” His voice seemingly came from just beyond the door’s threshold. Rhea immediately stopped. Holding her breath, she stared at the flapping satin panels, expecting Valos to walk through the doorway at any moment. After several seconds of silence, “Yes,” she replied with an expulsion of air. “Thank you.” “You must be tired. Why don’t you rest, and I’ll join you in a moment.” “But there isn’t anywhere to—” 63

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Rhea stared in the mirror with disbelief as a bed took shape behind her in the center of the room. She whipped around just as it came into full focus. It was a massive structure, made out of what appeared to be pure ivory. It’s four intricately carved posts stood tall and regal, nearly reaching the mirrored ceiling above, while the sheerest panels of shimmering silk hung from each pillar in long flowing waves and spilled across the floor with elegant ripples—milk poured from an invisible cup. Several large fluffy pillows, each housed in glossy cream-colored satin, crowded against the headboard, competing for space. A matching seamless comforter that looked as smooth and rich as an undisturbed saucer of buttermilk draped across the bed’s enormous surface like an oversized cloak, lightly dusting the floor from one side to the other. And upon the bed’s center lay a single ivory rose, its perfect bud so luscious and pure, Rhea wondered if perhaps it weren’t real. Then her gaze shifted to her feet as a trail of quarter-sized petals appeared along the floor, creating a perfect path for her to follow to what lay ahead. The overall affect was so seductive, so alluring, Rhea found herself wanting to move toward it, wanting to feel the slick satin upon her naked skin, wanting to feel the weight of Valos upon her as he pressed her body into the downy bedclothes. She nearly gave in. But just as she took the first step toward what she knew would imminently lead to her downfall, her common sense returned full-force. “I’ll…stand, thank you.” Crossing her arms over her chest with an air of defiance, she turned away from the bed and focused on the door. Valos’s laughter filled the air. “That’s one of the reason’s I picked you, Rhea. You’re rebellious and headstrong, intelligent and witty. Not to mention beautiful. Desirable.” His voice had dropped to a seductive purr. Rhea felt currents of awareness course through her insides. She 64

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clenched her jaw, willing herself not to be swayed by his charm. “I’ve come for my essence. That’s all. Then I shall be on my way,” she declared with a tone of boldness she didn’t feel. “It’s no longer yours. It belongs to me. You belong to me.” Rhea’s mouth dropped open with shock. Her arms fell to her sides, hands knotted into angry fists. She didn’t belong to anyone, especially some pompous, self-absorbed, domineering…Guardian! At an end to her patience, Rhea started toward the door with purpose. “Now you listen here, mister! I don’t care who you are, you can’t just go around stealing—” She’d scarcely made it five paces when Valos stepped across the threshold. Rhea felt the air escape her lungs in one big gasp. Oh, dear God. She didn’t know what she’d expected, but he was that and so much more. Although he still looked like the man she’d seen on the trail, and his presence felt like the one in her dream, seeing him now in true form was almost more than she could handle. His mahogany hair swept back from his forehead in a crest, but parted on the side and hung down around his face and shoulders in cascading waves. His broad shoulders were void of covering, leaving his wide, muscled chest and washboard abs bare for her viewing pleasure. His only article of clothing was a pair of white lounge pants— which seemed unusually bright against his deeply tanned skin—that clung loosely to his narrow hips and long legs. Rhea couldn’t help but stare at the waistband. It hung daringly low at the front, dipping down just to the point of exposing the curly wisps of dark hair that surely surrounded his penis like a black shroud. The silky material roiled and slid with each movement, caressing his thighs as he walked, while the ties jiggled around and slapped noiselessly against balls. It was obvious he wore nothing beneath. Suddenly realizing her attentions were focused on his groin, Rhea 65

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quickly looked up. Until then, she’d still clung to the hope that he didn’t exist, that everything around her was a farce. But when he stared back at her with those decadent chocolate eyes, she knew he was indeed real. Just one kiss from that firm mouth and she’d be lost. Rhea took an unsteady step backward. Valos smiled. “What’s wrong, Rhea? Am I not what you expected?” As he advanced, Rhea continued to back away. It was only when her bottom smacked into the bed’s ivory footboard that her retreat came to a halt. Startled, she let out a small squeak of alarm. The sound barely traveled farther than her own ears. But it was loud enough for her stalker to hear. He chuckled, obviously amused by her shock. “Come now, Rhea. There’s nowhere for you to run. Our joining is inevitable.” Rhea’s gaze darted to the doorway. Perhaps if she circled around the bed, she could make it to the— As though in response to her thoughts, the door suddenly disappeared. Rhea let out a gasp of alarm. Now she truly was trapped inside. With him. “There,” Valos began with a throaty growl. “No more distractions.” Rhea scanned the room with desperation, hoping, praying she’d missed an exit. But everywhere she looked, she saw Valos’s approaching figure. He surrounded her from all sides, steadily moving in for the kill. She slowly inched along the footboard, around the soaring pillar, and backward next to the bed’s satin comforter, trying to put as much distance as she could between him and her. When she bumped into the post at the headboard, she stopped, then held her hands out before her in a manner of truce. “Just hold on a minute here. I’m still trying to accept the fact that all this even exists.” Rhea let out a nervous laugh. “I never thought it 66

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was—” “Real?” he finished for her. “It’s real, Rhea. I’m real.” Within ten steps, he’d successfully closed the space between them. Then he gently took hold of one of her hands and placed it against his bare chest. “I’m as real as any other man you’ve touched. But I can offer you so much more.” His breath caressed her cheek when he exhaled. Rhea felt the steady beat of his heart beneath her fingertips. His skin was smooth, warm. And strong muscles rippled against her touch as her palm curled along one well-formed pectoral. She yanked her hand away with a gasp. No! This can’t be! Valos sighed with what sounded like frustration. “I know it’s hard to accept, love. But it is.” Before she could protest, he swept her up into his arms and held her snugly against him while he climbed onto the bed. Then he laid her on the fluffy comforter and stretched out beside her. The pillows—which had been so neatly packed together before—tumbled down around Rhea’s head and shoulders. When one fell over her face, Valos let out a hearty laugh. “Sorry about that.” He quickly snatched the offensive object and tossed it to the floor. “They’re nice to look at, but tend to get in the way.” Then he set about removing all but the one beneath her head. “There now…we don’t need them anyway.” Propped on one elbow, he hovered above her. Rhea stared up at him in stunned silence. Too afraid to move, too afraid to breathe. Any minute now, this is all just going to disappear and you’re going to feel foolish, Rhea. She squeezed her eyes shut, counted to ten, then opened them again, praying she was back on her cot at the village and this was just another crazy dream. “Still here,” he confirmed with a crooked grin. Amusement danced in his eyes. 67

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Rhea let out a cry of distress and started to roll away, but his free hand gripped her shoulder and pressed her back down against the bed. Then he moved to partially cover her body with his own, successfully preventing any further thoughts of escape. Rhea could only watch with a mixture of fear and expectancy as he dipped his head forward. There was no mistaking the intent of his actions when his lips parted slightly before claiming hers in a shattering kiss that dissolved any remaining doubt.

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CHAPTER 10

At first, she merely lay there, determined not to respond to his touch. But as his tongue delved into her mouth and playfully swirled around hers, Rhea’s resolve began to melt. Ever so slowly, her left hand found its way to his hip, then moved up his side. A slight shift in his positioning, and her right hand was suddenly free to do the same. Before she knew it, her fingers were tangled in the silky locks at the nape of his neck. Rhea’s hands curled into fists, gripping his hair within each palm with a new sense of apprehension. She held him tightly, wanting to feel and taste even more of him. Her previous hesitation of accepting the impossible shifted to fearing its loss; she returned his kiss with a fierce passion that was startling as well as exalting. Finally breaking for air, “Oh, Valos,” she breathed against his lips. “I want to believe. Please don’t—” “Shh…” he coaxed, before plundering her mouth with another long 69

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and satisfying kiss that set her insides aflame. “No more worries. Just feel.” His lips trailed along her chin and jaw, searing her flesh as they slowly made their way to her throat. He nipped at her skin, then placed a gentle kiss against the pounding pulse. As though responding to his touch, her heart lurched in her chest. Rhea inhaled sharply, expecting the next thing she’d feel would be his teeth entering her neck. Valos chuckled against the hollow of her throat, then moved downward. When he came to the edge of her scooped-neck T-shirt, he paused, then pushed himself up to straddle her waist. “This will have to go,” he said matter-of-factly, before gripping the hem and pulling it up over her head. Rhea scarcely had time to form a refusal before her shirt was removed and tossed aside. She watched it disappear over the edge of the bed with a mixture of embarrassment and shock. When she looked up at Valos, his eyes were intent upon her breasts, as if he were memorizing their shape and size down to the precise millimeter. Her first instinct was to cover herself against his raking gaze. “No! Don’t hide yourself from me.” Although his tone was calm, the command was clear. Slowly, Rhea lowered her arms to her sides until they rested against the silky coverlet. When Valos reached out and lightly traced a path alongside her right breast with his fingertip, goose bumps immediately surfaced in its wake. Rhea shuddered. She longed to feel herself encased within his warm palm. Reading her mind again, he curled his hand around one globe and gently squeezed, forcing her nipple to jut upward. His eyes sparkled with mischief and a satisfied smirk pulled at the corners of his firm mouth when he heard her gasp in response. Then he leaned forward, capturing the rosy peak between his teeth. 70

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Rhea couldn’t stop herself from arching upward, forcing her breast more fully into his mouth when his lips closed around her and sucked at her nipple. His ministrations were maddening as he skillfully drew it into his mouth, then released it, only to pull it back in again. Satisfied he’d wreaked enough havoc on one side, he dutifully turned his attention to the other, renewing her torment all over again. Already knowing just how capable that mouth of his was, she squirmed beneath him, eager for him to abandon his post at her breasts and move into territory a little farther down. When he refused to budge, she pushed at his shoulders; trying to coax him in the direction she wanted him to go. After several persistent nudges and a few pouts of impatience, he finally acquiesced and began a torturous descent, leaving a moist trail of destruction along the way. Just as he had before with her shirt, he quickly disposed of her shorts and underwear when they blocked his path. With no more garments separating her flesh from his eager lips, he quickly set about the task of driving her past all logical thought. At the first touch of his mouth against her feminine lips, Rhea’s hips bucked forward, angling herself to give him optimum access. But Valos obviously intended on prolonging her torment. Rather than delve his tongue deep inside her as she so desired, he ran the tip along her outside, tracing around her opening, across her throbbing clitoris, and back down the other side. “Tell me what you want, Rhea.” His voice was warm against her sensitive woman’s flesh, causing her insides to clench in near orgasm. “You know what I want,” she breathed out in a heated rush. He’d scarcely have to touch her and she’d break loose. Already, the muscles in her legs and hips were tightening in preparation. “Tell me,” he coaxed, wrapping his hands around her thighs and urging her legs apart a little farther. 71

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Had Rhea stopped to consider her words, she’d have been mortified by what sprang from her lips. But at that moment, she was no longer the sensible woman who kept herself in check and tried to act rational in all situations. No, at that moment, Rhea was free. “Taste me, Valos! Make me come,” she cried, tangling her fingers in his dark hair and urging his head downward. “As you wish, my love.” His thick tongue plunged inside her. Withdrew. Then plunged again. Rhea felt her sheath begin to constrict. Her hips came up off the bed and she pressed her head against the pillow, arching herself upward even more. Within seconds, she’d be falling off the edge of reality and into a world of orgasmic bliss. Valos withdrew his tongue once again, only to replace it with two fingers, which deftly found that miracle spot on the upper wall just inside her opening and began to vigorously rub against it. When his mouth came down to possess her swollen clit, drawing the pulsating bead in and out of his mouth, Rhea could hold back no longer. With an unbridled cry of release, she let herself go. “That’s it, Rhea. Come for me,” he breathed heavily, sucking and stroking without relent. After the initial bolt of pleasure shot through her, the intensity only grew. Rhea gasped. Held her breath. Then gasped again. It was too much. She couldn’t take it. She felt as though she might die from the ecstasy. “Valos…please. I can’t…” She dug her heels into the bed, trying pushing herself away from his torturous mouth. Then another wave of pleasure hit and her body contracted as though she’d been shocked. Rhea threw back her head as his name was torn from her lips. She gripped his shoulders with bruising fingers, part of her wanting to push him away, the other wanting to hold him in place. 72

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“Oh…dear…God! You’re…killing…me!” she declared between gasps. Valos halted his sweet assault and resorted to stroking her lightly with his tongue. As though simply tasting her flowing juices—which ran from her opening and down into the crack of her ass—weren’t enough, he lapped at her canal, greedily trying to catch every drop. “Did that feel good?” It wasn’t really a question in need of asking. He knew the answer. Had her shameless cries and moans of pleasure not already confirmed it? But Rhea sensed he waited for a response. With her eyes still closed, she nodded. As her breathing began to settle, she realized her hands were still clamped tight on Valos’s muscled shoulders. She instantly released him, knowing she’d likely pierced his skin with her nails. “I’m sorry,” she whispered, feeling her cheeks grow warm with embarrassment. She didn’t recall ever acting that way before. It seemed as though Valos had indeed perfected the art of oral gratification. Rhea chanced to look down at him. She cringed when she saw the damage she’d done. Four evenly spaced puncture wounds lined the corded muscle running from the side of his neck to the top of each shoulder. A small crimson bead welled in the center of each. Her face flamed with mortification. With a shaking hand, she gently traced one, wiping away his blood. “Valos, I—” Balancing himself on one elbow, he grabbed her outstretched arm by the wrist, then brought her hand to his mouth, where he proceeded to lick her fingertips clean. Rhea couldn’t help but focus on his lips. She watched, mesmerized as his pink tongue brushed against her skin, skillfully cleansing away the red smears with one long sweep. She inhaled sharply, suddenly yearning for his mouth upon hers. Valos smiled, then slowly pulled himself up her body until his face was parallel to hers. Without saying a word, he dipped his head forward 73

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and teasingly brushed his lips across hers. He kissed her chin, her cheek, her brow, everywhere but the one place she wanted. The waiting was almost too much to bear. Rhea tilted her chin up, offering him access to take more. She sensed he was purposely prolonging her torment, and the realization sparked her anger. The air around them was permeated with her need. What more did he want? Winding her hands behind his neck, she tried to pull him down, capture his mouth. But he resisted, staring down at her with a haughty grin. Rhea wanted to scream. “Valos!” she warned, frustration apparent in her voice. In one quick motion, he rolled over, taking her with him. Rhea yelped as she felt herself being whipped over. Before she could react, he’d positioned himself on his back, and now she sat astride him. Valos punched the pillow around a moment before settling down into it, then slipped his hands behind his head and adjusted his broad shoulders a bit until he’d apparently gotten comfortable. Once he’d grown still, he stared up at her with his big chocolate-brown eyes, waiting to see what she would do. Rhea bit her bottom lip with uncertainty. She knew what she wanted to do, but she felt hesitant. Of course, they’d already passed the point of modesty. Why should she care what he thought? “Why indeed?” he asked, one of his thick brows arching with amusement. Rhea recoiled back a few inches. “I wish you wouldn’t do that,” she snapped. “What?” he asked, his expression innocent. She crossed her arms over her breasts, covering them against his appreciative stare. “You know what!” Valos chuckled, then shrugged. The motion caused the muscles in his arms to bulge, instantly drawing Rhea’s attention. 74

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“I…don’t…like it…when…” she started absently, her eyes moving over the expanse of his wide chest. “There’s no need for reservations now, Rhea. I know what you want. And I’ll assure that you get it before the night’s done. We’ll both get what we want.” Rhea’s attention snapped back to his face. She tried not to notice the arrogant set of his jaw, the firm line of his mouth, or the heady desire portrayed in his unwavering stare—the traits that made him so damn attractive and so utterly dangerous to her—but she couldn’t seem to focus on anything else. When her gaze finally fell to his mouth, and she felt her insides shudder with need, she knew she had to get out of there. “I’ve got to—” Her wrists were suddenly caught in a steely grasp, preventing escape. Rhea stared down to where Valos held her imprisoned within an unbreakable hold. Although she’d never considered herself tiny by any means, her arms seemed strangely small within his large hands. How had he moved so quickly? “Where are you going?” His deep voice interrupted her thoughts. Rhea slowly lifted her gaze to his. “I should…” Her eyes fastened on his mouth once again, halting her feeble explanation in mid-sentence. “Leave? Why would you want to leave, Rhea?” The question held an unspoken invitation. Rhea watched in stunned silence as he took her hands and placed them upon his tanned flesh. The warmth of his skin beneath her palms was her undoing. She no more wanted to leave now than she had when he was driving her beyond the borders of sanity with his skillful tongue. With gentle encouragement, he coaxed her into running her hands along the contours of his muscled chest. Before long, Rhea was traversing the chiseled planes on her own, and Valos had returned his arms to their previous position beneath the pillow under his head. 75

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At first, she dawdled around his pecs, mesmerized by how his soft brown nipples hardened into perfect little nickels at the slightest touch. Then she moved lower, down across his sculpted abs and trim waist. At his navel, she followed a thin, dark trail of hair until the tips of her fingers brushed against the gathered material of his pants. There, she paused. Rhea chanced to look up at him, catching his steady stare. He cocked his head a little to the side, one thick brow lifting with amusement. She could tell he hid a smirk behind his tight-lipped expression. He’s enjoying this! Then she glanced back down to where her hands hung above the satiny ties at his waist, waiting for her to give the order to forge ahead into perilous territory. There was no mistaking his arousal. The shiny material of his lounge pants stood up like a pitched tent above his groin. And so am I, she realized with an irresistible sense of excitement.

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CHAPTER 11

Just a gentle tug is all it took for the ties to pull free. But before she loosened the waistband and exposed his erection, Rhea leaned forward and placed a soft kiss at the crest of each of his hipbones. Then, she trailed her mouth along the material’s edge, from one side to the other. Every few inches, she’d dip her tongue beneath the border, purposefully trying to torture him as he’d done to her. She felt the muscles in his legs stiffen beneath her. And when she glanced up to meet his lust-filled stare, Rhea couldn’t help but smile with satisfaction. Apparently, Guardians weren’t impervious to a mortal’s touch. With a new sense of power, she set about tormenting Valos inch by glorious inch. She took her time, kissing and caressing his flawless skin, as she slowly slipped his silk trousers down his narrow hips and brawny thighs. Once she’d removed his pants, Rhea merely stared down at him in awe, meticulously taking in each detail of his perfect form. She 77

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could think of no other word to describe him other than beautiful, if one could consider a man as such, for Valos was indeed a creation of the gods. His cock stood proud and erect, jutting straight out from his groin like a steely blade—easily seven inches of deadly steel, poised and ready to thrust. And just as she’d suspected, a mass of dark curls surrounded the thickened base like a protective cloak, broken only by his rotund testicles which lay nestled and secure within the silken patch like two perfect eggs in a basket of Easter grass. Rhea’s heart rate quickened. Her hand longed to wrap itself around his hardness, to grip his staff within her palm like a mighty warrior preparing for battle. Unable to stop herself, she reached out and lightly brushed her fingers across the glistening black fur nestled around his thick shaft. He shuddered. “Rhea…” The word came out as a strained sigh. Her gaze locked with his. “What do you want, Valos?” she asked innocently, trying her hand at his game. Her fingertips traveled along his length with a teasingly light touch, and like a dinghy caught in an ocean maelstrom, his penis bobbed and butted against her in response. Then she curled her palm around him and proceeded to move in an even up and down motion, sliding the outer layer of his velvety sleeve along the hard inner rod with ease. When she bent forward and took him into her mouth, Rhea watched with silent gratification as his expression changed from arrogance to shock and finally to pleading. His breaths were no longer even and shallow, but rather came in broken gasps with each stroke of her hand and caress of her tongue. She could feel his excitement growing, his climax drawing near, as fluid coursed through the pulsing vein on the underside of his penis, rushing to the mushroom-shaped head in preparation. 78

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But Rhea had no intention of letting him get off that easy. She wanted him buried deep inside her when he exploded. Just as she felt he was about to break free, she abruptly stopped. Valos’s disappointment was apparent in his choked gasp. “Rhea…” he growled, piercing her with a harsh glare that clearly portrayed his frustration. His eyes were darkened with need—the pupils large and round, like two onyx marbles, and the strong line of his jaw had tightened with strained patience. Ignoring his obvious displeasure, Rhea rose up on her knees and positioned herself above him. Then she reached down between them and placed the bulbous head of his penis at her opening. In one quick motion, she plunged her hips downward, burying his hardened length to the hilt within her slick sheath. A shocked gasp tore from her lips as his size filled her completely, as though they were made for one another. At first, Rhea merely sat there, impaled upon his throbbing cock like an extra appendage. But as her own body quickly molded around him and began to pulsate, gripping his shaft with a primal need to pull him in even farther, she rocked her hips. Forward and backward, slowly at first, but as the movement caused him to butt against that magical spot, her gyration quickened. Faster and faster, the motion sending tiny sparks of electricity racing through her groin. Her clit tingled with anticipation. Rhea focused on it, grinding herself against him and willing her pleasure to come. When the muscles in her pelvis clenched, she knew it wouldn’t be long. Valos grasped her hips with vice-like fingers as he drove himself upward, meeting each of her downward motions with his own powerful thrust. Their heavy breathing melted together into uniform pants. Each of them were only seconds away from bliss. As Rhea felt the cresting begin, she closed her eyes, threw back her head, and let out a throaty moan. Valos’s own cry followed shortly thereafter. 79

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Her energies spent, Rhea collapsed forward, wallowing in the warmth and security of her Guardian’s strong arms as he wrapped them around her and held her tight. She lay there for a long while, listening to his heartbeat as it thumped against her ear. Fearing an end to this magical moment, she pressed herself even closer, willing their bodies to stay united as long as possible. Valos gently caressed the planes of her back. Then his hand moved up to her neck and hair. With long strokes, he ran his fingers through her chestnut tresses, letting them slip through his grip like a waterfall and spill across her skin with a feathering brush. Rhea’s eyes grew heavy. How she longed to let herself slip into a peaceful sleep, wrapped within a cocoon of Valos’s love. But she resisted, sensing that when she woke up, he’d be gone, and this would all just be another dream. “Shh…” he crooned. “Go to sleep, Rhea. Everything will be fine. I promise.” Rhea’s body grew heavy. She felt as though her limbs were turning to concrete, beginning at her fingertips and toes, and slowly working its way upward. She inhaled his earthy scent, tucking the memory away for later as her mind began to drift. “Go to sleep, Rheaaaa…” *

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“Rheeeaaa! Rheeeaaa!” At first, the feminine voice seemed to stab the darkness from far, far away. Rhea pulled her knees in tightly to her chest, willing the calling to cease. She didn’t want to wake up. She was having such a lovely dream. “Rheeeaaa!” This time a man’s voice, clear, distinct, and strangely familiar. Rhea’s eyes flew open. Sunlight, bright and piercing assailed her vision. She groaned, throwing her arm across her face in defense. 80

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Where am I? “Rheeeaaa!” The calling continued, a choir of voices. Rhea slowly sat up, taking in her surroundings. The mirrored room, the ivory bed, the satiny coverlet, everything was gone. And so was Valos. She was alone, somewhere along the Amapayaco River, and dressed in the clothes she’d had on the night before. Rhea felt the sinking of despair. It had all been a dream. Her vision clouded with tears. She had merely wandered away from camp, fallen asleep in the brush, and dreamt of a wonderful night in Valos’s embrace. It had never been real. She held her breath, hoping he would invade her thoughts and tell her she was wrong as he had before. But there was nothing, no warm chuckle, no lulling baritone voice, just the normal sounds of the flora and fauna commonly found in the Amazon Forest. A single hot tear slipped from her lashes, making way for several others to follow in its wake. Ignoring the ever-persistent calls from Ashley and Jon, Rhea let loose a whole floodtide of disappointment and sorrow, wailing out her pain to the quiet greenery around her. After several long moments of shameless sobbing, she finally got control of herself. She sniffed a few times, wiped her face on the front of her shirt, then pulled herself to her feet and started toward the others. It wasn’t until she took a deep breath that she caught the wind of a faint but familiar scent. Rhea stopped in her tracks. She inhaled again. The aroma remained. “Valos?” she called softly, almost in a whisper. No reply. “Val—” “Rhea! Oh, my God! Where’ve you been?” Ashley burst through the shrubbery before her like a wild woman, sending several colorful birds jetting into the canopy with squawks of alarm. Jon followed 81

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closely on her heels. “Rhea, are you all right?” He grasped her upper arms and shook her gently. Rhea looked up at Jon. “I’m…fine,” she mumbled. “What’re you doing out here?” Ashley demanded, butting in between them. “I was worried sick! I thought you’d been kidnapped by some crazy—” “I’m fine, really.” Her voice broke and she took a step back, wishing they’d both leave. Feeling moisture gather at the corners of her lashes once again, Rhea turned away. “I’d like…to be alone, for a while. Please.” But Ashley had no intention of being dismissed so easily. She stepped around Rhea and stood directly in front of her. “Rhea, when you were missing this morning… How did you get out here?” Rhea glanced up at her friend, pleading with her eyes for Ashley to leave her be for a few minutes. Just long enough for her to gather her thoughts and come up with some logical reason for all of this. “Ashley,” she whispered. “Please, just let me alone for a few. I’ll tell you about it later. I promise.” Ashley stared at her a long moment, then reluctantly nodded. “All right. But don’t go wandering off again. We’ll be waiting on the trail.” She pointed out the right direction, then waited for Rhea to acknowledge her. “All right,” she returned quietly. “I’ll only be a moment or two.” With a defeated sigh, Ashley stepped around her and ushered Jon off into the brush. Rhea waited until they were both out of hearing range, then took a deep breath through her nose. Her nostrils flared, trying to take in every aroma within a twenty-yard radius. Valos’s scent was gone. Crestfallen, her shoulders slumped with despair. She turned away and started for the trail. After a few a paces, she 82

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paused. Rhea glanced over her shoulder, not really expecting him to be there, but hoping nonetheless. Nothing. A hearty screech drew her attention to the canopy above. Suddenly startled, a large scarlet macaw lifted from its perch and flapped noisily away. Rhea stared at the branch from which it flew, searching for some evidence of the bird’s disturbance. She shaded her eyes against the glaring shards of sunlight piercing the treetops like razor blades. For a brief moment, she thought she saw the faintest sparkle. But from the distance, there was no way to tell for sure. “All right, Valos. Have it your way,” she announced softly. “I guess you got what you wanted after all. But you didn’t keep your end of the bargain.” Dropping her hand to her side, Rhea started toward Ashley and Jon. She knew her lab partner was probably bursting at the seams with curiosity. But the last thing Rhea wanted was to talk of or even think about the tall, dark-skinned man with mahogany hair and decadent eyes that had turned her whole world upside down—the man who apparently didn’t exist.

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CHAPTER 12

Rhea’s lids fluttered open when the boisterous roar of a gang of red howler monkeys overhead invaded her dreamless sleep. As her vision slowly came into focus, she stared up at the dim canopy of trees and tangled vines through emotionless eyes. It was nearly sunrise. Normally, she’d have been thrilled to watch the mating dance between the males and females of this animated group of primates as they leapt from branch to branch in a game of catch-me-if-you-can. But not even the beauty of the Amazon Forest or its teeming wildlife could penetrate her funk. Nearly two weeks had passed since that morning by the Amapayaco River. Two weeks, and no sign of Valos. While the daily searches for the Yagana plant had continued, taking her and the others on excursions miles away from the Huitoto Village, Rhea had merely gone through the motions, steadily slipping further and further into a deep state of depression. 84

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The first few nights, she’d gone to bed with high spirits, expecting Valos to come to her in her dreams, as he’d apparently done before. But when each dawn brought no secret rendezvous, she slowly began to accept the realization that he wasn’t coming back. And after fourteen days of disappointment, she was beginning to doubt he'd ever existed. She avoided the subject with Ashley, especially after she’d told her about the wonderful night in Valos’s magical chamber, and Ashley had blown it all off as nothing more than an improbable wet dream. Seemed her friend had completely forgotten about seeing him herself, and had no recollection of the day they’d arrived, or that evening he’d been in the shadows by the fire. Juanita was always too busy to be bothered with talk, and seemed to avoid her. And since Jon had never seen Valos to begin with, there was no point discussing it with him. When it came down to it, Rhea was the only one holding on to the belief that the Stairway to Heaven and its mysterious Guardian were anything more than figments of her imagination. Currently, they were on their way to the Heliconia Amazon River Lodge in the Yanamono Reserve to retrieve Dr. Madasgar—who apparently had extensive knowledge of the medicinal plants of this region. For the first time since arriving in the Amazon, they’d all be sleeping in real beds. But as far as Rhea was concerned, it was just another exhausting trek into the unknown, one that wouldn’t likely produce any reward, other than the luxuries of running water, sanitation, and real food. She shielded her head as a few twigs and leaves drifted down from forest ceiling. The howler monkeys were certainly in an uproar this morning, and if she didn’t move soon, she’d likely be pummeled by a falling tree limb. Or worse, the unfortunate target for excrement. That thought was enough to motivate Rhea into action. She quickly unzipped her sack and rolled up into a sitting position. Then she kicked 85

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her legs free and got to her feet. Stretching her hands above her head, she rolled her neck from side to side, trying to work out the kinks that sleeping on a hard ground with no pillow had caused. A quick assessment of the camp confirmed what she already expected—she was the first one up. But it was no matter, she preferred going through her morning ritual of sponge bathing from a bowl of tepid water in solitude. Seemed everything she did of late had become lonely. Rhea glanced over at Ashley and Jon, huddled together on the far side of the fire pit. One would think they’d known each other for years with how quickly they seemed to have grown attached to one another. And despite her envy at Ashley’s ability to draw the opposite sex like moths to a flame, she couldn’t help but feel happy for her. In truth, she’d never seen either one of them more content. Perhaps Valos was right. Ashley and Jon had found what they wanted in each other. Then another disturbing thought sent ripples of despair through her already troubled mind. Had Ashley been in need, would Valos have chosen her instead? No, stop it, Rhea. Valos doesn’t exist. He was nice dream. That’s all. Rhea shook her head, trying to clear her scattering thoughts and return some semblance of order to her quickly disintegrating state of logic. She was a biologist. Educated. Everything in life had a lucid explanation for existence. Beings like Guardians—whatever that really was—didn’t make sense. She pondered her recent change in behavior, in thinking, in rationalizing. When had her current state of disorganized thoughts and ridiculous ideas begun? When had she slipped into accepting this crazy notion that there was a magical stairwell, and a Guardian who promised to make all her dreams come true? When had she ceased knowing what was a reality and what was a delusion? 86

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The moment I stepped off the plane. It was true. She hadn’t been herself since she’d set foot in this place. But what was the reasoning behind it? The food? Drink? Try as she might, Rhea really couldn’t draw any conclusion. She saw Valos only moments after arriving, so what could have triggered such a cogent hallucination? One that had managed to overtake every aspect of her mind during waking and sleep. This has to be Steve’s fault, she concluded. Apparently, their breakup had been more traumatic for her than she’d thought. His betrayal had pushed her over the edge. And now she was making up imaginary men to fill the gaping void left behind from a lifetime of choosing the wrong guy. With a sigh of frustration, she started toward the river’s edge with towel and soap in hand. With any luck, she’d get her bathing done and be back before the others stirred. She certainly didn’t want to be lectured again about wandering off. *

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It was midday, the sun was at its peak in the crystal sky, and they had just traveled fifty miles by boat to reach their destination. Rhea watched as they drew near the Heliconia Lodge with growing anticipation. The first thing she wanted to do was take a shower. Two weeks of caked-on dirt and grime was enough to make anyone crabby. The Lodge was built with thatches of palm leaves, wood, and other typical jungle material. It offered twenty-one guest quarters, a restaurant, lobby, bar, resting room, and hammock room, all connected by roofed passageways. And, to Rhea’s delight, provided a private bathroom with running hot water for each resident. After a quiet dinner in her room and a long, well-deserved shower, Rhea pulled her wet hair up into a ponytail, then slipped on a pair of khaki shorts, a thin white blouse, and a pair of braided sandals. She gave herself a quick glance in the mirror to assure she was presentable, 87

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then headed down to the bar for a much-needed drink. Ashley and Jon had scarcely checked into their rooms before disappearing, hand in hand, into the jungle on a hunt for the lupuna— which, according to Jon, is an impressive tree known for its large dimensions. But they weren’t fooling anyone; Rhea knew what they’d disappeared for. The romantic lure of the rainforest was irresistible, and she couldn’t blame them for wanting to find a remote spot somewhere, perhaps a private waterfall, and take full advantage of it. Were Valos here, she’d be— Rhea stopped herself, refusing to let her imagination take over the little bit of control she’d managed to regain over the course of the day. Evening was drawing near, the sun was beginning to set, and she planned on sitting at the bar until she’d drunk herself into a stupor, then either stumbling back to her room to spend the rest of the night alone, or perhaps taking a walk by the river. She imagined, with no trees blocking her view, the stars would be spectacular. After tossing her purse—one of the many gifts she’d received that first night at the Huitoto Village—onto the counter, Rhea seated herself on one of the bar stools and waited. Since she wasn’t quite sure what to order, it didn’t bother her that it took several minutes for the waiter to finish what he was doing before noticing her. He flashed her an apologetic smile and hurried over. “Excusa, señorita. What would you like?” “Well, um, I’m not sure,” Rhea began, feeling a little silly. She wished she’d asked Jon for a suggestion before he took off with Ashley, but at the time, the only things on her mind were running water and fresh clothes. The bartender smiled once again. “You like fruits? ¿Sí?” Rhea nodded. “Okay, I’ll fix you up,” he declared with a wink and darted away. She watched as he stopped to take an order from a couple at the end 88

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of the bar, then disappeared through a doorway on the left. Rhea chewed the inside of her cheek. Something fruity was good, she hoped. While she waited for the man to return with her mystery drink, she glanced about the bar. “Must be a slow night,” she mumbled, taking in the handful of people seated at varying tables. Of course, how busy would a place be in the middle of the Amazon? Her gaze drifted to the co-joining hammock room, which faced the river. Perhaps when her drink arrived, she’d go sit out there and watch the sun set over the water. With the exception of one, all the hammocks were free. Rhea strained to see who occupied it. But the hammocks hung perpendicular to where she was sitting, so it was impossible to see little more than the top of the person’s head. She could just make out the dark color of hair, but couldn’t tell if it was a man or woman. “¿Señorita?” The bartender’s voice startled her, jolting her back to minding her own business. “Yes? Oh. Thank you,” Rhea replied hastily, taking in the colorful drink he’d set in front of her. The chilled, wide-bottomed mug was filled with a thick, peachcolored liquid the consistency of a frozen margarita. A tall wooden skewer lined with various fruit jutted out from the center—cherries, mangos, pineapple, and a few others she couldn’t name. And perched on the side, was a vivid, yellow paper umbrella. It was almost too pretty to drink. As though waiting for her approval, the bartender remained. Rhea grasped the large mug by its handle and lifted it to her lips. Then she took a tentative sip. At first, she could only taste the sugary flavor of the fruit, and she couldn’t help but wonder if he’d brought her a virgin daiquiri. But then the alcohol hit the back of her tongue and—Wow!—was it potent. Just 89

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two of these babies and she’d likely be sloshed! Rhea carefully set her drink back down, then picked up a napkin and dotted the corner of her lips. “That’s…whoa. That’s good.” The bartender grinned. “That’s aguardiente. Nothing like it.” “I’ll say. How much do I owe you?” Rhea grabbed for her purse. The man held up his hands and backed away shaking his head. “Compliments of the señor.” At first Rhea thought he meant it was on the house. But when he gestured toward the hammock room, she realized that whoever occupied that far hammock had just bought her a drink. She turned to thank the person, but he or she was gone; the hammock was empty. Then she skimmed the bar, thinking perhaps they’d come in to join her, but no one else had entered. With a shrug of indifference, she turned her attention back to her drink. Apparently, whoever it was had changed their mind. But Rhea didn’t care. She wasn’t up for chitchat, and really just wanted to be alone. She lifted her drink and took a long swig. After swirling the pungent liquid around on her tongue, she let it slip down her throat, savoring the burn as it went down. It was funny how good liquor could be painful to drink, and yet so satisfying. Is that sadistic? “Not at all.” Rhea choked on a mouthful of alcohol and dropped her drink as the familiar baritone voice brushed the back of her neck like a feathery breath. The mug landed on the bar with a resounding thud, then toppled over on its side, spilling peach liquid across the tabletop. Grabbing another napkin to cover her mouth as she coughed and sputtered, she whipped around, not too sure if she’d really heard him, or if it was just another figment of her imagination. “Hello, Rhea. I missed you.” 90

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Rhea’s eyes grew round with disbelief. This can’t be. Surely I’m not drunk yet! His responding chuckle made her heart lurch in the back of her throat, setting off another round of defensive gasps. Alcohol burned her nose, making her eyes water. Heat raced through her veins like liquid fire. She wasn’t sure if it was the sound of his voice, or the liquor setting her aflame. They stared at each other a long, quiet moment—he, seemingly pleased with the havoc his appearance had caused, and she, nothing less than stunned into silence. Either she was totally wasted on two gulps of whatever the bartender had called it, or Valos was standing before her, as real as anyone else in the room. Her eyes quickly took in his full form. His hair was pulled back into a ponytail at the nape of his neck, but draped over one broad shoulder like a stole. He was dressed in sleek black lounge-pants and a sheer white shirt, unbuttoned down to the navel, yet neatly tucked into his waistband. Her gaze lingered at the expanse of his chest, preoccupied with the smooth bronzed skin, before dropping to the penny-loafers covering his feet. Finally regaining her composure, Rhea cleared her throat. “What are you doing—” “Rhea! I see you’ve met Dr. Madasgar.” Rhea turned to see Jon making his way across the bar with Ashley clinging to his arm like an overgrown swatch of ivy. Rhea didn’t know what to say. She watched in open-mouthed shock as Jon approached them, then shook hands with the man as though greeting an old friend. “Um…no,” she stuttered, not believing Jon could actually see him this time. “We we’re…oh!” Her drink had spilled over the edge of the bar and was splattering all over the floor and her feet. Rhea jumped to the side when the cold liquid landed on her toes. “Actually, I startled her, causing her to spill her drink. And I was 91

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just getting ready to buy her another.” Rhea snatched her napkin and threw it on the hardwood floor where her drink was making a large sloppy puddle. “Um…bartender!” she called, hoping to remove herself from the uncomfortable situation by finding something else to do. “I need a towel!” She started to step around them, but Jon had managed to block her only exit. She was trapped between them and her chair. Helpless, she glanced up at Dr. Madasgar with a phony smile. If she could just play it off long enough to escape to her room… Rhea extended her hand. “N…nice to meet you, Dr.—” she started. “Please, call me Valos.” When his warm hand curled around hers, Rhea felt her knees grow weak. Before she could pull away, he’d turned her palm over, and leaned forward to brush his lips across the center in a sensual kiss. When he let go, she surely would have fallen at his feet had she not leaned back against her chair for support. Jon, oblivious to the sexual tension crackling through the air around them, began discussing their previous excursions and the plants they’d come across thus far. Rhea vaguely heard something about Valos and her continuing the search on their own since Ashley and he would be returning to the Huitoto Village for some sort of ceremony. “…so I hope Valos and you will get along all right as partners. We’ll be gone for a few weeks at least. In the meantime, you may want to focus your attentions near the Peruvian border. From what I’ve—” “Are you all right, Rhea?” Ashley chimed in. “I…think I had too much to drink,” Rhea replied quickly, hoping Valos didn’t dispute her claim. His response to Ashley nearly floored her. “Why don’t you two enjoy the evening? I’m going to walk Rhea to her room.” When his arm snaked around her waist and pulled her up against his side, Rhea couldn’t have argued had she wanted to. She merely glanced 92

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up at him and muttered, “All right.” Ashley and Jon said their goodnights, then headed off for the hammock room, leaving Rhea alone with Valos. His arm tightened, preventing any last minute thoughts of escape. Then he turned her toward the exit and started for the roofed passageway leading to the guest rooms. After several moments of silence, he asked, “Did you miss me?” “It’s been two weeks,” Rhea replied flatly. “When I woke up alone by the river, I assumed it had—” “Been a dream?” She stared up at him, expecting him to disappear at any moment. Valos stopped, then turned her toward him. “I’m sorry it took so long. I was…delayed. But it’s done. The Stairway has been given over to the next Guardian.” “You’re…here for good?” Valos’s mouth curled into a sensual smile. “Forever.” Rhea reached out a tentative hand and curled it along his jaw. The prickle of new growth stuck her palm. Her eyes filled with tears. She didn’t know why, but for some reason, the fact he could grow a beard made him seem— “Real?” “Yeah,” she breathed out in a heated rush. “But, you’re still reading my mind. How—” Valos took her hand and placed it over his heart. It pounded beneath her palm with a steady drum. Lubb-dub, lubb-dub. Rhea spread her fingers wide, trying to feel as much of him as she could. “Your essence will always bind us, Rhea. No matter where you are, I’ll be with you.” His hands found their way to her hips and he pulled her up against him. Rhea melted into him like butter on a hot frying pan. And when his head dipped forward, she lifted her chin in mute invitation. If this 93

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was a dream, she never wanted to wake up. At the first brush of his lips, her eyelids fluttered down. Then his mouth closed over hers in a soul-reaching kiss that left her breathless. Her hands knotted in the material at the parted V of his shirt, refusing to let go lest he vanish and she wake up alone once again. “You’ll never be alone. I will love you forever.” *

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Sunrise filtered in through the mosquito netting, crept across the bed, and onto Rhea’s pillow. With a reluctant groan she slowly opened her eyes, blinking several times in rebellion as she adjusted to the blinding rays. She let out a long, open-mouthed yawn and reached her arms above her head and her toes toward the footboard in a spinestraightening stretch. Then she rolled over and started to pull herself up when an arm snaked around her waist from behind and hauled her backward. “Where do you think you’re going?” Rhea giggled, then pressed herself even farther against his warm body. “Apparently, nowhere.” Something hard bumped her bottom. She wiggled against it, nudging it down between her cheeks. “Shall we have breakfast in bed?” he asked with a suggestive purr. “Hmm…let’s do,” she agreed. “Maybe lunch and dinner as well.” Valos kissed the sensitive skin at the nape of her neck. “As you wish, my love. As you wish.”

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SHANNON LEIGH

Shannon Leigh is a practicing registered nurse who graduated with a BSN, RN from the Indiana University School of nursing in May of 1996. She is happily married and lives in Indiana with her husband, four sons, two cats, and a spoiled chow chow named Aysia. When she’s not chasing after her four rambunctious boys, Shannon enjoys tole painting, drawing, reading, writing, and watching vampire flicks. Coincidentally, one of her favorite movies, Dracula 2000, which stars Gerard Butler, was released on her birthday, December 22. Shannon tries to dedicate a couple of hours every day to writing and finds that the best time for her is usually sometime between the hours of 9 p.m. and 3 a.m., after everyone else is in bed. Her favorite time to write is when the house is pitch black, lighted only by her laptop screen, and she can curl up on the couch with a cup of tea and become engrossed in her characters. Along with other romance genres, Shannon enjoys reading suspense, fantasy and horror, but paranormal fiction remains her favorite. Her second novel, More Than Prophecy, is a paranormal romance involving interplanetary travel to a world known as Zandar, and was released from Amber Quill Press in January 2005. She’s currently working on the sequel, When Destiny Summons, and hopes to have it ready for editing soon. To find out more about Shannon, please visit her website: http://www.angelfire.com/folk/stairwaytoheaven

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