Allison

WITCHY WOES: ALLISON BOOK 3 by

Michelle Hasker

WHISKEY CREEK PRESS www.whiskeycreekpress.com

Published by WHISKEY CREEK PRESS Whiskey Creek Press PO Box 51052 Casper, WY 82605-1052 www.whiskeycreekpress.com

Copyright © 2008 by Michelle Hasker Warning: The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. Criminal copyright infringement, including infringement without monetary gain, is investigated by the FBI and is punishable by up to 5 (five) years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000.

Names, characters and incidents depicted in this book are products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, organizations, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental and beyond the intent of the author or the publisher. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher. ISBN 978-1-60313-181-0

Credits Cover Artist: Jinger Heaston Editor: Chere Gruver Printed in the United States of America

WHAT THEY ARE SAYING ABOUT WITCHY WOES: TAMARA “Witchy Woes: Tamara is the first book of this cute, entertaining new series about a coven with serious magical problems. All of the woman in the coven will apparently be featured with their own story and I am looking forward to reading about what is happening to each of them. Ms. Hasker has a great sense of humor and infuses her stories with fun and lively characters that you can’t help but like.” Steph B. The Romance Studio 5 hearts

Other Books by Author Available at Whiskey Creek Press: www.whiskeycreekpress.com Taking A Chance in the Christmas Candy Anthology Morgan’s Magick in Celtic Love Knots Volume One Sheila’s Surrender in Celtic Love Knots Volume Two Tarot Anthology: Synchronicity Volume One Tarot Anthology: Synchronicity Volume Two Tarot Anthology: Synchronicity Volume Three Witchy Woes: Tamara Witchy Woes: Candace Book 2

Dedication Tina—Thank you for pushing me when I needed it.

Chapter 1 “Candace! You made it!” Allison rolled her eyes and turned to watch Candace hurry toward them. Even though she was a dear friend, Candace frustrated them all with her lack of promptness. They joked that she’d be late for her own funeral. It was too cold to stand outside. The longer they took to set up the faster she’d freeze to death. Allison growled and turned to look at the others again. At least Camryn and Sandra were back on task now. As soon as Camryn finished laying out the altar items, Sandra handed her the besom. “As I sweep, may the besom sweep away all negativity and clear this circle for our work.” As Camryn spoke, a thrill of excitement raced through Allison. The rest of the coven had other things going for them, but for her, this was where she was most comfortable. Most at home. Sandra had her job and her role as High Priestess. Candace was the friend. She was the life of the party and had more friends than Allison had acquaintances. Macy was the quiet one. She was smart, very smart. So smart it sometimes scared Allison what she knew. An encyclopedia of never ending facts. Tamara…she had problems. Lots of them. But she never let them down anytime anyone needed something, Tam was there. Camryn, too, even though she was new and a lot of 1

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trouble. Camryn was also overeager and hyper. She often went above and beyond when asked to accomplish a task. Once she calmed down, that woman would be a force to be reckoned with. A sense of calm filled her as Allison took her spot in the circle. Once Camryn finished sweeping, it was Candace’s turn. As north, Candace always went first, and her power never failed to amaze Allison. All of their powers. Candace took her spot and lifted her hands up to the heavens. “I call upon light and earth at the north to illuminate and strengthen the circle.” The ground shifted beneath them, sending a surge of energy through the circle. Good, they could use all the help they could get. Especially with Camryn casting the spells. Allison lifted her hands up and closed her eyes. “I call upon light and air at the east to illuminate and enliven the circle.” A strong wind blew through the circle, whipping around her. It was a relief to see her own magic was strong tonight, as well. “I call upon light and fire at the south to illuminate and warm the circle,” Tamara said as she lifted her hands up. Heat rushed through the circle, leaving Allison feeling not only energized, but warm. “I call upon light and water at the west to illuminate and cleanse the circle,” Macy said. A huge wave broke and crashed on the shore, water coming to the edge but not into the circle. Sandra lifted her athame and stepped forward. She stopped in front of the altar and said, “I draw this circle in the presence of the Lady and the Lord, that They may aid and bless us in our work.” As Sandra walked around the circle, the earth vibrated underneath them all. 2

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When Sandra finished, the ground shifted slightly and settled, but no one acted like they noticed. Continuing with the ritual as if nothing happened, Sandra chanted a spell to protect them while they cast tonight’s spells. Finished, Sandra moved back to the altar and blessed the salt which she then sprinkled in a circle around them. As it touched the ground, the color turned bright white, and rose, wrapping over them until they were sealed inside a huge bubble. Again, they went around the circle, starting with Candace. “I call upon you, Guardians of the North, Element Earth, to guard this circle. By the body and strength that is ours, we ask you to attend this rite.” Before she finished speaking, a loud rumble sounded underneath them. Allison lifted her hands to the sky, power coursing through her. She loved this feeling. “I call upon you, Guardians of the East, Element Air, to guard this circle. By our breath and thoughts we ask you to attend this rite.” Another strong gust of wind whirled around the outside of the circle. Allison grinned and turned to Tamara. “I call upon you, Guardians of the South, Element Fire, to guard this circle. By our energy and consumption of life we ask you to attend this rite.” As Tamara finished, flames leapt up surrounding the circle, reaching high and wide, like a protective shield. “I call upon you, Guardians of the West, Element Water, to guard this circle. By our emotions and blood in our veins, we ask you to attend this rite,” Macy said. A light rain drizzled down upon them, then ceased as Sandra lifted her arms up in the air, holding her athame up high. “Hail to the elements! Welcome to the Lady and Lord! We stand between the worlds surrounded by light, love and power.” Sandra poured wine onto the ground for the Lady and Lord, and turned to face Camryn. 3

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“I know we’ve done spells before, but the power you five hold is amazing,” Camryn said. Allison silently echoed her. Even though Camryn should have kept quiet, it was true what she said. There was an amazing amount of power within the coven. “Are you ready to begin, Camryn?” Sandra asked. “I’m not sure where to start. I did spells for love, money, health, a job and looks.” “Did you follow my instructions?” “Yes, I did. But—” “No buts. Get your spells in order, Dear. Job, looks, health, love, money. Please start when you are ready.” Camryn nodded, but looked nervously around the circle. Sandra piled some small oak twigs inside the cast iron cauldron. Camryn rifled through her papers until she produced the one she wanted. After reading the paper, Camryn reached for the frankincense candle and lit it. “Please cleanse me, as I reverse the spells I cast in ignorance.” The flame flickered, but held strong. Then Camryn drew in a deep breath, looked down at the sheet and repeated the spell. Fortunately, this time the flame stayed strong and true. When Camryn finished, she dropped the paper in the cauldron. It burned with a brilliant flash of light. Camryn smiled and looked around the circle before she pulled out the next spell. As she read this one her confidence was more assured, and Candace prayed Camryn didn’t mess up the spells. When finished, Camryn dropped the last paper into the cauldron. A huge flame leapt out and split into five separate flames. One shot at each corner, and the last at Sandra as she stood next to the altar. 4

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A flame flew straight at Allison, expanding as it did, until it was a wall of flames that slammed into her chest. It felt as if she were breathing in flames as her insides burned. A second burst hit her hard enough to sweep her off her feet and send her flying back into a sand dune. Screams echoed around her as she clawed at her chest, trying to relieve the agonizing pain. “Allison!” Allison sat up with a gasp, the remnants of her nightmare refusing to clear out of her head. She clasped one hand over her heart as she focused on her breathing and tried to calm down. Ever since that fateful night on the beach, nightmares haunted every minute of her dreams. She didn’t know how she had survived the last few months with as little sleep as she had been getting. If it weren’t for Ken, she’d have lost it a long time ago. A quick glance at the clock showed her it was already six. She’d never get back to sleep now. With a sigh, Allison untangled herself from the sweaty sheets and stumbled down the hall to the bathroom. She turned on the water and then walked the rest of the way down the hall to the kitchen. In the dark, she grabbed a mug out of the cabinet and pulled a tea bag out of the tin on the counter. She plopped it in the mug and added some water from the sink. With another sigh, she slid the mug into the microwave, set the timer for two minutes and then walked back down the hall. When she tested the water, it had reached the warmest it would get in this tiny, crappy apartment, so she stripped out of her sweat-soaked nightgown and climbed under the harsh 5

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spray. While she tried to wash away the nightmare, Allison thought about how many things had changed since that night. Tamara and Candace had both found mates. There would be handfastings coming up soon, she could tell by the way they were so loving and happy. But there would be no handfasting in her future. She was plain and unattractive. In fact, she couldn’t remember when or who she’d last dated. Men saw her as a buddy. Including Ken, her best friend. But that was okay. He was the only one who understood her, and she needed him in her life like that. His brother Brian, on the other hand. Well him she wanted, but in a totally different way. Brian was one of those guys she wished would notice her as a woman and not as a buddy. Or worse in this case. His brother’s best buddy. But she had known the entire family too long for that to change now, so she just lusted after him from afar. Allison turned off the now freezing cold water and shivered as she wrapped a towel around her. As she began the time consuming task of drying her waist-length brown hair, her thoughts went back to Tamara and Candace. She longed to have someone who she could call her own. Someone who would love her for who and what she was, and not make demands on her. The phone rang as she was dressing. Instead of answering, she just listened for the message. “Hey, Alli. I wanted to let you know I’ll be over in a minute with some coffee and doughnuts. I hope you’re ready for a busy, busy day. I’ve got a lot planned for you. For the new you.”

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Allison sighed and brushed her hair before pulling it back into a bun. She needed to get a trim. The weight of her hair was giving her headaches. When she sat down at the table with her tea, Ken knocked on the door. She groaned. It was too early to deal with his energetic presence. She didn’t know how anyone could stand to be around him in the mornings. “Smile, Alli girl. Today is the first day of the rest of your life. The first day of the new you. Aren’t you excited?” “Yay.” She rolled her eyes and closed the door behind him. “The first thing we’re going to talk about is money. I don’t understand why you choose to live in this rundown apartment when you have enough money to buy something nicer.” “I’ve been here for years, Ken.” “And you hate change. Yes, yes. I know that.” Ken set the doughnuts on the table and glanced around the tiny living room, kitchen, and dining area. “Really, Alli. How can you stand it here? I know you keep it clean but it’s so damn small.” Allison sighed and opened the doughnut box. She grabbed one covered with white powder and prayed it had vanilla icing in it. She needed a jolt of sugar, but not the rush from caffeine that chocolate would give her. As she bit into it, Ken devoured a chocolate frosted chocolate flavored doughnut in one bite and grabbed another. “So I thought we’d start with the salon. A haircut, then new glasses from the optometrist, and followed by some new clothes.” “You sound possessed.” Allison shook her head as he wolfed down that doughnut and leaned back, rubbing his stomach. “Are you sure we need all of that? New hair, glasses and 7

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clothes? Wouldn’t just a haircut and an outfit or two be enough?” “Allison, you’re a beautiful person who hides behind boring and unflattering clothes. You asked me for help, and you’re getting it. In fact, my new girlfriend Marie is going to do your hair and nails at the salon.” “Nails too?” Allison glanced down at her fingers. “I like them the way they are. I don’t want gaudy colors or fake nails.” “You just come with me and we’ll let Marie work her magic.” “I don’t know.” At his determined look Allison sighed. “Okay, if you say so.” She had wanted a new her, and she’d asked Ken for help. So what if she now found it unlikely she’d find someone even with a makeover? If they didn’t love her for the old her, then what did she want them for? But she’d already asked Ken, and now he had recruited his girlfriend to help. **** “I’m telling you it’s a trap!” Julia stamped her foot and threw a romance novel at him. Brian caught it and glanced at the cover. A couple embraced in a passionate kiss. The hero had dark skin and hair past his shoulder blades, while the heroine was a dead ringer for his sister. Minus the odd green color she’d died her hair yesterday. With a smirk, he looked up at Julia and showed her the cover. “When did you pose for this?” Her green eyes flashed fire at him as she shook her head, whipping her long green tresses around her face. “I don’t pose for romance novel covers.” 8

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“Well, at any rate, you’re a dead ringer for this chick.” Brian flipped the book over and read the back cover. “While on her way to meet her fiancé in the New World, Desiree O’Hallahan meets her destiny when dashing pirate John Silvers raids their boat and takes her hostage.” “Enough! Enough already!” Julia laughed but shook her finger at him. “You need to stop making up bad back cover blurbs. And you call yourself supportive.” “It’s not my fault you write this stuff.” “Trust me, it reads better than your made up blurb.” “Being abducted by a pirate isn’t my fantasy, but now I know yours. Does Dale know? He might want to borrow my pirate costume so he can sweep you off your feet.” “Shut up. Besides, you’re missing the point.” “And what would that be? Allison, sweet little innocent Allison, is trying to trick our brother into marrying her?” “That’s exactly what I’m saying!” Brian laughed. The idea of Allison trying to vamp herself up was preposterous. Add in Julia’s idea that she wanted to marry Ken, and he was hard put not to roll on the floor in laughter. “You haven’t seen her lately. I have!” “Okay, Julia. Let’s just say for a moment, that you’re right. What reason would she have for trying to marry Ken? She’s got more money than him, and a successful job.” Julia gaped at him. He chuckled, knowing he’d won that point. She sputtered, probably trying to work up some evidence in her favor. “Look, Sweetie. I know you’re just looking out for Ken’s best interests, but you’ve loved Allison like a sister all these years. I can’t believe you’d suddenly turn against her. Some9

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one like her would be good for Ken. If he was going to fall in love with her, then he’d already be in love with her. A makeover isn’t going to make him love her.” “You have no clue.” Julia walked up to him and tapped him on the forehead. “I’ve read so many makeover and best friend stories. The heroine is always secretly in love with the hero, but he never notices her until she changes her appearance. Then wham!” She punctuated it with a light punch to his heart. “Geez, Julia.” Brian laughed and rubbed his hand over his heart. “Hit me for real next time, why don’t ya?” “Then it’s too late. She seduces him and marries him before he comes to his senses.” “Hey…didn’t you write a story like that?” “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Julia crossed her arms and glared at him. “Yes, you do.” “Maddie’s Makeover. Wait!” He tapped his finger against his chin. She was rather fond of that topic. He knew there was more than one makeover and best friend story in her back list. “What about Shannon’s Surprise? Or Making Ms. Right?” “Look,” Julia growled as she poked him in the chest. “I know what I’m talking about. And how do you know about all my stories? Do you actually read them?” “You’re my little sister. What do you think?” “Oh, God.” She groaned and buried her face in her hands. “I particularly enjoyed Taming Tara. The taste of BDSM in there was very…realistic. Did you research it firsthand?” “God damn it!” Julia hit him again. “You’re the biggest pain in the ass I know.” 10

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“That’s why you love me so much, and I’m a voice of reason, not a PITA.” “Please, Brian. Believe me on this. Allison is trying to get Ken to marry her. I’ve seen the way she looks at him. She loves him.” “No more than she loves you or me.” “Why don’t you follow them today and find out?” “What?” “You heard me. You don’t have to work today. It’s your chance to follow them and see firsthand for yourself.” Julia looked smug and self-assured. “Damn it, Julia. I have plans. This was going to be my day to catch up on my,” he glanced at the book in his hand, “reading.” “I think Desiree will keep until you get back.” Julia pried the book from him and smirked. “They’re going to the spa and salon on Main Street. You know, the cool, hip one.” “Michael Madison?” “Yep.” Julia grinned. “Now I gotta get back to work. I have a deadline to meet.” “You owe me big time for this, Julia.” “Not if I’m right, Brian. If I’m right, then Ken will owe you for saving his ass.” “But if he loves her…” “Then she wouldn’t need to trick him and trap him into marriage.” Brian sighed, but Julia turned and walked through the far door into her study. Sometimes living at home with his brother and sister was enough to make him go batty. **** 11

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Brian arrived at the salon and found Ken standing next to Allison as she looked at hair colors. With her hair up in a towel turban, she did look younger and prettier. Especially without her old lady glasses on. “Can I help you?” A young blonde came up to him with a sexy smile and a twinkle in her blue eyes. “Um. I know this is going to sound really bad, but do you see that couple over there?” She turned and looked at Ken and Allison. “You mean Ken and Allison?” She turned back to him with narrowed eyes. “I’m Ken’s brother Brian, and I want to keep an eye on them without them noticing.” “Are you kidding me?” “No, I’m not.” “Then you’ll have to let us work on you.” He glanced down at her too tight, white, button-up shirt and read her name tag. “Excuse me, Marie.” “No. If you want to stay in here and spy on your brother, then you’re going to need to get a facial. I recommend a complete facial. And those eyebrows…” She shivered. “We definitely need to take care of them.” “You don’t understand—” “I don’t think you understand.” Marie glared at him. “We are a business. If you want to be in here then you need to be a customer. Besides, if you don’t want him to know it’s you, once he sees you it’ll be too late. A facial will hide most of your face.” “Ohh.” Brian glanced around. She had a point, there wasn’t anywhere for him to hide except behind some potted 12

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palms, and that would be obvious. “Okay, a facial it is. But I need to be near enough to keep an eye and ear on them.” “No can do. See, those chairs are taken. But, what I can do is to seat you across the room where you can watch them through the mirror.” “Okay. Anything. Julia will pickle me if I come home without the scoop.” Marie giggled and rubbed her hands together as she led him over to a chair. Suddenly, he wondered what he’d gotten himself into.

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Chapter 2 “Is that really your brother?” Marie asked when she returned to them. Ken went to turn his head, but Marie grabbed the book of hairstyles and colors from Allison and quickly dropped it on his foot. “Damn it, Marie! What the hell did you do that for?” “Keep your voice down. He doesn’t want you to know he’s here.” “What the hell is he doing here?” “Spying on you and Allison.” Allison looked up at Ken in surprise. “Whatever for?” “I have no idea. Did he give you a reason?” Ken studied Marie’s face. She shook her head and reached down for the book. When she stood up she was fighting back a laugh. “I did make him agree to a facial, though.” “You’re awesome, Babe.” Ken reached for her, but Marie deftly swatted his hand away. “I’m at work, Ken. Want to get me fired?” Marie shook her head and turned to Allison. “Did you pick a color, Hon?” “I don’t know, Marie. I—” “She doesn’t like change,” Ken finished for her. “She’s been stuck in a damned rut for so long she doesn’t even know how to get out of it now.” 14

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“You need to watch your language, Ken. Otherwise I’ll have to punish you later.” Allison knew her eyes widened as she looked at Marie, but hell, she’d never suspected Ken was into that kind of thing. “If you wish, Mistress.” Allison fanned herself as the look between Marie and Ken was enough to set her towel on fire. “Okay, break it up.” She grabbed Ken by the collar and pulled him down. “What is it, Dear?” “Can you go get me some tea? And some crackers? I don’t feel well.” He looked up at Marie who nodded. “It’s understandable. You’ve suggested quite a lot of changes to her appearance, and she’s not comfortable with change. Bring me some gum, would you, Lover?” Ken snickered and kissed Allison on the forehead. “You’re being such a good trooper. Maybe Marie has a friend she can set you up with when we’re done?” Allison laughed and looked into the mirror. “She’d have to be quite a miracle worker. I’m sure her friends are as handsome as she is beautiful.” “Flattery will get you everywhere, Hon.” Marie pushed Ken toward the door and turned back to Allison. “So seriously, do you want a color or just a trim?” “I don’t know. I don’t think I’d look good as a blonde.” “Not with your coloring.” Marie shook her head and stepped back. “Do you trust me, Allison?” Allison swallowed as she stared at beautiful Marie. This was a woman who knew what beauty was and how to work it. 15

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Taking all of her courage, she closed her eyes and nodded. “Yes.” “Thank you.” Marie removed the towel and brushed Allison’s hair. The motion was so soothing she almost fell asleep. Only the thoughts of Brian sitting across the way glaring at her kept her awake. She wished he’d stop glaring at her and start lusting after her. Allison sighed, remembering how he starred in more of her dreams than not, and how good he looked in a bathing suit. Hell, she’d been friends with the family for so long that she’d actually seen Brian in the nude, and he was definitely a sight to behold. “Now you said you’ve been getting headaches from the weight of your hair?” Allison nodded, felt the sharp tug on her head and grimaced. “Sorry. Yes.” “I’m going to suggest we cut off a lot.” Allison felt her blood rush to her feet. “Don’t panic, Hon. It’s just a suggestion. I know you’re going for a new you, but with the addition of a new hairstyle, makeup and clothes, it’s going to take you longer to get ready for work in the morning. With your size and stature, I think we could give you a pixie cut. Something short and flirty and easy to manage. Maybe even layers.” The feeling she was going to hyperventilate increased with each word Marie spoke. “Okay, this is what we’re going to do. We’re going to turn you away from the mirror while I work. How does that sound?” Allison nodded weakly, concentrating on keeping her breakfast down, and straining to hear through the buzzing in 16

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her ears. Maybe if she focused on the image of Brian nude, and on his knees in a submissive position in front of her she’d be able to pretend she wasn’t even here at all. Soon the snip of scissors was the only thing she could hear. The weight on her head lessened with each snip, until it felt like she had no more hair left. Yet Marie continued to use the scissors for a few more minutes. “Now, no peeking yet. I’m going to get the dye ready and we’re going to make you go from stunner to knockout.” Allison snorted, but kept a tight grip on the armrests. There was no way she was going to look at the mess Marie made of her hair. But the urge to see how much was missing overwhelmed her. Allison swung her head from side to side and didn’t feel any hair brushing against her back, shoulders, or even her neck. Shit! Even as she reached her hand up, someone grabbed her wrist and pulled it back down. She looked up at a grinning Ken. “Marie said not to touch, and she meant it.” He pushed the end of her nose like it was a button, and handed her a cup of tea along with several packets of crackers. “Here we go!” Marie smiled as she walked up with a bright bottle of red. “God, no!” Allison gasped and tried to jump up. Before she could get out of the chair, Ken pinned her in, putting his face a few inches from hers. “Sit down and calm down.” Ken winked at Marie. “You might want to hurry up, I’m not sure how much longer I can keep her in this chair.” “If I was a jealous woman, Ken Darling…” 17

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Ken grinned and winked at her again. “Are you jealous of Allison?” “I have a feeling I will be once I’m done with her.” A male roar came from across the room, and they all turned to look. Marie snickered and whispered, “They’re waxing his eyebrows.” “Oh, good Lord!” Allison started laughing at both the sounds of Brian’s pain and anger, and the look on Ken’s face as he watched the proceedings in the mirror. “What else are you planning for the poor man?” “A manicure and pedicure.” Ken’s laughter was contagious, and Allison laughed even harder. It wasn’t until Marie began to wrap cotton around her head that she quickly sobered. “It’s alright, Hon. But it will be cold when I squirt the liquid on you. Close your eyes.” Allison squeezed her eyes shut while Ken held onto her hands. She couldn’t imagine going through this without her best friend at her side. She’d have chickened out and run home long ago. Her thoughts turned to Marie. She was a pretty woman, and nice, too. She was actually perfect for Ken. They’d have little Barbie doll children. Little because neither Ken nor Marie were very tall. That thought made her snicker. Until cold fluid dripped down her neck. “Don’t worry. It’s why Ken told you to wear an old shirt. Sometimes these things happen.” “She could have changed in the bathroom and taken off her shirt completely.”

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“Yeah, but she didn’t feel comfortable sitting in here with nothing covering her breasts except for a bit of plastic.” Allison didn’t appreciate them talking as if she wasn’t there. Ken chuckled and squeezed her hands. “Marie’s almost done. You’re being a real trooper, Allison. Isn’t she, Marie?” “Yeah. And I think I know why Brian is spying on you. I think he’s jealous.” Marie stuck something on her head, but Allison kept her eyes closed. The fumes from the dye irritated her sensitive skin and would surely burn if it got in her eyes. “What do you mean? I didn’t even tell him about you. I was going to surprise them next weekend.” Marie snorted. “No, Sweetcheeks. Not me. He’s jealous of you and Allison. He almost got out of his chair when you played with her nose, and he’s fit to be tied now staring at your joined hands.” Ken released Allison like she was on fire. “No, keep it up. Give him exactly what he deserves for trying to spy on you.” Allison chanced opening her eyes and caught a wink from Marie once her vision refocused. “How could he be jealous of us? Of Ken? He knows we’re best friends. My God. In all these years we’ve done nothing more intimate then a quick kiss on the lips.” “There was that one time we shared a shower.” Ken looked at her, laughter in his eyes. “Yeah, with our bathing suits on.” This time it was Marie who laughed. “You two are so much fun. Shame Brian isn’t, we could have had some wicked double dates.” “Who says he’s not fun.” Allison snickered. “Look at how much of a trooper he is with that facial waxing.” 19

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“I wonder if I should have suggested he get his chest waxed, too.” Marie looked back over at Brian. “No way! Have you seen his chest? He’s really hot without a shirt on. Not too furry, either.” Allison didn’t have to fake her shiver as she closed her eyes and pictured his chest. If he was jealous of her and Ken then maybe he was attracted to her? “Allison!” Her eyes flew open in time to see Ken’s mouth drop open as he stared at her in horror. “You’re kidding, right?” “No. I’m not.” She smiled and closed her eyes. “Remember last summer when he got bit by the neighbor’s wiener dog?” “Dachshund.” “Bless you.” Marie snickered. Allison laughed. It was true that she and Ken were so comfortable together many people did think they were a couple, but it was more like brother and sister than anything else. “I had to bandage him because Julia is afraid of blood and you were busy necking with…Sylvia was it?” “I don’t think Marie wants to hear this.” Ken groaned. “Yes, I do. Besides, Sylvia’s not in the picture anymore.” Marie set a timer and handed it to Allison. “I’ll be back when this goes off, now quick, finish the story.” “Not much to say, but I got to run my hands all over that warm, delicious chest. Not really furry, but enough hair to sink my fingers into. You know, the kind you can fist your fingers in but not enough to make you think shaggy dog.” “Enough. Damn it, Allison, that’s my brother you’re talking about.” 20

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“I can’t help it that you didn’t get any hair on your chest.” Allison snickered, but thinking about running her hands over Brian’s sexy chest made her feel slightly uncomfortable and very warm and tingly. He was her best friend’s older brother, and way out of her league. As if she even stood a chance. It wasn’t likely that he’d ever notice her in a romantic way. He never had in all the years they’d known each other. Marie was mistaken. “Okay, I’ll be back soon, you two crazy kids.” Marie patted her on the shoulder as she went back up front to assist another customer. “How short is my hair?” Allison tried to turn around. “You can’t tell.” Ken stopped her and straightened the chair. “It’s piled on top of your head so the color can set, and covered in plastic and cotton.” “Oh.” She heaved out a breath. “How long have you been lusting after my brother?” “What!” Allison shrieked. “Shh.” Ken put his finger on her lips and looked over. They both looked over at Brian who caught them watching and looked away. Allison fought a laugh. He probably thought they didn’t know it was him. “I do not lust after your brother.” “You sure had a lot to say about his chest.” “Well he has a nice ass, too. But I didn’t think you wanted to hear about that.” “Nicer than mine?” Allison winked. “No, not nicer than yours, but I bet you could still bounce a quarter off it.” **** 21

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Brian glared across the room. He didn’t know what they were talking about, but he’d seen more than enough. They constantly touched one another and whispered a lot. Even though Ken flirted with Marie, both ladies took it in stride. Who knew his brother was such a woman magnet? He’d have thought Allison would be the possessive type, but he was obviously wrong. “Okay, we gave you a facial, manicure, pedicure and hairstyle. Care to have your chest waxed?” “Oh, God, no!” He jumped up out of the chair, fumbling for his wallet as he went. He’d been sitting there in agony waiting for Marie to come back. “Just tell me what I owe you and I’m outta here.” The young woman actually laughed at him, but rather than cause more of a scene, he walked as fast as he could without running to the cash register. She gave him his total, and he paid extra, leaving her a tip. After all, she kept his secret. Neither Ken or Allison had noticed him. Of course they’d been too busy touching each other and whispering. As Brian walked out, he swore he could hear the entire place laughing, but when he looked back, not a soul was watching him walk away. Julia was going to pay, and pay dearly. **** “Julia!” he shouted as he stormed into the house, slamming doors in his wake as he looked for her. He finally found her in the first place he should have looked. Her office. “What?” she shouted back, pushing away from her desk. “Is it too much to ask that you let me finish my thought before—oh my God!” 22

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“What?” Instantly, his hands ran over his face and hair. “What the hell happened to you?” Brian ran over to a mirror and stared at the stranger. Gone was his mustache and scruffy beard. Gone was the hair that hung past his ears. That damned woman had given him spikey hair. But he did look hot. Shit. He looked really good. He had wanted to stay facing Allison and Ken, so he’d sat with his back to the mirror, taking a huge chance trusting that woman with his hair. It looked like his trust had paid off. “You’re friggin’ sexy, Brian. What the hell happened to you? Even your eyebrows are awesome.” She ran her fingertips over his eyebrows, smoothing them when he frowned. “This is all your fault!” “But you look so hot. Aren’t you glad you went? What made you decide to get your hair and eyebrows done?” “I also had a facial, manicure and pedicure.” Julia doubled over in laughter, leaving him with an urge to strangle his nosey, pain-in-the-ass sister. “When I got there, they told me I had to get stuff done or else I had to leave. It’s your fault. You sent me there to spy on them. But it did turn out to be a good thing. You’re right.” “I am?” She stared up at him as if in shock. Brian paused in confusion. How can she be shocked? She’s the one who’d figured it all out. “You were right. He kissed her forehead, her nose, held her hands, he even ran out to get her food and a drink. He hovered over her the entire damned time.” “Why aren’t you still there?” “Why the hell would I need to be there? We already found out what’s going on. I don’t like it, Julia. Not one bit.” “Okay. What are we going to do about it?” 23

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“I don’t know. Confront her with the truth? Tell her we’re onto her and she can find another man to sink her claws into?” Brian ran his hands through his hair and glanced in the mirror again. “Damn, I do look good.” “Brian.” Julia grabbed his hand and tugged it out of his hair. “Pay attention. Are you positive it’s already too late?” “Yes. They were all lovey dovey.” “Brian, they’ve always been real close and touchy.” “Not this touchy.” He frowned at his reflection. Out of the corner of his eye he saw Julia mimic his frown. “What?” “How is her makeover going? Does she look even prettier?” “Even prettier?” “Yeah.” Julia sighed. “She’s always been pretty, she just never did anything with her natural good looks. She hid behind all that long hair and baggy men’s clothing.” “She cut off all that long hair. It’s a shame, too. You could really fist your hands in hair like that and—what?” Why is Julia looking at me like that? “Nothing.” Julia shook her head. “Nothing at all.” “She had this ugly red goop on her head when I finally managed to escape.” “Hmmm.” Julia chewed on her fingernail. “I’ve got to think about these new developments.” “What?” he asked as she turned and walked back over to her desk. “I need to digest this and formulate a new plan. Why don’t you go back to the salon and see if they’re still there.” “There is no way in hell you will get me back to that damned place.” He looked at his reflection again. “Even if I do look hot.” 24

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Julia snickered. “You could head to the mall. I’m sure she’ll need sexy new lingerie to go with the new her. And plenty of new clothes. I bet she’s getting a whole new wardrobe. It might take all day.” “Then she’ll wear Ken’s ass out and he’ll come home and we won’t have to worry.” She shook her head and put her hand on the edge of the desk. She rotated her chair back and forth slightly. “I don’t know, Brian. This new Allison is an unknown for us. Who knows what she’s thinking? She might not be afraid to go after what she wants any more. Not when she realizes the makeover is working.” “Is the makeover working?” Damn, he was so confused. “I’d say so. All the touching, kissing and loverlike attitude you described makes me think the answer to that is a yes.” “Well I’m not going to the mall and following them around. I own enough clothes, trinkets and gadgets. What would I do in a lingerie store, for crying out loud?” Anger filled him at her smirk. “No. I’ve done enough. It’s your turn to act the part of spy and go undercover.” “You know I’m under a deadline, Brian.” “I don’t care. I’m done.” He spun around and stormed to the door. He turned around as he grabbed the doorknob. “Next time I might not get so lucky. I could end up looking like a French poodle.” Julia laughed, and it only served to anger him even more. He closed the door as hard as he could without making her scream at him for rattling her expensive paintings, and hurried up to take a shower. He was itchy as hell, and his head hurt. What is wrong with the two of them anyway? What does Ken find so attractive about Allison? It had to be from before the ma25

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keover, because he’d been hovering over her from the minute Brian had arrived at the salon. Before Marie had even started to cut Allison’s hair. Could Ken have been in love with her all along? His thoughts focused on all that long hair she’d had cut off. Hair he’d often wished his girlfriends had. Soft, thick and silky. Hair he could wrap in his hands and hold onto while making love. How in the world was he going to keep Ken and Allison apart? And why should he? If they were really in love, that was. This was just another one of Julia’s hairbrained schemes and as always, he was going to end up bearing the brunt of the damage she’d cause. By the time he finished showering and dressing, Ken was downstairs in the foyer, going through his mail. “What are you doing home? I thought you were spending the day with Allison?” Brian sat on the landing and studied his brother. “Yeah. I lied and told her I had work to do. I didn’t relish the idea of clothes shopping with her. You should have seen her at the hair salon. I left before she was done, and even then I was there two hours. Picking out underwear could take three.” Ken faked a shiver and looked up at him. Brian hoped he wore an innocent and sympathetic expression as he nodded his head and agreed. “Yeah. I can imagine. Is it a good idea to lie to her though?” Ken laughed. “Like she’ll ever know I didn’t go to work.” “Still, she’ll be really pissed if she finds out. That’s not a good way to keep a relationship with her.” “What do you mean?” 26

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“When she finds out you’re lying to her, she might dump you. Besides, you shouldn’t lie to her. It’s not right.” Ken studied him for moment, then gave him a goofy grin. “I have ways of making it up to her. By the time I finish, she’ll forget what we even fought about.” “Do you love her?” Brian held his breath. “Allison? Of course. I can’t believe you need to ask that.” Brian’s breath escaped in a whoosh. Damn. Ken was already in love with her. They were too late. Shit.

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Chapter 3 “Oh my, Goddess!” Allison stared in the mirror. Who was that knockout redhead? It wasn’t her. It couldn’t be! Turning her head from side to side, she looked at the new her from all angles. Short red hair fell to just below her ears in slight waves. As she played with one, Marie laughed. “Who knew you had natural curls? Your hair was so long and heavy. I bet you didn’t even know.” “Weird.” Allison tilted her head. She loved the dark red. It looked natural, not like the ugly color that had been in the bottle. “Now for your makeup.” Marie grinned and rubbed her hands together. “Simple will be best. I know from Ken that you won’t do anything which includes too many steps. So I kept it as simple as I could. You’ll find everything I used, including some shampoo and conditioner to help keep that beautiful color in your hair longer, in the bag I have started for you on the counter.” “Anything else you want to throw at me to lessen my bank account?” Marie laughed. “I wish Ken were still here to see you. But I think he wanted to torment his brother.”

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“Why should he have all the fun?” Allison shook her head. “You have no idea how much fun it is to torment that stick-inthe-mud.” “Did you see how he looked when he left?” Marie asked as she played with Allison’s hair. “Yeah. He looked so damn hot. You and your co-workers did a great job on him. On both of us.” “Thanks. Trust me, we had fun.” As Allison paid for her day at the spa, she couldn’t stop glancing in the mirror behind the counter. “What about new clothes for the new you?” Marie asked as she handed Allison a credit slip to sign. “I don’t know. Ken left and I have absolutely no taste in clothes. No fashion sense whatsoever.” “I’m done with my shift in half an hour. Want me to go with you?” Marie’s look of hope dashed the excuses she’d been trying to think up. “Um. This is one of those things where you want to ask me all kinds of embarrassing things about Ken, isn’t it?” “It’s more like…I know how close he is to you. I also realize there’s nothing romantic between the two of you…but I really want to get to know you better since you’re so important to him. I hope I’m going to be around for a while. I really like Ken. A lot.” “That’s good.” Allison breathed a sigh of relief. “I thought this was going to get awkward. A lot of his ex-girlfriends tried to find ways to make him stop talking to me.” “Jealous women. Besides, I know where your real interest lies.” Allison blushed. “That’s not true.” 29

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Marie winked. “Keep saying that if it makes you feel better, Hon. So, are you interested in a shopping expedition?” “Sure. If you’re sure. You’re the one who worked all day.” “Trust me, I need the change and I love shopping. It’ll be fun. Who knows, we may be BFF by the time we’re done.” “Okay.” Allison laughed and picked up the bag with her purchases. “I’ll meet you in the café on the corner then.” Marie waved as Allison turned and left. Losing all her hair had made her cry, but once she realized how good she looked with it short, it eased the pain. A little. She couldn’t wait until the girls and Dante saw the new and improved Allison. But first she needed to get through this shopping trip with the beautiful Marie. **** “Allison!” Camryn opened her door with a squeal. Allison hugged her, then stepped back to look at her friend. Camryn looked worse than she had at Candace’s party. Her blonde hair was listless, and her blue eyes so pale they almost looked gray. Not only did she look like crap, and in clothing that looked like it had seen better days, but her apartment was in disarray, too. “What’s going on, Camryn?” “We’re not sure. That’s why we’re meeting here.” Sandra stepped forward and gave her a hug. “Ever since that night we gathered at the beach, things have been going downhill for Camryn. I know she must pay times three for her mistakes, but I can’t help but wonder if her old coven has something to do these latest mishaps.” “Where are the others?” 30

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“Tamara is showing Dante how to smudge. She’s using cedar and he’s using sage.” “Hedging your bets?” Allison grinned. Sandra had been known to go overboard when using cleansing and protection spells, but Allison couldn’t help teasing her anyway. “Exactly.” “What are we doing tonight?” “Well first, you need to spin in a circle, girl. I haven’t gotten to see the new you, yet.” Allison spun around, knowing her new clothes, contacts, and hair made her look more beautiful than she could have imagined. Who knew she looked like this under her glasses and long, boring hair? “Girlfriend, you are gorgeous. So have you gotten a new boyfriend yet?” “No.” Allison blushed as she shook her head. Since the makeover she’d had more than a handful of men ask her out, but so far she’d lacked the courage to say yes. She knew her behavior frustrated Ken and Marie, but she was afraid. Afraid the men would see under the makeup and hair and realize she wasn’t what she pretended to be. Macy’s squeal brought the rest of them running, and eventually Allison had to retreat into the bathroom. All the praise and playing with her hair had become too much. At least her friends approved of her new look. Now to find a man. She wanted to know who was out there for her. It wasn’t that she thought a woman needed a man, including herself, but she wanted one. Someone to talk to late at night, to sit and watch movies with, and to hold her when she needed to be held. Some people just weren’t meant to be alone. 31

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When she finally came out of the bathroom, Camryn’s poor health and appearance hit her all over again. Thank the Goddess Sandra was on top of things. If they’d waited longer to do the spell… Pushing away those thoughts, Allison concentrated on helping clear the furniture out of the way so Sandra could set up her altar. In a short time, they were ready to begin. Sandra gestured for Camryn to start. Camryn’s nervousness was catchy, and Allison fidgeted as the poor woman picked up the besom. She walked over to Camryn and wrapped her arms around her friend. “Cam, calm down and relax. This is where you are comfortable. This is where you are at home. This is your home. You’re safe here. Nothing will go wrong with this spell. You are just setting up the circle, we’ll summon the four quarters and we’ll all push our energy into your protection spell. It’s not going to be a repeat of the spell on the beach.” “I know.” Camryn’s voice wavered. “I can’t help it. I’m so scared and nervous. I never do anything right.” “That’s not true, but we don’t have time for this. The waxing moon is perfect for this spell. In fact everything tonight is perfect.” “She’s right,” Macy added. “We couldn’t have picked a better night for this. It’s a simple protection spell, Hon. It can’t come back at you with anything negative times three. This is good stuff we’re doing tonight.” Camryn drew in a deep breath and sighed. “Okay. Thanks, ladies. I can do this.” She drew in another deep breath, and walked back to the edge of their circle.

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Allison walked back to her spot while Macy did the same. She closed her eyes and gave a quick prayer of thanks for having such wonderful friends. “As I sweep, may the besom chase away all negativity from within this circle.” Camryn walked around them in a large circle as she made sweeping motions. “While I sweep, I sweep away all the negativity. I clear this space for our work tonight.” When she completed the circle, she set the besom down and walked over to the altar. At the altar Camryn picked up one of the candles, lit it and turned to north, and Candace. Candace accepted the candle, and lifted it into the air as she spoke. “I call upon light and earth at the north to illuminate and strengthen the circle.” A rumbling under her feet assured Allison that Candace was in good form tonight. That little show of power wouldn’t go unchallenged by the others. They would all want to prove their strength tonight. It wasn’t bad. It was healthy to keep the desire to impress without letting it turn into a battle of power. “I call upon light and air at the east to illuminate and enliven the circle,” Allison said as she accepted the burning candle from Camryn and summoned a gust of wind to blow around the circle. She turned to watch Tamara and Dante both accept lit candles from Camryn. They grinned as they looked at each other. “We call upon light and fire at the south to illuminate and warm the circle.” The two spoke as one, sending a rush of jealousy through Allison as the duo made their candle flames shoot almost to the ceiling before returning to normal. 33

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Allison pushed that aside and focused on good thoughts. Camryn carried another candle over to Macy at the west corner. Macy accepted the candle and raised it in the air. “I call upon light and water at the west to illuminate and cleanse the circle.” A fine mist fell down on them all, soothing and refreshing, but not putting out the candles. Allison pushed away the last of her negativity and turned to watch Camryn walk back to the altar. Camryn picked up an ornamental knife. She lifted it in the air. “I draw this circle in the presence of the Lady and the Lord, that They may aid and bless us in our work.” As Camryn walked in the circle, she bent over and dragged the knife along the floor. Flames shot up behind her. Allison released a breath she didn’t even realize she was holding. Camryn picked up the salt and blessed it before she sprinkled it in the flaming circle surrounding them. As it touched the flames they turned bright white, and rose, wrapping over them until they were sealed inside a white, glowing bubble. Again, they went around the circle, starting with Candace. “I call upon you, Guardians of the North, Element Earth, to guard this circle. By the body and strength that is ours, we ask you to attend this rite.” Before she finished speaking, a loud rumble sounded underneath them. “I call upon you, Guardians of the East, Element Air, to guard this circle. By our breath and thoughts, we ask you to attend this rite.” Another strong gust of wind whirled around the outside of the circle. Everyone looked at her as their clothes fluttered in the breeze. She couldn’t hide her grin of excitement. 34

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“We call upon you, Guardians of the South, Element Fire, to guard this circle. By our energy and consumption of life, we ask you to attend this rite.” As Tamara and Dante finished speaking, flames leapt up surrounding the circle, reaching high and wide, like a protective shield. “I call upon you, Guardians of the West, Element Water, to guard this circle. By our emotions and the blood in our veins, we ask you to attend this rite.” Macy dropped her arms as another light misting of rain doused them all. Allison laughed and spun in a quick circle. She’d never felt so happy in her life. Here with her coven she could forget all her troubles and be free. Be herself. Camryn hesitated and looked at Sandra. With a nervous smile, she passed the athame to Sandra. She lifted her arms up in the air, holding the athame up high. “Hail to the elements! Welcome to the Lady and Lord! We stand between the worlds surrounded by light, love and power.” Camryn put the goblet of wine aside to be returned to the ground later, and turned slowly to look at them all. “So far so good.” “Yes. You’re doing great, Camryn.” Sandra smiled at Camryn. Camryn smiled and stepped to the altar once more. She picked up a few herbs from each of the piles Sandra had made earlier. Once she wrapped a red thread around them, she placed each new bundle on the altar. After she had several of them, Camryn held the athame against each one. “Protective herbs, I need thee to safeguard and protect this house and all who dwell within against evil. As I will, so mote it be.” 35

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Camryn slipped the herbs into individual pouches, one for each room. Sandra stepped to the center of the circle and looked around at them all. They bowed their heads, and Sandra spoke again. “Lady, we are gathered here to give thanks for Camryn and each of the witches in our Coven. Candace. Allison. Tamara. Dante. Macy. And myself.” Candace stepped forward and grabbed Camryn’s hands in hers. “I give thanks for Camryn and all she has brought, not only to our circle but to me. Before we knew her, we thought we were complete, but since meeting her, our lives have been enriched. She has taught us humility and thanksgiving. Thank you for bringing Camryn to us. I also thank you for Allison, Candace, Tamara, Macy, Sandra and Dante. Sisters and brother of my heart, my life is more complete and happy since I’ve met them. Thank you for bringing me to the coven.” Candace bowed her head for a minute, then looked up and smiled at Camryn as she released the woman’s hands. “I give thanks for Camryn and all she has brought to our coven, and to me. She has made me look at the brighter side of things, and realize all of us have something to contribute, no matter how little of an impact we think we have on the others’ lives. I give thanks for Candace, Macy, Tamara, Sandra and Dante because they have all made me see that I am a person worthy of loving, and that I have plenty of love and power I bring to the coven. Thank you all for giving me a home. A place to belong.” Allison hugged Camryn and tried not to cry as she looked around the circle at her family. Tamara wrapped Camryn in and a hug and smiled. “I give thanks for Camryn and all she has brought to our coven. Her generosity and kindness, even when she didn’t feel generous or kind. Her gentle spirit and willingness to make amends for 36

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her misdeeds prove how worthy she is of Your and our love. I also give thanks for Dante, Sandra, Macy, Candace and Allison. Without them, I would be lost in this world, still trying to find my place. Dante, my love, my soul mate, I cannot express in words how much you mean to me.” Allison sniffled as Tamara and Dante embraced. Their kiss was tender and sweet. She sighed, wishing she could find a man to cherish her as much as Dante loved and cherished Tamara. Dante hugged Camryn and released her. “I give my thanks for Camryn. If it wasn’t for her, I’d not have met Tamara and been able to find my soul mate. I also give thanks for her generous and kind heart.” He turned and looked around the circle. “I also give thanks for all my sisters, for welcoming me into the coven and helping me realize my full potential. Tamara, you are my heart and soul. I cannot put into words how you make me feel. I give thanks for you every day.” Damn. Allison sniffled as tears trickled down her cheeks. This was going to be a doozy of a night. **** Brian plopped down onto the sofa and glared at Julia. “If you even suggest another spying mission—” “No!” Julia laughed. “I wasn’t. I just wonder why Ken is getting all dressed up. Why is he so nervous for us to see the new and improved Allison?” “Yeah, well, she’s late. The old Allison was punctual.” “She got held up helping her friends. She’s on her way here now.” Ken stepped into the room and stood in the doorway, fidgeting. “Why are you so nervous?” “I just hope you two like the way she looks now.” 37

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Brian looked at Julia, his eyes narrowing even though he tried to keep his face expressionless. She gave him an ‘I told you so’ expression. He turned back to Ken. “Does she mean that much to you, then?” “Of course she does.” The doorbell rang, saving Brian from saying something he’d probably regret. “Are you ready?” Julia quietly asked as she sat next to him on the sofa while Ken went to answer the door. “For what? To watch my brother fawn all over Allison? Are you really sure this is a trap? I mean, if she’d wanted to marry him all this time why wait ’til now?” They kept their voices low so neither Ken nor Allison would hear. Julia’s eyebrows rose as she made a funny face at him. “You saw with your own eyes how close they’ve become since she asked him to help transform her. She’s looking for a man, and she’s set her sights on Ken.” “Would that really be so bad? She’s a nice girl and they do get along very well. You’ve always liked her.” “Brian.” Julia frowned and shook her head. “Listen to yourself. Are you so sure this is what Ken wants? He was so happy to be free of his last girlfriend. He’s vowed never to get married. And all of a sudden he’s attached at the hip to Allison. Maybe you should lure her away from him, then dump her once he’s seen the light.” The front door closed, and they both turned to the doorway, waiting to catch a glimpse of Allison. What he saw caused his breath to catch in his throat and his dick to harden instantly. A cute, petite redhead stood confident and happy next to Ken. She looked like she’d just spent the night being tho38

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roughly loved. Brian’s jaw clenched as he noticed the wide vee in her tight blouse, and the form-fitting pants that made him want to run his hands up and down her legs. Hell, not just her legs, her whole body. Julia elbowed him, and he realized he was staring. “What do you think?” Ken asked as he spun Allison around. “Gorgeous, ain’t she?” “Beautiful.” Julia crossed the room to hug Allison. “But then she always was.” Allison smiled and looked nervously at him. Brian forced himself to his feet. He tried to keep his face neutral as he stopped in front of her. He kept his hands in front of him to hide his near painful erection. Why had she never brought this reaction out in him before? Was he really that superficial? Julia nudged him again, and Brian realized they were all staring at him. “What do you think?” Julia whispered harshly. “Oh, yeah. She looks fabulous. I was struck speechless for a minute.” Brian winked at Allison. When she turned an enticing shade of red, he knew he was in trouble. Lusting after his brother’s friend was bad enough, but when that friend had marriage on her mind—marriage to his brother—it was even worse. “Thanks.” Brian looked at Julia, then at Ken who was still smiling at Allison. He looked completely smitten. He took pleasure in elbowing Julia to remind her to pull Ken aside so he could talk to Allison in private. “Ken, can I see you in my office for a minute? I wanted to ask you a question before you and Allison go out.” “We’re not going out. I thought we’d order in and watch a movie.” 39

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Brian closed his eyes and groaned silently. At least he hoped it had been silent. Great. Didn’t Ken realize that would just encourage her? Of course not. He was gleefully ignorant of the situation. “Be right back.” Ken grabbed Allison’s hand and squeezed it before releasing her and following Julia to her office. Allison shifted as if she was uncomfortable. Before he could finish forming his next thought, a little devil perched on his shoulder and whispered in his ear. He studied Allison. “So…you and Ken seem even closer since your butterflylike metamorphosis.” Brian walked over to the sofa and dropped down onto it. He patted the cushion next to him. Allison hesitated, then walked over and sat down, but perched on the edge. “I don’t know what you mean.” “Oh, you don’t? Suppose you enlighten me to the reason behind this transformation.” Allison sighed and eyed him like a skittish colt. “I wanted a change. It was actually kind of Ken’s idea. He’s been suggesting I get my hair cut for a while now.” “Why? Long hair can be so much fun…in the bedroom.” He bit back a chuckle as her cheeks darkened. When she remained silent he wondered if he’d gone too far. But what she was doing to his brother was far worse than this teasing. He decided to push further. “So have you found a boyfriend yet?” “No.” Allison wiggled on the seat. Brian chuckled. She was nervous. It was obvious he made her uncomfortable, but why? He slid his hand onto her leg near her knee. Allison nearly jumped off the sofa at his touch. “What are you doing, Brian?” “Something I’ve wanted to do since you walked in the door.” He slid his hand higher on her thigh and heard her low 40

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gasp. The sound sent a rush of desire sweeping through him, and his dick hardened in under two seconds. “Brian—” Her protest cut short when he squeezed his hand. Allison pressed her legs together tight, and stared down at his hand, an attractive flush covering her cheeks. “Are you surprised to find I’m attracted to you?” “Actually, yes.” Brian grinned as her blush deepened, and her breath came in short quick gasps. He could tell his touch affected her, just as it did him. She wanted him. The realization hit him so hard and fast he lost track of what he’d been saying and what he’d been about to do. “Forget about Ken and give me a chance.” “What?” “You heard me correctly.” Allison still didn’t look at him, so he decided to try something desperate. Brian leaned close to her and put his mouth next to her ear. “Give me a chance, Alli. I promise I won’t disappoint you.” “I don’t remember you having such a way with words before.” Shocked by her words, Brian turned on the sofa and faced her directly. “I don’t recall you and Ken being this close before.” “We’ve always been this close. I don’t know what’s gotten into you, Brian. Perhaps with your new haircut, you lost some of your brain cells.” “Ooo.” He leaned closer. “I don’t recall you being this mouthy before.” Allison leaned closer and narrowed her eyes. “What the hell is wrong with you, Brian?” “Me? You’re the one—” 41

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“Am I interrupting?” Ken asked. Brian looked over at the door. What is wrong with Julia? She was supposed to keep him out of the room for longer than this. Just how fast did she think he moved? Julia shrugged and walked over to the phone when he glared at her. “Shall I call and order the pizza?” Brian sighed and leaned back on the sofa, pulling his hand onto his own lap. He shifted, trying to ease the ache in his dick. It was going to be one hell of a long night. “Yeah, I’m starved.” He wasn’t, but food was better than carrying on the conversation he’d been having with Allison. Now that Ken was here it was pointless. She wouldn’t even think about giving him a chance now. Giving you a chance? Buddy, you’re supposed to woo her away from your brother, not give in gracefully because of a few comments and dirty looks. Ken sat next to Allison and gave Brian a curious look. “Is everything okay between you two?” Brian shrugged. “Are you okay, Allison? You look upset.” “I’m fine. Angry about something, but it’s not worth wasting my time discussing it.” Brian ignored her dirty look and leaned back in the sofa. He struggled to remain impassive as Ken draped his arm around Allison’s shoulder. Damn. It’s going to be a really long night.

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Chapter 4 Between Brian’s touches, flirting, dirty looks and snide comments, Allison was thankful for Ken. He’d seated himself between her and Brian, and had taken her hand in his. Apparently he wasn’t happy about what he’d seen when he entered the room because he leaned close as if shielding her from Brian. The night passed mostly in a blur as she tried to understand why all of a sudden, Brian either wanted her or hated her so much. It wasn’t until he nearly snarled when Ken had tugged her on his lap that it dawned on her. Brian didn’t like her being so close to his brother. Is Marie right, and he is jealous of his brother? Or is he being overprotective of Ken? That didn’t make any sense, though. According to Marie, he’d been acting like a bear at the salon, and that was before her makeover had even been complete. Was it possible that he’d been attracted to her all along? After she made sure Brian was looking, she plastered herself against his chest as she whispered to Ken, “I think I know what your brother’s problem is.” Ken’s head whipped around, his mouth a mere breath from hers. “What’s that?” Allison cupped his chin and turned his face so she could whisper in his ear again. “He doesn’t like it when I am close to 43

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you. Remember how Marie said he was jealous? She’s right. He was hitting on me when you were talking to Julia in her office.” Ken chuckled and covered her hand with his, pinning her palm on his thigh. He licked his lips and then leaned close, his other arm wrapping around her shoulders as he whispered in her ear, “I think you’re right. I wonder when he realized he loves you.” “Well who said anything about love?” she whispered back. “Well, you see it, too. That my brother is jealous of me. I think he loves you.” She laughed. She couldn’t help it. The idea of Brian loving her was so fantastic she couldn’t stop the giggles. “No, really. Come with me, I want to show you something in the kitchen.” Ken said the last part loud. He looked at her and pushed her off his lap. He stood up, still holding her hand and tugged her toward the hallway. Allison sighed and looked over at Brian and Julia. Though they both appeared to be engrossed in the movie, Brian turned to look at her, his eyes focusing on where her and Ken’s hands were intertwined. So he didn’t like her being with Ken. Perhaps his jealousy would make him hit on her again? And this time she would respond appropriately instead of sitting there like a shy virgin. Allison rose and followed Ken down the hall. He stopped and tugged her into the den instead of continuing into the kitchen. “Now watch,” he whispered as he leaned against her so they could both look through the open bit of door. 44

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In less than a minute, Brian walked down the hall with a cup in his hand. He reached the kitchen and stopped. He turned and looked around before his eyes lit on the door they were hiding behind. “Now you did it. What are you going to tell him?” Allison whispered fiercely. She felt like she was back in high school with the way Ken and Brian were acting. “Are you going to say you brought me in here to see your etchings?” “You know, you just gave me an idea.” Ken pinned her against the wall and pressed his lips against hers. Before she could react, the door opened and the light clicked on. Allison kept her lips firmly shut and prayed Marie didn’t learn about this. Even though he was only trying to make Brian jealous, she wasn’t sure the other woman would understand. “What’s going on?” Brian demanded, his voice deeper than Allison had ever heard it. “What does it look like?” Ken laughed as he turned to look at his brother. “Got a problem with me kissing Allison?” Allison screamed when Brian reached out and grabbed Ken. He jerked Ken away from her and pushed him against the wall. “What the hell?” Ken yanked free and positioned himself in front of Allison. “Guess your plan backfired,” she whispered as she tried to edge past Ken. She wouldn’t hide behind him. She was the one who’d wanted to know if Brian was jealous. She wanted Brian to want her. “What’s the matter, Brian?” “What’s the matter?” He glared at her with such rage she suddenly understood what people meant when they said looks could kill. If they could, she’d be smoldering ash on the floor. 45

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Shit. What’s got him so fired up? Allison grabbed onto Ken as confusion raced through her. “Brian! What the hell?” Ken looked as if he was ready to fight Brian. “Allison isn’t what you think. She’s using you, Ken.” Using? I’m using Ken? What is this all about? “I don’t know what you’re talking about. You’ve known Allison for years. Why the sudden anger?” “I hate what she’s doing to you.” “Doing to me?” Ken relaxed his stance, and turned to look at Allison. “What is she doing to me?” “Taking advantage of your generous heart and good nature. Pretending she needs you to help her get a makeover so she can make you fall in love with her.” “What!” Ken and Allison shouted simultaneously. “You’ve got to be kidding me!” Allison pushed past Ken. “You think I am in love with Ken and am trying to make him love me by having him help me with my makeover?” “Yes. Millions of women have done it before, and you’re no different. Sure you and Ken have always been close, but since he’s started helping you with your transformation he’s gone and fallen for you. Hard. With plenty of encouragement from you.” Allison stared at him, not knowing what to say. In fact, she was having a hard time believing Brian really thought she’d do something like that. “I can’t believe you!” “Come on, Allison, I’ll take you home.” “I don’t think so. I think someone else should take her home.”

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“Like you?” Ken grinned and stepped forward. “You like Allison and you want her for yourself. You can’t stand the fact that I have her and you don’t.” Brian stepped forward as if to shove Ken. Without thinking, Allison summoned her magic and pushed it at Brian. He flew back a few feet, and fell on his ass. He sat there stunned, staring at Ken. “How did you do that? I didn’t even feel you touch me.” Ken looked at Allison and quickly covered for her. “I didn’t mean to push you so hard. Sorry, man.” Brian rubbed his ass and chest as he stood up. “It didn’t feel like you shoved me. One minute I was standing there, and the next I was flat on my ass.” Allison edged her way to the door. She really needed to get out of here before she did real damage with her magic. It wasn’t like her to use it in anything other than self-defense, or ritual. That she used it against Brian instinctively to protect Ken didn’t matter. She didn’t want to broadcast her abilities. People were finally starting to forget she was one of those women. The incident at the beach had tainted not only her reputation, but the rest of her coven’s reputations as well. Julia giggled, and everyone turned to the doorway. She looked from Allison to Brian and back to Allison in awe. Shit. Snagged. “I knew you were a witch and at that explosion on the beach a few months ago, but I didn’t realize…” Julia shook her head and stared at Allison. Allison shook her head. All she could do was pray Julia wouldn’t tell Brian what she’d done. It would only make matters worse. 47

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“Are you okay, Brian? I saw all that from the doorway. If I hadn’t seen it with my own eyes, I’d never have believed Allison would attack you.” Allison closed her eyes and groaned. “Allison? But she was nowhere near me.” “I said I saw it all from the doorway.” Julia shook her head and smiled. “I didn’t think you had it in you, girl. I can’t believe you showed this side of you, finally. You won’t do anything to protect yourself, but you’ll do it for Ken. Just goes to show the power of love.” Brain growled as he rose off the floor. “I didn’t feel anyone touch me.” “She didn’t have to.” Ken looked at Allison nervously. Allison shook her head. “No, Ken.” Ken sighed, but didn’t say anything else. “It doesn’t matter. What does matter is that she got either angry or scared when I was telling you that she plotted to make you fall in love with her.” Brian walked over to Ken. “You’re wrong, I don’t want Allison. And if she hadn’t tried to trick you into marrying her, I’d have been happy for you to have fallen in love with her. But seeing this side of her, finding out the real Allison has been hidden all this time…” Allison growled. There was no way she was going to stand here and take anymore of this. She pushed past Julia and tried not to run as she hurried into the living room to retrieve her purse. Once, she looked back and saw Brian trying to get to her. Probably so he could accuse her of even more horrid things. Well, she was having none of it. She drove home, eager to be where she would feel safe, but when she got there, all she did was walk around restless. What if Brian came over here and started in on her again? Did 48

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he really think so little of her? Did others think she was trying to get Ken’s love? Not wanting to give him the chance to start more trouble, she grabbed a few things and put them in a suitcase. She’d go to the mountains. It wasn’t as if she needed to go to an office for work. She could use her laptop at the cabin. “I knew this makeover was going to be more trouble than it was worth.” Allison stowed her clothes and laptop in the car, and headed for her safe hideaway. The one place she went when it felt like the rest of the world was against her. She had some major thinking to do. Driving hours in a major storm wasn’t the smartest thing she had ever done, but it hadn’t seemed so bad until she hit the freeway. Traffic crawled at almost a standstill. Many cars pulled under overpasses to sit and wait out the weather, but not Allison. Using her powers, she managed to keep enough rain off her car without endangering other people and continued to her cabin. By the time she arrived, her knees were shaking, and her right foot was numb from pressing the pedals. Next time she needed a vacation spot closer to home. When she carried her bags into the house, she diverted the rain from falling on her. She’d pay the price for using so much magic, but right now she just wanted to get inside where it was safe and warm. She debated calling Ken to let him know where she was, but decided against it. Brian would accuse her of trying to lure Ken to her love shack. Allison snorted and shook her head. She’d obviously misinterpreted his touching and flirting on the sofa. She felt sick to her stomach at her idiocy. To think she’d found Brian desirable. Even more so since his makeover. 49

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Once she put her bags down, Allison walked over to the altar she’d set up in the spare room. Empty of furniture, there was only a rug with an ornamental pentagram in it, her altar and some supplies in this room. Allison knelt before her altar and lit a candle as she whispered a prayer for forgiveness. Even though she’d acted in defense, Allison was not one to take her powers for granted. She’d give thanks and praise, ask for more forgiveness, and sleep off the weakness from expending so much energy. **** “You’re such an idiot!” Ken slammed the phone down. Brian winced. Allison had stormed out three hours ago, and it had taken both him and Julia to keep Ken from following her. “I’m the idiot? You’re the one who was slobbering all over Allison. I was just trying to protect you.” “Protect me? I thought you liked Allison!” “I do! Did! Until she changed.” “Changed? Bro, the only way Allison changed was her appearance. We’ve always been this close, and it’s never bothered you before.” Brian shook his head. “No.” “Brian. You did kind of get out of hand.” Julia glared at him from the doorway. “What!” He glared back at his sister. “You’re the one who enlightened me to the whole scheme. Now you’re going to side with him? After you made me spy on them at the salon?” Ken laughed at his revelation which made Brian curious. Ken didn’t appear surprised. Why not? “You knew. How did you know? How long did you know I was there?” 50

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“Marie is my girlfriend. As soon as she put you in that chair, she came over and told us you were there and why.” Brian groaned. “You knew the whole time? Wait! Girlfriend?” He stepped closer to Ken. “You have a girlfriend? In addition to whatever you have going on with Allison?” Ken sighed. “Look, I wasn’t really kissing Allison when you stormed in here. Allison was really upset with your attitude tonight. You were unbelievably rude. It took me a while to figure it out. I brought her in here and asked her to play along. You fell for it hook, line, and sinker. But before I could explain things, you attacked Allison and drove her out of here.” “Actually, I think what drove her out of here was her guilty conscience.” Julia put her hand on Ken’s shoulder and looked at him. “Ah ha!” “Shut up.” Ken nudged Julia. “No! Let her say what she has to. It will only confirm what I’ve been trying to tell you.” “Actually, I think it was guilt over using her magic on you. I’ve studied wiccans and pagans. I am fascinated by Allison. I’d never seen her in action until tonight. With one sweep of her hand she knocked you flat on your ass. I’m amazed at her talent. Simply amazed.” “Julia,” Ken hissed at her. Brian wanted to say something, but he was confused by the whole situation. He’d known she was a witch, but he hadn’t known there were real powers involved. Shit. Had Allison literally took him down with a wave of her hand? He didn’t live in the Stone Age. He knew things like this existed, 51

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but he’d never witnessed anyone who could do something like Julia claimed Allison had done. “It’s not something she broadcasts. Allison likes to keep to herself. She knows some people would try and manipulate her to use her powers for their own gain. It’s happened in the past. She’s paid the price. It’s the real reason she tries not to attract attention to herself and what she is.” Brian tried to remember what he’d felt right before he’d been knocked back a few feet. All he’d felt was something like a strong gust of wind, and then he’d been on the floor. His head spun from the information so he tried to focus on something simpler. Marie from the hair salon. “Go back to the part where you already have a girlfriend. Allison knows this and is still pursuing you?” “Damn it, Brian! You are so thick-headed, stubborn and dense. Listen to me. I pretended to kiss her just to see if you would flip out. And you did. However, I thought you were interested in her for yourself. Apparently I was wrong.” “Dead wrong.” Even as he said it, Brian felt a twinge of guilt. It had been jealousy that had made him get up and follow them out here. “Yeah, well now she’s not answering her phone.” Ken picked up the phone and tried calling Allison again. “Finally! Allison? Where the hell are you? I’ve been trying to reach you for hours. Ever since you left here.” Brian looked at Julia and wondered at the gleam in her eye. She walked over and poked him in the chest. “You messed up. I told you to play covert and spy on them so we could be sure.”

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“Well I was sure. You saw the two of them in the living room. They couldn’t keep their goddamned hands off each other!” “Lower your voice!” Ken shouted. “No. Not you, Allison. I’m talking to my thick-headed brother.” Julia poked Brian again. He grabbed her finger and growled. “Stop poking me.” “Not until you admit you want her!” Time seemed to stand still. All sound faded as both Julia and Ken stared at him. Finally, he was able to get his wits about him and respond. “That’s crazy. You’re wrong.” Julia threw her hands up in the air. “Wrong or not, Ken was messing with you. You owe Allison an apology.” She turned to Ken. “Where is she? Brian needs to go to her and apologize.” “You’re kidding me, right?” Brian gasped. “No, I’m not. You chased her out of here—” “To protect you!” “I didn’t need protecting, you idiot!” Ken turned around. “I’m sorry, Allison, don’t hang up. It’s not your fault. Damn it!” Ken snapped his phone shut and shoved it in his pocket. He glared at Brian with a look of anger and disgust Brian had never before seen filling Ken’s features. In that moment, Brian knew he’d have to find Allison and apologize. But not just to get Ken to forgive him, but because Ken and Julia were right. He did want Allison. **** Brian glared at both the directions and the rain slamming against his car. How did Julia and Ken expect him to make it to Allison’s cabin in this hurricane-like weather? The fact 53

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she’d made it here was a miracle in and of itself. Or maybe not that much of a miracle considering she was a witch. How had he missed powers like that? Probably the same way he’d missed noticing how beautiful she was and had treated her like a kid sister. Once he’d noticed how she’d blossomed, he’d acted like a pervert. Like the type of man he’d warned his sister to steer clear of. He’d had plenty of time to think about Allison on the long drive up here. Thinking back over the past few years, he realized he’d always had these feelings for her, but it wasn’t until he thought Ken was in a serious relationship with her that he turned into a jerk. When Allison was single and not dating, he’d taken her for granted. Once Ken seemed to get close to her, Brian had been ready to go to blows with his brother. Brian sighed and pulled onto the side of the road to wait for the rain to lessen. He’d have to eat a lot of crow to get Allison to forgive him. Even if she forgave him, he’d never have a chance with her. Not after the things he’d said and done. As usual, he’d made a mess of any chance of a personal relationship. What was with him and commitment? Finally, the rain eased, and Brian started the car again. By a miracle, he made it to her cabin in one piece. At one point the car had slid dangerously close to the rail separating the traffic from at least a hundred foot drop to the bottom of a ravine. The close call made him even more determined to make it up to Allison. That she’d battled the weather and braved the roads to get away from him proved how much he’d hurt her. He’d grovel if he had to.

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Chapter 5 Allison startled awake at the pounding on her door. What maniac was out in this weather and knocking on her door? She was in the middle of nowhere. A female alone. Until this moment the seclusion hadn’t bothered her. Perhaps it was that she’d just finished watching a horror movie. Either way, she didn’t want to answer the door. “Allison!” “He knows my name!” Allison pulled her robe tighter and cautiously made her way to the window. She peeked out and recognized Brian. He looked like a drowned rat as he stood there, hand raised to bang on her door again. “Brian? What the freak is he doing here?” Anger flowed through her again as she walked over to the door, unlocked it, and yanked it open halfway. “Why did you follow me here? What do you want?” He stared at her, obviously taken aback. “I wanted to talk to you. Can I come in?” “So you can insult me some more? So you can accuse me of seducing your brother? And what is the reason I want to seduce him anyway? I have more money than he does.” “I’m sorry.” Brian met her gaze and held it. She studied his unwavering features. A thrill raced through her when she realized he was being truthful. He really 55

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was sorry. And he should be. He was an ass. She hardened her heart. What did it matter if he was sorry or not? He’d meant the comments when he’d said them. He’d believed terrible things about her. And to think she’d been wishing he’d notice her. He certainly had noticed her, just not in the way she’d wanted. “Can I come in, Allison?” “Why? So you can yell at me again? Accuse me of things I’ve not done? Or perhaps you’d like to give me more sexual harassment?” “I really am sorry, Allison. I’m also freezing and soaking wet. Can I please come in?” She sighed and shook her head, but opened the door wider and stepped to the side. “Come on, before you get pneumonia. Ken will get pissed if you become sick because of me.” “I don’t think he would this time,” Brian said as he walked inside. He shivered, and sprayed her with a few cold drops of rain. Allison looked at him closely and realized his lips were tinged blue. “How long have you been standing out here?” “I pounded on the door and screamed your name so long my throat is raw. I wasn’t sure if you couldn’t hear me or were ignoring me.” “And yet you didn’t go away.” She shut the door and locked it. “No. I made a mistake and I’m man enough to admit it. I want to apologize to you.” “And it couldn’t wait until I came home?” “No. I need to apologize now. I was wrong. The way I treated you was wrong. Even if it had been true, I still shouldn’t have behaved that way.” 56

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“Then why did you?” “I was jealous.” “Are you serious? You have got to be kidding me.” She stared into his deep blue eyes. She’d known he was jealous, but would that jealousy cause him to strike out at her instead of at his brother? “No. I’m serious. I didn’t like watching you and Ken flirting and cuddling.” Her heart beat faster at the knowledge he really had been jealous, but her head told her not to forget what an ass he’d been. “Well then why not just warn him away from me? Why’d you have to be mean about it? And why attack me?” Brian sighed and ran his fingers through his wet hair. “Do you have a towel I can borrow?” Allison turned and walked past the kitchen into the short hallway. “The door on the left is my bedroom. The door on the right is the bathroom. I have a shower and a toilet. I might be in the middle of nowhere, but I do have certain amenities.” “Thanks.” Brian brushed up against her as slipped past her and into the bathroom. He turned back and asked with a hopeful glint in his eyes, “You don’t have a dryer, do you?” “No. But if you give me your clothes I’ll put them by the fireplace to dry.” “You won’t burn them?” “Do you really think I want you walking around here naked?” Allison quickly turned away so he wouldn’t see how much the idea pleased her. Remember you’re mad at him. He treated you like you were nothing more than scum. He’s a jerk. “We’ll talk when I finish my shower.” “Yeah, we’ll talk.” Allison walked away before he could say anything else. If he really was sincere, then fine, otherwise 57

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she’d make him grovel before she forgave him. Too bad she couldn’t take back her comments on how attractive he was or her daydreams of him. After seeing him earlier today she knew her dreams were nothing more than a fantasy. She could never love a man who thought that poorly of her. While she waited for Brian to shower, she put in another horror movie and hung his clothes by the fire. At least if she got scared this time, there was someone here to keep her company and chase the demons away. She’d be too worried about him being here to sleep, anyway. What if she had one of those dreams while he was here? That would be too embarrassing. Especially if she screamed out his name. It was a shame she couldn’t make him leave now, but the bridge would be flooded. How he made it over the bridge, she’d never guess. Allison walked over to the window again and peeked outside. During one particularly bright flash of lightning, the driveway illuminated, and she noticed her SUV was the only vehicle in the driveway. Had he gotten stuck on the bridge and come here rather than go back? Well, where would he have gone? It would have been a three-mile hike in this rain back to the main thoroughfare, and then he’d have to hope someone noticed him on the side of the road. That would have been nearly impossible in this rain. “Has the rain let up?” Allison shrieked and turned around. She banged her hand on her chest to jumpstart her heart because it felt like it froze when he’d scared her. “Damn it, Brian! What are you? Part panther? Don’t sneak up on me. Especially not after I watched that Jason movie.” 58

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“I’m sorry.” But he chuckled as he said it, and she knew he wasn’t. “Damn it.” She pushed at him, ignoring how delicious he looked in nothing more than a towel wrapped around his waist and walked back to the sofa. “Where’d you leave your car? I hope you didn’t get stuck on the bridge.” “I parked before the bridge.” “What’d you do? You didn’t swim across the water, did you?” She knew horror showed in every feature on her face and didn’t care. Yeah he’d been mean, but she did still care about him, stupid as it was. “No. I kind of climbed across the side of the bridge.” “You’re crazy! In this rain?” “What did you want me to do? Sit in my car and wait for the storm to let up? It’s obvious it isn’t going to.” “Well, damn it, I don’t want you here.” “Not much I can do about that, now can I?” Brian’s eyes narrowed. “You could at least let me finish apologizing.” “You said you were sorry. Apology accepted. Are you hungry?” Allison wrapped her arms around herself and tried to rub away the chill. If he kept staring at her so intently she’d start to read more into his gaze than was there. At least her traitorous body was covered by her thick robe. Staring at his barely covered body had sent her hormones into overdrive. Already she thought she saw heat and desire in his eyes, but that was impossible, especially taking his opinion of her into account. He followed her into the small kitchen area, and she had to fight the urge to tell him to get out of her way. He wasn’t really in her way, he was just crowding her. And damned if she didn’t like the way he crowded her. 59

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“Go sit down on the sofa,” she half pleaded, half demanded. “I want to help. What are you making?” “I was just going to heat up a can of stew and microwave some biscuits. It’ll be fast, easy, and hot.” “Just the way I like my women.” Allison choked as her saliva went down the wrong way. Brian alternated between patting her back and rubbing his hand in circles. She coughed harder as his touch sent a hot wave of desire through her. Damn him! Why couldn’t he have just stayed the way he’d always been? Ken’s friendly brother. Earlier that day when Brian approached her with his flirtatious mood and then wrongful accusations, things had changed. He’d gone from a friend to an enemy. She missed the Brian she used to lust after. “Sorry, Allison. It was just a joke.” “You caught me off-guard, that’s all.” She moved away from him and reached up into the cupboard for a can of stew. Brian moved up against her back. He grabbed onto her hips, pressed his erection against her ass, and kissed the side of her neck. She shivered, her body sparking under his touch. Damn him, what does he think he’s doing? “What are you doing?” Allison shivered again as he continued the caresses. He rubbed his erection against her rear, drawing a moan from low in her throat. “You feel it, too. Don’t you?” “Feel what?” She gasped when he pressed open-mouth kisses along her neck to her ear. He sucked on her sensitive flesh, sending more shivers through her body. “That.” He rocked his hips against her. “The desire is mutual, isn’t it?” 60

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“I don’t care if it is or isn’t. If you really wanted me, you’d have desired me before I had the makeover.” “I did desire you then, Allison. I just didn’t act on it.” “Why not?” She narrowed her eyes and turned her head as far as she could to look back at him. At least he was being honest. When he’d first arrived at the salon before her makeover, Marie had said the same thing Ken had said later. Brian had looked green with envy. He hadn’t liked how close she and Ken had become. Besides, he’d had a makeover, too and he wasn’t accusing her of only desiring him since he’d had the haircut and his eyebrows done. “It took me seeing Ken all over you to make me realize I love you and want you for myself.” Allison snorted. “I’m not a sucker for smooth lines, Brian. I’m also not stupid. You weren’t jealous. You were pissed. I’m trying to seduce him into marriage, remember?” “That was Julia’s fault. I was really upset because these feelings caught me off-guard. I didn’t realize my feelings for you were so strong until I saw Ken slobbering all over you. You’ve never brought a man to our house. I’ve never met any of your boyfriends. I might have gotten jealous sooner if I had.” “You know, I think this is your way of trying to make me forgive you for being a complete and utter ass.” “You already forgave me. Do you think I can make myself horny at will?” Allison snorted again. “You know what? You’re a guy. Press up against any girl’s ass and you’ll get hard.” “I don’t think so, Sweetheart. You make me feel this way. And it’s not because of your makeover.” 61

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Ignoring him, she reached up again and grabbed the can of stew. Brian’s hand’s slid around and cupped her breasts. He squeezed them and brushed his thumbs over her nipples. Allison gasped and dropped the can on the counter. “Don’t make me hurt you, Brian.” “Allison, please,” he whispered in her ear. “Don’t deny it. I know you’re aroused too. Your nipples are pebble hard, and if I were to reach down between your legs to see if you are wet, what do you think I’ll discover?” “Try it and I’ll bite your hand off.” Allison struggled to fight her desire, then froze. Wasn’t this what she wanted? She knew Brian well enough to know he spoke the truth. His accusations had been uncalled for, but they made sense. She still wanted him to suffer for taking his frustration out on her instead of on Ken. “You haven’t finished explaining, and molesting me isn’t going to distract me from wanting an explanation.” Brian sighed and pulled his hands away. He turned her around and cupped her chin. Allison tried not to meet his eyes, but he sighed again, and she gave in. “What?” She stared up at his hazel eyes. “You’re not only acting out of character, but you’re scaring me.” He frowned, but didn’t release her. Maybe he wasn’t scaring her, but she didn’t want to admit to herself or to him that she was so horny she wanted to jump him and take him here. On the counter, on the floor, anywhere. For years she’d lusted after this man. Even dating other men did nothing to diminish his appeal to her. She really needed a psychological evaluation. He made her insides and her brain mush. Brian sighed and held her hands, looking down at them a moment before answering her. “I know it’s hard to believe, 62

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Allison, given the fact I’ve known you for so long, and you’ve never had a hint of it, but I honestly have come to realize that I do love you. I need you to believe that.” “And all the snide comments on the sofa?” Brian sighed and flushed. He looked very guilty, or else very angry. “My well-meaning sister told me that you were trying to trap Ken into marriage using the old best friend makeover routine. One that’s used in a lot of romance novels.” “I actually enjoy reading those kinds of stories.” Allison smiled. “But I can’t see how you or Julia would think I could do something like that to Ken.” “Maybe because we didn’t know he was dating Marie. Maybe he should have been more open in keeping us informed of his love life.” “Or maybe your sister wanted you to realize you love me so she tried to make you jealous.” “Why would you think that?” “Your sister is a romantic. It stands to reason that she would cook up something like this. And only you could mess it up, Brian. You should know me better by now.” Allison shook her head and pulled free from him. “Let me make the stew and biscuits, and then we can talk more.” “Talk about what, Allison? How much I love you? How much I want to spend the rest of my life with you? Or how about the fact that I want you to be the mother of my children?” “You really didn’t need to add the last line.” Allison grinned. “You don’t want kids?”

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“I’ve never really given it that much thought. Sometimes I want them and other times I’m glad I’m free to come and go as I please.” “If you give me a chance, I’ll make it worth your while.” “Oh really?” A huge grin spread across her face. “Yeah.” Brian waggled his eyebrows. “Wanna take me for a test run?” Allison snickered. “I think that would be best.” “Why don’t we start now then?” “In my kitchen?” “I thought perhaps in that king-sized bed you have in your bedroom. Why do you have a bed that large, Sweetheart?” “I’m a wild sleeper. I move around a lot and have been known to strike out and hit whoever’s in bed with me. I even wake up with bruises on myself.” He chuckled. “Ah. So now that I’m forewarned, will you let me in bed with you?” Allison sighed dramatically. “I suppose I have no choice. With your car on the other side of the flooded bridge, I can’t very well send you out there to sleep. Are you sure I can’t interest you in some stew?” “Oh, I’m hungry, Sweetheart, but not for stew.” Brian pulled her into his arms and lowered his face. “I promise not to get jealous of Ken anymore, but you have to promise to start admitting you feel what I feel, too.” Allison tilted her head so her lips were a breath from his and smiled. “I don’t recall me being on trial here. You’re the one with the issues.” “Issues!” Brian cupped the back of her neck with one hand. “I’ll give you issues.” 64

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He pressed his mouth to hers and kissed her. Allison sighed as he brushed his lips over hers lightly, then with more pressure. When Brian traced his tongue over her lower lip, she gave in to her impish nature and gently caught it with her teeth. He chuckled into her mouth, and then deepened the kiss. Brian massaged the back of her neck and moved his other hand to her lower back. He held her firmly in place, and she wanted to tease him. Did he think she was going anywhere? Allison melted into him, molding her body against his. He felt good in her arms, and his kiss was even better than she’d dreamed. While he tormented her with his taste and touch, she slid her hands down onto his ass and squeezed. Her joke from the hair salon popped into her mind, and she giggled. “I’m doing something wrong if you’re laughing.” Brian looked into her eyes. “What’s so funny?” “Nothing.” Allison bit her lip. There was no way she was going to tell him she’d discussed bouncing quarters off his ass with Ken. More giggles slipped free, and she had to look away from him and his sexy ass and chest. “That’s it!” Brian scooped her in his arms and carried her down the hallway. He pushed her bedroom door shut with his foot, and carried her over to the bed. “I’m going to have to work harder with you, I see.” “What do you mean?” Allison hoped she feigned a convincing innocent look. “Other women don’t giggle when I make love to them.” “I’m not other women.” “You have no idea how grateful I am for that,” Brian said. He nipped at her lips. “Speaking of you being different. I be65

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lieve someone owes me an apology for knocking me flat on my ass for no reason.” “It was a reaction and there was a reason. You were going to hurt Ken…” Allison stopped speaking at the hurt that blossomed in Brian’s eyes and expression at her words. “I wasn’t going to hurt my brother.” He started to pull away, but Allison grabbed onto his arms. “Wait. You had just finished saying all kinds of horribly mean things to me and were reaching for Ken. It was a gut reaction. How was I supposed to know you weren’t going to hurt him?” “How many years have you known me, Allison?” “The same number of years you’ve known me and you still assumed I was trying to ensnare Ken in my marriage trap. For what purpose, I still don’t know.” “Okay, point made.” He nodded his head. “I don’t know what came over me. I am sorry, Allison. If I can be such an ass, you are certainly entitled to a little bit of doubt when I scared you.” “I know I am.” She grinned and pulled Brian onto the bed. She rolled over on top of him, and straddled him. “And now that my diabolical plan worked, and I have you exactly where I want you…what shall I do first?” “This was your plan all along, huh?” His eyes darkened with desire as she rubbed her lower body against him. “Yeah, and it worked like a charm.” Allison hoped he ignored the hitch in her voice when she’d said that, but he didn’t. “Like a charm?” He grabbed onto her hips and lifted his lower body up into hers. He groaned and closed his eyes. “You make me feel like a teenager again.” 66

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“Why’s that?” “Because I can’t think of anything else right now, except sinking my cock in you and making love to you until we both pass out from exhaustion.” Allison gasped, and then moaned. She slid her hands from his stomach up to his shoulders, then back down to the top of the towel. Instead of letting him take charge like her instincts wanted, she stood up, tugged his towel free, and stared at his long, thick cock. She licked her lips and reached for him, wanting to touch him. His husky chuckle made her pause, hand wrapped around him. “What?” She stared at him, irritated he’d interrupted. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen a woman as pleased to see my dick as you.” “What?” She froze and narrowed her eyes. “Nothing.” He shook his head. “I was teasing, Allison.” “Don’t tease me, Brian. I don’t like it.” He sighed. “I suppose you don’t like tickling either, do you?” ”No.” She narrowed her eyes even more. “Try it and die.” “No thanks. I’ve been on the receiving end of your anger already. It’s not something I want to repeat anytime soon. If ever.” Allison dropped to her knees and wrapped her hands around his hot length. His skin was silky soft, but hot and hard also. The desire to taste him overwhelmed her, and she lowered her mouth. She licked the tip of him, giggling when he jumped under her caress. She tightened her hand on him and closed her eyes while she took the head of his cock into her mouth. Teasing him with her tongue and fingers, she slid her 67

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hand up and down, varying the speed and strength of her hand until she found what made him gasp and moan. “Mmm.” Allison grinned and redoubled her efforts. Over and over, she moved her mouth and hands, sucking and licking him while never pausing in stroking him. His breath hitched. She wondered how close he was to coming in her mouth. “Stop, Sweetheart,” he gasped, fingers fisting in her hair. Even as he asked her to stop, his hips lifted, thrusting his cock deeper into her mouth. “Mmm,” she moaned around his cock. Closing her eyes, she lost herself in the sensation of him. His touch, his scent, everything would be ingrained in her memory forever now. He was such a responsive lover she couldn’t help but want to pleasure him more. “I don’t want to come in your mouth. I want to make love to you, Allison. I can’t do that if I spill my seed down your throat.” His hand caressed the length of her neck, sending a shiver through her. “That feels so good.” “Yeah it does,” she mumbled around a mouth full of cock. “What?” Brian laughed. “I couldn’t understand you.” With a laugh at herself, Allison slid him out of her mouth and looked up at him. “I said, yeah it does.” “Does what?” “Feel good.” She drew him back into her mouth and he groaned. “Allison, please.” Allison grinned and looked up at him through her lashes. She debated finishing him off with her mouth, but realized she wanted more. Not only had he said he didn’t want to come in her mouth, but she didn’t want to be done with him so quick68

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ly. This was their first time and she wanted it to last forever. She needed him inside of her, needed to make love completely. There’d be time later for the other stuff. “You don’t want me to be finished before we start, do you?” “Hmm.” Allison looked up into his face and winked. Slowly, she slid him out of her mouth, and placed one last kiss on the tip of his cock before moving back. “My turn.” His grin was wicked as he reached for her. In the blink of an eye he had her on her back. “Now it’s my turn to have some fun. But first I get to unwrap you.” She wore nothing under her robe. If she’d been expecting company she’d have dressed. Hell, if she’d known he was going to show up and apologize she’d have worn nothing more than a lacy number designed to make a man’s knees weak and his dick hard as steel. “What are you hiding under this robe?” He unraveled the knot in her belt, and let the loose ends drop on the bed. Slowly, so slowly she wanted to scream in frustration, he pushed open the edges of her robe. Brian made an animalistic growl when his fingers slid over her bare flesh. “Have you been talking to me all night with no clothes on?” “I was wearing my robe.” She watched his face and his eyes as he pressed more of the material aside. Cool air blew over her skin, making goose bumps break out all over her body. “Mmm.” Brian moaned as he slipped his hands under the robe and pushed it the rest of the way off her body. Allison struggled to free her arms from the sleeves, but Brian held her still. 69

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“I just want to look at you.” She froze, breath caught in her throat. A moment of panic raced through her at the thought that he wanted to look at her body. She closed her eyes and forced herself to breathe slowly as she waited for his reaction. Her body wasn’t going to scare him off, and he was sincere in his love, but she didn’t want to see if he was disappointed. Her breasts were on the small side, but she did have a flat stomach. “Nice.” “Huh?” Her eyes flew open. She stared at him, wondering which part of her he thought was nice. “You.” She gasped when he cupped her breasts, and then moaned as he massaged them. Brian released them too soon, but once he spread her legs open and kneeled between them, he recaptured her breasts and teased her nipples. “You are so responsive to my slightest touch,” he whispered as he slid one hand down her stomach. Her muscles quivered and tightened, moisture pooling between her thighs. “I can’t help it.” She moaned when he dragged his finger over her mons. Her hips thrust off the bed as if they had a mind of their own. “I’m not complaining.” Brian cupped her heat with his palm and leaned down to kiss her. Allison met his kiss and deepened it, fisting her fingers in his hair and holding him there as she rocked her hips, rubbing against his palm. Brian slipped a finger into her core, and Allison bucked against him, tearing her mouth free from his and making a mewling sound. “You’re tight.” 70

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“It’s been a while,” she snapped. She wanted to concentrate on what he was doing to her, and he wanted to talk. Figures. “Testy, aren’t you?” “Bite me. Or better yet, just fuck me.” She writhed under him. He didn’t need to know that it had been so long she didn’t even remember the last time she had sex. “I plan to do more than that. I plan to love you thoroughly and completely. To make you mine in every way.” As he spoke, Brian moved until his face hovered an inch above her abdomen. Her breath caught and held. She stared into his mesmerizing eyes and waited. Brian lowered his face. His tongue flicked out, brushing over her clit. Sensations danced up her spine. Allison cried out and fisted her hands in the blanket. With another swipe of his tongue, she came so hard and fast, she almost blacked out. “Mmm.” Brian rubbed his thumbs over her mons, and added another finger to the one he pumped in and out of her core. Unable to lay still, Allison thrust into his hand, matching his movements and quickly bringing herself to the edge of another orgasm. “I can’t believe how lucky I am,” Brian whispered. Before she could respond, he attacked her with fervor. His fingers pumped her hard and fast while he ate her. Allison lost count of her orgasms when Brian seemed more than content to continue pleasuring her orally. After the first few orgasms, though, a hunger built in her belly. His mouth and fingers weren’t enough anymore. 71

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“More, Brian. I need more!” Allison rocked against him desperate to feel his shaft buried in her. “Please!” “Yes.” He chuckled. Brian gave her one last lingering lick, then wiped his face on the blanket before he rose over her. “I love you, Allison.” She gasped and blinked back tears. “You’re just too good to be true, Brian.” “I aim to please.” “Oh, you’ve more than done that. But I really want to feel you in me.” “I want that, too, Sweetheart. I don’t have a condom on me though.” “I’m on the pill. I’m clean. I know you’re clean, but if you really want a condom—” Allison ended on a moan as Brian thrust into her. “Guess you trust me.” “I love you, Allison. Of course I trust you.” She moaned and wrapped her legs around him. She finally freed her arms from her robe and wrapped them around him. Brian kissed her again, this time tender and sweet. Then he began to move in and out at an achingly slow pace. “I love you, too.” “I know.” He smiled down at her. Brian caressed the side of her cheek. “According to Ken, you’ve been interested in me for a while.” Allison grinned. “Maybe I have.” “I’m sorry I didn’t realize what I was feeling sooner.” “It worked out okay, didn’t it?” “But still, I’ve got some making up to do. Making up for lost time.”

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Allison groaned and moved against him. “I think you already made up for that. I didn’t realize how talented you were.” Brian laughed and slid his hands up her sides. “Watch it or you’ll only encourage me.” “Isn’t that the idea?” He shook his head and laughed again, then resumed his tender manipulation of her body. When her orgasm rocked through her this time, Brian shouted his release as well. “Mmm.” He sighed as he pulled her close and lay next to her, tugging her up against him. “We’ll have to do that again. After I take a nap.” Allison giggled and snuggled up against him. She wanted another round or twenty before sunrise. With a deep sigh, she relaxed against him. This is what she’d wanted. To have someone to hold her and love her. The great sex was good, too, but it was this cuddling and comfort that she’d craved all along. And to think Brian had been the one for her all this time. It was a good thing she’d gotten the makeover after all.

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Chapter 6 “Sandra?” Allison grinned as she leaned in her rocker. She looked down the hall toward her bedroom. Brian was asleep, but then he’d expended a lot of energy last night. Over and over, the man had made her think he was part Energizer Bunny at one point. But now he was getting a well deserved break and a sound sleep. “Are you okay, Allison?” Sandra sounded extremely upset, and that was something that didn’t happen often. “Yeah, never been better. What’s wrong?” “It’s Camryn. She’s lost all her powers. And well, suddenly Macy’s power zoomed through the roof. She’s scaring me with the power she’s inadvertently unleashing. All I can think is that the reversal spell Camryn did is taking everything from her and giving it to all of us. You are there with Brian, right?” “Yes, how did you…” Allison trailed off. She knew how Sandra had known. Her Sight. “So you’re saying this is a spell and isn’t real?” Sandra laughed. “No. It’s real and meant to be. But think about how Tamara’s health conditions all cleared up, and Candace actually has a job. And you have love. Or looks. Since your makeover, your aura has been a lot clearer and brighter, Hon.” 74

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“Really? How do I know this will last?” “Faith, Allison. You loved him before Camryn and her spell, correct?” “That’s true.” “I’m willing to bet my next week’s salary that Brian has been in love with you almost as long if not longer.” “What are we going to do about Camryn? And what’s going to happen to you and Macy then?” “I just don’t know.” “Do you think one of you will get money? Oh wait, the other two spells were money and power.” Allison gasped when she realized that Macy must have been given power. “Then that means you get money.” “Not necessarily. The power from her spell didn’t hit me like it did the rest of you. There’s always a chance that this is all a coincidence too. But now that Camryn’s lost her power…it’s either a binding from her old coven, or else the Goddess has seen fit to strip Camryn of her powers. She hasn’t been doing very well ever since she cast that spell on the beach. And not only has everything gone wrong for her at once, but things have gone horribly awry. She’s so devastated right now I don’t know if we can help her at this point. All we can do is try.” “What do you want me to do?” “We need to have another meeting at Camryn’s to make sure she is well protected both physically and spiritually. We need to keep her spirits up, because if this is going to play out the way I think it is, she’s going to need the help of each one of us to get through this.”

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Michelle loves vampires and things that go bump in the night, so it’s no wonder her creations are truly paranormal. While most people only dream of finding love, Michelle’s characters find it, but in the most unexpected places. Michelle also loves to hear from readers. You can visit her on the web at www.michellehasker.com.

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