Page 84 of Touched

Aeris glances at me and dips her chin, nodding quickly. She looks back at the woodland fairy. “What are you doing out here? Why are you cloaked and spying on us?” A hint of anger and what might be jealousy clouds her voice.

“It was mere curiosity, young Fae,” she replies coyly, her gaze centered on my mate. “You are Kindred.”

“Yes, thanks, Captain Obvious. Now, what do you want?” I ask, rattled that this Fae is within the wards.

How is she within the wards?

Was she who we were sensing? Who was watching us?

“I’m here to help.”

The way she speaks, the wisdom deep in her strange eyes, and her reference to our youth belies her own youthful appearance, and I realize this lady is hella old.

I was always taught to respect my elders, but there’s something about her that’s rubbing me the wrong way. I contemplate rushing back inside the cabin to grab my piece but realize it probably wouldn’t do much to scare this woman… this Fae. Not that I want to harm her. I don’t. But I don’t fucking trust her.

“I can see that you have not yet fully come into your powers,” she continues, still watching me strangely. “That being said, it’s time for a… how do you mortals say it?” She again looks off into the trees. It’s then I notice a slight glimmering to her skin when the sun hits it. Almost like a reflection.

What was the name of that movie? The one with the glittering vampires.

Damnit. Focus, Callum. This strange woman—no Fae—is behind the wards and asking me about my powers.

“Oh, that’s right. A crash course!” She exclaims, loudly. She smiles at me, looking very pleased with herself.

A crash course. From who?

Her?

I snort. “You’re going to train me on powers I have no idea if I even have?”

Her eyes narrow. “You have them. And yes, I am.”

I blink just as Aeris puts her hand on my forearm, causing me to look at her. “Let’s let her teach us a few pointers. I’ve heard rumors of this woodland fairy.” She glances at Devyn. I do the same. “I thought she was a myth, but she is quite famous among our kind. She’s supposedly very knowledgeable.” Aeris snorts. “Albeit a bit rude for not announcing her appearance.”

“I can hear you, child,” Devyn says with a humorous note detectable through the edge of her voice.

“I wasn’t whispering,” Aeris sing-songs back without missing a beat.

Cyrus snorts as he outright laughs. An answering smile tugs at my lips. Aeris and I haven’t had much time to get to know the ins and outs of each other’s personalities, but I’m happy to see she has a sarcastic, won’t-back-down side. Though, her tone was almost humored and playful. Good to know since we’re apparently going to spend eternity together.

An eternity.

Kindred…

Damn.

Focus, man.

“Fine,” I relent, heading toward Devyn.

“Stop!” she firmly says, holding up a hand in front of her.

I freeze, but not because she told me to. I’m still because Iliterallycan’t move. There are roots over my damn feet!

What the actual fuck?

“The fuck…” I grit out.

“Use your wings. They are your greatest tool. Do not underestimate them. Fly to me, young Sylph.”

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