Page 34 of Broken Destiny

“The bright spot over there?” he points vaguely toward the area behind the desk where Zo’s apartment is located.

Avery nods, even though he can’t see the direction Garrett is pointing. “Her energy is calm. She’s sleeping. Breaking Kodi’s magical tether took a lot out of her yesterday. It depleted her magic, and her magic is what keeps her going after her physical body fails.”

Hmmm. That’s insightful. I never considered that before. I float slowly toward her room. “I’ll check on her,” I mumble as I go. Zo is practically swallowed by the fluffy covers in the center of the massive bed, her lashes dark against her golden skin. She has one of the library books resting beside her on the mattress, and I assume she fell asleep while reading like she’s done before. I’ve watched her sleep a thousand times, but every time I do, I’m amazed at the peace that surrounds her. There aren’t any nightmares, despite the memories that simmer in the back of her mind behind some closed door.

After I’ve assured myself of her safety, I drift out again. The men mentioned spying. Who better for that task than someone who can’t be seen?

Chapter Seventeen

Zosia

When I wake, something feels different. I can’t put my finger on it right away, but it’s different than yesterday morning when Kodi was in my bed, solid and warm. I instinctively look for him when I open my eyes, feeling sad when I don’t see him.

Things have changed, though. My huge bed is now enclosed by four walls, with the door to the bathroom off to the side. I can no longer see the little kitchenette or the sitting area set up with the bookshelf. What does it mean? Am I isolated further?

The thought immediately depresses me, so much so that I barely notice Kodi pop in and sit beside me until his static buzz causes an involuntary shudder.

“What strange, and probably incorrect, thoughts are running through your mind?”

I shrug, avoiding his gaze as I pick at the coverlet. Delicate blue roses are embroidered on the fabric. It’s a beautiful piece of material. Kodi never lets me wallow, though.

“Spit it out, Princess.”

“I was just feeling lonely last night, and now I’m even more closed off.” I glance up just in time to see the ghost roll his eyes dramatically.

“You’re practically part of the library, Zo. Quit feeling sorry for yourself and find out what’s actually going on.”

If Kodi’s intent on irritating me, he’s doing a pretty good job. I glare at him and close my eyes. I don’t look because I don’t have full control over that power yet. Last night, I realized my strange sight doesn’t extend in my rooms or the men’s apartments. I could have spied on the guys when I saw them having the conversation in the main room, but I trust them to tell me if they decide I need to know. Soon after ensuring they were all getting along, I’d read one of the books Gilly left for me before falling into such a deep sleep that I don’t remember waking from until that morning. The dimensions of the rooms feel different, but without vision I can’t exactly tell. The only thing I can see is that three of my guys, except the one currently on my bed, are much closer than their private rooms.

I reopen my eyes. “I can’t really tell, Kodi. Tell me what’s going on.”

Kodi shrugs an opaque shoulder. If a ghost could look tired, he would. It’s nothing like the drained look after that asshole tried to steal his energy, but he seems weary. “The library decided we all needed to be closer. The separate apartments were a waste of space and resources. Now, all the bedrooms are situated around the main room where the kitchen and living areas are. It’s really quite nice, better than our former spaces. I even have a bedroom - not that I can sleep in it.”

I stare at him, trying to process what he said. “So…if I leave the room right now, the three men who are still strangers to me might be just outside that door?” I listen but I can’t hear anything besides water ticking in the pipes in the bathroom. It’s a quiet building; the sound from outside doesn’t penetrate. “I can’t hear anyone.”

“Well, that’s probably because all the bedrooms are soundproof. Can’t imagine why that would come in handy.” The sarcastic statement is accompanied by a suggestive wiggle of his eyebrows. I want to punch his arm for messing with me, but it would be pointless.

“Okay,” I respond slowly, stretching and pushing the covers aside. “I’m not sure how to feel about that yet,” I admit. Kodi’s gaze slides down my legs. I don’t know what he sees when he looks at me - broken limbs or something else.

“How are you feeling?”

I continue stretching, testing for soreness in my muscles. “Much better,” I reply with a smile. “The sleep was definitely restorative. I think I can handle my crutches today.”

“Good, because there’s a lot to do!” Gilly’s sudden words make me shriek and clutch the blanket to my chest. My heart tries to escape my ribcage and the blood roars in my ears.

“Please don’t do that. I might die of a heart attack.”

The tough little goblin gives me an unimpressed look. “Doubtful. Your heart is strong enough to take a couple of scares. Out, Ghost. Zosia has to prepare for the day. Find someone else to haunt.”

Kodi looks pissed off at first, but then he gets a familiar look in his eyes. I shake my head. “Please don’t scare the shit out of my other guards.”

“Why? It’s no fun if I don’t.” He laughs as he travels through the walls. I listen for manly screams before I realize that I won’t be able to hear them.

“All right,” I tell Gilly, squaring my shoulders. My heart has finally resumed a normal rhythm. “What’s on the docket for the day? Exploring the upper levels? A lesson in diplomacy? Card catalog?”

“Shifting.”

My heart stops again, this time with fear and anxiety. Gilly’s serious gaze matches her firm expression.

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