Hope - Book 8
Author: Chrissy Peebles
Date: 2012-09-05 07:00:00+00:00
Description: Librarian's note: This is an alternate cover edition for ASIN: B00CVDLYWW. This is book 8 in a young adult, science fiction, novelette series.
Publisher: Rocky Rivers Publishing

Eternal Bloom - Book 5 of The Ruby Ring Saga

The Ruby Ring Saga, Volume 5
by Chrissy Peebles

Published by Chrissy Peebles, 2013.

This is a work of fiction. Similarities to real people, places, or events are entirely coincidental.

ETERNAL BLOOM - BOOK 5 OF THE RUBY RING SAGA

First edition. September 4, 2013.

Copyright © 2013 Chrissy Peebles.

Written by Chrissy Peebles.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

The End

Book 6 – Eternal Flame will be released Spring 2014 | See cover on next page.

Chapter 1

I had been rescued from the mountain and was in the Immortal hospital.

When I woke up, I was shocked to find my beloved holding my hand. “Victor?” I whispered.

“Sarah,” he said softly.

I couldn’t help but notice the dark circles under his eyes from countless hours of lost sleep. I traced the outline of his strong jaw. “I need a kiss. It’s long overdue,” I said softly.

When he softly pressed his lips against mine, I felt the stubble on his unshaven face, far beyond a five o’clock shadow. “I’ve been so worried,” he said, tears welling in his bloodshot eyes.

I reached out and grabbed him in a tight hug. I let the tears flow freely, and the back of my throat constricted with emotion. Hugging Victor was the best feeling in the whole world. I started to sob uncontrollably. It wasn’t like me at all to lose my cool, but I couldn’t help it. Just hours earlier, I’d thought I’d never see Victor again. I didn’t want to be separated from him or any of my loved ones ever again. Strangely enough, I felt like Dorothy, when she woke up from her dream of Oz, only I had no ruby slippers to carry me back home. That sure would have made things a lot easier, I mused to myself, thinking back to our time on the mountain. “They have Lynn, the girl from our theater. I saw her in the pods,” I whispered to him.

Victor’s eyes widened. “What!? Those fiends! I shall gather a rescue team, and we will get her back.”

“I didn’t tell the sheriff,” I said. “The Immortals would just kill him. Also, I think we’re gonna need Immortal help.”

“Hmm. I’ll talk to Dr. Meyers, my love. I’m sure she can lead me to the right people.”

The nurse studied the beeping machines next to me. “Her blood pressure is reaching the danger zone, Dr. Meyers.”

“We have to act now,” the doctor said.

“Wh-what’s going on?” I asked, though I doubted she could hear me over my own labored breathing. It was like straining to breathe through a straw. Spots flooded my vision, and I knew something was terribly wrong. Through the haze, I glanced up at Victor’s grim face.

“We have to deliver the baby,” Dr. Meyers said.

“No! You have to stop this,” I said in a panicked voice.

“They have already tried, Sarah,” Victor said, trying to console me, but I could tell from his tone that he was just as terrified as I was.

A flood of uneasiness gathered in the pit of my stomach. “Will my baby live?” I asked, anxious about the answer.

Dr. Meyers’s gaze narrowed. “I’m sorry, but the baby isn’t far enough along. Sarah, your life is in danger. If we don’t take the baby now, you’ll most likely die.”

“Most likely? Are you saying there’s a slight chance I won’t? Because if there’s any chance that both of us can live, I’m willing to take it!”

Her mouth pressed into a hard line. “You would only have a 10 percent chance to live if we don’t take the bab—”

“Those odds are fine with me,” I said, letting out an anxious breath. “I’ll do anything to save my baby.”

Victor squeezed my hand and looked back at me with horror-filled eyes.

“I wouldn’t advise it, Sarah,” Dr. Meyers said.

“I will not let you take my baby early, not if it will harm him!” I screamed, frantically looking at Victor. “Tell them!” I demanded, my stomach aching and my breath coming in gasps.

Dr. Meyers met Victor’s gaze, and hard lines dominated her face. “You can have more children, Victor, but you cannot replace your wife. We need to deliver this child now if we are to save Sarah.”

“Blood pressure is 250/150!” the nurse said, as if it was bad news.

Everything began to spin around me. I tried to focus, but everything began to melt into a hazy blur. I was sure I would pass out any second, but I tried to stay conscious to fight for my son.

“Victor,” Dr. Meyers said in a frantic tone, “are you ready to watch your wife die before your eyes?”

He cupped my face, and tears welled up in his eyes at this serious dilemma he was now faced with. “I don’t want to lose you, Sarah,” he said. “I love you so, so much.”

His words melted my heart, and I knew how genuine his love was for me.

I was starting to lose focus as heat flooded my body and sweat poured down my face.

The nurse quickly took my temperature. “She’s up to 105, Doctor.”

“Prep the operating room,” Dr. Meyers told another nurse.

“Victor, please don’t let them kill our baby,” I begged. Cramps rippled across my stomach, and I moaned in pure agony. “Fight, Victor! Fight for our baby, for our family!” I yelled. “She can give me medication to bring down the blood pressure. Tell her she has to! Don’t let them take our baby!”

Dr. Meyers adjusted the IV that was attached to my arm. “We’ve already given the meds to you, Sarah, and they aren’t working.”

“Please just give them some time to kick in,” I said, glancing at Victor again. “Our little Alexander is fighting so hard to survive. He should have died in that mountain prison, but I got him out of there. He should have died in the gorge when I started to deliver him prematurely, but I set that fire and got us out of there too. Now he’s destined to die once again. Why is this happening, Victor? Why us? Why our child?”

Tears brimmed in his eyes. “I won’t give up on our son or you, my love.”

I cupped his face. “I love you.”

“I love you too.”

“If I don’t make it for any reason, know that you changed my life.”

He kissed my hand. “And you mine, so much for the better.”

I sucked in another breath as I struggled to get enough air. “And always know you are my world, my king.”

“I love you, my beautiful queen.”

“I don’t...I can’t...Victor, I am not ready to die,” I said between gasps. I gripped his strong hands tightly and prayed for a miracle, hoping God wouldn’t think me too greedy for asking again.

“Please hang on, Sarah. You must fight,” Victor said, his gaze connecting with mine.

Through the foggy haze, I focused on his blue eyes. “You’re such a brave warrior,” I whispered. “If we die, go back to Tastia and reclaim your kingdom. You must be happy, Victor. You were meant to rule, not to fade into the crowd. You must go back.”

He tried to smile through the tears. “You’re meant to drive a Lamborghini, not a white stallion, my dear.”

“I-I...if I make it, Victor, I’ll happily go back to your world with you,” I whispered. “I’ll give it all up, and I’ll never look back. I just want to spend the rest of my life with you, to hear the pitter-patter of our children running around the castle.”

“We’ll have so many, and...” His emotion-filled voice drifted off.

“I-I want to wake up in your glorious arms every morning,” I said, then closed my eyes. I could still hear them talking through the hazy fog surrounding me.

“Blood pressure’s skyrocketing,” the nurse said. “We need to get her into surgery pronto.”

“Victor!” Dr. Meyers yelled. “We need to act now. We need your consent to—”

“And you shall not have it!” he shouted. “You will not take our son.”

“But your wife is barely hanging on, and—” she argued grimly.

“She won’t die,” Victor said, shaking his head. “This baby is something special. He’s specifically mentioned in the prophecies. It is fate, and he will live...as will his mother. Fate will not let either of them succumb!”

“You’re willing to leave your wife’s fate in the hands of a myth?” Dr. Meyers said. “I am a doctor, and I will not stand by and watch this woman die, not when I can do something to save her life. This is modern-day medicine, Victor. We don’t live in ancient, medieval times of dragons and magic books. This is real life, and your wife is dying. You’d damn well better do something about it and give us the consent to save her!”

“No, he’s...we are survivors,” I gasped out, still barely conscious.

A nurse walked in and tugged on the doctor’s scrubs. “Doctor, there is a woman here who claims to be the patient’s sister.”

“Let her in,” Dr. Meyers said. “Maybe she can talk some sense into these two.”

I glanced toward the door. “Liz?” I said in a weak voice.

She walked in and squeezed my hand. “Sarah? Oh my gosh! Are you okay?”

“No, she isn’t,” Dr. Meyers said. “She’s dying. If we don’t deliver that baby this very second, your sister will not survive the day.”

Tears streamed down my cheeks. “Alexander won’t make it, Liz. My son’s going to die if they deliver him, and—”

“Calm down,” she said. “I’m going to try and save you the way we saved Beth, but I can’t promise anything. All that unstable energy might hold us back.”

“Do it,” Victor said. “Do it now!”

“Victor,” Liz said, “I will need your power.” She looked at Dr. Meyers. “Please go get my husband. He’s in the waiting room.”

“I can help too,” Dr. Meyers said.

“No,” Liz responded. “I mean, I appreciate that, but we need Immortals with ruby rings, as I’ve got no idea how Immortals of a different race will interact with our powers. My sister has already been a guinea pig once today, and I won’t put her through that again.”

“I understand,” Dr. Meyers said.

“We need Della,” Liz said.

Dr. Meyers blinked. “She is in the next hospital room, recovering from a gunshot wound to the shoulder.”

“A gunshot wound? Why isn’t she healing?”

I gathered up enough strength to explain, “The Immortals gave us some kind of shot that paralyzes our powers for up to a month.”

“There are three of us,” Liz said. “That should work.”

Dizziness flooded me, but I tried to hang on to consciousness. I could hear Charles’s voice, but everything was fading out. I called for Victor, and he held my hand tight. A wave of electricity washed over me, and I started to tingle from head to toe. If I hadn’t known better, I would have sworn I was hanging on to a high-voltage, live wire. The energy coursing through my body scared me, and I wondered if my baby could handle it. I struggled to stay awake, but spots flooded my vision, and then I fell into darkness.

Chapter 2

When I awoke, I saw the fuzzy outline of Liz, Charles, Victor, and my parents.

“You’re awake,” my mother said. “Baby, I was so worried about you.”

I squeezed her hand. “Hi, Mom.”

“Oh, Sarah, I love you so much.”

“I love you too,” I said, then bit my lower lip to still the emotions rising up inside of me. “Victor,” I said, “is the baby okay?”

A wide smile was the answer he gave me.

A surge of relief flooded through me. My sister had saved us both, and I didn’t know how I would ever thank her. My little baby had faced certain death three times in one day, yet he had survived. My heart sped up in my chest at the fantastic news. My son was a fighter, just like his father, and I couldn’t have been happier to know he was still living and growing within me.

“Alexander is doing fine,” Victor finally said, “and the doctor says you are as well.”

I let out a deep breath, but the tears wouldn’t stop flowing. I wiped at them, suddenly laughing through even more tears. It was the best news I could have asked for, especially after so many close calls. “What about Della?” I asked Victor.

“She’s still recovering in the room next door.”

“Is she okay?” I asked.

He nodded, then cocked a brow in confusion. “She’s quite all right, Sarah, but why are you so concerned about her?”

“We got to know each other a little bit through all of that,” I explained. “I was just worried about her, that’s all.”

“Such a compassionate and forgiving one you are, my love. I couldn’t have asked for a better wife. The woman has been horrible to you, yet you still worry about her.”

“I understand her better now.”

As everyone gathered around me to give me hugs and talk to me, Dr. Meyers walked in, carrying a clipboard. “I’m thrilled everything worked out. Your sister saved the day.”

Liz grinned.

Dr. Meyers turned to face her. “None of the Immortals from this world have the gift of healing, so you must be very careful using it here. If word gets out about it, you will be tracked down and locked up. You will be expected to be at their beck and call, and maybe even put through experiments.”

“Keep it quiet. I got it,” Liz said, as if it was nothing new.

“I think it’s best that you all stay very well hidden. Perhaps you should relocate. At this point, all of you are in grave danger.”

“We’ve already relocated once,” Charles said. “We’re not doing it again.”

“What about us?” my mom asked.

“There is someone who owes me a favor. If you like, I can have your names placed on a list so the Immortals won’t be allowed to touch them for any reason.”

“Like some kind of Immortal restraining order? Pssh. That won’t stop them,” Liz said.

“It’s a sacred list, and our people abide by rules. I can only place two names on the list, your parents’. The rest of you must stay in hiding.”

Suddenly, for no real reason at all, I remembered the jewelry I’d looted from the fallen Immortals. I was in a blue, backless, very unflattering hospital gown, so I asked for my pants. I explained the entire story and handed the jewelry over to Dr. Meyers.

“Ah,” she said, looking it over. “This belonged to members of the rebellion. Consorting with them is far beyond dangerous. There is a rumor that Jackson killed all those Immortals,” Dr. Meyers said. “If it is true, he led them to their slaughter, and he is not to be trusted.”

“Then why didn’t he kill me when he had me alone on that dark road?” I asked, skeptical.

“Perhaps he was just keeping an eye on you. He wants your DNA for himself, just like the rest of them. He waited until you were isolated, then kidnapped you.”

“My DNA?” I asked.

“A long story for another time,” she responded.

I blinked, realizing she wasn’t willing to tell me a damned thing.

“How do I find Jackson?” Victor asked, seething.

“They can’t help Sarah with her medical condition,” Dr. Meyers said, “and they’re very dangerous. My advice is that you don’t look for trouble, Victor. Just keep your distance.”

“I would like to make an allegiance with them,” Charles said. “Maybe we could help each other.”

“I would not advise that,” Dr. Meyers said, shaking her head.

“Getting into a war with the blue-ringed Immortals who kidnapped Sarah would be nuts, you two!” Liz said.

“The rebels could help us retrieve our land from Ethano’s vile hands,” Charles said.

“But at what cost?” Liz asked in disbelief. “Charles, you’ll just have to fight the nuts here in this world, but you saw what they did to the rebellion elite in that gorge. They wiped them out, a complete massacre. I know how brave and valiant you are, and I know your heart is in the right place, but you cannot beat them.”

Charles met her gaze. “What if we bring in more Immortals from Tastia and Dornia? We could create a huge army and defeat the blue-ringed Immortals who rule this world, and then the rebellion could help us defeat Ethano.”

“You have no idea how dangerous these people are,” Dr. Meyers said.

“It is far more dangerous to rest on our laurels and do nothing,” Victor said, straightening his shoulders. “I say it is worth the risk.”

Dr. Meyers shook her head. “They are equipped with weapons you’re not even familiar with, and—”

Victor shifted his stance. “I am a warrior, Doctor. I have fought countless battles over centuries, and I will not be defeated. My parents named me aptly, for I always win.”

We spent another hour talking about everything from the rebellion to our safety.

Dr. Meyers wasn’t a fan of us joining the rebellion or stirring up a war she was sure we couldn’t possibly win. Even after she explained all the dangers in great detail, we still talked about different strategies. “You should be placed in protective custody,” she said, looking at Victor, “at least until your child is born.”

“Tell me how I can get in contact with the rebellion,” he said, ignoring her suggestion.

Dr. Meyers let out a huff. “May I have a word with you in my office, Highness? And the prince too.”

“Yes, I would like a word with you as well,” Charles said.

Victor kissed my cheek. “We shall return shortly, my dear.”

They followed Dr. Meyers out the door and my mom sighed.

“What’s our dinner plans?” my mom asked.

“How about pizza?” Liz said. “This day should be celebrated, and I say we order the biggest pizza there is, with extra cheese and pepperoni.”

“Sounds great,” I said.

“Then pizza it is,” my mom said.

My dad kissed my forehead. “Your mother and I will go pick up the food, a pizza and some salad. I’m sure Dr. Meyers wouldn’t be keen on a delivery person.”

“Make sure you get lots of ranch dressing this time, Dad,” Liz said. “Lettuce is impossible without ranch.”

My dad laughed. “You think I don’t know what my daughter loves?”

“Thanks, Daddy.”

“Would you like some breadsticks, dear?” my mother asked, knowing it was my one weakness, next to Victor’s blue eyes.

“Mom knows me too,” I bragged to Liz. “Sounds wonderful, Mom.”

“Anything to make my baby happy,” Mom said, then picked up her purse, smiled and waved at us, and followed our father out of the room.

Liz walked over to the bed, and a frown spread across her lips. “We never stopped looking for you, you know.”

“I know, but there was no way you could know to look for me on a mountain top.”

“I’m gonna make them pay, Sarah—every single one of them.”

“Liz, stop. All this talk of revenge is just...well, the truth is, messing with them will not help our cause, that’s all. Try and think rationally.”

“I know,” she whispered.

I touched my stomach and smiled as Alexander made his presence known with a little kick.

“How’s the baby?” Liz asked.

“He just kicked again!” I squealed. “Oh! There he goes again. Wanna feel him?”

She touched my stomach and smiled. “Oh! Wow, Sarah! That’s so cool. Oh my gosh. There’s a little human being inside of you.”

“Well, yeah.”

“It’s just that it...well, it seems so real when he kicks like that.” She felt around my stomach. “Is that his foot?”

I lifted my gown to expose the bulge on my stomach. “I think so, or maybe his little rear end.”

She blinked. “No way.”

“Yep.”

“Oh my gosh! I just saw your belly jump! You’ve got yourself a little soccer player in there. Does it hurt?”

“Sometimes, if he gets me just right in the ribs, it hurts a lot, but it’s okay right now. I like it. It lets me know he’s there. You know, he wouldn’t be kicking right now if it weren’t for you. I can’t thank you enough, Liz.”

“Hey, what are healing Immortal sisters for?”

We both laughed.

I met Liz’s gaze. As hard as she tried to play it tough, I could see her eyes welling up with tears. “Thanks,” I whispered again.

A tear slipped down her cheek. “You don’t have to thank me, Sarah. I love you and Alexander more than anything, and I’ll always do what I can to help you, no matter what.”

“I know that, sis,” I said, “and I think your nephew knows it too.”

Chapter 3

Dr. Meyers released me from the Immortal hospital that night, and I was so glad to be back home. I was given strict orders to rest for the next week. Victor promised to pamper me and wait on me hand and foot.

When I stepped foot in our lovely home, I almost lost it. A tear slipped down my face. I thought I might never see this house again.

“It’s good to be home,” I said, choked with emotion.

Victor wiped my tears away and hugged me tight. I don’t know what I’d do without him. He was my rock. I took a long, hot shower and got ready for bed. Just as we were about to go to sleep, a knock sounded on the door. Victor was already downstairs getting a drink of water so he answered it.

“It’s Beth,” he said.

I hurried down the stairs and Beth embraced me in a tight hug.

“I’ll let you two talk,” Victor said, heading up the stairs.

“Are you okay?” Beth wailed. “How’s the baby?”

“I’m fine,” I assured her. “And so is Alexander.”

She looked me up and down. “You were on the news and everything. They said you went hiking without the proper equipment and got lost on the mountain.”

“The Immortals kidnapped me.”

She gasped.

“But I escaped and Dr. Meyer’s team put some kind of smoke screen out there for the press.”

“I didn’t believe that story for one minute.”

“I know. I’d never go out there unprepared like that.” I sucked in a deep breath thinking about the horrible place I’d just escaped from. “They had me locked up on top of that mountain. It was like being in my own worst nightmare.” My voice trembled as it trailed off.

“I’m sorry it’s so late but I had to know if you were okay. I was so worried.”

I gave her another long hug. “Thanks for stopping by. I will fill you in on all the details tomorrow, okay?”

“I’m just glad you’re okay,” she wept. “Are you sure they won’t come back?”

“Dr. Meyers has some friends of hers guarding the house for the next few weeks.”

“Are you sure that’s enough?”

I gripped her hands. “We’ll be fine. Dr. Meyers assures me that I have the very best Immortal body guards.”

“I’m glad to hear that.”

“Thanks for being my best friend. There’s nobody more caring or supportive than you.”

“I think the same about you.” She reached for her keys in her purse. “Goodnight Sarah. Tell Victor I’m sorry if I woke you guys up.”

“We were still up.”

“That’s good. See you tomorrow.”

I waved goodbye and headed back upstairs.

Victor tucked me in and kissed me goodnight. I fell fast asleep.

I was jolted awake by a swift kick, and then Alexander’s foot lodged into my ribs. Sucking in a deep breath, I touched my stomach, only to feel another roundhouse kick to the ribs. My little kick-boxer was as active as ever. “Why aren’t you asleep, my little night owl?” I asked with a smile. “I’ll just have to keep you up all day tomorrow with talking, music, and belly rubs. We’ve gotta get you on a schedule so Mommy can sleep.”

Getting back to sleep was impossible. I tossed and turned, and when I glanced at the clock, it read two a.m. I could feel every kick, roll, and wiggle Alexander made. I simply couldn’t get comfortable, and it was hard to breathe, so I was sure I was in for another sleepless night.

As my stomach was reaching basketball proportions, I thought I might sleep better propped up. I headed downstairs to the living room and got comfy in the recliner. However, as soon as I was in the perfect position, I had to pee; Alexander wouldn’t stop tap-dancing on my bladder. I had to laugh, for a good sense of humor was the only thing that was going to get me through that difficult pregnancy. I was an all-out Jabba the Hutt with heartburn, back pain, mood swings, and big, swollen ankles, and I had to find ways to cope with it.

Just as I fell asleep, dawn came knocking. I decided I’d go for a morning walk, but when I tried to bend over to put my tennis shoes on, I found it was impossible.

Victor laughed and told me to sit down on the couch while he laced up my shoes. He was truly my knight in shining armor in every way. I couldn’t bear to tell him I could have used some help shaving my hairy legs or other, more delicate areas of my body, but I was beginning to think I could French braid my shins, if I could only reach them.

“Thanks, baby,” I said.

He smiled, gave me a kiss, and left for work.

I planned on enjoying my day off. The theater had cut me to part time until I had the baby, and I was thankful for that.

Just as I was getting ready to waddle out the door, I received a sudden phone call from my doctor, and the tone in her voice wasn’t the least bit comforting. “I have important news,” she said, “but it’s best discussed in person. Can you and Victor come to the Immortal hospital right away?”

I rushed out the door in a panic. What could be wrong? Should I tell Victor? No, I reasoned, not wanting to worry him till I had more details. My hands shook as I grabbed the keys; a million questions ran through my mind, a thousand worst-case scenarios, and I could not wait to get there so I could find out what was going on. I drove in a blur, not even realizing it, and when I got to the door of the doctor’s office, I sucked in a breath as I knocked on the door.

“Come on in,” Dr. Meyers said. She was dressed in the typical white lab coat, and she had a stethoscope slung around her neck.

I sat down in the leather chair and crossed my legs. “What seems to be the problem, Doctor?” I asked, realizing how cliché it sounded but not caring one bit.

“First, thank you for coming,” she said, shutting the door. “Victor isn’t with you?”

“No. He had to work. I have about two weeks’ worth of pills left, so surely that’s not why you wanted to see me.”

She sat down and met my gaze. “You should have brought Victor with you, Sarah.”

“I know you said to bring him, but I didn’t want to worry him or take him away from work until I know what’s going on,” I explained, biting my lip nervously. “Please don’t beat around the bush, Doctor. Can you just tell me what’s going on?”

She crossed her hands on the desk and pressed her lips into grim lines, indicating that the news was not good. “Sarah...”

“What?” I said, trying to keep my voice from wavering.

“There’s no easy way to say this,” she said.

I cocked a brow, prodding her to get on with it.

“I’ve been going over all your tests and blood work.” She fumbled with the stack of papers in front of her. “There’s no doubt that the pills have saved your life, but...well, they are also working in combination with the baby you’re carrying in your womb.”

“Huh? I-I don’t understand.”

“According to Victor, most Immortals from your world who go through bouts of unstable energy when their new power emerges die. In fact, you’ve miraculously outlived them all.”

“Because of the pills, right?” I said.

“Yes, but that is not the only reason. It’s also because of your baby. He is Immortal, and he is taking the brunt of the energy. In most cases, that energy would have already killed him.”

I gasped.

“In your case, though, the medication, along with the fact that you are carrying another Immortal within you, has, in effect, saved your life,” she continued.

“That’s a good thing, right? I mean, I have survived.”

“Yes, but...well, Sarah, when you have that baby, the pills will no longer be enough to sustain you. The moment you deliver, the energy will hit you like a tidal wave.”

“And?”

“And, according to all our research, you will...die,” she said softly.

“What if you had delivered him like you wanted to?” I asked. “When I was rescued off the mountain? You wanted to take him then, but Victor wouldn’t let you. You said delivering him would save my life.”

“You would have died then as well, Sarah, but I had no way of knowing that. Until we got these test results back, I had no idea what was going on with you or why you were still alive. We don’t deal with this kind of thing that often, and I’m no expert in it.”

The room suddenly grew hotter. I tried to breathe as everything spun around me.

“Sarah, are you okay?”

“How much time?” I demanded to know. “How much time will I have with my baby?”

“Five minutes at the most.”

I knew it! I knew those pills were just a freaking placebo, a temporary fix, like putting a Band-Aid on an amputated limb. Have I been selfish to think I could have a happy life with wonderful husband who loves me more than life itself? Can Victor raise our baby without me? It saddened me to know that my baby would never remember me.

Dr. Meyers went to great lengths to show me the tests and explain in detail how the energy worked and what was going on inside my body.

Everything was a blur, though, and I fought not to break down and fall on the floor in a crying heap right in front of her. It took everything in me, but I stayed strong and convinced myself there had to be another way.

Then, the tears started flowing. “My son will never know his mother, never know me?” That hurt more than anything. I sobbed and fell to my knees, not caring what Dr. Meyers thought. I was in my own little world, stricken by overwhelming grief with the realization that these nine months of pregnancy would be the only time my son and I would ever have. “I just...it doesn’t feel real,” I said. “Two years ago, I was a normal person. I mean, sure, I was chasing down sasquatches and urban legends, but I was living a relatively normal life. Then, in a whirlwind of events, I ended up Immortal, and it’s taken everything away from me. I hate it!”

Dr. Meyers embraced me in a tight hug.

Tears flowed down my face. “I just want to be normal. I don’t want unstable energy. I want to see my child grow up. I want to see him graduate from high school and college. I want to see him kiss his bride on his wedding day. I want to hold my grandchildren in my arms. And I want to do all of this with Victor by my side.” I was angry and sad all at once as I spouted, “I don’t want to die, Doctor! It isn’t fair! My family deserves better than this. I deserve better!”

“Sarah, my lab and my team of scientists are working and researching everything right now.” She gripped my hand, hope shining in her eyes. “We won’t give up on you.”

“No Immortal has ever been forced to have to spend nine months inside a womb with dangerous energy coursing through his veins. Will anything happen to my baby?”

“We don’t know. This is uncharted territory.”

“That kind of energy has to have some kind of effect on him, doesn’t it?” I asked. “I mean, pregnant women aren’t even supposed to drink coffee, so what the hell must this be doing to my little Alexander?”

“We just don’t know.”

Then, all of the sudden, the vision from the cave flooded my mind. My jaw dropped as everything clicked in my brain.

“What is it?” Dr. Meyers asked.

“In the paintings on the cave wall, my son had incredible powers at a young age. Victor told me that children don’t have Immortal powers, but our Alexander was able to destroy cities. We assumed that was why Ethano wanted him so badly.” I had told Dr. Meyers my entire story, from becoming an Immortal to the drama with Ethano, so I hoped she would understand. My medical history file in her office read more like a fantasy novel, but I wanted her to know all the details so she’d have the best chance at treating me successfully.

“The unstable energy will give him powers like no other,” she said. “I suppose that could have something to do with what you saw.”

“An old, wise woman told me that my son will either take after his father, who comes from a long line of tyrants, or that he will be like his mother, who has a heart of gold.”

“He will choose good or evil and use his power for the cause he chooses?”

I nodded. “Yes.

“So...you’re creating history. An Immortal baby has never survived nine months of unstable energy. If Alexander survives, he will most certainly be gifted with unspeakable powers from all that exposure.” She took a deep breath. “But, Sarah, that could mean more trouble for your boy. While I hate to admit it, the sad state of affairs is that the Immortals in my world could have the same selfish, power-hungry agendas as Ethano.”

“Then we’ll just have to keep his powers a secret,” I said.

“If they find out about him, they will never stop. For that reason, I don’t think you should come here, to this Immortal hospital anymore. It is far too risky.”

“But I need your help, and—”

“Then I’ll just have to start making house calls, won’t I?” she said with a wink.

“But what if I need tests?”

“Then we’ll sneak you in during the night, and I’ll personally administer whatever tests you need.”

“Dr. Meyers, why are you helping me?” I asked.

She sighed. “Sarah, I know I really have no obligation to you, but I want to leave this world a better place than it was when I found it. I want to feel as if I’ve made a difference and touched lives. Also, there is the simple fact that I really, truly like you and Victor and your family.”

“I like you too,” I said.

“You and I are kindred spirits, as I have a deep compassion for helping people, just like you do—a heart of gold, I suppose you could say. I even help those who haven’t the financial means to pay for medical services. I do this for a living because I’m good at it and because I love it more than anything else. Nobody cares about people more than me.”

“Thank you,” I whispered, barely able to hear my own voice over the drumming of my heart.

“Sarah, I am so touched by your story and everything you have been through. This child will be a miracle, and I am honored to play some small part in bringing him safely into the world.”

My hands felt clammy, and a dull, painful panic tugged at my gut. “But he won’t have his mother.”

She gripped my hand. “As it stands now, that is what we have to believe, but we mustn’t ever give up hope.”

A deep frown crossed her features, and when it did, something dropped in the pit of my stomach. Realization kicked in, and I didn’t like it one little bit. That’s it. I’m really going to die. The doctor has just given me less than a few weeks to live. “I will try to hang on to hope, Doctor, but can you do me a favor? Can you make me a promise?”

“Sure. Anything.”

I tried to be brave, tried not to cry, but the thought of my son living without me was making me an emotional mess. “If I don’t make it, when my son is old enough to understand, will you tell him how much I loved him?”

The sadness in her face was evident. “I will, Sarah. I promise.”

“That doesn’t mean I’m giving up hope. It’s just...well, I just want him to know. But I will continue to fight hard, and I won’t give up.”

“You, Sarah, are a fighter—another thing we have in common.”

“You’re right. Doing nothing is not an option. We have to try.”

She gently pushed a stray hair behind my ear. “We’ll continue to look for ways to save your life. You can count on that. I must also tell you that your courage is inspirational.”

I thanked Dr. Meyers for her compassion and dedication, then left the office. On the way out, I stared up at the sky, which was the prettiest shade of periwinkle blue I’d ever seen. Another tear slipped down my face. I was determined to keep the inevitable dark thoughts from ruining whatever time I had left with Victor, so I wiped the tear away. I glanced down at my belly and rested my hand on it. “I love you, Alexander, and I’ll fight for you—for both of us—until the very end.” And with that, I jumped into the car, hit the freeway, and pressed the gas, with Live until you die, Sarah, flashing through my mind over and over again, like the lyrics to some sad but inspirational song.

Chapter 4

Victor came home and smiled at the special surprise I had planned for him. Sweet, romantic music played softly in the background. Candles illuminated the living room here and there with soft, yellow light. My makeup was flawless, and I was dressed in a black, glittery dress with matching heels, my hair pinned back in an elegant up-do.

I handed him a glass of wine. “How was work?”

“Wonderful. And then I went to your father’s afterward and spent some time with him at the gun range.”

“Did my dad give you a hard time? He’s such a perfectionist.”

“No, he didn’t give me a hard time at all. But that was probably because I hit every target.”

“You’re military trained, just in a different way,” I said.

He smiled. “You look beautiful, Sarah.”

“Beautiful? Pssh. I’m pregnant, Victor. I look like a blinged-out bowling ball.”

He looked at me, confused, since he hadn’t yet been introduced to bowling, then said, “A pregnant body is a beautiful body.”

I smiled. “That’s touching. You really know how to make me feel like a queen.”

“That’s because you are,” Victor said, pulling me close. “What’s the special occasion?”

“I want to celebrate us,” I said.

He kissed my lips just as the timer on the oven dinged.

“Oh! That’s the roast.”

“Mmm. I knew I smelled something delicious.”

I walked him to the candlelit table I’d set with a pretty vase of beautiful flowers and a lace tablecloth. “Have a seat,” I said.

Victor offered to help prepare dinner, but I refused; I wanted it to be a real treat for him. We enjoyed a fantastic dinner and couldn’t stop staring into each other’s eyes. Even after all that time, the chemistry between us still sizzled, and our date was magical. Truthfully, I needed the escape. I tried to pretend I hadn’t heard those awful words from my doctor’s mouth. I just wanted to enjoy the moment, to stare into my husband’s dazzling blue eyes, and to forget about the rocky road ahead. I loved the man sitting across from me more than life itself. He was my best friend, my soulmate, and I didn’t know how to tell him that we didn’t have much time left.

When my favorite love song came on, I pulled him up to dance with me, and he was happy to hold me close in his strong arms as we swayed with the music. There, nestled against him, I felt safe, as if nothing in the world could harm me or Alexander, as long as we had Victor. But I knew that wasn’t true, and a tear threatened to escape as I thought about it.

After a few minutes, he looked into my eyes. “I sense you’re upset about something.”

I wasn’t surprised he asked, because he’d always been able to read me like a book. “I don’t want to talk about it, not now. Let’s just enjoy our evening,” I said, letting out a trembling breath. “I want you to remember this dance forever. I want tonight to be special.”

“Sarah, what’s going on? Why must you be so vague?”

“Please, Victor. I said I don’t wanna talk about it. Please don’t ruin this night.”

He held me close. “Very well, but when you’re ready to talk, you know I’m always here for you.”

I touched his cheek and tried not to burst into tears. I didn’t want to talk about it, but that didn’t keep the whole sordid story from pouring out of me like water through a cracked dam.

As always, he listened and asked questions, but more than anything, he gave me encouragement.

“I feel so...overwhelmed. Not knowing is the hardest part.”

“I will not let anything happen to you or our child, my love,” he swore, holding my hands. “I’ll find every book and scroll the Immortals have. I’ll search the land, high and low. Sarah, I will never give up on you, on our baby, on us.” His eyes welled up with tears. “Damn it! Sarah, I refuse to give up!”

I wanted to believe him, and I so desperately wanted to live for the sake of our unborn child. I knew Alexander would need his mother, and it wouldn’t be fair for him to miss out on all the love I had to give, love I already felt for him without ever having met him. Victor would make an awesome father and protect him at all costs, but my baby would need me too. I’m his mom, for goodness sake! I can’t just desert him! A tear rolled down my cheek.

Victor kissed my lips softly. “We will muddle through this, my love. We will get through it together, just as we always have.”

We stayed up all night, laughing and joking and trying to forget about our troubles. To take our mind off the terrible news Dr. Meyers had given me, we focused on something far more exciting and positive: we planned for our future and for my dream wedding and for our little Alexander. Victor held me and supported me and swore, time and time again, that we’d get through it. Then, we made slow, passionate love. Even though neither one of us spoke the dreaded words, we knew it could be the end of the line for me, so we made every touch, every kiss, and every second count. As I stared into his eyes, I realized I had never felt so loved, and I would cherish that moment for the rest of my life, no matter how short that life might be.

* * *

My eyes fluttered opened, and I glanced at the digital clock. It was five a.m. I felt for Victor, but he wasn’t lying next to me. I jumped up and turned on the lamp on the bedside table. “Where did he go?” I asked the silent room. I wrapped my robe around me the best I could; it didn’t quite fit with my bulging stomach and was something like trying to wrap a paper towel around a watermelon. “Victor?” I called through the house as I checked the bathroom, kitchen, and living room, but there was no sign of him.

I knew how upset he was. He’d tried to stay cool, calm, and collected, but deep down, he was terrified, no matter how he tried to hide it. I knew he feared for my life, but I really wasn’t sure what he could do to protect me. My guess was that he’d gone to talk to Dr. Meyers herself, to see if there was anything he could do.

I opened the fridge and took a long sip of bottled water. When I heard the door open, I raced through the living room and into Victor’s waiting arms. “Where did you go?”

“I went to speak with Dr. Meyers.”

“This early? You know where she lives?”

“I can track anyone with the powers I possess.”

“Victor, there’s nothing the doctor can do. Stalking her in the middle of the night isn’t going to help our cause.”

“We have no cure, Sarah. If you go into premature labor, you’ll die. Every single second counts. How can I sleep with that hanging in my mind?”

I touched his cheek. “Babe, I understand how difficult this is, but we have to be rational.”

“The doctor gets up at dawn, and she is more than willing to help.”

“I know. She’s the kindest woman, but we shouldn’t disturb her too much, particularly at home. It seems so...rude and selfish. She has to rest because she has other patients to tend to.”

Ignoring me, he said, “We’re working on a plan.”

“What? What kind of plan?”

He pulled me close. “I’ll tell you everything, but give me a day or so to pull it all together.”

“Victor, please! I don’t wanna be kept in suspense, not when it comes to this. If there’s any hope that we can—”

He cupped my cheek. “I know how much you hate being left in the dark, but I need more information.”

I decided it was best not to pry any further. Victor and Dr. Meyers were working in unison to save my life, and I knew they both cared about me and had mine and Alexander’s best interests in mind. I just wish I knew what’s going on. Why does he have to be so secretive all the time? I was naturally curious, which had served me well in my career as a researcher, but that made it all the more difficult to wait for the details.

He touched my stomach. “I’ll stop at nothing to protect the family I love.”

“It’s not just you and me anymore, Victor. We’re a family now.”

“I know. It is something I’ve dreamt of, but I never thought it would come to pass. When Della left, I...” He trailed off, realizing how inappropriate that line of conversation would be. He kissed my lips. “I love you so much, Sarah.”

“I love you too.”

Chapter 5

Days passed.

I went out and ran some errands. We really needed some groceries for dinner tonight and I couldn’t leave everything up to Victor, especially when he worked hard all day. After going to the bank, post office, and grocery store, I pulled into the driveway, parked the car, and grabbed my groceries. I was so happy to be home because my feet had really swelled up. As I walked up to the house, I spotted my mom’s car pulling into the driveway. I usually loved visiting with my mother, but it wasn’t a good time. I was on an emotional rollercoaster, and I didn’t want to upset her or worry her more than she already was.

She slammed the car door shut. “Sarah!”

I waved her over. “Hi, Mom.”

“I’ve been trying to call you for days. Is everything okay, honey?”

“Everything is fine, Mom. I’ve just had a hundred things going through my mind, that’s all.”

“Ah, hormones,” she said with a knowing smile on her face. “I remember those days well, though I think I was more moody with Liz than with you.”

“Well, Mom, she is ever the drama queen, so I guess that makes sense,” I joked.

She smiled again. “Can you come over for dinner tomorrow night? I’m making your favorite, chicken pizza.”

I turned the key and unlocked the door. “That sounds delicious. Come on in. I want you to see what we’ve done in the nursery.”

My mother helped me with the groceries. “Ooh! I’d love too.”

I called Victor’s name and walked around the house, but he wasn’t there, so I assumed he’d gone out on an errand. We brought everything in and put it away, then I led my mother upstairs and into the room that would soon belong to our precious Alexander.

“This room is adorable. I love the ocean theme. You and Victor have worked hard. This is absolutely beautiful, Sarah.”

“I want him to have the perfect room.”

She glanced around. “I see you’ve already got your bag packed for the hospital. That’s always wise.”

“I know. I read it in one of those books and thought it would be a good idea. Mom, I’m so excited to hold him and see his sweet face.”

“Me too. Honey, the first week of being home with a new baby can be quite...stressful. I’d love to stay here for a few days and help out.”

Tears welled up in my eyes. “Mom, that’s awesome. Victor would love that.”

“Then it’s all settled.”

I looked at my mom, but no words would come out.

“It’s okay. I don’t mind at all.”

“It’s not that. It’s just...”

“Honey, what’s wrong?”

Emotion overwhelmed me, and I lost all control. Tears began to stream down my face. “I’m so hormonal. You know I not usually a crybaby like this. It all started when I got pregnant.”

“It’s okay to cry, honey.”

“But I want to be strong, Mom. I always have been, and I know that’s the quality Victor cherishes the most in me. He’s told me more than once that he loves my independence, my stubbornness.”

Her eyes widened. “Something is terribly wrong, Sarah. A mother can sense these things. What’s this all about?”

I met her gaze. “Mom, I-I’ve been keeping a horrible secret. I know you have every right to know, but...well, I just couldn’t bear to tell you. That’s why I haven’t been answering your calls, and now I feel lousy about it.”

She cupped my face. “Baby, you can tell me anything. You know that.”

I wanted to tell her, and I knew she needed to know. If Alexander was not going to have his mother, he would need his grandmother a whole lot more, so keeping it from her wouldn’t do any of us any favors. I sighed deeply, then opened my mouth to deliver Dr. Meyers’s grim prognosis, but no words came out. I shook my head vehemently. “It’s not okay, Mom. Nothing is okay at all.” I looked away; I just didn’t have the heart to look into her eyes. “Mom, I-I’m dying.”

“What!? I don’t get it, baby. You’re Immortal now. By the very nature of the word, that means you can’t die—unless it’s by poison from a Guardian or a beheading, according to what you told me. Oh my gosh! Have you been...poisoned? Did someone do something to you up on that evil mountain?”

“There’s another way for us to die, though it’s very rare. I have been dealing with an energy imbalance for some time, Mom. Dr. Meyers gave me pills to help me, but the pills are not as effective anymore. Since Alexander is so far along, he’s taking the brunt of the energy, which is keeping me alive, but...” My voice wavered as emotion swelled. “Mom, when he’s born, all that energy will seep into me. When I give birth, I’ll be dead within five minutes.”

My mother tried to stay strong, but she crumbled, and tears began to drip down her face in gray-black mascara rivers. She was silent for a moment, trying to take in what I was telling her, and then she simply said, “No, Sarah. This can’t be happening.”

“Mom, I’m so sorry. Victor and Dr. Meyers are doing everything they can to try to find a cure or a solution, and—”

“No! I will not allow you to die,” my mother said, wiping my tears with her thumbs.

“I will fight to the end, Mom. I’m trying to stay positive, but my heart is just aching. The thought of not rocking my son to sleep every night torments me. I can only take comfort in the fact that when I’m gone, Alexander has you and dad and Liz and Victor and Charles and...well, a fantastic support system of people who will eternally love him.”

“Speaking of Liz, where is she?” my mother asked. “She obviously doesn’t know what’s going on, or she’d be by your side. Haven’t you told your sister, Sarah?”

“She knows about the energy imbalance, but not the rest of it.”

I went on to tell my mother every single detail that I’d been holding back, and every thought I was having. She embraced me tightly, and we collapsed to our knees. I struggled to get my emotions under control, but it was no use. Time seemed to stand still as we wept in each other’s arms for what felt like hours. It was so comforting, so reassuring to be held in my mother’s arms as she spoke words of hope and love, giving me the encouragement I needed. She stroked my back and pushed the hair from my tear-stained cheeks. My mother was my best friend, and it nauseated me to know she would have to grieve my loss for the second time. I was already heart sick about being separated from Alexander moments after he was born, but the thought that I was putting everyone through such grief made it all the harder to bear.

“Mom?”

She still held me tight. “Yeah, baby.”

“You’ve always been there for me, and I’ll always love you. You’ve stood by me through thick and thin and have never given up on me. It’s an honor for me to have you as a mother, and I know Alexander will feel the same about his grandma.”

With a squeeze, she whispered in my ear. “I couldn’t ask for a better daughter. I love you so much, Sarah...and I refuse to lose you again. We’ll get you through this. I swear, somehow we will.”

Sitting in the middle of the nursery, we talked for at least an hour more. My mother truly believed I could survive, and her spark of hope ignited a fire in me to do just that.

“So those headaches you had were from the unstable energy?” she asked.

I nodded. “Yes.”

“I knew something was going on,” she said softly. “You’ve never been one to get headaches, except for that time you bumped your noggin on the swing set,” she said with a grin, recalling my little-girl days. “You were so cute, rubbing your little head, standing there in your pink and white sundress with your bottom lip sticking out, complaining that the mean, old swing messed up your hair.”

“Mom, I didn’t find out about the unstable energy until you’d already left Tastia. I hope you know I wasn’t just hiding it from you.”

“I know, but I can’t believe you didn’t tell me the second you got back. You said yourself that I’m always here for you, through the good and the bad. How could you keep something like that on your shoulders? It’s too much to bear, especially while you’re pregnant.”

“I-I didn’t know how to say goodbye,” I said, my voice wavering.

My mom pushed back a strand of hair from my cheek.

I sucked in a deep breath and let it out slowly. “I’m trying to come to terms with it, Mom, but I don’t wanna say goodbye to anyone. It’s too painful for me and for the beautiful people in my life that I have to leave.”

“You aren’t going anywhere, Sarah. You’re going to bring that little boy into the world, watch him grow up in this beautiful nursery, and live a long and healthy and happy life with your Victor. We’ll find a way to stop this, one way or another,” my mother swore. “I’ll never stop trying.”

I gripped my mom’s hands. “I-I don’t want a funeral. I’d rather the service be—”

More tears erupted from my mom’s eyes, and she held her hands over her ears like a stubborn little kid. “No, Sarah! Let’s talk about hope, not the end.”

“I want you to celebrate my life,” I said, wiping a tear from my eye. “I’ve had a wonderful life, with the best parents, the most wonderful sister, and an adoring husband. I know my baby will be the most beautiful son anyone could ever wish for. Celebrate my life, Mom.”

She reached for another tissue from the dresser and wiped her eyes.

“I don’t want my funeral to be like the first one you had for me.”

My mom squeezed her eyes shut and let out a small sob. “I remember every grim detail.”

“I’m so, so sorry you had to go through that, but that’s exactly why I don’t want you to have to deal with a sad, traditional funeral like that again. Let’s have a celebration of life.”

“What?”

“Funerals are the new weddings,” I said, trying to inject a little humor into a situation that wasn’t funny at all. “Friends and family come from everywhere. It’s like a big party, and I get to pick the music and select the menu. It’ll be the last chance I have to express myself, and if I have to go, I’m gonna say goodbye on my own terms. I’ll plan one heck of a party, with a slideshow and all my favorite foods, including your chicken pizza! I want people to come in fancy dresses and black ties. I’ll even make a video to play throughout the event so it’ll be like I’m right there with you. What a fantastic send-off, eh? You can all tell wonderful stories about the amazing life I led. I mean, I know it hasn’t been all that spectacular, but I did get the chance to be a lead researcher—”

My mom didn’t seem too happy with my current funeral plan and quickly cut me off. “You got the chance to be lead researcher because you were looking for Liz. That’s something you would have never pursued on your own.”

“Well...I found her, didn’t I?”

She smiled. “Yes, and I’ll never be able to thank you for that. You stood for what you believed in and dived straight into the unknown. That’s how you’ve always been, Sarah.”

I sucked in a deep breath and let it out slowly. “Mom, I need to ask you something.”

She gazed over at me. “What?”

“Why didn’t you and Dad believe me? I told you I saw a creature inside the cave, but everyone thought I was lying—even the police, the park rangers, and the reporters. Nobody believed me, but I expected you and Dad to.”

“I’m sorry, Sarah. Creatures that go bump in the night and things like Bigfoot are so...well, they seem like the stuff of children’s fairytales, things people make up just to get attention. In your case, I was sure you were just traumatized from the experience of losing Liz, that your mind had made up some kind of explanation for it.”

“That was exactly why I became a Bigfoot researcher. I wanted to prove to the world that I wasn’t crazy. I knew what I’d seen, but nobody believed me.”

“I believe you now, Sarah. I should’ve never taken you on that trip. We should have never gone camping all those years ago. You and Liz would’ve never ventured off, and you would’ve never found the portal at Sabrino Cave.” Her voice trembled. “We would’ve never lost Liz for all those years, and neither of my little girls would be Immortal, which is turning out to be more of a curse than a blessing. You...Sarah, you wouldn’t be dying, and everything would be perfect. If only we hadn’t dragged you out there. I blame myself every day for that.”

I shook my head. “Mom, if you hadn’t taken us out there, I never would have met Victor. I’d never be bringing Alexander into the world. My husband and son are my life, Mom. Don’t you understand? They make my world perfect. I love Victor with a love I can’t even begin to describe to you in words.”

“I know. I’m being selfish. I know you found your soulmate, but that world has brought nothing but trouble in so many ways. It has destroyed our family. Look at what we’ve been through. I curse that portal. I curse it, Sarah!”

“What’s done is done, Mom. We can’t change the past.”

“I can’t lose you again,” my mother said. “I won’t! Not because of some twisted fairytale.”

“Dr. Meyers is an Immortal doctor. She’s doing everything in her power to help.”

“What? How did you find an Immortal doctor?”

“I met her in the emergency room when I passed out.”

My mom’s jaw dropped. “What?”

“Beth called 911, and—”

“Beth? And nobody thought to call me, your mother?”

“We didn’t want to worry you.”

“I have every right to know what’s going on with my girls.”

“I know, Mom, and I’m sorry. Anyway, I met Dr. Meyers there, and she’s been helping me. Without her, I’d already be dead. As I explained, the prescription she gave me has been reducing the energy my body is fighting off. Or at least they were working until—”

“We’ll make it work, but your father needs to be told every single thing. We’re a family, Sarah, and families have to pull together at difficult times. That’s what the Larkers do. It’s who we are.”

“Mom, I need you to do something for me.”

“Anything.”

“Before you say that, know that what I’m about to ask might be devastating, the hardest thing you’ll ever have to do.”

“What is it, dear?”

“I want you to...well, I wrote Alexander a letter, and I want you to read it to him when you think he’s old enough. It’s very emotional and heartfelt, but he needs to know how much he meant to me, that he was my entire world, and that I loved him more than anything.”

“It won’t come to that,” my mom said, “but if it does, I will do it. You know I’ll make sure he gets the letter.”

“Also, no matter what, you mustn’t let him go back to Tastia. Never tell Alexander where the portal is. Promise me you’ll never tell him.”

“I promise.”

Suddenly, a burst of light flooded my mind as a vision hit me. It was raining, which only added to the miserable tragedy of it all. A small crowd of mourners held umbrellas as they surrounded a solid bronze coffin. A preacher held a big Bible in one hand and a black umbrella in the other. Bouquets of flowers and single roses were placed on top of the casket. Victor was holding Alexander, and a tear rolled down his face; I’d never seen him so distraught. Liz, white-knuckle clutching a locket I’d given her, let out a guttural wail, while Charles tried to comfort her. My dad was unable to comfort my mother as she broke into gut-wrenching sobs.

Snapping back into reality, I gasped. The impact of my death sentence had finally sunk in, and I knew I didn’t have much time left. My hand shot to my mouth in surprise as more tears rolled down my face.

“Baby, you look like you just saw a ghost,” my mom said. “What’s wrong?”

I opened my mouth to let the awful words out. “I-I just had a vision of the future.”

“And what did you see?” my mom asked.

“My funeral,” I whispered, “and it didn’t feel like a celebration at all.”

My mother held me close and whispered soothing words of encouragement and love.

Everything was a blur. I now knew my fate, and if we didn’t do something to change it, I was going to die. I stared blankly at the wall as the words cut like a knife into my soul.

“Sarah!” Victor called from downstairs.

“Victor’s home,” my mom said.

The door opened, and he peeked in. “What’s wrong?”

“Sarah told me everything,” my mom said.

“There is no need to cry. We will fix this,” Victor said in a confident tone.

I stood, and he embraced me. “I had a vision.”

“You did?”

I nodded solemnly. “I got to see something no one ever gets to see, my own funeral.” I looked at my mom. “And it was nothing like what I have in mind.”

My mom placed her hands on her hips. “She wants a party. We’ll all be heartbroken, and she expects us to wear party hats and walk around with noise-blowers in our mouths.”

“I’m not five, Mother. I just want my memorial service to be a celebration of my life, not a somber reminder of my death.”

“If it comes down to such a cruel fate, my Sarah will have just what she wants, the biggest and most grand party ever.”

I smiled at him. “See? Somebody gets me.”

My mom touched my back. “You’re not going to die, Sarah, but I know this means a lot to you. You want us to heal and bond, not mourn and be sad. I get it, baby girl.”

“Thanks, Mom.”

Realizing Victor and I needed some time alone, Mom excused herself. I was sure she hadn’t come to terms with my impending death. She had counseled me when I thought Victor was dead, and that had been hard on her, but facing her own daughter’s death was something worse. She was a bundle of emotions, and I didn’t know how to help her. It’s probably why I held off so long on telling her.

Victor knew how accurate my visions were. He held me close, and I snuggled into his chest and felt the worries start to melt away a bit. His comforting arms felt so reassuring. “We can change the future,” he said, stroking my cheek. “We’ll battle this together.”

“Exactly! We’ll find a way to beat this. We can beat the odds...can’t we?”

“We’ll never give up.”

“There is always hope,” he said, cupping my face. “We will find a way. I swear this to you.”

He hugged me tightly and kissed my head. I knew he was scared, but I was proud of him for acting brave. “So many people love you, Sarah. We’re all going to fight for you.”

“Being surrounded by my friends and family will help so much.”

“We need to tell them, Sarah. If they are going to help, they all must know.”

“I know. Just let me have a little more time.”

Victor carried me to our bed and kissed me sweetly on the lips. I closed my eyes and fell asleep, snug as a bug in his warm arms.

Chapter 6

When I awoke, I noticed that Victor was gone again. A second later, the front door creaked open, and Liz, Victor, and Charles walked in, looking as if they’d been dragged through hell by their ears.

“What’s going on?”

Victor gripped my hand. “We had to make the blue-ringed Immortals pay for what they did to you and Della.”

I shook my head. “What!? Victor, what did you do?” I said, though I wasn’t sure I wanted to hear it.

“We blew up their building on top of the mountain,” Charles said proudly.

I gasped. “You what?”

“We blew that baby to smithereens!” Liz chimed in. “Nothin’ left now but some blazing bricks and ashes.”

Gazing into Victor’s eyes, I sucked in a deep breath and let it out slowly. “What about the humans? Did they die in the explosion?”

“Of course not! We freed them first. They don’t remember anything, so I don’t think they pose any sort of threat.”

My shoulders shrugged in relief. “I’m so glad they’re free, but now we’re gonna be on those blue-ringed Immortals’ hit list for sure.”

“We did not work alone,” Charles said.

“The rebellion?” I guessed.

“Yes. They were rather angry about the Immortals killing their friends in the gorge, so it did not take much convincing to garner their help.”

“How did you find the rebellion?” I asked in disbelief.

“You know your husband,” Liz said. “Don’t you know by now that the man stops at nothing?”

“They may still build another fortress or capture new victims,” Charles said.

“That’s true,” I said, “but at least you helped the ones you could.”

“It’s gonna be all over the news,” Liz said.

Charles nodded. “Yes, but the ones we rescued don’t remember anything after being sedated. The Immortals were very careful to make sure they were kept...unaware.” He then grabbed Liz’s hand. “We must be going now.”

“I had to make those jerks pay,” Liz said. “Nobody messes with my sister.”

“And we had to destroy them before they destroyed us,” Charles echoed. “We can’t be afraid to sleep at night. I just want to feel safe in my home.”

I embraced her, then Charles. “Thanks, you guys,” I said.

As they left, Victor held me tight. “Your sister is right,” he said. “Anyone who harms you or my child will pay dearly.”

Emotion overwhelmed me again. It was a foolish risk to take, but I was just glad he’d come back alive. I didn’t even want to think about what would have happened if they’d have been captured.

* * *

Days passed, and I finally calmed down about Victor’s little revenge scheme. Taking off in the middle of the night without telling me made me angry. I was even more upset that he’d taken Liz and Charles and not invited me to their little revenge party. So what if I’m pregnant and wobble a little? Biting my lip, I pondered. I guess it was best that I stay behind. Alexander’s life was, after all, of utmost importance.

I kissed Victor goodbye and headed out to run a few errands. I pulled into Babies “R” US and parked the car. I looked up and down the aisles at everything from bibs to strollers to high chairs.

“May I help you?” a blonde woman in her early fifties asked.

“I’m looking for picture frames.” I spent every moment I could with Victor and took plenty of photos so we could build memories of our time together. I had the perfect picture in mind, one of Victor smiling and touching my stomach, me smiling from ear to ear. I wanted to put it in Alexander’s room. I wanted him to remember his parents and how much they truly loved each other. I also wanted to get a special frame for our sonogram.

She pointed me in the right direction, and I easily found them. The first frame I spotted was one that perfectly matched the theme of the nursery. I searched row after row to find the second one, a wooden frame with star and heart accents. It read: “Love at First Sight”. I pulled my sonogram out of a small folder and held it up to the frame to see if it would fit.

“May I?” The woman reached her hand out.

I handed her the frame and my most precious picture.

She opened up the back and inserted the sonogram.

I gazed down, and my heart melted at the sight. “It’s beautiful,” I said. “I’ll definitely take it.”

She smiled. “That’s fantastic. Is it a boy or a girl?”

“A boy. We’re naming him Alexander.”

“When are you due?”

“In less than two weeks.”

She grinned. “It’s going to be a fantastic celebration.”

“Yeah, for about five minutes,” I whispered under my breath.

“Excuse me?”

“Um...I said it’s going to be a glorious moment.” All five minutes of it before I’m dragged away by the Grim Reaper.

“Good luck, dear.” With that, she walked down the aisle.

My fingers traced the glass on the sonogram. The thought of not being with my child was overwhelming. Living for a brighter future was what had kept me alive, what had helped me stay positive. But now, I had an expiration date, and I could feel the waves of doubt pouring over me.

“Hello, Sarah.”

I turned to face the familiar voice and saw Jackson, the man from the minimart. I gasped and didn’t know whether to run or face him. He was an Immortal and was in cahoots with those who had shot at us at the Christmas tree lighting, but he’d also saved my butt at the store and had warned us to leave the city. Dr. Meyers had said she’d heard that Jackson had killed all those Immortals, and that thought terrified me. I didn’t know what to believe, and my heart raced. Should I stay or run? I decided my best option was to get away from him as fast as I could, so I glanced around for my best exit and escape. I was afraid he’d have all those Immortals waiting outside in the parking lot for me, and the thought of being thrown into a van again sickened me.

“Wait, Sarah! Don’t run!” Jackson said. “I’m here by myself, and I will not hurt you. Please just hear me out!”

Nodding, I let out a trembling breath.

“Let’s start over again,” he said. “Hello, Sarah. Tell me you’re not going to play hero and tackle a gunman again, are you?”

“You drained my powers back in that store,” I said. “I didn’t really have much choice if I wanted to save the cashier. If that happened again right now, I’d react the same way.”

“Don’t blame me. I didn’t drain your strength. Your unstable energy did.”

I glanced around. “It’s not safe to talk here.”

“But I have you on my side if any gun-toting madmen come in to rob the place.” He smiled. “I am in good hands, right?”

“Ha-ha. It’s nice to see you again, Jackson.”

“Polite and cordial? I like that.” His gaze then shot down to the frame in my hands. “Nice picture,” he said.

“Like it says, love at first sight.”

“I can sense how much you love your son, even without reading your frame.”

“Yes, I love him more than life itself. But let’s stop with the pleasantries and cut to the chase, shall we?” He pressed his lips into a grim line. “We both know you’re dying. I can feel the surge in your energy.” He then touched me without permission.

I jumped back as a surge of blue flames sparked and pain shot up my fingers like a bad electric shock. “What was that for?” I asked.

He sucked the tip of his finger. “To gauge how off kilter your energy is. Damn, that burned.”

“I take it that’s bad?”

He shook his head. “Really bad. Sarah, I’m not sure you’ll even make it to your due date.”

His words jolted me; my future seemed to be growing dimmer every day. The only thing that gave me hope was Alexander. He would live no matter what, even if I had to have a C-section.

“But I have a proposition for you,” he said.

I met his gaze straight on. “You want something from me? Humph. You’re just like the others. They wanted to strap me on a metal table and...” I couldn’t even finish the thought.

His eyes widened in shock, as if he couldn’t believe they’d do such a thing. “I’m not like them, Sarah.”

“Did you kill all those Immortals back at the gorge?” I asked.

“No!” he said, emotion gushing from his voice. “Those were my friends!”

“Who killed them then?” I whispered.

“The Immortals who run this city.”

“Are you working for them?”

He glanced around nervously. “We can’t talk here. Come with me to a private location.”

“Not a chance,” I said, then walked down the aisle. I knew he was trying to get me alone, and I wasn’t going to have that. I believed he was alone, so I wasn’t worried about being jumped by a gang of minions and thrown into a van, but I couldn’t put anything past him. What if he drives me straight to another one of their horrible labs? Then again, if he wanted to kidnap me, he could just knock me out right now and take me, but he hasn’t. I wasn’t scared of him, and I didn’t feel like he was there to hurt me, but I wasn’t going to be such an idiot and go with him either. I couldn’t and wouldn’t risk taking foolish chances when it came to my son’s safety.

“Sarah, we really need to talk,” he said.

I picked up an adorable blue onesie. “I’m listening.”

“Not here.”

I met his gaze straight on. “If you think I’m leaving with you, you’re crazy. Whatever you have to say, spill it...and make it quick.”

He reached for the framed sonogram and snatched it out of my hands.

“Hey! That’s mine.”

He held it high, out of my reach. “Just hear me out.”

I nodded. “Fine. Just give me that.”

He glanced down at the picture. “He’s very beautiful.”

“Thank you.”

“It’s very sad that you won’t be able to tuck him in the first night he comes home.”

A tidal wave of grief washed over me as tears welled up in my eyes.

“What will his life be like without you?” he asked. “Can Victor cope with a newborn? Do you think he’ll stay in this world by himself?”

“Is that what you came here for? To rub it all in? Get away from me, Jackson!” I screamed. “Just go!” I snatched the picture out of his hands as emotion flooded through me. Pain tore through me as his words cut deep into my soul. I wanted to sink into the ground as grief struck like a giant hammer crashing on top of my head.

I must’ve been too loud, because a security guard rushed over.

“Ma’am, is everything okay?” he asked.

“No! Nothing is okay. I’m going to be dead in two weeks.”

“Did this man threaten you?”

“Please just get him away from me,” I said.

The security guard grabbed Jackson’s arm. “Sir, I’m gonna have to ask you to leave and—”

Jackson gazed deeply into his eyes. “We’re having a very important conversation that doesn’t concern mortals. Please leave.”

The man’s face went blank, and he walked robotically back to his post at the door.

“Nice trick,” I said to Jackson. “Maybe I’ll just compel him to arrest you.” I walked off to the checkout line.

Jackson suddenly waved his arms over his head, and the color was stripped from the room. Suddenly, everyone was frozen in place.

“This isn’t necessary!” I shouted.

“It is, because I need your complete and utter attention, and you were refusing to give that to me.”

I shot him a sharp look. “Looks like you have it now.”

“Good, because I know a way to save your life. Meet me next door in the park, by the lake. There’s a white gazebo. I’ll see you there in fifteen minutes.”

A whirlwind hit me as he disappeared from my line of sight. The color returned, and everyone started to move again as they unfroze.

“Um...ma’am?” the cashier said. “Are you okay?”

I handed her the frames. “I’m fine. Thanks for asking.”

The woman rang up my purchase, and I put it in the back seat of my car and then walked toward the park. I knew if Jackson was going to hurt me, he would have easily done it by now. Depressing thoughts crowded my mind, and I took a calming breath. I needed to hear him out. If he knew of a way to save my life, I needed to hear it.

Chapter 7

Birds chirped, and squirrels scurried up trees. I glanced around the park but didn’t see Jackson. An old couple sitting on a bench smiled at me. I smiled back as they stood and slowly walked away, arm in arm. I envied them so much. They had spent their entire lives together and had watched their children grow up. I sat down, but with my rotund figure, it was too hard to cross my legs. At that point, all my manners were out the door.

A blast of wind hit my face, and when I looked up, Jackson was standing only inches away.

I stood.

He smiled and shook my hand. “I’m glad you could make it.”

“Meh, you gave me an offer I couldn’t refuse.”

“I should’ve planned this meeting but everything happened so suddenly. There wasn’t time.”

“It’s okay. I’m here now.” I glanced around just to make sure he didn’t have any Immortal friends hiding anywhere.

“It’s just me.”

I looked up at him. “Other than your name, I know nothing about you. Care to elaborate?”

“You will get no details from me. Just know that I’m trying to survive too. I was born into an Immortal family, and we live by a strict set of rules that I don’t always agree with. But if I fight against them, they’ll have to kill me, just like they did the ones on the mountain.”

“You can’t tell me a little more about yourself?” I asked. “It’d help me to trust you.”

“Fine. I’m single, and I run a huge coffee business. I am somewhat lonely, since I’m not permitted to date or marry mortals.”

“That’s sad.”

“In 1912, I fell in love with a mortal name Samantha. We eloped and enjoyed ten long years together before they killed her.”

“I’m so sorry. In Victor’s world, it’s the same way.”

“It was long ago, but I swear the one who killed her will die one day.”

“Is that when you joined the rebellion?” I said.

“Not joined. Started. Created. Founded. But the Immortals are so strong. They put up such a good fight. But I have something in mind that will bring them to their knees.”

“What?”

“It’s top secret. If I told you, I’d have to kill you.”

I pointed to his ring. “I’m dying to know more about that.”

“Our rings are given to us when we turn twenty-one.”

“Not when you marry?”

“No.”

“Hmm. Well, is there a cure for me or not, Jackson? I’m dying to hear what you have to say. What can you do to help me, and what’s it gonna cost? My soul? My first unborn child? My—”

“Sarah!”

“I’m sorry. I don’t mean to be so rude. I’m just so—”

“Overwhelmed? I understand. This must be very traumatic for you. I want to apologize. I resorted to the lowest of tricks to get you to meet me out here voluntarily.”

I looked deep into his eyes. Truly, he was my last hope. “I’m sorry too. I was just...scared. Your people almost killed my unborn son, and I have to protect him, at all costs.”

“I understand.”

“I-I don’t wanna die,” I pleaded. “I’ll do anything you want. Just...save my life.” I touched my stomach. “This baby needs his mother.”

He looped his arm in mine. “Shall we adjourn to the picnic table?”

Knowing it was his way of breaking the ice, I smiled and walked over and sat down.

“I met your husband a few days ago,” he said. “When we blew—”

“When you blew the prison up?”

“Yes, I had an Immortal following him because I’ve been keeping strict tabs on you two.”

“A stalker? Wonderful.”

“It’s for protection. Anyway, he caught the man and questioned him quite effectively. That was how I met him.”

“Then why didn’t you propose your plan to him?”

“Because it must be your decision, not his.”

“He could have set up a meeting.”

“No, I needed to come straight to the source.”

“I’m sure Victor jumped all over your revenge scheme.”

“Yes. We all wanted them to pay.”

“Those Immortals were monsters. What they did to Della...I’m not sure she’ll ever recover from the emotional scars.”

“She’s safe now.”

“Good.”

He leaned in, and his gaze narrowed. “I’m still worried about your energy imbalance.”

“I think everyone is.”

He shook his head. “You will not survive it much longer, Sarah. The energy is consuming all of your power.”

“Please just tell me what I have to do,” I implored.

“Well, there is a myth,” he said, reaching into a leather satchel. He pulled out a leather-bound book and placed it on the table.

I opened it and stared down at the heavy pages, written in a language I didn’t understand, with hand-drawn pictures. “This looks very old.”

“Centuries.” He leafed through the pages and stopped when he came to the page of a cherry blossom drawn in black ink. “This is what will save your life.”

“A flower?”

“It’s not just any flower. It possesses powerful properties that can balance out your energies, but in order for it to work, you must pick the blossom yourself. You cannot send your husband or anyone else to retrieve it.”

Hope sparked in my eyes. “Tell me where to find it.”

“On an island in the South Pacific.”

“Which island?”

“It is not an isle you’ll find on an ordinary map.”

“Of course. My life depends on some magic flower on an island no one has ever heard of. Please don’t make me waste the last moments of my life chasing an impossible dream. I’d rather spend every minute here with my family than going after some ridiculous pipe dream.”

“I need you alive, Sarah.”

I crossed my arms. “Back to the same old question. What do you want from me?”

“You wear the mark of Lanera. I saw it at the minimart.”

“Yeah? Well, you seemed pretty shocked.”

“It’s an ancient symbol, and encoded within it is a map.”

“Let me guess. You need the map.”

He nodded.

I continued. “Then why didn’t you just kidnap me like the others and photocopy it or something?”

“I can’t get to the landmarks without you. Your fingerprints are like keys to unlock the mystery.”

“Yet you’re not hog-tying me and dragging me along with you, are you?”

“The stars aren’t aligned yet.”

“So...you can’t let me die before the stars are in perfect alignment? You need me to get better first, so you have to find the eternal bloom that will save me and my baby, right?”

“Yes. You help me, and I’ll help you,” he said.

I held out my hand. “You have a deal.”

He smiled and shook my hand firmly. “We can go over the details with Victor, but for now, aren’t you wondering more about why I want the artifact?”

“I really don’t care what your motive is. I just want to live to see my child grow up.”

“It will be dangerous, but I don’t plan on dying. Do you have any questions?”

“You don’t plan on sacrificing me in some crazy ceremony, do you?”

He chuckled. “No.”

“Don’t laugh. I’ve been there and done that, and I don’t wanna go through it again.”

“I need the map your flesh bears in order for me to find something I’ve been seeking for ages. But we can’t go until the stars are aligned with The Majory.”

“The Majory?”

“Long story. Just know it won’t happen for about six months.”

I cocked a brow. “So that’s when we’ll go?”

“Yes.”

I sensed there was more to the story, more than what he was telling me, but it didn’t matter at that point. I’ll do anything to save my child’s life, even if I have to sign a contract with the devil.” I sucked in a deep breath and let it out slowly.

“I’ll have plane tickets, passports, the map, and more information later today.”

“Thank you, Jackson,” I said. “If this is real, if you’re telling me the truth, I’ll do whatever you tell me to.” I blinked and then asked him the question I’d been wondering about. Why’d you wait so long to give me this deal?”

“I ordered my team to dig through the ancient scrolls to see if there was anything we could do to help you. They’ve been hunting since the day I met you, and we just found out about the eternal bloom yesterday. That’s why I’m here now.”

Some of the pieces began to fit together. “That’s why you warned me to leave, because you need me alive.”

He nodded, flashing me those light blue eyes of his.

“How very honorable of you. It seems like everyone needs me for something. Since I’ve become Immortal, I’ve become quite popular. I have one more question though. Why’d you leave me back in the minimart? It’s obvious you wanted to help me. Why didn’t you just whisk me away and drop me off somewhere? When you touched me, we sparked, but I could’ve handled the shocks for a minute or two while you moved me to a safe location.”

He hesitated, then continued. “We were following you. I’d been sent to...retrieve you.”

My jaw dropped. “What?”

“If we’re going to work together, Sarah, there must be complete honesty between us,” he said.

I was floored. “You work with them?”

“Yes.”

Clutching my heart, I stood.

“Sarah, it’s not what you think. I don’t agree with them, and that’s why I saved your life. I compelled the man to rob the store.”

“What? The robbery happened because of you? But I got shot, and—”

“I knew the man had a gun, but I didn’t know you were going to play hero! I needed a distraction so you could get away.”

“A distraction? It brought lots of attention!” I said.

“The plan worked perfectly. If I would’ve come out with you, they would’ve thrown you in the back of a car and taken you, and...well, I couldn’t let that happen. When you saved that woman’s life, I knew you weren’t the monster they claimed you were. I could feel your emotions. You wanted to take the place of that poor cashier.”

“You knew I was an Immortal the second you met me? But you were so surprised when you touched me.”

“I wasn’t shocked about you being Immortal. I was shocked at the high-voltage energy coursing through your body. I couldn’t believe you were alive...and carrying a baby. It was strangest thing. The Immortals would have stopped at nothing to find out why.”

“You mean they would have treated me like a lab rat?”

“Yes.”

“Thank you for saving my life. I knew you helped me, but I didn’t realize to what extent.” My arms wrapped around him, and he awkwardly hugged me back as blue sparks flew around us from my unstable energy. “If I would’ve known this information, I would never have been such a pain back in the store,” I said.

“It’s okay.”

I held him at arm’s length. “I’m so thankful to you, Jackson.”

“When our deal is sealed and I get what I want, I’ll be saying the same thing to you.” He glanced down at his watch. “Listen, I have to run, but I’ll be in touch soon.”

“What’s soon?”

“A few days.”

I nodded and, in a blur, he disappeared from my vision.

Chapter 8

A few days passed. Jackson came to our house early in the morning, and Victor left with him. I’d already given my blessing, but Victor needed more convincing. They were gone all day, for hours and hours, while I celebrated at my joyous baby shower thrown by Liz. Just as the last guest left, Jackson pulled in and dropped Victor off.

I smiled as he walked up the sidewalk. “No talk about Jackson or islands or eternal blooms, all right? At least not now.”

“Deal. Did you save me any cake?”

“You know it!”

He smiled. “Are your mom and Liz still here?”

“They just left.”

“You’re absolutely glowing, Sarah,” he said.

“Thanks. I’ve never been so happy. Come on in,” I said, pulling him inside. “Wait until you feast your eyes on all the fantastic gifts our son received.”

Presents in baby blue wrapping were stacked up all over the place. I showed him everything, and he was truly awed by the love and support shown by all of our friends and family.

“Standing here with all these baby things...it just...” My voice drifted off. “I feel like everything is just perfect. We celebrated, we played games, and we laughed, and as I cut the cake, I felt, just for a minute, like my life is normal. I felt like the luckiest woman in the world, but then I remembered that I’ll only get to spend five minutes with my baby. Do you know how hard it is to pretend everything is normal when your heart is aching?”

“We’re going to get past this, Sarah. I promise you that.”

I picked up an engraved “Baby’s First Christmas” ornament. “Do you think I’ll even be here to decorate the tree with you and Alexander?”

He embraced me tightly. “Yes.”

“But the end is near, and—”

“Don’t say that, Sarah. Don’t ever say that.”

“It was hard not tell everyone I might be dead soon. I stayed happy for Alexander’s sake. It’s what he would’ve wanted, so I decided to celebrate him and not dwell on my fate. But now that everyone’s gone, the thoughts are sneaking back up on me. I go from happy to sad in two and a half seconds. I hate raging hormones.”

He gazed down at me and touched my face. “We leave in three days.”

My jaw dropped. “But what about plane tickets and passports?”

“It’s all been taken care of. Jackson gave me instructions.”

* * *

The next day Jackson came to deliver a red folder full of info. I motioned Jackson to the dining room, and he laid out everything we’d need for the trip, from passports to pictures. “I obtained the book I showed Sarah in the park,” Jackson said to Victor.

Victor sat down and started gently leafing through the ancient pages. When I flipped to the right page and pointed to the hand-drawn picture of the eternal bloom, he looked carefully at the book. He arched his brows. “The sketch is so detailed, but what color is it?”

“You know as much as I do.”

I met Jackson’s blue gaze. “We need more details.”

He folded his hands across the table. “The island is a mystical one, mentioned in several myths.”

“Myths? Are you sure the island really exists at all, that it’s even real?” I asked.

“I assure you it is,” he said with absolute certainty.

“What’s it called?” I pressed.

“Purity Island.”

“But...I’m not pure.”

“You have a pure heart, Sarah. That is all that matters.”

“It can’t be that easy,” I said.

He looked at Victor, then at me. “Nothing is easy about it. First of all, according to the books, once you step on the island, you will lose all of your powers.” He glanced at me. “And Sarah, that means your visions too.”

I shrugged. “I can’t do much anyway. I’m broken.”

“Then we’ll take weapons,” Victor said. “We will be prepared for anything.”

Jackson’s face grew serious. “I’m afraid weapons are forbidden.”

Victor’s gaze narrowed. “No weapons and no powers? Then how will we defend ourselves?”

“Listen,” Jackson said. “If you don’t follow their rules, you won’t get your flower.”

I lifted my brow higher. “What does the flower do exactly?”

“It heals.”

“I have to eat it?”

Jackson chuckled.

“What’s so funny? How am I supposed to know what to do with it once I have it?”

“You must squeeze it in your hands, and the healing energy will seep through your body, healing whatever is wrong with you.”

I furrowed a brow. “And where is it located?”

“It grows inside a huge garden or meadow. We had a hard time translating some of the symbols and language, but that is the best we can determine. You will need a key to open the gates to the garden, and only the chief on the island has that key. You must state your case to him, and he will decide if you are worthy enough to pick one of his precious eternal blooms.”

“I think our case is very worthy,” I said.

“Purity Island is populated and run by a mystical race of beings called the Nimi, who believe strongly in honesty, character, morals, purity, family, and life. Because of your pure heart, Sarah, you have an excellent chance of being granted a key to the garden. I am sure the chief will be highly impressed with you if you just be yourself and let him see your emotions. Let him see that you are willing to do whatever it takes to be the mother your child deserves.”

“And where do I find this chief?” I asked.

“He doesn’t know,” Victor said, “but we can’t pick the bloom without his blessing or the key.”

“In that case, we’ll have to find him,” I said. “I’ll state my case, he’ll give us the key, we’ll snatch the bloom, and I’ll juice the heck out of it till I feel better. Simple.”

Jackson nodded. “With your determination, I believe you will.”

“Do you have any clue where we might find him?”

“You won’t. He will find you.”

“Even better. I’m so ready to do this.”

“Good.” Jackson closed his notebook. “But there is one more thing we discovered in the ancient scrolls.”

“What?” I asked, not sure if I wanted to hear the answer.

“You cannot kill any of their animals, for that would be a kiss of death for you, and you won’t be allowed near the eternal blooms.”

“I’m the biggest animal-lover there is, so the chief doesn’t have to worry about his livestock or his family pet. I promise I won’t even squash a bug.”

“Good. And don’t forget, you have to be the one to pick the eternal bloom,” he added.

“I know,” I said. “Otherwise, I’m sure Victor would leave me here and go fetch it himself.”

Jackson chuckled and glanced at Victor. “She knows you pretty well, my friend.”

“We appreciate this so much,” I said as he stood to his feet.

“Just don’t forget to follow what the scroll says. No weapons, don’t disturb their wildlife, and do not pick the flower without their blessing.”

“How would we even do that if we need a key to open the gate?” I asked.

“Victor could jump the fence.”

“I wouldn’t dare,” Victor said. “Nothing to jeopardize my Sarah’s chances.”

“I’m just covering all of the bases. If you break even one of these rules, all of your dreams will be dashed, along with ours. I’m confident you’ll do well though. When you return and things are normal again, please don’t forget your promise to me. I trust you will keep it.”

“I always keep my word,” I said.

“Good. I’ll call you to confirm everything tomorrow.”

We walked him to the door and bid him goodnight.

Chapter 9

It was seven a.m. and Victor and I snuggled in each other’s arms as we watched the morning news.

My cell rang and I answered. “Hi Beth.”

“Sarah. I’m in the neighborhood. Would you mind if I stopped by and picked you up? I have some important things I need to discuss with you.”

“One sec.” I glanced at Victor. “Beth needs to talk. Mind if I hang out with her for a little bit?”

“That’d work out great since I wanted to get in a long work out anyway.”

I smiled at him. “Try the treadmill.”

He kissed my cheek and headed out the back door. My guess was that he was heading off to run with a huge log over his head. Old habits die hard. I couldn’t break him out of that no matter what I tried. He did weights a little, but what he really enjoyed was lifting huge rocks for strength training. Victor was more into the natural thing rather than the bench press. I finally gave up trying to change him and just let him do whatever it was he enjoyed doing to stay fit. I wondered if Immortals even got flabby. I think he just enjoyed it because it was what he did his entire life. He probably enjoyed releasing all that pent up energy he had built up all the time.

I put the cell phone back up to my ear. “I’m back,” I said. “Victor doesn’t mind if I come out and play for a little while. So what’s up?”

“I’ll tell you everything when I get there.”

“See you soon. I’ll be waiting for you on the porch.” I said goodbye and hung up, then threw my sandals on. They matched perfectly with my turquoise sun dress. Cool morning air gushed in my face and felt wonderful. I waited on the porch for a minute before Beth honked her horn and waved me over.

“Love your oversized sunglasses,” I said.

“They’re all the rage right now. Hop in.”

When I glanced up, another horn beeped. “It’s Liz,” I said.

“Tell her to hop in,” Beth said. “The more the merrier.”

“Are you sure?” I asked. “If you need to talk, we don’t need my obnoxious sister coming along.”

“It’s not personal,” Beth said. “Matter of fact, it concerns her too.”

Liz parked and I waved her over. She loved the idea of going on a mysterious adventure Beth hadn’t told us one thing about.

Liz grinned. “You’re wearing the maternity dress I bought you.”

“Yep.”

“You look radiant,” she told me.

“Thank you.” I put my seat belt on around my bulging belly.

“So what’s up?” Liz asked.

“I’ve been researching the Immortals for you guys,” Beth said. “I’ve even done a stake out here and there.”

“Beth, they’re dangerous,” I said. “Just please leave them alone.”

She turned the corner and shot me a sideways glance. “On the night you went to the emergency room, you said we should investigate them.”

“Yeah, because I didn’t know that much about them. But now I do. And they’re dangerous.”

“I’ve been doing lots of digging, and they’ve been wreaking havoc on the city,” Beth said. “Dr. Meyers was all concerned about you staying hidden and not exposing your Immortal powers, while they prance around showing off their fancy tricks to unsuspecting victims. She should be more worried about them than you.”

“What are they doing?” Liz asked.

“I’ve been talking to witnesses who say they throw their authority around quite a bit. And if you report them or mess with them in any way, you’ll end up dead as a door nail.”

I let out a long sigh. “And that’s exactly why you shouldn’t be investigating this.” I couldn’t bear to see anything happen to her.

“And they’ve been here for quite a long time,” Beth said.

I cocked a brow. “How long?”

“Since ancient times. I found some books about a powerful race of beings who had strength and amazing powers. I think it’s our Immortals. Can you believe they’ve been blending in our world all this time?”

“In our line of research, is it really such a shock?” I retorted.

“My best friend and her sister are both Immortal so I guess it isn’t that much of a stretch.”

We all chuckled.

“I did some more digging and got a list of all the victims that were rescued from the mountain,” Beth said. “There were a few locals, but most of them are from across the globe.”

“So they snagged them from everywhere,” Liz said.

Beth placed a few strands of hair behind her ear. “If there running experiments on them, they couldn’t have all of those people disappearing from around here. It’d be too obvious.”

“They’re evil, sick people,” I said. “They could care less about killing my baby. The thought of them kidnapping more people to experiment on, well the thought torments me. If we’re messing with Immortals, we should go back and get Victor.”

“He won’t let you go,” Liz said. “He’s even more protective of you now more than ever, especially since the kidnapping.”

I nodded, then glanced at Beth. “And you’re putting this witness in danger by even talking to her, not to mention you and your son’s life.”

She gripped the steering wheel. “This woman is going public with her story. She’s being interviewed by a major television station next week about the murder of her brother. And yes, I want to hear what she has to say firsthand, but I also want to talk her out of doing the interview.”

I clutched my heart. “She’ll be dead so fast.”

Beth shook her head. “Exactly. So we need to convince her to shut up and cancel the interview.”

We drove for a while more and then pulled into the driveway with a tan house. The three of us walked to the front porch and I rang the doorbell. A thin woman with short, red hair in her thirties came to the door and invited us in. I took a seat on the couch and glanced around at her country theme home decor. It felt warm and inviting.

“I’m Erica,” she said, politely introducing herself.

After a few pleasantries, Erica cut to the chase. “They killed my brother and I’m going to make them pay.”

Dark circles hung under her eyes and I knew she hadn’t been sleeping well. She looked just as sad and tormented as Della and I had on that mountain top. A tear slipped down her cheek. We all tried to give her comforting words but she was in no mood for it. I understood where she was coming from. If I had lost a loved one, I don’t think anybody could make me feel better. I wondered if we should even be interviewing her when she was so grief-stricken. I made my thoughts known and the woman told us not to leave and to please stay. She said her story needed to be told. So I sat back down and made myself comfortable. Well, as comfortable as a nine month pregnant woman could get.

Beth grabbed a pen and notebook from her huge purse. “Tell us your story from the very beginning.”

The lines hardened on Erica’s face. “You’re not going to believe me.”

“We’re very open-minded,” Beth said. “Trust us on this one.”

“How open-minded exactly?” Erica asked.

Liz pointed to Beth and I. “They’re both paranormal researchers. They investigate the unknown, from ghosts and angels to Bigfoot. You name it and they did it one time or another.”

Liz failed to mention Beth and I were now both retired.

“I investigated many cases,” I said. “But I specialized in proving the existence of Bigfoot.”

Erica met my gaze. “Okay, that takes a special kind of nut. So if you believe in that, you’ll definitely believe my story.”

Liz went to retort when Beth tapped her hand. “Don’t worry, Liz. Sarah and I are professionals. We get that kind of gruff all the time. We’re used to dealing with it in our line of work.”

But we’re retired, I thought. I shook my head and let Beth continue her interview.

“Okay, I’ll trust you.” I nodded and Erica continued. “My brother got into a fight with a group of men that he called, The Immortals.”

I looked at Liz, and then Beth. This woman wasn’t a lunatic, she was the real deal. I was sure not many people had run-ins with Immortals and lived to talk about it.

“Billy told me he discovered they had incredible powers and that they were these immortal beings. Of course I laughed at him. A few weeks went by and he never mentioned it again. Honestly, I even forgot all about it. Then, when I went to his house last week, on the day he was ruthlessly murdered, I saw something I’ll never forget.” Her voice trailed off.

“And what’s that,” Beth softly coaxed.

“My brother had picked me up because my car had broken down. Those Immortals didn’t know I was there. I was upstairs using the bathroom. I heard the commotion. My gosh, I thought my brother owed money to a loan shark or something. So I kept quiet.” She took a deep breath as tears slipped down her face. “I saw a man in dark clothes with his hand placed on my brother’s chest. And all these blue sparks leapt from his chest as he screamed. So I hid upstairs in the closet.”

I gently hugged her. “I’m so sorry.”

She wept into my arms.

“My brother and I were recording a video for our mother in Florida. She hates Skype. She’s not into the computer or any kind of technology. When I left, my brother forgot to hit pause. The whole murder was caught on tape.”

Liz gasped. “You have them on film!”

“Yes,” she answered, wiping her eyes.

“Why haven’t you turned it into the police?” Liz asked.

“Because it could disappear. I’m playing it on national television first.”

Liz’s jaw dropped. “You’re going to expose this video footage?”

She reached for a tissue as she wept. “Yes, they’re going to pay for murdering my brother.”

“Can I see it?” I calmly asked. “I promise not to harm the footage.”

She retrieved her video camera and hit play. I watched the scene play out before me in the view screen. Nausea flooded over me as I watched the senseless murder. The Immortal muttered something but it went by so fast I didn’t catch it. “Rewind it,” I said. I hated to watch the horrible footage again, but I needed to know exactly what they said. I had almost picked it up the first time, but not quite. The woman replayed the video and I concentrated on the words. The Immortal clearly tells the other Immortal, “You’ve fed enough. It’s my turn.”

I looked at Beth, and then at Liz. My heartbeat spiked. “Did you hear what he said?”

“It was too fast,” Beth said.

“Not for me,” I said.

“I heard it,” Liz said. “What does it mean? Are they feeding off humans?”

“What did the man say?” the red-haired woman asked.

I told her and Beth what I heard and the woman looked away in complete disbelief.

Beth jotted down some notes and then frowned. “This particular group of Immortals seems to be feeding off the energy source of humans.”

The witness shrieked. “They were feeding off of him. That’s sick!”

“I wonder if they can feed without killing their victims,” Beth said.

Liz shot her a look. “I’m sure they have excellent hearing. Why didn’t they hear Erica when she crept away?”

“Because they were too busy killing my brother,” Erica said. “That’s why! They were too focused on feeding off of him.” She ran a hand through her hair. “You know what this means, it means vampires are real.”

“But they don’t drink blood,” Liz said.

“They’re Immortals who kill people for food,” she retorted. “I bet this is how the vampire legend got started. Maybe people got creative over the years and added in blood and fangs.”

I thought about what Beth told me. She had said lots of those people in those pods were from all over the United States. Some were from here, but others were from Texas and Michigan and other places. Those people might’ve not been there for test experiments like I suspected. They could’ve been brought in as food.  My stomach dropped. Do these Immortals in my home world kidnap people as a food source? The thought sickened me. Why hadn’t Dr. Meyers been more forthcoming? I couldn’t believe she could keep something like that from us. I had to tell Victor  about my findings the second I got home. He needed to know what we were up against. Could they feed on other Immortals? I didn’t have a clue.

“You can’t go public with this video,” Liz said. “If you do, then they’ll kill you too.”

“But my brother needs justice,” Erica said.

I touched her shoulder. “They’ll say your video is a hoax, then they’ll put their own special spin on it.”

“In the end, they’ll try their best to make you look like an idiot,” Liz said. “And then they’ll kill you.”

Erica shook her head. “You’re not talking me out of this.”

Liz stood. “I smell smoke.”

Erica glanced around. “I wasn’t cooking anything.”

When I darted into the kitchen, I gasped. Dozens of small flames flickered to life.

“Fire!” I shouted.

“The front door,” Liz screamed, pulling my arm.

Beth tried to turn the knob but it wouldn’t budge. “Somebody’s locked us in here.”

“The window,” I said.

Beth, Liz, and I tried to open the windows but it was like they were nailed shut by an invisible hand. Erica came back with an axe and slammed it into the window. It didn’t even crack. The window had some kind of protective barrier to keep us from breaking through it. And that’s when I knew who was behind this little attack.

“It’s the Immortals,” Liz shouted through the smoke engulfing us.

I could barely see in the hazy blue-gray smoke swirling around me in billows. Hungry flames leapt, and heat radiated from all around me. I could feel the intense, blinding heat on my face. “We have to get out of here!” I shouted over the crackling flames. My lungs burned, and it was hard to breathe. Pulling my dress up over my mouth and nose as a mask, I took quick, shallow gasps.

Chapter 10

The fire spread quicker than I’d ever imagined. I’d only come to help Beth interview a witness and now I was fighting for my life. I sucked in my breath as rivulets of sweat started to run down my spine. Coughing violently, I tried to breathe.

“This way!” Liz shouted over the roar of the fire.

A shout pierced the air, and I spun around.

“You’re all dead!” a tall, well-built Immortal announced. He had at least a dozen others with him. How could Liz fight against a small army of Immortals? Erica, Beth, and I would be of no help.

I bit my lip hard, wondering if we could take so many on at once. Maybe we could distract or trick them somehow. Fire shot across the ceiling. Suddenly, bullets flew at us, and we ducked for cover behind an overturned table Liz had toppled over in milliseconds. “What the...? They’re shooting!” I said. The fire grew and everything was obscured by the leaping flames. I wasn’t sure how to get out of there alive. Letting out a long sigh, I squinted and swallowed hard as the flames flickered and smoke continued to swirl before me.

“We’ve gotta get out of here,” Beth said, coughing as smoke engulfed the room.

The bullets stopped and I wondered if they were out of ammo. When I peered over the table, I could see the Immortals fleeing the fire, only leaving a few to deal with us.

“Kill them!” a man shouted.

Liz stood and threw a couple of fire balls at them, followed by a few ice balls that knocked out at least three of them. I let out a tiny, silent breath. It was a small victory, but a good one nonetheless. Trying not to panic, I glanced around. All the exits were covered by Immortals waiting to kill us. My heart thundered. As I tried to scramble away, I was quickly surrounded by more dancing flames. I refused to believe that my life was going to end in a raging house fire. On the other hand, if I survived the day, it would be nothing short of a miracle.

“This way!” Liz shouted. “To the den!”

My body shivered as I bolted into the huge room. I slammed the door shut, locking it.

“You have powers too,” Erica shouted hysterically at my sister.

“Don’t look so freaked,” Liz said. “These powers are going to save your sorry ass.”

“Sorry ass?” she said.

Liz rolled her eyes. “You threatened to expose the Immortals. How dumb is that?”

“How dumb is it to come over and interview a dead woman walking?” she asked.

My sister huffed. “You knew they were going to kill you, and yet, you didn’t care?”

“I just wanted justice, even if it meant my death afterward,” she said. “I just planned on doing the television show, and then dealing with the consequences when everything was said and done.”

“They have us cornered,” Beth said, voice trembling. “What are we going to do?”

“I’m thinking,” I said. Wisps of smoke floated above me. I coughed between jagged breaths and covered my nose and mouth with my stretched dress.

“I don’t want to die like this,” Beth whispered. “Back in Dornia, they were going to light me on fire, and now it’s happening again. This is my biggest nightmare.”

Liz pulled us way over to the left. “Let’s create a defense of some sort.”

We started making a barrier with a couch, a few love seats, and an overturned desk. I gasped as we crouched down to hide behind it. It wasn’t much, but it might help bullets from hitting Beth and Erica. Liz and I could take a hit from a bullet, but our human friends couldn’t.

Erica gasped between breaths. “Like I said, they’re surrounded the whole house. There’s no way we’re getting past them. We’re as good as dead!” Her voice came thin and raspy.

Those words stung me. I couldn’t even explain my situation to the Immortals. It was shoot on sight. They wanted all potential witnesses dead. I touched my stomach and whispered to my unborn son, “Mommy will get us out of this. Don’t you worry.”

I screamed as the walls started to catch fire. Liz’s terrified expression mirrored my own. I knew fire wouldn’t kill Liz or I, but it’d hurt like crazy and I didn’t want to put my unborn child through that agony. Not to mention, the Immortals would just behead me the second the flames stopped anyway. I didn’t want to watch Erica and my best friend, Beth, die before my very eyes. It was like being trapped in a nightmare you can’t escape. I wanted to have a vision, but no matter how hard I tried, one wouldn’t come.

“Don’t worry,” Liz said. “She touched the burning wall we were crouched up against and it turned into ice, keeping us from getting fried.

Beth ran to the window on the other side of the room and desperately tried to open it, but again, it wouldn’t budge. Covering her face with her sleeve, she kicked with all her might. By the third attempt, she threw her whole body into it. Bullets fired into the room and Beth dropped to the ground.

“I’m hit,” she screamed.

I drew a deep breath, the blood draining from my face. “Beth!” I ran over and scooped her up. She was completely covered in blood.

“You’re going to be okay,” I said. “Just hang on.”

My lips trembled; for a minute, I couldn’t breathe. The thought of losing Beth seemed too much to bear.

Just as I reached the center of the room, the door flew off its hinges and splintered as a fireball burst right through it and flew over my head. As I ducked, I could feel the intense heat flying over my face. The ball crashed into the back wall with a loud crash. The Immortal’s hands shot out showers of bright sparks followed by trains of white and yellow. I covered my head as hot particles rained down. More spinning balls flew toward us, changing in color from brilliant red to dazzling orange to lime green, like a fireworks show on the Fourth of July.

An electrical crackle filled the air, and thick, black smoke erupted as another fireball blazed across the room, leaving a trail of yellow sparks behind. The explosion sent me staggering forward, and I felt like someone had just kicked me in the back. I fell to the floor on my side. I shielded my face from the yellow flames and black smoke engulfing us, but my eyes continued to water, my lungs burning with the pressure building inside. The fumes made my nose and throat burn as heat singed my flesh. Searing pain in my back made me groan as Erica and Liz helped me up. We carried Beth back behind our pile of furniture.

I glanced into her eyes and she blinked. “I’m dying. Tell Christopher I love him.” Her eyes fluttered shut.

“No!” I yelled, rocking her. “Don’t you die on me.”

Tears streamed down my cheeks.  I turned to Liz, my mouth gaping.

“I can’t heal her by myself,” she said. “There’s no other Immortals here and you’re broken!”

“Try!” I begged.

Liz placed her palm on her chest and closed her eyes, but it was obvious she didn’t have enough power to save her life. Pressing a hand against my own chest, I tried to still my frantic breathing.

The stench of acrid fumes lingered, and the sound of Immortal voices echoed somewhere in the distance. My jaw dropped as more Immortals stretched across the hall, the scene playing out before my eyes as if in slow motion. Liz aimed and threw more fire balls again and again, watching them fall in all directions, but like a swarm of insects, more Immortals just kept coming.

My hands were shaking like they’ve never shook before. I panted between breaths. I thought this could be the end for me and my unborn child. As the heat intensified all around me, a tear slipped down my cheek.

The man in charge walked toward us holding out his hands as fire sprung from them to destroy us all. Liz held out her hands and streams of water poured from her palms. Hissing and crackling filled the air, like the sound of ice melting on a hot bed of coal. Water sprayed everywhere as it collided with the dancing flames in midair. I blinked the droplets out of my eyes.

Erica flattened herself on the soaking wet ground. I could see how scared she was and she had every right to be freaking out. Getting out of this alive would be a miracle. But I wasn’t a quitter so I’d just keep fighting to live.

Liz shot me a terrified look, water dripping down her hair and face. “I can’t hold him off forever.”

“Just try!” Erica said.

I stiffened as I glanced up. A towering surge of spray hovered above our heads as the Immortal pushed back the water with his streams of fire. Pushing back wet strands of tangled hair, I wiped my eyes.

The Immortal was winning.

“Concentrate! Fight harder, Liz!” I shouted, pulling at my wet dress.

Water streamed off her hair and down her cheeks. She focused and a sudden wind howled, whipping her hair across her cheeks and eyes. A wave of water hovered above our heads and then rolled down with the momentum and force of a mighty tsunami. The mass of water smashed through the door, slamming into the Immortals like a giant fist.

Within seconds, the Immortal stepped back through the door with an angry look. We’d definitely pissed him off. The back of my throat felt dry, and a rush of heat swept over me in spite of the cold water soaking my clothes.

“The house is surrounded!” Erica yelled into my ear. “What are we going to do? I have to save Harvey!”

Erica kept screaming for Harvey. I didn’t know if it was her sleeping son or boyfriend, or even her husband. My heart sank knowing there was another person in the house. I’d hoped the Immortals hadn’t killed him yet.

Liz grabbed my arm. “I’m going to have to tap into that unstable energy of yours.”

“What’s that going to do?” I asked.

“It’ll be like squirting lighter fluid into a fire.”

My unstable energy could hurt us as well. It would be like a bomb going off. Erica would die immediately if Liz lost control.

“It’s our only option,” she said.

I used her stupid symbolism right back at her. “Fine. Use the lighter fluid sparingly and evenly. We don’t need an explosion or more lives lost.”

“I’m going to put us in a temporary protective bubble. So you don’t get electrocuted. It only lasts for a minute, but that should be enough time.”

A yellow force field suddenly surrounded us as Liz blinked her eyes shut. Once the bubble was created, Liz’s eyes fluttered opened. As the Immortal threw streams of fire toward us, Liz grabbed my shoulder with one hand, and aimed with the other. As she tapped into my energy, I felt the biggest electric shock ever. She blocked the roaring flames from ever reaching us. The walls and the floor lit up in a blue, electric glow. A huge blaze of swirling electricity engulfed the remaining army. Their screams carried through the air as they crashed to the ground in trembling heaps as volts of electricity shook their bodies.

Air whooshed from my lungs as I fell backward, splashing in the water. Hands wrapped around my throat and began to squeeze as I was held underwater. Guess Liz’s protective bubble wasn’t working anymore. My lungs burned and screamed for air. Dizziness flooded through me and I couldn’t breathe. I struggled to no avail. My head pounded. I tried to loosen the cold fingers but their grip was too tight. I felt around the water and my fingers wrapped around what I assumed to be a letter opener. With my last bit of strength, I swung at the Immortal’s head. He released me. I sucked in gulp after gulp of air. I couldn’t stop coughing. When I glanced down, the man was down for the count. He didn’t move one muscle.

This acrid smell assaulted my nostrils, making me gag. My head ached with every single breath and I tried to keep from puking. The fire blazed high in every direction. The house was illuminated by a sea of flames and roared like a freight train. Wood crackled and snapped as they were devoured by the inferno of impenetrable heat rising all around us. The dense smoke, sizzling crackles, and blinding heat made my heart race something fierce. Suddenly the burning ceiling creaked and I glanced up. I took a step back, my entire body suddenly shaking. The burning timber fell toward my face as everything came crashing down.

A scream froze in my throat.

I took one last breath and closed my eyes. Victor’s face flashed in my head. I love you, Victor, I thought. My thoughts went back to the dream-like state Victor had taken me to when he proposed to me. I pictured glitter falling on him like snow while butterflies swirled all around him. I focused on his face and beautiful smile. The haze cleared a little, and my mind seemed clearer.

Chapter 11

Fiery wood beams fell on my legs, trapping me, pinning me helplessly to the ground. I screamed as the fire consumed my flesh. I knew this was it. I drew in choked breaths and peered around me, a sense of dread settling in the pit of my stomach and encompassing my entire body.

It wasn’t the unstable energy that would kill me after all, but a house fire, followed by a gruesome beheading by a mob of angry blue-ringed Immortals. I let out one final scream as tears rolled down my cheeks.

I could feel the cold wet carpet on my face as the flames roared all around me. And then the scene disappeared before me into complete blackness. I froze, my breath caught in my throat. Did I die? Suddenly, light started to emerge all around me. I tried to move but I couldn’t. Within seconds, my face was plastered in the soft, lush grass. Birds sang the most beautiful melodies and I wondered if I was in heaven. When I opened my eyes, my jaw dropped. Liz dropped next to me, Beth and Erica lay sprawled somewhere behind me. I spotted Beth’s car in the driveway. We were in Erica’s front yard. I was alive. My heart pounded. How? What was happening? I slowly stood trying to ponder what had taken place. One minute I’d been laying on a wet carpet with flames burning me, and the next, I was laying in the soft grass comforted by the soothing melodies of songbirds.

“Sarah,” Beth said, a wave of confusion washing over her face.

Joy overwhelmed me as my face lit up. I met Beth’s gaze and embraced her in a long hug.

“You’re alive!” I shouted, my voice choked with emotion.

“Yes!” Beth said, laughing. “I have no idea how.”

Liz jumped up and let out a long breath. “It was me. I did a tiny time travel jump. We went back in time about an hour or so. Not really sure of the coordinates. It’s all I could muster up.”

“How did you do that?” Beth asked.

“It’s a very dangerous jump that many Immortals die even attempting. Charles made me swear to never use it. I figured we didn’t have any other options. I was dying anyway once those Immortals got their hands on me.”

I hugged my sister in a giant bear hug. I couldn’t begin to express my gratitude. “You risked your life to save us. I can’t thank you enough.”

She smiled. “I knew Mom was making her famous pot roast tonight. Can’t miss that.”

I laughed as a tear rolled down my face. I realized my hands were shaking, and I took a few deep breaths to calm my nerves.

“I can’t believe I’m alive,” Beth said.

Beth rushed over to Liz and wrapped her arms around her as tears flowed down her face. “Thank you,” she said. “You fought so hard for us.”

“I used every big trick I knew,” she said.

I took a deep breath, trying to calm my racing heart, but I couldn’t quiet the sudden panic inside at the prospect of Immortals invading this house at any given moment. And I sure wasn’t ready for Round 2.

Erica was gasping between breaths.

“It’s okay,” Beth said, throwing an arm around her like they were best friends.

“But things haven’t changed,” Erica said, grimly. “They’re coming to kill us.”

I swallowed hard. “Then let’s get the hell out of here.”

“But I have to get Harvey,” she said.

“Her son?” Liz asked. “I didn’t know there was a kid even here.”

We let her run back inside. Terror filled me knowing her child would’ve died in that house fire as well. Liz chased her inside to destroy the tape. As long as that tape existed, it’d cause nothing but trouble for everyone involved.

Erica came running out with an animal in her arms. When I peered closer, I noticed it was a pet skunk.

Beth shielded her face from the sun. “Is that a...”

“Yep. It’s a skunk.”

“That’s Harvey?”

I shook my head. “Must be.”

“That’s not coming in my car!” Beth said.

Liz waved the cage as she approached. “I’ve got something to put the loveable skunk in.”

Beth shook her head. “Absolutely not!”

“He doesn’t spray,” Erica said. “He’s my pet and I won’t leave him.”

I petted the adorable Harvey. “He’s cute.”

“It can come,” Liz said. “Let’s just hurry up and leave. And let’s take a back route so we don’t cross paths with those idiots by accident.”

My eyes were still burning from all the smoke as I sucked in gulps of fresh air. When I looked back at the house, it was completely back to normal. I took several breaths to slow my racing heart. We all jumped back in Beth’s car including our new found friend Erica.

Erica clutched her pet tightly. “Are you going to kill me because I know Liz’s secret?”

“I’m not going to hurt you,” Liz said.

“But I will if that skunk sprays in my car!” Beth hissed.

“He’s de-scented and neutered,” Erica said.

“Then you’re going to feed on me,” she said. “Like those freaks who killed my brother.”

Liz eyed her up and down, then licked her lips. “You do look tasty.”

Erica’s eyes widened and I tried not to laugh as my sister messed with her.

“Don’t worry,” Liz said. “You’re not my type. I like a big, fat, juicy hamburger.”

“What?” she asked.

“Sorry to inform you that I’m from a different race of Immortals. Our kind doesn’t need to feed on humans, thank goodness. Our kind likes to pig out on food, especially junk food.”

I laughed as Beth grinned.

“You swear?” the woman asked terrified.

“No, I don’t swear. My mom hates it when those gutter words come out of my mouth.”

“Nobody is eating you,” I said. “But you’re coming with us.”

“Where are you taking me?” she asked.

“It’s for your own protection. I’m taking you to Dr. Meyers. She’s an Immortal who can help you. She’ll put you in protective custody. And if you don’t go, then you’ll soon be dead.”

“I’ll go!” Erica said. “They were going to burn me alive. How could they be so cold?”

I let out a trembling breath. “You have no idea what they’re capable of. They tried to kill my baby and I barely escaped.”

“But I’ve lost everything and I never got the chance to say goodbye to my loved ones.”

Liz patted her hand. “Just be lucky you’re alive. If we hadn’t come to interview you, you’d be dead right now.”

Tears slipped down Erica’s face. “I know. Thank you so much. I should’ve never meddled with them. But I was so upset when they killed my baby brother right before my eyes.”

“Trust me,” I said. “We’re going to make them pay.”

“Are you going to tell Victor about all of this?” Beth asked.

“I can’t keep it from him,” I said.

“I didn’t know it’d turn out like this,” Beth said. “I just thought we were going to interview a witness.”

Erica wiped the tears from her eyes. “The Immortals must’ve found out about the television interview.”

“You think so, huh?” Liz asked with a sarcastic tone in her voice.

“I’m so sorry,” she said. “I had no idea what I had gotten myself into.”

Liz met her gaze. “Well now you do. Don’t ever mess with them again.”

“I don’t plan too.”

We dropped off Erica off at Dr. Meyer’s house. She said she’d take care of everything, then Beth drove to my house and dropped off Liz and I. We told Victor the entire story, and then Liz drove home. Victor wasn’t happy with me for taking such a risk. But I tried to explain to him that I didn’t know it was going to turn into such a scenario.

“They feed on people,” I said.

“I say we cancel this trip with Jackson. He’s beyond dangerous.”

I shook my head. “No way. This is my life we’re talking about.”

“Exactly,” he retorted. “How do we know he’s not whisking us away to one of his labs?”

“We don’t. But I don’t think that’s the case. He needs us.”

“Or maybe he’s pretending he needs us. The whole thing could be a...what do you call it?”

I cocked a brow. “A smoke screen? A farce?”

He waved his hand in the air. “Yes.”

“I don’t think Jackson is lying to us. I can read people good. And I could see the sincerity in his eyes.”

“We have no idea what’s on that island. Keeping you safe is my first priority.”

A flood of uneasiness gathered in the pit of her stomach “You can’t keep me safe if I’m dead.”

“The man comes from a race of beings who feeds on humans,” Victor said. “They have to kill people to survive, to live another day. I don’t want to be any part of that.”

“Why don’t we just ask him?” I said. “I would love to hear what he has to say.”

“He’ll lie to us.”

“He might sugar coat it, but I think he’ll tell us.”

“And what makes you say that?” Victor asked.

“Because he needs me. And if he doesn’t tell me the truth, then I’ll end our little agreement.”

Victor hugged me as I wrapped my arms around him. It wasn’t long before a car sped into our driveway.

“Charles,” Victor said.

“I need a moment with your wife alone.”

Victor cocked a brow. “What’s wrong?”

“Your wife almost got Liz killed,” he yelled.

I’d never seen him so mad and out of control.

He waved his hands in the air. “I love Liz! She’s my life. How dare you take chances with her life?”

Victor inched forward. “Beth invited them. Liz came along for the ride. Sarah had nothing to do with it.”

“That’s not why I’m mad,” he said. “It’s the time travel jump. I told Liz she was forbidden to ever try that.”

I met his gaze straight on. “She’d be dead had she not tried.”

“You’ve have no idea how dangerous it is,” he roared.

“She didn’t try it at the very beginning because she still thought we had a good chance of escaping. She only used it at the very last moment when I was burning to death.”

“She’s passed out on the bed. I called Dr. Meyers and she’s with her now.”

I gripped Victor’s hands. “I have to go and see if she’s all right.”

“You’re not coming near her. Just stay away. I just hope she comes out of it.” He stormed off, jumped in his car, and sped down the street.

I swallowed hard. Victor put an arm around me and pulled me close.

“He’s upset,” Victor said. “He’ll calm down soon. Let’s give him some space, and then I’ll go over and personally check on Liz.”

I nodded, praying to God Liz was okay. “Thank you.”

Victor and I decided to call Jackson and tell him all our findings. He came right over, and I was a little bit hesitant about letting him inside the house. That video Erica had showed me sent shivers up my spine. And it made me sick I was working with a murderer. I wanted no part of it. We’d have to find another way to save my life. Victor let Jackson in and we all talked for nearly an hour. I stared into those light blue eyes of his as he tried to reassure me that he was completely on our side.

“Prove it,” I said.

Jackson blew out his breath, the edge in his voice betraying his nervousness. He was afraid that we were going to back out of our deal.

“Everything I’ve done, I’ve done for you,” he said. “My team studied thousands of ancient books for countless months looking for a cure for you.”

I sighed. “Not for me. For you. Because you need me.”

“You didn’t go out of your way solely for Sarah’s wellbeing,” Victor said. “So let’s stop pretending like you did.”

Jackson shook his head. “If you walk away from our deal, you will ruin everything I’ve ever worked for, everything the rebellion has ever fought for.” He blew out a breath. “I don’t know how many times I have to tell you that me and the rebellion don’t hurt people. It’s the exact opposite. We fight to get our world back into moral hands. We don’t feed on people’s energy like the others do.”

“Then how do you survive?” I asked.

He pulled out a syringe and Victor reached for his gun from his ankle holster. Our powers were paralyzed and brutal force was all we had against the Immortals.

“Put that gun away,” Jackson said. “I mean you no harm.”

Victor slowly put his gun back into his holster as a token of trust.

I stared down at the syringe filled with green fluid.

Jackson lifted up his shirt sleeve and injected himself with the serum. “The medicine inside that syringe gives me the energy I need to survive. So you see, I don’t have to kill anyone. I want to get the serum into everyone’s hands, so we don’t have to kill humans. The rebellion wants to live with humans and be at peace with them. We harbor the mortal race no ill feelings.”

“But the others do.”

“They only see humans as cattle. And they murder without blinking an eye lash. We have to stop them and I plan to do everything in my power to bring them down. They killed my wife and I’m going to make them pay if it’s the last thing I ever do.”

I felt my heart quickening as I took in all the tiny details: the way he moved, his facial expressions, his posture, the way his lip twitched, and how he carried himself. My eyes absorbed everything, searching for something—anything—that proved he was telling me the truth. Because I refused to work with a murderer. But my gut said to trust him. I wanted to believe everything he said.

I swallowed past the lump in her throat. “If you’re telling the truth, then it’s very admirable.”

“We’ll keep our deal,” Victor said, walking him to the door.

He stepped out on the porch. “Thank you.”

We walked him to his truck and waved goodbye.

“I have Sarah’s best interests in mind. If she dies, then all my plans die with her.”

I wrapped my arm around Victor. “Oh, isn’t Jackson precious? He wants to keep me alive for his own selfish gains, but that’s okay. If it means that I’ll live to raise our son, then I say we let him use me.” I held out my hand. “We have a deal, Jackson. Now get the hell off my porch.”

“My people will make sure nothing happens to you. Once you’re on the island, well, that’s up to you if you live or die.” And with that he turned and traced off with Immortal speed as a gust of wind blew in my face.

“That was a dramatic exit,” I said.

“I should get him a job at the theater,” Victor said.

“No way. Then we’ll be stuck working with him twenty-four seven.”

We both laughed and Victor wrapped his arm around me as we headed back in the house.

Part of me didn’t trust Jackson, but I felt that he was sincere. I could feel the emotion in his voice as he talked about how much he wanted to take down the Immortals. And I knew how hurt he was when his wife died. But I was nothing more to him than a means to an end. He seemed like he might have compassion for humans and I hoped he really did. If the rebellion could win this war against the Immortals and take over, then maybe the Immortal world would be a lot better off. Murdering innocent humans for meals didn’t sit well with me. When I talked to Dr. Meyers, I’d ask her more.

Victor went and checked on Liz. Charles had settled down and Liz was doing much better. It was such a relief. I crawled into bed and Victor held me until I fell fast asleep. Alexander slept good too, and we both got some much needed rest. I knew I’d wake up rested and refreshed.

Chapter 12

Everything was packed and ready for our trip to Purity Island. The clock read eleven a.m. Victor was out running last minute errands and I’d totally forgotten that the cake I ordered was ready to be picked up. I’d had ordered it two weeks ago, not knowing I’d be going on a lifesaving trip. I figured I could still slip in a little birthday party. After all, we didn’t leave until tomorrow.

The video recorder was running on a stand I had set up. I decorated a small area with balloons and banners. The beautiful cake was lit and I began singing happy birthday. Afterward, I looked directly into the camera.

“Happy birthday, Alexander. I know you can’t blow out your candles so I’ll do it for you.” I blew out the candles in one single breath. “I just wanted to tell you happy birthday in person. I wanted it to be more special and personal than just a letter. Although, I did write you a long one for this special milestone. Have Daddy read it to you, okay?”

It took everything I had not to break down and to continue being happy. I wanted his fifth birthday to be joyous and uplifting, not depressing and melancholy. I went on to wish my beautiful son happy birthday wishes. The tape kept rolling so I took it to a deeper level. Taking a deep breath, I continued. “I can’t begin to tell you the joy you’ve brought into my life. I know I’m not here right now, but you’ll never be alone. Daddy, Grandma, Grandpa, Liz, and Charles will always be there for you no matter what happens in this life. I know I’ve told you this countless times, but I loved you before I ever knew you. We have this magical bond between us that even death couldn’t take away. This old woman told me the news of your impending birth, and painted pictures on the cavern wall showing me. I’d never been happier in my entire life than that moment I learned about you. Your daddy and I love you unconditionally. You’ve been my inspiration, Alexander. And you might not even understand what that means yet. But it means you make me want to be a good person and the best mom I can be. I have so much hope that you’ll make your mark in this world. There is a whole universe out there, and I want you to know anything is possible. You can do anything you set your mind too. All it takes is a little hard work because nothing comes easy. And don’t worry about a mistake here and there. We all make them. I’ve made plenty of mistakes myself. I wish I could change things, but my life choices ultimately led me to you and Daddy. I wouldn’t change it for the world. I’ll love you forever my precious son.

A knock on the door startled me. I walked over and peeked out the window. It was Liz.

I hugged her tightly. “How are you?”

“I’m fine. All that power took a toll on my poor body. My temperature shot up to 105 degrees. But after a nasty shot in the arm by the doc, I was fine. I’m sorry Charles got so bent out of shape.”

“He loves you,” I said.

She smiled. “I have the best husband in the whole wide world.”

“Charles is wonderful and he cares about you so much.”

Liz glanced around. “You’re having a party without me?”

“Kind of,” I muttered.

She looked down at the cake. “Happy fifth birthday, Alexander.” Cocking a brow, she looked at me. “What’s going on?”

My gaze drifted to the video camera. “I’m making a video diary for my son’s fifth birthday.”

“I can see that. I guess the better question is why?”

I didn’t say anything. If I did, I’d burst out in tears. Liz didn’t press any further and hugged me tightly. I hugged her back and the tears started to roll.

“What’s wrong?” she asked.

“I’m dying, Liz.”

“Maybe it feels like it. I know it must suck taking pills for the rest of your life, but that precious medication is worth it.”

I preceded to tell her the whole story and she was completely dumbfounded. I even went on to tell her all about Purity Island. I wasn’t even sure if she believed it. It was like she was in complete denial, but after it all finally sunk it, she started to cry.

“I wish I could heal you,” she said. “But unstable energy from Immortals isn’t something I can fix.” She looked up at me. “We tried to completely heal you in the Immortal hospital. Victor, Charles, and me, we all tried so very hard. We were able to get your blood pressure down, but we couldn’t fix the unstable energy. I’m so sorry.”

“You saved my son’s life. I owe you everything.”

“I know I don’t get emotional very often, but I hope you know how much I love you and that little nephew of mine. And I’ll do everything in my power to help you.”

“Then you know I have to try anything and everything possible, even if it sounds crazy and far-fetched.”

“I’m going with you to Purity Island.”

“No you’re not.”

“Why not? I’m your sister and I think I need to be there to support you.”

“Victor thought the same thing and already asked. Jackson said no.”

“Is he afraid I might hang that chief upside down by his toes and demand the eternal bloom?”

I laughed. “I wouldn’t put that past you.”

“Because I would if that’s what it took to get you fixed.”

“It’s a very private island. Only Victor and I can plead our case to the chief.”

“Do you trust Jackson?” she asked.

“I really have no other options. And he seems genuine.”

“Because he’s using you.”

“If he saves my life, then I don’t care.”

A tear slipped down her face. “I can’t lose you. You’re not only my sister but my best friend.”

I gripped her hands softly. “I’m going to beat this thing.”

“If that’s the case, then why are you recording birthday parties that you’ll be attending?”

“Because tomorrow is not promised. I’ll hope. I’ll pray. I’ll fight. But I can’t live in denial either. This is just a precaution if things don’t go according to plan. I’ve written countless letters and have done hundreds of video diaries. I’ve even wrapped Christmas presents for Alexander’s first eighteen years. I’ve even went as far to wrap my precious son a heartfelt wedding present.” I let out a sigh. “And I’ve done the same for Victor.”

“You’ve gotten Victor a wedding present and wrapped up birthday presents until his eighteenth birthday?” she joked.

I playfully slapped her. “You know what I mean. I wrote Victor letters and made him video diaries. And I’ve wrapped presents for him for special occasions. Everything is up in the attic in huge waterproof containers.”

“You’ve covered every base. You’ve always been like that. I wish I could be more responsible like you. And I’m supposed to. I’m the big sister.”

“I guess with my letter and video diaries, I was trying to leave a legacy. It’s my last chance to pass down all my strongest beliefs and values. Alexander needs to know what matters most in life. I want my letters to help my son build self-esteem and confidence. I want him to know who I am and see my personality through my words.”

“You’ve done a fantastic job,” Liz said. “I’m impressed. I truly am.”

“Thank you.”

“Are you hungry?” she suddenly asked.

I touched my big, bulging stomach. “I’m always hungry.”

“Great! Let’s go pig out at Jerry’s Grill.” Her eyes widened. “We can get a huge burger and loaded French fries with tons and tons of cheese.”

“How about desert first?” I asked. “I really want to try Alexander’s cake.”

“I’ve never been one to say no to cake.”

I glanced down and stared at the cake. “Victor and I were supposed to have a fabulous wedding. I picked out the prettiest wedding cake.”

“Quit talking that way. I know you’re moody from being pregnant and facing death is never fun, either, but don’t give up. You’re going to have that wedding of yours. You’re going to walk down that church isle and all your friends and family are going to smile as you radiantly shine in that big fluffy wedding gown. And then you and Victor are going to have a fabulous life and raise your beautiful son.”

I smiled. “I picked the color of your bridesmaid’s dress.”

“I thought Beth was going to be your maid of honor. Unless you’re still pissed over the Frank thing.”

“I’m so over Frank,” I said. “Beth is going to be my maid of honor, but you’re going to be my matron of honor.”

She scooped herself a piece of cake. “I’d be so honored, Sarah. Thank you for choosing me to be part of your special day.”

“Well, you’re my sister and Mom said I had to let you in my wedding.

She playfully slugged me, then smirked. “I’m not sure if I want to hear what my dress is going to look like. But we are definitely heading in the right direction. We’re talking about hope and a future. So what’s the lucky color?”

I took a big bite of Alexander’s delicious birthday cake.

“Well?”

“My mouth is full,” I muttered.

“And since when did that matter.”

I playfully slugged her. “It’s royal blue. You’re going to wear a blue, silk gown with spaghetti straps.”

Her eyes lit up. “I’m so glad to hear that! And so will Beth. I thought you were going to put us in some frilly, purple number.”

“You deserve it. But I wouldn’t do that to you. This wedding is still on,” I said. “I’m going to go get that flower. I’m going to get my life back and I’ll do everything in my power to make sure I live to see the wedding I’ve been dreaming of my entire life.”

Liz smiled. “Yep. The second you get back from your exotic trip, we’ll work on all the small details. Now you’re getting a limo, right? Because I can’t be seen riding around in my junker car.”

I laughed. “Isn’t this supposed to be my day?”

We both laughed as we cleaned everything up and then left for the restaurant to ‘pig out’. I knew my sister was on an emotional roller-coaster just like the rest of us. She tried to smile and act cheerful, but underneath I knew how upset she really was. I tried to stay positive but the ‘what if’ kept rearing its ugly head. What if the cure didn’t work? I refused to believe that and gave myself positive pep talks. I had to stay strong not only for myself but for my unborn son. He needed me more than anything. And I was going to be there for him...whatever it took.

Chapter 13

It took Victor a while to come to the conclusion that the trip to Purity Island was worth it to save my life. We packed our bags and took the ten hour flight out to Nadi, Fiji. It was simple enough, because Jackson had served as our travel agents; he made all the plans and reservations for us, and all we had to do was follow the notes he left for us in a folder.

We boarded the plane and Victor loaded my bag into the overhead carrier. The plane took off and I looked at the blue sky and clouds passing by me. I always loved the window seat. The stewardess doted on me. She brought me hot towels, lotions, neck pillows, healthy snacks, eye masks, and extra drinks.

I glanced at Victor. “Why is she paying so much attention to me?”

“Because you’re a first class patron.”

“Or maybe it’s because I’m pregnant.”

When she came back over, she smiled and offered me another bottled water.

“I’m fine,” I said. “But thank you.”

“But I insist,” she said. “Jackson’s orders.”

I reached for the bottle. “Thank you.” I then turned and looked at Victor. “There you have it. Jackson is involved.”

“I told him I wanted you pampered every step of the way.”

“You didn’t?”

He smiled. “I did. I want nothing but the best when it comes to my beautiful wife.”

Turbulence shook the plane, and I sucked in a deep breath.

Victor gripped my hand. “It’s okay, my love.”

“I get a little freaked out when it comes to flying, but you’re as cool as a cucumber.”

He looked out the window and stared at the blue sky and wisps of clouds. “It’s amazing.”

“I tried to explain airplanes to you before, remember? When I sketched one for you?”

“Your picture was...a little different.”

I laughed and playfully nudged him. “I’m not the artist in the family.”

“Never in my wildest dreams would I have imagined that we could fly, especially in a carriage in the sky. Your world is nothing short of amazing.”

“Wait a minute, Highness. Did you just compliment my modern world?”

He squeezed my hand. “It’s not where I choose to live, but there are many admirable things here, truly fantastic things.”

“I’m so glad you’ve gotten the opportunity to explore and experience it, if only for a little while.”

“It helps me to understand you more. I wish my world had some of your technology,” Victor said.

I winked. “Did you really just say that? Pinch me. I think I’m dreaming.”

He let out a low chuckle.

“Am I winning you over, my love?”

He smiled. “I do understand why you love it here so much. The landscape is beautiful, and your customs and traditions like Christmas and Easter are wonderful. I’ve met most of your relatives, from cousins to aunts, and they have been warm, friendly, and accepting. They make me feel like family. Your world is so much more advanced than mine. All in all, it’s a wonderful place to live.”

* * *

When the plane landed, we disembarked and met our contact that Jackson had arranged. He took us by Jeep to a boat where an Immortal team was ready and waiting. We introduced ourselves and boarded the small, sailing yacht. Out of all the places I’d ever been, I knew this was one travel adventure I’d never forget.

“Are you ready to visit the island?” Victor said.

“I’ve never been more ready,” I answered.

The wind blew through my hair as I watched dolphins race in the bow wave of the boat. I looked out across the bluish water that seemed to stretch for mile and miles. Everything seemed so peaceful and serene. I leaned over the railing, and the cool spray from the ocean misted my face. It almost felt like Victor and I were merely on vacation, enjoying a carefree boat ride.

Still, I knew the harsh reality of the situation. My life would most likely end in days, if not sooner. Finding the blossom was my last-ditch effort to survive. It infuriated me that my life depended on a crazy myth, but I knew there had to be some truth; otherwise, Jackson never would have funded the mission. I had no idea that Jackson needed me as much as I needed him, that he’d been working nonstop since the minimart to find a cure for me. Regardless of his motives, I was willing to do anything to have a happy life with my child.

When Victor kissed my lips, I smiled. I loved how the wind ruffled his dark hair and the sunlight danced and sparkled in his blue eyes. I couldn’t help but wonder if we were spending our last days together.

“We shall triumph, my love,” he said, pushing a stray strand of hair from my face.

“You bet,” I said confidently.

Victor and I got comfortable at the bow of the boat. Time flew by, and the next thing I knew, hours had dwindled away.

A crewman walked over to us and pointed. “We have arrived,” he said.

I swallowed hard. From a distance, the island looked dark and ominous. “This could be it, baby,” I said, hoping the myth was true.

Victor wrapped his arm around me. “We will not leave that island without that blossom.”

I leaned into his chest. “You don’t have to tell me twice.”

“I love you, Sarah,” he said.

“I love you too.”

* * *

Dazzling streaks of lightning crisscrossed the dark sky, quickly followed by a howling wind. My breath quickened. I lifted my hands and felt light droplets on my skin. I swallowed as I tried to calm my nerves.

“It’s an omen!” a man cried. “We shouldn’t be anywhere near this island!”

Another man grabbed his arm. “Listen, if we don’t deliver the couple to the island and take them back safely, we don’t get paid.”

“I don’t care. We must leave. The island is cursed! I’d rather have my life than a little gold in my pocket!”

“Nonsense! Payment won’t be made until they reach the island, get whatever it is they’re looking for, and return safely. We’re being paid over a million dollars, and I won’t turn my back on that kind of money because of your superstitions, you jerk.”

Victor gripped the rail and struggled to keep his footing. Rain poured, and the waves grew taller and frothier with each passing moment. “I see the island, just a few miles away. We’re so close.”

“They’re threatening to go back,” I said. “They think the storm is a bad omen.”

A bolt of electricity branched across the clouds like a neon spider web, and another clap of angry thunder made me jump.

Victor wrapped an arm around me as the boat shuddered. “We’ve got less than two weeks!” he shouted, water streaming down his face and hair. “We’ll never find this island again on our own, especially not before the baby is born.”

Just then, a huge plume of salty, white spray burst into the air and splashed over me. I wiped my eyes with the back of my hand. “I’m not leaving! We’ve come too far.”

“Let’s find the captain,” he said, water dripping from his nose, chin, and hair.

We charged through the sheets of rain as thunder crashed overhead. Angry waves exploded against the hull and filled the air with tumbling water. The boat pitched as a wave broke over the side rail, ramming into my legs. I grabbed hold of a deck chair that was mounted to the floor and tried to steady myself. Water, at least four or five inches deep, spread across the fiberglass exterior, threatening to wash my feet out from under me.

With my pregnant belly jutting out in front of me, I slowly waddled toward the cabin door. Just above me, another crack of thunder exploded. Goosebumps pimpled my skin. There was more blindingly white light before the single streak of lightning broke into several branches. I breathed in and out deeply, hoping to make it to the cabin.

The boat lurched again. Shivering, I shielded my face with an arm, clenching my teeth as I inched forward. Stinging rain pounded down harder. I started to slip, but Victor caught me, there for me as always. As I pushed myself up, an enormous wall of water rose high above us, crested, and slowly fell over our heads like a collapsing building. I tried to scream and swallowed a lungful of bitter seawater as I slammed into something hard. I wrapped my arms around it, the rail, and clung with all my might. A shudder ripped through my body, and salt stung my eyes and throat, but I didn’t dare let go. My heart lurched. In a blur, I scrambled up, coughing and choking, and that was when I noticed that the boat was turning around. The wind whipped across my face as I cried out, “No! We can’t go back! We can’t! Stop!”

Victor shielded his eyes and peered out through the driving rain. He grabbed the crewman’s hand. “Why are we turning around?”

“The storm will take this boat down!” the seaman yelled. “The island doesn’t want us here, and the sea will swallow us if we stay!”

“Take us to the island!” Victor demanded.

The captain shielded his face from the rain. “I can’t. My men are too frightened, and I cannot man this ship on my own. I cannot risk a mutiny.”

Something cold swirled around my ankles. Water! Rushing in...fast! I gasped. Floating floorboards, cushions, charts, and magazines sloshed about the deck. I froze, and my breath caught in my throat.

Goosebumps covered my arms as the boat teetered on the crest of a mountainous swell. Tilting forward, the vessel dropped through the air like an elevator in free fall. I clenched my teeth, gripping the doorframe till my knuckles went white. When the boat slammed into the trench, a towering surge of saltwater crashed over my head. I pushed back wet strands of tangled hair and wiped my eyes. Victor staggered and grabbed hold of the rail as rain sheeted down, his drenched clothes clinging to his muscled body.

The boat pitched, and I fought to keep my balance. I hung on as another wave slammed into our ship like a giant fist. The storm dumped another huge wave onto the deck, knocking my feet out from under me. I grunted from the sudden impact, and my mouth dropped as the boat started to speed away from the island.

“No!” I shouted. “Stop them, Victor! We can’t give up!” My stomach sank.

“Sarah, they’re scared to death. They say there is a vile curse on the island. They will not listen to us.”

I sucked in a sharp gulp of air. “Then you must compel them.”

A frown formed on his lips. “I cannot compel Immortals. They’re afraid the waves are going to rip the boat apart board by board.”

The back of my throat felt dry, and a rush of heat swept over me in spite of the cold water soaking my clothes.

“Then we’ll swim to the island,” I shouted over the roaring rain. “We didn’t come all this way for nothing.”

He nodded and handed me a life vest. I adjusted my vest, pulled the canvas straps, and snapped the buckle around my waist. “Ready?”

He nodded again, and we both climbed over the rail. The waves were huge, bellowing with loud roars, as if the sea was belching. With a giant leap, we plunged into the tumult. Water rushed down my throat and up my nose, and I fought to keep my head above the surface. As I realized just how rough the waves were, I feared we had made the wrong decision; I suddenly felt as if I could relate to a helpless little sock in a giant washing machine.

Chapter 14

“Victor!” I yelled.

“Sarah,” he said, swimming over to me.

I could hear the crew’s incoherent shouts over the booming thunder. I screamed, flailing and flapping my arms to stay above the current. I forced my mouth shut to avoid swallowing too much saltwater. When I looked up, I could only see the top halves of their bodies, ducking and rising out of view. Finally, they flung a rope over the side of the boat, and someone screamed something to me, though I had no idea what he said.

Again, I was faced with a difficult choice. Should I reach for the rope? No! I’ll take my chances and swim to the island.

A giant explosion of white water rushed over the vessel, followed by a loud crack and a dull thud. The rigging and sails crashed to the deck, along with the eighty-foot mast. I glanced around in frantic disbelief but saw nothing but rising mountains of water. Gasping for breath, I tried not to choke on the salty foam being thrust into my mouth by the wild, tumbling waves. I focused my attention back on Victor.

The force of the wave pushed me down, spinning me around in total darkness like I was caught in yet another rinse cycle. I held my breath, my lungs burning for sweet release and fresh oxygen. If I don’t get air soon...

The pressure in my ears was unbearable. When the spinning stopped, my lungs were on fire, and I flailed my arms, trying to orient myself. Am I upside down or right side up? I forced myself to stop struggling and let my body float. Okay. Now I know the way. Powerful kicks propelled me upward. Just before my lungs collapsed, I burst through the surface.

Apart from the flashes of lightning, I saw nothing but pitch black. My hands moved around me, frantic to grasp something—anything—but there was only water. A deafening roar like a passing train filled my ears, and I clutched my lifejacket for dear life.

I coughed, exhausted, and my body trembled with the effort to keep myself afloat. There was no way I would let the undertow drag me down.

Dizziness washed over me as I struggled to free myself from the spiraling water. My lungs were burning, and I opened my mouth to scream, but saltwater rushed in. An explosion of bubbles surrounded me, brushing across my skin. A tremendous force pushed me upward, faster and faster. Bursting through the surface, I sucked in desperate gulps of air—wonderful, glorious, awesome air.

I heard Victor’s voice and swam to it through the darkness. When I saw an outline in the darkness bobbing up and down in the water, I knew it was my brave husband. “Victor!” I screamed.

“Sarah!” his frantic answer was.

My heart leapt in response to the familiar voice. I exhaled and wiped the tears away, overwhelmed with relief. Smiling, I forced my burning muscles to propel me through the water. The waves began to calm, and I glanced around for the boat. The sun peeked from the clouds, and while that was a good sign that Mother Nature’s little temper tantrum was over, the boat was nowhere in sight; it was as if the boat itself had thrown the island into a rage.

“Sarah!” Victor yelled. He met me halfway and threw his arms around me. “Are you okay?” His voice wavered. Treading water, he stroked the hair from my face.

“I’m fine,” I said. “What about you? Are you okay, baby?”

“Yes, I’m fine, but I am confused. Why did the storm stop so suddenly?”

“I don’t know,” I said, “but for now, let’s just get to that island.”

Drifting clouds floated above us, turning from gold to brown, then to purple, pink, and orange. I stared at our picturesque surroundings in awe. Morning mist hung over a landscape that stretched for miles and miles. Palm trees lined the beach, and in the distance, green mountains dotted with color towered high into the sky. Canopies of leaves in the glowing hues of autumn decorated the skyline. Where the sun peered through, everything seemed to glisten. Truly, it was like some majestic island right out of a fairytale. I only hoped it would be our happily-ever-after.

Pebbles shifted under my shoes as I waded to shore. My arms felt heavy and numb. The pain in my legs intensified with the stifling weight of my wet clothes, and I panted from the exertion. Only a few more feet to go. When my feet touched land, I shouted in victory, then collapsed from exhaustion. A surge of relief flooded through me. At that moment, all I could think of was getting out of the water, how great it would feel to lie on a warm beach and dry off. My labored breathing eased, though my lungs still burned and my head pounded.

Gentle waves lapped at the shoreline, just inches from my face. I felt the gritty sand against my cheek. Rolling onto my back, I drew in a lungful of fresh air and let the sun beat down on my skin. My eyes fluttered open against the glaring light. I knew I had to get up, but I just lay there, unable to move.

Victor crawled out of the water and fell, face first, into the white sand next to me. “Are you all right, my love?”

“I’m okay, and I can feel the baby kicking. He’s as healthy and active as ever.”

I inhaled the scent of the ocean, salty, with its hint of coconut. Cheerful bird songs echoed through the air. Monkeys squealed, and a symphony of insects sounded in my ears. “Do you think we’re on the right island?” I asked.

“Absolutely. Now, we must only find out if this eternal bloom actually exists.”

“Let’s hope for the best,” I said, meeting his gaze. My muscles ached from fatigue, but I forced myself upright.

I admired the breathtaking beauty all around me. Coconut trees were scattered about the sand, and the sweet scent of flowers wafted in the breeze. It was a tropical paradise, like a picture on a “Wish You Were Here” postcard or an ad for suntan lotion. A dense jungle peered out from beyond the sandy beach. I jumped to my feet, turned in a slow circle, and scanned the landscape. As I looked around, the chirping of birds intensified, overshadowing the rhythmical crashing of waves against the shore.

Victor came over and placed his hands on my stomach. “I’m so glad you are all right,” he said.

“We’re doing good,” I said. “How are you?”

He straightened, poised with confidence. “I feel wonderful. We’ve found the island, and now we will find your cure.”

I turned to face him, shading my eyes from the glare. “If what Jackson says is true.”

“Only one way to tell.” He kissed my cheek, then glanced toward the vegetation. “Let’s look for a village and see if we can find the chief.”

I nodded and stared at him. The wind blew dark strands of hair across his face, and he looked absolutely gorgeous in the sunlight. I was so happy to have such a fantastic husband, one who loved me so much that he’d risk everything a chance to save my life. I wondered all over again how I’d gotten so lucky. I was scared about what we might have to face on the mysterious island, but knowing Victor was with me made it all so much easier.

Birds nosily chirped, and monkeys squealed as I pushed through a tangle of elongated, dark green fronds and several leaves the size of elephant ears. My jaw dropped in awe. Monstrous purple and pink begonias, bromeliads, and orchids lined the rainforest floor. A gentle mist hung in the air, and 747-sized insects swirled in the rays of light that were filtering through the towering, vine-draped tree ferns growing in groves like giant umbrellas on sticks, all with ten-foot leaves.

“It’s like we’re in a Tarzan movie,” I said.

We forged our way through and hiked deeper into the dense jungle. The thick aroma of fresh earth and exotic flowers lingered in the air. As I marched along, my shoes squished in the soft, spongy soil. As we hiked through overgrown ferns, I felt like an adventurer, and I had to laugh inwardly at that, since the average swashbuckler was seldom ever nine months pregnant. I pushed a branch out of the way and gasped deeply; it was difficult to breathe in such hot, humid weather. Beads of sweat poured down my back.

According to Jackson, our first goal was to go look for the White Coyote of the island, to get his blessing for us to pick the bloom.

“Are you faring well, milady?” Victor asked, helping me over a huge log.

“I’m fine,” I softly said, climbing up the steep slope. “Just don’t mind the wobbling.”

He wiped his brow. “I just wish to find your flower and get off this island. As much as I hate to admit it, your world has me spoiled to the comfortable sofa and the remote control.”

I laughed. “Very funny, Victor. I know full well you’d rather be jogging with a heavy log over your head, strength training like a caveman.”

He smiled at me. “You know me too well, My Queen.”

I grinned and stepped between towering tropical plants. I scanned past the black and green, splotched vegetation and saw only more jungle; there was no village or any sign of civilization in sight. I tried to get my mind off my problems and focus on all the intricate beauty around me. Parrots watched us from the branches; I was quite mesmerized by the colorful birds, which I’d never seen before, other than in cages. Other birds sang from branches high up in the canopy, and insects buzzed all around us. Enormous butterflies with orange and black wings chased each other through the patches of warm sunshine streaming down through the towering trees.

I kept hiking through the dense forest when a loud crunch jolted me out of my thoughts. Grabbing Victor’s arm, I stopped to listen and craned my neck toward him.

“I heard it too,” he said.

I stiffened and spun around. “We need to be extra careful.” I swept an uneasy glance around the trees, my senses on full alert. “I have a funny feeling we’re being watched.”

“I see no one,” Victor said. “However, there was a noise. Surely someone is pursuing us.”

“Someone or something?” I retorted with a gulp as my imagination ran wild. The snap of a twig behind us, followed by the unmistakable crunch of dried leaves, halted me mid step. I strained to listen. The snap of another twig drifted through the forest. I looked around the trees and high grass, calling out, “Hello! Who’s there?” My heart skipped a beat. “What do you want?”

The chirping of crickets and singing of birds were my only reply. I jumped, startled, as a sudden flash of black glinted to our left.

Victor looked out into the surrounding woods. “I cannot see clearly, my dear, but it appears to be some sort of animal.”

I flinched when, for a split second, I saw yellow eyes in the foliage. “I only caught a glimpse too.”

Chapter 15

The birds stopped chirping, and I knew they were aware of a predator lurking somewhere in the foliage. The eerie silence made my skin crawl. I’d never been hunted before, at least not by four-legged wildlife, and the idea of it happening on that island frightened me beyond belief.

A loud call broke the silence, and the flutter of gargantuan wings sent another chill down my spine as a crow-sized bird took off; I was sure the feathered one wasn’t what was causing all the scuffle. I glanced up at it and held my hand over my fast-thumping heart. “It’s only a bird, but let’s keep moving.”

When a low, throaty growl rumbled from the left, I jumped. I bit down hard on my bottom lip. The same pair of yellow eyes I’d had seen moments earlier peered through the giant leaves of a tropical bush, and my heart lurched.

* * *

Another menacing growl broke the silence. My heart thudded against my ribcage, and a shiver swept over my skin. A tangle of leaves with serrated edges covered the creature’s legs and part of its black coat. Even still, I could tell it had to be roughly three feet tall at its shoulder. The animal turned its head and locked its fierce, yellow gaze on me. Beads of sweat broke across my brow. Wait a minute, I thought, recalling that I was still thinking like a human. The animal can’t even kill me, and if it does decide to attack, Victor can surely take care of it. “It’s a panther,” I whispered, staggering back.

Sunlight from above filtered through the high branches giving the menacing creature an eerie glow.

Victor took a fighting stance as he moved closer. “A panther is no match for a warrior.”

“No!” I reminded him, recalling Jackson’s list of rules.

“Sarah, need I remind you that I’ve fought dragons and conquered them victoriously?”

“Victor, we can’t kill any animals on the island, remember?”

“Then I must fend it off somehow without harming it.”

“Right. Can you just scare it or give it a good kick, just to show it you mean business?”

Snarling, the beast inched closer and closer, baring its sharp, white teeth. Its fur stood on end, its ears fell back, and its eyes were blazing like the sun above us.

“I may have to do more than just kick it, Sarah. Do you want to be mauled?” he asked.

“No!” I said.

“I will not allow this beast to hurt my family,” Victor roared. “I won’t stand by and do nothing, rules or not—especially when it’s stalking us.”

Before I could say another word, the black panther swatted at me with its massive paw, revealing a row of yellowed, razor-sharp claws. I jumped back, narrowly dodged its swing.

Victor jumped and landed on the beast and began to wrestle it. He wrapped his strong arms around its neck as the animal hissed and growled.

“Don’t kill it, Victor!” I roared. “If you do, we’ll never get that bloom! If you kill that panther, you’ll be killing me too, Victor! Please let the cat go!”

He met my gaze as he squeezed the beast’s neck, strangling it.

“Let it go,” I whispered in a soothing tone. “Please!”

His stern expression softened at my pleas, and I knew he wouldn’t hurt the animal. Victor lifted the beast above his arms and threw it into the tangle of soft vegetation. It let out a pig-like squeal and fled into the tall grass, with its tail literally tucked between its legs. “If that animal comes back, it may not be so lucky,” he said.

“I think you scared the kitty away for good,” I said, gripping his hand. “Come on.”

Victor’s gaze narrowed as he studied the vegetation. “I hear something else now.”

“The panther again? Really?” I asked.

His eyes widened. “No. This sound is more...it is a two-legged stalker this time.”

With my Immortal hearing, I caught the sound of a loud whistle whizzing past my ear.

Victor grimaced as a thin dart pierced the skin on his neck.

“What...who’s shooting at us?” I asked, bewildered and frightened as he pulled me behind a tree.

He peered out, then gave my hand a yank. “This way. Let’s go!”

We bolted through the leafy vegetation, but we hadn’t gotten very far before my skin suddenly began to burn. I felt something prick my neck, like a sting from a bee on steroids. “Ow! What the...?” I couldn’t believe I’d been shot too. My breath caught in fear, but I knew I couldn’t stop. As we ran, I pulled out the thin dart and threw it on the ground.

When I looked up and saw a group of warriors blocking our path, I gasped. Other hunters were slowly making their way toward us from every direction, closing in on us. I took a shaky breath. They reminded me of a pack of hungry wolves, circling around us, ready to pounce. Victor shielded me from being shot by more darts, but I refused to let them hurt us or our baby. Just as I clenched my fists to defend myself, the ground began to spin beneath me, and everything blurred. I crashed to the ground.

Heart racing, I peered around me. Hundreds of Indians surrounded us, pointing spears in our direction. They had white dots, designs, and stripes in various patterns all over their bodies, and all of them had white stripes running vertically down their painted faces. They were wearing white earrings, likely fashioned out of bone, antlers, or shells. Their bodies were concealed only by simple loincloths, and their hair was black, with white streaks painted in it. They were all muscular and fit, with high cheekbones and frowns on their faces—warriors in every sense of the word.

“We didn’t hurt the panther!” I yelled, assuming they were angry at us for disturbing the natural balance of their island. “We just gave it a good scare, that’s all.”

They didn’t speak or flinch. Gripping their spears tightly, they just glared at us.

My stomach dropped into my shoes. “Victor!” I said, inching closer to him. “I don’t think they like trespassers much.”

He gripped my hand tightly, and a trickle of sweat rolled down his face. He blinked, as if to focus.

“Are you okay?” I asked.

He nodded, then wiped his brow. “We must try to make peace with these natives.”

I stared at my hands and thought, for a moment, that I had four of them. “Everything’s spinning...and I’m seeing double.” At that point, I was sure I’d been shot with a blowgun. It felt as if Guardian poison was surging through my veins, and I worried that they had somehow obtained it, one of the rare things that could kill me. Is this the end, after all I’ve been through? After all we’ve survived, am I gonna die out here in the jungle on some mythical island? I had survived death so many times, yet I now worried that my child and I would be destroyed by a tiny little poisonous dart. What kind of game is fate playing with me? Or maybe it’s my own fault for coming here without an invitation. I touched my stomach, and a tear tumbled down my face. “I’m so sorry, Alexander.”

It was all a blur, but I felt a tug as one of the warriors grabbed my arm, and I collapsed.

Victor swiftly intervened and lunged at one of the warriors. “Do not treat her this way! She’s carrying my child!” he shouted, as if he was ready to take on the whole clan.

Everything started to blur even more. I blinked, but it didn’t help my vision to clear. I could only make sense of Victor crashing to the ground next to me. I took a deep breath, reached for his hand, and held it in a death grip. “I love you, Victor. You’re my...” I tried to say, but I couldn’t get my tongue to cooperate.

“I love you too,” he said as his eyes fluttered shut.

My heart lurched. Through the fog, I crawled closer to him, then collapsed on his chest. I softly touched his face. “I love you so, so much.” Then, dizziness rushed over me, and I drifted off into darkness.

Chapter 16

When I opened my eyes, I noticed knights guarding every corner of the huge room I stood in. Iron chandeliers holding a multitude of taupe-colored candles hung above me. Beautiful red and purple tapestries and elaborate arrangements of gleaming swords, maces, arm poles, and shields covered the stone-sculptured walls. Somehow, I was right back in Victor’s castle on my wedding day, dressed in that white and gold Juliet-style wedding dress. The corseted bodice clung to my chest like a second skin, and everything sparkled from the crystal and tulle embellishments. Curls trimmed my forehead and fell in ringlets down the sides of my face. Thicker curls hung loosely at the back of my head and neck. A long veil trailed to the ground, and I could feel the tiara on my head. Still, I felt far more confused than beautiful. My stomach dropped. How is this even possible?

Glancing up, I couldn’t keep from staring at the beautiful man before me, my wonderful husband. He looked so damn handsome all dressed up for his nuptials. I inhaled sharply, taking in every single detail. He wore his best black and white doublet with a golden lion emblazoned on the velvet, outlining every muscle in his chest. On his head was a gold crown, adorned with a variety of fancy jewels. The facets of the gems reflected the light of the torches, and I was completely mesmerized by the sight of him. And then I remembered that mind-blowing kiss we shared after the priest left the room,  hot kiss that would be seared into my memory forever.

I took a deep breath to steady my nerves. What’s going on? Did I travel back in time? Am I dead, or am I simply dreaming?

I glanced up at Victor. “Victor!” I gripped his hands as his muscles flinched from my touch, as if he was shocked by my actions. It was almost as if he didn’t recognize me as his loving wife, the mother-to-be of his child. I flipped a curl over my shoulder. “Victor, it’s me, Sarah.”

“Are we back to that again, Princess Gloria?” he asked, his jaw taut.

“Victor, you know who I really am.” I softly touched my stomach. “I’m carrying your baby, and—”

His face registered complete shock. “Have you gone mad? That’s not my child.”

“Yes it is! Alexander,” I said with absolute certainty.

He shook his head, and his voice cracked as he said, “We have never been...intimate, Princess. I assure you that child is not mine.”

“What are you talking about, Victor? We made love in the rain and created our child in perfect love,” I insisted. “How could you forget—”

“Clearly, you are delusional.” A troubled look settled over his face. “I just met you this morning, and I will not tolerate these accusations.”

“I can’t believe you’re treating me like this, Victor—like a complete stranger.”

His frown deepened, and he turned toward the priest. “She must have hit her head far harder than we thought,” he said. “We must bring in the healer as quickly as we can.”

“No healer!” I touched his arm.

Compassion filled his eyes, and he carefully studied my face. “Are you sure, Princess? We must consider your health and wellbeing a priority.”

I pushed a few curls away from my face. “Please! I’m fine. Let’s just continue.”

The frown resumed its hold on his face. Nonetheless, he nodded, and the priest continued.

It suddenly dawned on me why Victor didn’t recognize me as his wife; somehow, we’d been jolted back to the day we’d first met. As far as he knew, we hadn’t fallen in love yet. He’d captured me thinking I was Princess Gloria, and he didn’t yet have any idea of my true identity. He had mistaken me for an Immortal princess, and he was set to use me as a pawn in his little sparring match with William.

The priest smiled at me. “Do you take King Victor Fesque to be your wedded husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness, and in health, till death do you part, if the Holy Church doth ordain it?”

Just as I was about to say, “I do,” to the priest and the beaming Victor, already knowing how wonderful my life would be with him, a burst of light suddenly blinded me. When I opened my eyes, Victor was frozen like a statue. I looked at the priest, my lips trembling. “What’s going on? What’s happening?”

“I need to talk to you for a moment,” said the priest, cocking his head as if to study my reaction.

“Unfreeze him,” I begged. “Please.”

“I will, but you must hear me out first.” Without waiting for my answer, he continued, “Think long and hard before you accept this marriage.”

I cocked a brow, stumped.

“If you marry this man, your life will be forever changed, fair maiden.”

“I know that, but I-I love him,” I said, more determined than ever.

“You love him? Victor is pushing you into a cold, meaningless, rushed wedding, nothing at all like the glorious ceremony you’ve dreamt of since you were a little girl.”

“How do you know about that?”

His gaze narrowed. “I know everything about you.” He motioned to the knights. “You are not surrounded by your loved ones, your friends and family. These witnesses don’t even really know you. Your parents are not here, and won’t they be heartbroken to discover that you wed without their knowledge?”

“Sure, Reverend, Victor and I started out on the wrong foot, but things are different now, and—”

The priest stared at Victor and cut me off. “I can see he’s very smitten with you, but we both know he doesn’t really love you.”

“He doesn’t love me yet, but that’s because he’s only known me for a day. Victor is my soulmate, though, and over time, we’ll fall madly in love with each other.”

“If you accept his ring, his hand in marriage, you will be become an Immortal being. You will be chased by Victor’s enemies, who will want nothing more to kill you.” His voice grew more intense. “You will lose your friends, your family, and everyone and everything you have ever known and loved. You will outlive them all and will watch them die around you like flies as the years wane away. The world you now know will crash down around you. You will never permanently live in your home again, and your life will be here in Tastia for the rest of eternity.”

“I don’t care!” I shouted.

“But you hate this world,” he said.

“I don’t hate it. It’s just not...mine.”

“I know the entire picture. You’ve already told Victor you won’t stay in Tastia. You’ve made that clear numerous times and have warned him that you will leave with your friends, that you’ll go back through the portal. You even told your sister that, but you changed your mind at the last possible moment.”

I blinked. “How do you know all of this?”

“I know your entire story. So what made you change your mind at the portal? Beth and Frank were waiting for you on the other side.”

“I realized I couldn’t live without Victor.”

“And now you regret that split-second decision!”

A flash of anger cut through me. “No!”

“If you are being honest with yourself, Sarah, you know you regret it.”

I was furious at his blunt insistence that I regretted marrying my husband. I had never regretted marrying Victor, not for one single second. “I love Victor! I’d never regret being with him!”

“Victor detests your world,” he spat. “Is your love strong enough to endure that?”

“Yes,” I said as emotion flooded through me, and I meant it with all my heart. Victor was my life, my everything, and as I thought of him, I felt a love so overwhelming that tears slipped down my face.

A frown crept across the priest’s face. “Sarah, there is no hope for you. You will die because of the unstable energy battling for control of your body.”

“There’s always hope,” I said, with more determination than ever.

He fixed his gaze on me, and he laughed. “Hope is a beautiful notion, but that is all. What if I told you I could give it all back?”

I cocked a brow. “What do you mean? Give what back?”

He looked at me for a moment, then said, “If you refuse to wed Victor, I could take you back home to California this very second and you could live your life as a normal human. You can have your old life back. Deep down, I know that is your heart’s desire, my child.”

I stared harshly into his eyes, trying to determine why he was hassling me.

The priest didn’t flinch. “You made a mistake by putting on the ring of Immortality, but I can erase that mistake forever. I can take away your Immortality and make you human once again, as if it never happened. Just say the word.”

I pondered his offer for a moment. What if I could return to my world without the painful memories? What if I could go back? I could be human. I could live out my life like I was supposed to, sharing it with all my loved ones. Becoming Immortal was an accident, and I slipped into a life I’d never envisioned for myself. Being hunted down and chased by Victor’s enemies and the Immortal Court would fade from my memories. When I decided to stay behind while the others traveled through the portal, I’d had no idea what I was in for, but at that time, I didn’t care. Still, going back would mean losing the beautiful, loving man who was standing before me, along with the precious son we’d created in perfect love. I’d also lose my precious sister, Liz. No matter what I chose, I had plenty to lose, but in the end, I had to choose the loves of my life. A surge of panic rose inside of me. “If I go back, I’ll lose Victor, Liz, and my baby.”

“Your sister loves it here. We both know you interrupted her perfect life.”

I let out a trembling breath. “I know, but Victor and I are going to have a baby together, and—”

He shook his head. “You will be unaware of what you’re giving up. Life will resume as it was before you left your world. You’ll have human children with a human husband,” he said softly, “as you were meant to do in the first place.”

A crushing sense of guilt made me panic even more. “But then Alexander won’t exist.” I sucked in a deep breath. The thought of destroying my son ripped my heart out. “No! I don’t want other children. I want my Alexander. I love my son more than anything.”

The corner of his eyes crinkled. “But the burden of being Immortal will fade away. You’ve always said you weren’t given a choice, but that is what I am offering to you. You know what will happen when you become Immortal. You know the risks. You know that in the end, you will die.”

“That is not guaranteed,” I said, hope seeping through my voice.

“Sarah, you are very near the end of your life now, but that doesn’t have to happen. I can give you life. I can take you back through the portal. I can even take you back one year earlier so you won’t remember any of this. You can go on with your life as if none of this ever happened.”

I shook my head vehemently. “I don’t want to forget!” I shouted. My throat felt constricted as more panic rose up inside me.

“I can take away all the pain you suffered, grieving for him when you thought he died. I can make every single tiny bit of pain and worry and heartache disappear. All those dark memories will be erased, as long as you refuse to marry Victor. Do that, and you’ll wake up two years ago, in California.”

I stared at the priest, dumbfounded. “And I’m supposed to just pretend none of it ever happened?”

He nodded. “You will not have to pretend. If you do this, none of it will happen.”

“I’ve been to hell and back with Victor. There’s no doubt about that. But I’d go through it all over again, even if this is all the time we’ll have together,” I said, pouring out my heart. “I’d do it all over again.”

“Even though you’ll die?” he said sadly.

I met his gaze sharply. “I love Victor, and I’d rather have a short life with him than to have never met him at all.”

The priest just glared at me. Clearly, he didn’t expect such a standoff; he assumed I’d just take his wrinkled hand, close my eyes, and beg him to take me back to my old life, but that was not what I wanted.

“Unfreeze my husband now, and let’s get on with the ceremony.”

“But Victor is only marrying you because he thinks you’re Princess Gloria. Once you slip on the ring, you’ll become connected, with one beating heart. His enemy, William, will never try to kill him again, because if he does—”

“I know. He’ll kill his beloved daughter. I know the whole story, how it all works, and am aware of what Victor’s intentions and motives are. I’ve already lived this little fairytale, remember?”

“He’ll have quite the military advantage.”

I shrugged. “Maybe...if he has the right girl.”

“Do you enjoy tricking him, this man you claim to love? Do you take enjoyment in deceiving him?”

I raised my head. “We tricked each other, and we both felt badly.”

“He is only marrying you as part of a brilliant military strategy.”

“None of that matters, and it’s all water under the bridge. There is nothing you can do to stop me from marrying Victor. I love this man!” I shouted. “And he loves me!”

Suddenly, Victor unfroze, as if the conversation with the priest hadn’t even taken place. Victor shot me that gleaming smile, and my heart melted. He didn’t know it yet, but he was going to fall for me just as hard as I had fallen for him. The last time I’d stood there, reciting those vows to Victor, I’d been a nervous wreck, wondering why I’d marry such a tyrant for a simple ring. This time around though, I wasn’t scared, because I now knew Victor was my future. I stared into his eyes, wishing he knew what I knew. If this dream goes on, I won’t stop our make-out session after our vows, I decided. As a matter of fact, I might make love to him right there on the stone floor, like I shoulda done the first time around. And I sure as hell won’t be a runaway bride at the wedding reception. I knew exactly where Liz was this time, safe in Dornia, posing as Princess Gloria, and that made it even easier.

The priest smiled at me. “Do you take King Victor Fesque to be your wedded husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness, and in health, till death do you part, if the Holy Church doth ordain it?”

With all my heart and my emotion, I looked deeply into Victor’s beautiful eyes and announced proudly, “I do.”

Chapter 17

“Sarah?”

I heard a voice through the fog.

“Sarah!”

“Victor?” I opened my eyes.

He cupped my face. “Are you okay?”

“I’m...alive?” I asked, everything still hazy.

“Yes,” he said calmly, “for I certainly don’t believe this place to be Heaven.”

I twisted toward him. “How are you? Did they hurt you, Victor?”

“I’m fine. I will not go down so easily.”

“Right. You’re as strong as a fortress.” I chuckled inwardly. He had told me that once when I’d run from him and he’d tackled me to the ground as I tried to squirm away. As the fog from the drugs lifted, I noticed something odd. At first I thought we were snuggling together, lying in bed, but that obviously wasn’t the case. “Why are we smashed up together like this?”

“We’ve been captured, and this is a makeshift prison of some sort.”

I squinted, my grip tightening around what felt like rope. I felt all crunched up, my very pregnant body squished next to Victor’s, and that was when I realized I was in a tightly woven net that swayed and creaked when we moved; we were actually suspended off the ground, hoisted up about twenty-five feet in the air. Peering out through the holes of the net, I could see we were in a village of some sort. Tepees dotted the green field, each of them painted with geometric shapes around the tops and bottoms, decorated with big, bright, and bold designs, from celestial bodies and animal shapes to pendants and colored medallions. I still had my Immortal vision, and I couldn’t help but notice how intricate the beadwork was.

It was some relief that we were likely close to finding the chief. What I hadn’t planned for was being taken hostage and dangling in some kind of snare. Beads of sweat dripped down my face as I slipped my fingers through the holes in the net and pulled with every ounce of strength I had. I closed my eyes and exhaled when I realized there was no use trying to escape.

“Relax,” Victor said softly. “If they wanted us dead, they would have already done away with us. I am sure they will let us down soon.”

I let out a heavy sigh as I tried to stretch out my cramping legs. “Can you get us out of this contraption?”

“I’m afraid not. I’ve already tried, but that dart somehow relieved me of my Immortal strength. Now I’m practically...human.”

“No weapons, no powers, no visions, and no Immortal strength? Wow. We’re really at a disadvantage.” Rubbing my temples eased some of the pain from my throbbing headache. “What happened?” I asked, since everything still seemed fuzzy. “How did we get here?”

“They shot darts at us, but the poison was weak—just enough to knock us out.”

I shuddered. “Why must everyone pump my body full of things without my permission? The paramedics did it, the Immortals had done it, and now these islanders have done it. Surely they can see I’m pregnant. Don’t they care about the wellbeing of my child?”

By the look on Victor’s face, I knew he was just as upset as I was. “I’m so sorry I couldn’t stop them,” he said. “It is my job to protect you, and I failed yet again.”

“Victor, there was no way you could’ve taken down all those warriors,” I said.

“I tried to fight,” he said. “At least a dozen of them fell.”

I bit my lip hard. “I appreciate your valiant efforts, my shining night, but we must be on our best behavior and be nice to the locals if we are going to make a good impression on their chief.”

“What was I to do? You were lying on the ground, and...” His voice drifted off.

I squeezed his hand. “Don’t worry. I understand. You were simply trying to protect us. I was scared to death and thought I was dying. If we just tell them you were acting in self-defense, for the wellbeing of your family, I’m sure they’ll understand. Just...please tell me you didn’t kill any of them.”

“Of course I didn’t.”

“Good.” I peeked through the holes in the net and began yelling, demanding that someone cut us down, but no one paid any attention. “Hey!” I screamed at one old woman who was pouring water from a gourd, but she just smiled at me and went back to what she was doing.

“It’s no use,” Victor said. “They are the stubborn sort, and their ears don’t seem to work all the time.”

“Do you think they’ll hurt us, Victor?” I asked.

“No. I believe they will hold us here until their chief returns.”

I sighed deeply, then asked the dreaded question. “What if he’s angry that we’re on his island?”

“We must be honest and explain our dire circumstances to him,” he said. “If he is truly a great leader, he will also be fair.”

“Right,” I said. “It wasn’t like we could make a telephone call and ask for an invitation.”

Victor’s strong arms and steady embrace made me feel like everything was going to be okay, even though we were swinging in a net.

I cleared my dry throat. “When you called my name, I...well, I was hallucinating or dreaming or something.”

“I was as well. ‘Twas likely something from whatever tipped their darts.”

“What did you dream about?” I asked curiously.

“Our wedding.”

I gasped. “Me too.”

“We were back at the castle, and I was talking to the priest who married us. He offered me the chance to change my mind.”

“What!? I dreamt the exact same thing. I wonder what was on those darts.”

He stroked the top of my hand with his thumb. “I refused to change my mind, Sarah. I would marry you a thousand times, in spite of all we’ve gone through.”

I pushed the black hair from his face, threading my fingers through it. “Aw. Me too.”

His smile eased into a big grin, and he gently caressed my face and softly kissed me. “You were standing there in that fluffy, white wedding gown, so beautiful with your cascading curls and that glistening diamond tiara on your head. You were a radiant vision before my very eyes. And then...” His voice trailed off.

“What?” I asked, looking into his troubled eyes.

“It broke my heart to hear that you didn’t love me, that you were there only for the ruby ring so you could return to your home through the portal, that you’d leave me at the reception, when Mia helped you escape. I wanted to tell you not to leave, that I loved you more than anything, so I did. I told you that you would someday fall madly in love with me and that my castle would be your home, a place where we could make and share precious memories.”

“And how did I react to that?”

“You told me I was crazy.”

“I’m so sorry. That’s probably what I would’ve said had you told me you loved me.” I cupped his face. “Remember, I had known you for less than twelve hours.”

“I warned you not to put the ruby ring on,” he continued. “I told you I’d help you get home, but you slipped it on your finger anyway.”

“It was just a dream,” I whispered. “We both dreamt the same things, that we knew things the other didn’t yet know. In my dream, it broke my heart to know that while I love you with every fiber of my being, you were marrying me for ulterior motives.”

“It felt so real, watching you plot escape plans in your head. Knowing that you were going to desert me on our wedding night about killed me.”

I knew I’d never stop feeling guilty about that, but at the moment of our wedding, I had no idea Victor was the man I was supposed to spend the rest of my life with. I had absolutely no idea I’d fall head over heels for him. “It was just a dream, but we’re together now, and you know I love you with all of my heart.” I looked deeply into his eyes. “I will do anything to make this marriage work, even if it means leaving my world. I can’t live without you, Victor.”

He slowly traced my lips. “I just want you to be happy, Sarah.”

“I am happy...with you.” I studied every detail of his masculine face, from his high cheekbones and strong jawline to his full lips, sapphire eyes, and midnight-black hair. He still stole my breath away. I touched Victor’s face and slowly kissed his lips. “I love you so much.”

“And I love you more than life itself.” He pressed his lips to mine gently and tangled his fingers in my hair as emotion consumed us. Then, he touched my belly. “How is our son?”

“Bending it like Beckham,” I joked.

“Excuse me?”

I laughed. “He’s kicking like a champ.”

“I feel it!” Victor took me into his arms, letting out a long sigh of relief to know our baby was healthy and very much alive in there.

An hour passed, and still we hung there. I propped my head on Victor’s chest, using it as a pillow, and he wrapped an arm around me. I could hear his heartbeat; I loved being that close to him. My hair spilled across his chest, and he played with the stray strands, curling it around his fingers. He smiled when I looked at him and ask, “Finding creative ways to make the time pass, huh?”

He looked up and caught my eye. “You have the most beautiful hair,” he said, toying with the short ones at the nape of my neck.

“That title belongs to you, my king.” I wove my fingers through his thick, wavy, glorious locks.

We both smiled at each other. Even if the chief planned to throw us in a volcano or tying us to a totem pole and lighting us with tiki torches, we weren’t about to spend our last few moments pouting and complaining. I felt the softest pressure of his lips against mine, and then he lifted my hand to his lips and kissed every finger. He held my hand loosely in his, and we talked about what we thought the chief might do. We came up with all kinds of scenarios and couldn’t stop laughing. I could have spent hours listening to Victor giggle.

Time passed. We’d been hanging for hours, and my legs were cramping something awful.

Finally, twigs snapped, and footsteps approached, followed by voices below us.

“We’ve got company,” I said.

We were hoisted down and landed with a thud as the net opened.

I slowly stood, stretching out my stiff legs and arms, tingling all over as my circulation returned.

A tall, dark-skinned warrior with long black hair and black eyes approached, accompanied by other warriors armed with crude spears. The one facing us had longer hair than all the others, and he appeared to be in his sixties. He was as muscular as Victor and wore a beaded buckskin shirt trimmed with white fur and loose-fitting leather pants, as well as an extravagant headdress with the whitest feathers I’d ever seen. His face was decorated with white paint in various patterns and shapes. He gazed down at me and said, “You have trespassed on sacred ground.”

“You speak English?” I asked, amazed.

“I speak many languages,” he responded. “I am very old and wise.”

By the tone in his voice, I detected hidden meaning; I assumed him to be centuries old, but I dared not ask.

“We mean no harm,” Victor explained. “My wife is dying, and we have been told you might be able to help us.”

“Why not let nature take its course?” the chief asked. “It’s the natural way.”

I stepped forward. “Because I don’t want to die.”

“Everyone must sooner or later. It is part of the cycle of life.”

“I’m not human.”

“Hmm.” He smiled. “I am glad to know you will admit that to me. Honesty is very important here.” He reached his hand out and waved it around in the air. “Yes, your Immortal energy is very strong. I felt it the second you landed on the island.”

“Strong or not, it’s killing me,” I said.

“It is at least three times stronger than your husband’s. How is it that you are even still alive?”

“I took pills and—”

He waved his hand in a big circle, cutting me off. “Yes, I can feel it. The child is taking the brunt of the energy.”

“I’m due very soon.”

“When you have the baby, you will lose your buffer. All the energy will transfer to you, and you will die.”

“Please!” I begged. “Can you help us? Time is running out for me, and we’ve exhausted every possibility. You’re our last hope.”

“So you have come for the healing flower?” the chief said.

“Yes,” I answered.

“What are your names?” he asked, looking at both of us.

“I’m Victor, and this is my wife, Sarah.” Victor then went on to calmly explain our circumstances in more detail.

“You may call me White Coyote,” the man said. “I am the chief of this most pure and sacred island.”

Victor held out his hand, and White Coyote shook it. The chief then stared at Victor, as if he was contemplating whether or not he should help us.

“And what is the unborn’s name?” he asked.

“Alexander,” I said. “I love our son more than anything in this world. Please have mercy on us, Chief, and help him to have a mother to raise him and bring him up on a moral and righteous path. I must be there for him.” I bowed at his feet, my voice wavering. “It is up to you now. My life and my son’s wellbeing is in your hands.”

“Your story touches my heart. Even still, we don’t give out the flower to anyone who asks for it,” White Coyote said.

I refused to take no for an answer. “I will be forever in your service, indebted to you. What is it that you’d want me to do?” I asked. “I’ll do anything, pay anything. Just name your price.”

“Our son must have his mother,” Victor said, emotion flooding his voice. “Please help us.”

I couldn’t help but admire my doting husband. He always made it very clear how much he loved me. I smiled as a breeze ruffled through his dark, messy hair. He would fight for me until the very end, and I couldn’t have asked for a better soulmate.

A few tense moments passed; a knife could have cut the tension in the air. My heart pounded as I awaited White Coyote’s answer.

“I am touched by your love for your son.” He then turned to Victor. “Your passion to save your wife’s life is great,” White Coyote finally said. “I admire how you have fought for her, even when you were outnumbered by my warriors. You fear nothing, and your spirit is brave.”

“I will do anything to save her,” Victor said with heartfelt sincerity.

“The love you share is pure, true, and unconditional,” White Coyote said. “I can feel it. And your need is genuine.” He placed his hands on my belly, then met my gaze. “Your child is different. He is...special.”

“Will you help us then?” I pleaded, a tear streaming down my cheek.

He nodded. “I will, for your son is destined to have both his mother and father.”

Happiness overwhelmed me, and I burst out in a sob as Victor squeezed my hand. Gazing up at him, I couldn’t stop grinning. We’d finally found someone who could help, and it was the most amazing feeling in the world. My heart melted even more when I saw how happy Victor was.

The chief shifted his stance. “You must be bathed and properly dressed, and then I will direct you on what to do next.”

I nodded, and a few of the women led me away. After I bathed and covered my body with sweet-smelling natural oils, they brushed my long hair and left it loose, hanging over my shoulders and held back with a white beaded headband. I was given special clothes to wear, a white deerskin dress with beaded trim and long white fringes. A pair of matching moccasins adorned my feet. Victor was dressed in a white buckskin deer garment that village men wore on only the most special of occasions. Not only did we have to be clean, but they said we had to wear “pure” outfits because we would be picking the purest of flowers. Victor didn’t even complain about it; I’d forced his fine physique into so many modern-day fashions that he was used to wearing things he didn’t want to wear.

Once we were dressed, White Coyote walked us to the edge of the jungle. “Look for the temple. I will meet you there.”

I wondered why he wouldn’t just lead us there, but I didn’t complain. I just nodded my head, thanked him, and took off into the vegetation, wondering what secrets the island would reveal to us with its eternal bloom.

Chapter 18

For the first hour of our jungle trek, we climbed over thick undergrowth and ducked under ferns in silence. I hated not knowing where we were going, but White Coyote wanted to keep us in suspense for some reason. I heaved myself through a narrow opening in the leafy ferns and bent over, bracing my hands on my knees as I fought to catch my breath. Victor draped his arm around my middle, and I smiled.

“How are you, my love?” he asked.

I leaned back against a tree. “We’ve been hiking for a long time. Do you think we’re even going in the right direction?” My voice came low and raspy, barely audible in my throbbing ears.

Drops of sweat beaded his forehead. “Let’s walk for a while more.”

I wiped the perspiration off my brow and continued.

“Does this remind you of your adventures with Beth?” Victor asked.

I smiled. “It does. The only difference is this huge stomach of mine.”

“Your body is beautiful,” he said, stopping for a minute to admire me.

I gently pushed his hair out of his face and gave him a peck on his sweaty cheek. “Thank you, Victor.”

He pushed through clusters of large-leafed plants.

“Beth and I used to travel the globe chasing Bigfoot. I thought when I settled down with you, my adventures would be over forever, but obviously, they’re not.”

“Sarah,” a familiar man’s voice whispered in my ear.

I stopped mid-stride, my heart pounding. “Victor, did you hear that? It was...I just heard Ethano!”

Victor’s brows furrowed above his intense blue eyes, and the wind whipped through his black hair. He glanced around, his eyes wide. “I didn’t hear anything.”

“He so enjoys playing head games with me.” Anxiously, I brushed away the ferns, leaves, and vines and stepped over fallen logs, ever alert for signs of danger. “He’s here, Victor!” My heart continued to pound. I inched closer to get a better look, crushing a few twigs under my shoes. “I know he’s here, but I-I don’t see anything.”

Victor put on a brave, composed face and spoke words of encouragement, but it didn’t help. I would never forget that evil voice. It had silenced, though, and I wondered if it had been just my imagination playing tricks on me, a symptom of stress and fatigue. If it really had been Ethano, I was sure he would have already attacked. Still, I had the creepy feeling that he was there with us, and I had no idea why.

I craned my neck, trying to see over giant blooming plants. I parted the large fronds and peered through. My heart jumped when I saw a flash of gray through the vegetation. When I peered closer, I noticed a large, weathered, stone structure overrun with plants, covered with moss and cracked by time and erosion, entwined in thick, twisting jungle vines for centuries. Tree roots were burrowed into the walls, and rope-like vines and ivy wrapped around gateways and huge pillars. The stone steps were covered in moss and lichen. I could have sworn I was on the set of an Indiana Jones movie, only no one had a bullwhip.

“It appears to be quite abandoned...and ancient,” Victor said. “This must be where we’re supposed to meet White Coyote.”

I nodded. “I wonder why he chose this place.” I stared at gigantic trees and vines engulfing the building. I wondered about the ancient builders and why they had built the structure. As I studied the temple closer, I began to recognize the pillars and designs. The archway was decorated in symbols that made the hair on my neck rise, and the connection came to me all at once. When it did, my jaw dropped. It was the same temple Ethano had tricked me into entering the night he’d tried to sacrifice me. A monstrous wave of panic washed over me, and the whole thing suddenly stunk of a plot. It had that fiend’s name written all over it, and that terrified me. “Victor,” I said, gripping his arm, “this is Ethano’s temple, the same one where he tried to kill me. It’s just older now, as if a couple centuries have passed by.”

Victor shifted his stance, worry lines evident in his face.

I held my stomach and breathed deeply. “I don’t like this one bit.” The more I thought about it, the more frantic I became. “What if there’s not really a cure? We don’t know Jackson that well, and trusting him took a huge leap of faith. Do you think he just delivered us straight into Ethano’s hands? Maybe White Coyote is in on it too.”

He peered intently around him, looking for any signs that I might be right. “Sarah, we will only find our answers inside that temple.”

I gasped. “No! Victor, we were lured here under false pretenses. Can’t you see that?”

He shook his head. “I refuse to believe that.”

“If the flower is a myth, there’s no hope for me. I should have stayed home, where I could spend my last days with you, my family, and Sparky.”

His eyes sparked with confidence as he tried to reassure me once again. “We mustn’t give up hope,” he said. “We’re here now, and we must press on.”

“No, Victor. We need to run,” I said, my heart racing.

“This is one fight I won’t back down from.”

“Of course not, because you’re too stubborn for your own good. You’ve been squabbling with Ethano for centuries, but this is no time for a pissing contest!” I said angrily, wanting to leave.

He ignored my insult and walked directly toward the ancient structure. “If he’s here as you say, I will find him.”

I took a deep breath and tried to regain my composure. I knew once Victor had set his sights on something, there was no way I could change his mind. “Wait!” I said. “I’m coming with you.” But when I tried to follow him, it was as if I’d hit a brick wall, a force field of some sort. I took a step back and pounded on the invisible wall. When I spun around to leave, I felt the same shield. Someone had incased me in an invisible bubble, like the one Ethano had imprisoned me in a couple of times, once at Liz’s castle and once during that horrific ceremony. I inhaled deeply and blinked hard several times. “Victor!” I yelled.

He rushed over, frantic with worry. “What happened?”

Panic fluttered in my stomach as I banged on the invisible walls all around me. “I’m trapped.”

Victor felt around, then pounded it with his fists. It was as if I was incased in titanium, and nothing could break its defenses.

“What’s happening?” I yelled frantically. “Is it Ethano?”

He shifted his stance and exhaled. “I don’t know.”

“It has to be! Victor, what if Jackson is working for Ethano? What if this was nothing more than an elaborate scheme to lure me to the temple so he can finish the sacrifice?”

His eyes widened in fear as he contemplated my thoughts. “That isn’t possible, Sarah. He wants our son alive.”

“Maybe he changed his mind.”

“It would never work. Alexander’s life force kept his plan from working in the first place.”

“You know how dedicated his priests are to studying those ancient scrolls and books. What if they found another way?”

He flashed me a worried look. “We must get you out of there.”

I placed my hand flat on the invisible force field, and Victor placed his hand over mine. I couldn’t feel anything but a humming energy from where I touched the barrier. I gazed deeply into Victor’s eyes; he was clearly frightened because he couldn’t get me out.

“Victor!”

I cringed at the familiar sound of Ethano’s voice. His shoulder-length, blond hair blew in the wind. He was dressed in an oversized, burgundy shirt with billowing sleeves, and a leather vest, with black pants, brown boots, and big belt.

Victor’s lips tightened into a grim line, realization visible in his eyes. “Let Sarah go. This is between you and me, you ogre.”

“Have you told your lovely wife what this is all about? Why I hate you so much?”

Victor glared at him.

Ethano continued, “You haven’t? Tsst, tsst, tsst,” he said, clicking his tongue. He smiled, then turned to face me. “Sarah, how do you feel about your husband keeping secrets from you?”

“I will not discuss my marriage with you. Let me out of here, you monster!”

“Surely it does not make you happy that he hides things.”

I let out a huff.

He eyed me up and down. “You look divine, by the way, so lovely in white leather.”

I rolled my eyes at him.

“Do not talk to my wife in that manner!” Victor roared.

I stared into his cold, green eyes. “Let me go,” I demanded, “and quit egging my husband on.”

Ethano held my gaze in his caustic emerald stare. “I’d love to let you go, but that’s up to White Coyote, not me.”

Right on cue, the chief burst through the vegetation.

A shudder shot up my spine. Did he betray us? Was he working with Ethano all along? Did he send us here for Ethano to catch us? But why? He already had us captive in that stupid net! My head began to spin, and nothing made any sense. I pointed to Ethano. “This man has tried to kill me numerous times. You said this island is about purity, and he is the farthest thing from pure. He is the devil!”

“Sarah, how could you say such things?” Ethano asked. “You even agreed to bed down with me, even while you were still married. Perhaps that white purity dress is wasted on you, my dear.”

I banged on my prison wall in a fit of fury. “I would never sleep with you, not in a million years! It was nothing more than a distraction.”

“But that kiss we shared felt so real, Highness,” Ethano said, smirking at Victor.

The rage on Victor’s face was evident. I wanted to explain to him that it was only a ploy to give me time, that it meant nothing, but Ethano thrived on enraging him. I couldn’t stand him, and I wanted nothing more than for him to go back to Immortal jail so he could rot there for all eternity.

“Both of you want the flower,” White Coyote said, “but only one will get it.”

I swallowed hard.

“Victor and Ethano will fight to the death,” he continued in a deep, authoritative voice. “The winner claims Sarah and will get the eternal bloom.”

Ethano grinned. “Challenge accepted.”

“No!” I yelled.

“Do you not have faith that your husband will win?” Ethano said with a smirk.

“He will, but I don’t see why you’re doing this to us. You don’t even need the flower.”

“Indeed I do,” Ethano hissed. “I need it for you, my dear. You will benefit no matter which party wins.”

My gaze narrowed. “If you harm a hair on Victor’s head, I’ll refuse to pick it.”

He smirked again. “You love that baby far too much to be so stubborn,” he said, calling my bluff.

“You only want me alive because you want my son!” I shouted. “Is that why you’re here?”

“I am here to save your life,” he said. “Doesn’t that mean anything?”

“I don’t need your help or your pity. I don’t want anything from you,” I said.

“When I defeat Victor, I will give you the eternal bloom, and you will return with me to our world and rule as my queen.”

“You’re deluding yourself, Ethano,” Victor roared.

I shook my head vehemently. “That’s never going to happen. My husband’s gonna kick your royal, conniving ass.”

“We shall see,” Ethano said.

White Coyote threw Victor a sword, and he caught it swiftly with one hand. “And the fight begins,” he announced. “May the best Immortal win.”

Ethano’s sword gleamed in the light as he held it high in the air, ready to do battle. They slowly circled each other, their gazes locked in an intense exchange as they tried to discern one another’s weaknesses.

Swinging the huge sword, Victor charged at Ethano. Their swords met in a loud, thunderous clash. Ethano flew backward and stumbled to the ground. Victor lunged, but Ethano planted his foot in his gut and kicked, shoving him back. That gave Ethano the advantage he needed to get back on his feet. He swung at Victor wildly, just missing his face. In seconds, Ethano swung again, faster. Victor blocked the blow, and sparks flew. Again their swords collided in a series of mighty blows.

They circled each other again, both gasping deeply. Victor stared Ethano down; if looks could have killed, the battle would have already been won. Roaring, Ethano charged and swung his sword, but Victor easily deflected the attack with his own blade. He kicked him and swung his blade down, missing him by mere inches as Ethano moved to the side in lightning speed. Victor swung again. The clash of metal against metal rang in my ears.

I watched helplessly as the fight went on for what seemed like eternity.

Ethano suddenly thrust his blade savagely into Victor’s shoulder.

“Victor!” I shouted. He’ll heal, I told myself, trying to calm my racing heart.

He drove his sword into Ethano’s chest, drawing blood, but it hardly slowed the monster down. He swung with full force, and Victor kicked him in the stomach. He doubled over and staggered back. Taking a deep breath, he came back even harder. Victor ducked as the flying blade barreled toward him, then he lunged, forcing Ethano back. When Ethano charged again, Victor countered the downward swing. With a deep roar, Ethano charged once again. Victor deflected his attack, then lunged forward, sword extended.

I swallowed hard as blades clanged uncontrollably.

Ethano swung with all his fury. Victor ducked his head and spun to the left as he simultaneously kicked. He then delivered a powerful blow, crashing Ethano to the ground.

“Victor!” I yelled. “You did it.”

Victor’s foot held Ethano’s left hand securely to the ground, and he grabbed Ethano’s sword and flung it into the nearby weeds. His other foot pinned down Ethano’s shoulder. Breathing deeply, with rage brewing in his eyes, Victor stared down at the monster who’d done nothing but torment us.

Ethano coughed, the blade hindering his breath.

White Coyote looked at Victor. “Show me the great warrior you are. Kill him.”

Victor swung his sword back, ready to pierce Ethano’s heart, but then he faltered.

Ethano spat at him. “Are you a coward? Do it!”

Victor raised his sword higher. “Nothing would give me greater pleasure.”

He closed his eyes. “Then what are you waiting for?”

White Coyote stepped toward Victor. “Kill Ethano, and I will declare you the victor and take you to the flower that can heal Sarah. Then I will grant you permission to leave.”

I could see the battle raging in Victor’s eyes. My heart seized. I wasn’t sure what he was going to do. He was just given permission to kill his enemy and be given the flower to save me, but there was a flicker of doubt on his face.

“I-I can’t,” Victor said, the sword wavering in his powerful hands.

White Coyote cocked a brow. “You are a great warrior, Victor. Surely you’ve killed in battle before.”

Victor didn’t answer.

White Coyote closed his eyes briefly. “Yes, I’ve seen it. You’ve slaughtered many.”

Victor shook his head, his hair clumped together in sweaty strands. “That’s not who I am anymore. ’Tis not my place to pass judgment.”

“I hate Ethano as well, but it is not our job to deliver justice,” I said. “It’s up to the Immortal Court.”

“I’ll escort him back to Tastia myself,” Victor said. “He will be judged there accordingly.”

“It would be the right thing to do,” I said, meeting White Coyote’s gaze.

A crackling echoed around me as the force field dissipated, and I took a step forward, thankful to be freed from my temporary prison.

White Coyote looked at me intensely, then handed me his spear. “I won’t give you the flower you so desire unless you kill your enemy,” he said.

I glanced down at Ethano’s wide, frightened eyes. He wanted mercy, something he’d never shown to anyone. It was my chance for revenge, but I wasn’t ready to take a life—not even his. Conflicting emotions surged up inside me like a roaring thunderstorm. Fighting the tears, I closed my eyes. “You are asking too much of me. I won’t end another’s life, even to save my own.”

“Then my warriors will escort you off the island.”

I gripped the spear tightly and pondered. If I didn’t kill Ethano, I’d be as good as dead, but I couldn’t kill anyone. I had never done it before, and I didn’t want to murder anyone now. I knew if I followed through with killing Ethano, I’d never be able to explain that decision to Alexander. Yes, I wanted to be alive to spend time with him, but more so, I wanted him to think of his mother as an honorable woman. “If you want blood so bad, do it yourself,” I said, handing the spear back to him. “I will not have it on my hands, and neither will Victor. We do not wish to lower ourselves to the level of our enemy.”

His onyx eyes sparkled as the wind blew through his black hair. “Then you will die, and your mission to come here will be in vain.”

“If that is my fate, so be it,” I said. “Just tell me how to get off this island so I can spend my remaining days with my family.”

Victor shot me a look. “We must reason with him, Sarah.”

“The man is set in his ways,” I said. “He won’t budge.”

“We must try. Just think how far we’ve come. We can’t give up this easily.”

I gazed up at White Coyote, tears welling up. “Please help us, Chief. We’ve told you our story. If you don’t want to help us, think of the innocent life that grows in my womb.”

“Kill your enemy, and I will give you the flower.”

“No.”

White Coyote looked at Victor. “Kill him! He’s done nothing but cause you heartache. He would’ve raped your wife if given the chance. He would’ve stolen your son, and he took over the kingdom you so love.”

Doubt crossed Victor’s face, followed by hesitation.

I stared at the man in disbelief, wondering just what Ethano had told him.

“You can avenge all these evils and save your wife’s life at the same time,” White Coyote continued. “Imagine spending the rest of eternity with Sarah and your precious son.”

Victor stared down at Ethano’s motionless body.

“Don’t do it, Victor,” I begged. “We’ll take him back to our world. They can judge him there, and you will have your kingdom back.”

“His supporters could easily release him,” White Coyote argued.

Victor lifted Ethano up and slung him over his shoulder. In a burst of light, Ethano disappeared. Victor spun around. “What is going on?”

White Coyote met his gaze, then mine. “You have passed my test.”

“Wait...a test? None of that was real?” I asked.

“If Victor had killed him, the eternal bloom would never have been given to you,” he explained.

I glanced up at Victor, stunned. Sparing Ethano’s life had ultimately saved mine.

Victor wrapped his arm around me and pulled me close.

“We only share the bloom with a few who have a genuine need,” the man continued, “and those must be of the highest moral character.”

“How did you know about Ethano?” I asked.

“I pulled the image from your minds.”

I let out a breath, finding the whole thing a little unnerving. “Will you give us the key?” I asked.

He pointed. “Inside the temple is your first clue.”

“Thank you,” Victor said.

And with that, the man disappeared into thin air.

I gripped Victor’s hand. “The bloom is real! It’s here, and we still have a shot at it.”

Victor kissed my lips and wrapped my arms around him. Gathering all our strength, we walked through the high ferns and peeked through the stone entrance into the chamber. There was no door, and the place was pitch dark inside. Victor linked his fingers through mine, and that helped to ease my fears at what might be inside.

“It looks pretty dark,” I said. “How are we supposed to see?” The smell of smoke was heavy in the air, and I rubbed my burning eyes.

When I glanced up at the wall, large letters were etched into the stone in fire. Wisps of smoke drifted around the word, “NIX.” The fiery letters lit the room, and I glanced around. The walls all around me sprang to life with vivid detail of charging horses, knights wielding swords, fiery arrows, and soldiers spearing their enemy.

“It appears we’ve found our clue,” Victor said.

“Nix?” I asked. “What’s that supposed to mean?” I shook my head. “Maybe it’s initials for something.”

“It is Latin. It means ‘snow’,” Victor said.

I raised my head. “Snow?”

“Is the flower only available in the winter?” he asked.

“Maybe it’s on a mountain.”

He cocked a brow. “Or in a cold place, such as in a cave.”

“Why aren’t they just up front with us? We don’t have time for games,” I said.

“We should look for a snowy mountain,” he said.

“On a tropical island?” I questioned.

A stern look spread over his face. “Sarah, there is nothing normal about this island.”

I spun around and headed back into the jungle, not sure what we really were looking for. White Coyote knew I was fighting for my life, and I wondered why he was making it so hard on us.

Chapter 19

After we hiked for a while, I suddenly heard the sound of a river. I smiled. “Hear that?” Before he could respond, I said, “The heavenly sound of water for my parched throat.”

His frown turned into a tiny smile. He motioned for me to follow him, and we walked alongside the sound of a trickling brook. I smiled at the beautiful sight of water gushing over rocks. Wasting no time, Victor knelt down and cupped water with his hands, then took a long drink.

I scooped up handfuls of water and let the refreshing liquid slip down my dry throat, then splashed my face. I brushed the hair out of my eyes. “The stream is so cold...as cold as snow!”

Victor laughed.

“I’m reaching, aren’t I?”

He flashed me that gorgeous smile. “Perhaps a smidgeon, my love.”

I flicked some water in his direction, and he flicked some right back at me. “Oh!” I said, standing. “You wanna play, do you?”

He smiled again, then stared into my eyes. “This is what I love about you, Sarah.”

I cocked a brow. “What?”

“Anyone in such a precarious situation would be panicking, yet you are toying with me and laughing. You, My Queen, are the strongest person I know, even stronger than the bravest warriors in my kingdom.”

“I can’t live my last days being a wet blanket,” I said, then glanced down at my wet shirt. “Okay...so maybe I am a little wet.”

He chuckled.

I continued, “Victor, if I do not make it, if I do not survive this, I want you to remember me being happy, smiling, and full of hope to the very last moment, not crying and pouting.”

He kissed my lips. “I married the most amazing woman in the world.”

“No...I married the wonderful, most caring man in the world, and I’m so proud of you for not killing the fake Ethano.”

“I wanted to, Sarah. It took everything in me to keep from running that blade through him, but I knew it wasn’t the right thing to do. I’m guess I’m not the man I used to be.”

My heart melted. “Baby, you just proved that to me.”

Victor cupped my face. “My life changed the second I met you.”

I stared into his glittering blue eyes. “Me too.”

“White Coyote was impressed with your story, and he gave us permission to obtain the flower. That’s a good start.”

“Why didn’t he just give it to us or take us to the garden?” I asked. “I mean, we passed his test, and—”

“Maybe he’s not sure of our intentions. Perhaps he must think it over and needs more time to consider it.”

“But I have so little of it left,” I muttered.

* * *

A cramp rolled across my stomach. It was nothing major, but it was enough to make me notice. The flower was my only hope, and I knew I had to push myself, but I worried that I might be going overboard. I slowed down and took several deep breaths.

Victor slowed down, too, and didn’t even question me about it. Suddenly, he stopped mid-stride. “Sarah!”

My heart quickened at the excitement in his voice. When I peered through the ferns, I saw the flower from the illustration in the ancient book Jackson had shown me. “That’s it! The eternal bloom.” I stared at the glimmering pink flower growing alone in the green meadow. I glanced around and looked for booby traps or some kind of guardian, but I saw no such thing.

Victor was hesitant. “We must be careful, Sarah,” he said, holding his hand back.

“We can go at least check it out,” I said.

He glanced around suspiciously. “Just be on alert and stay cautious.”

In a burst of light, the old chief suddenly appeared.

“White Coyote!” I said, smiling at the prospect that my entire nightmare might be behind me. “May I pick the flower?”

His eyes seemed to return the smile, but a shadow crossed his face. “You may.”

Thoughts raced through my head. I imagined Alexander take his first steps, getting on the school bus for the first time, and I thought of wiping his little tears away when he was sad or skinned his knee. Now I would get to be his mother, and that was the greatest thing of all. I had never even been officially introduced to the little man, yet he meant everything to me, and I was willing to die for him. Words couldn’t even begin to express the love I had for him. I thought about all those hugs, all those cuddles, and all those first milestones. I loved Alexander from the depths of my soul, right the first minute I knew he even existed. I was going to enjoy everything and every moment motherhood had to offer, no matter how small and trivial. I had come so far to save him, to save me, but I would have done anything to see him breathe life. That was why I’d fought so hard for him at the mountain. When Dr. Meyers wanted to deliver him prematurely to save my life, I knew at that very second that I’d die in Alexander’s place if I had to.

Victor gazed down at me and smiled.

I grinned back  up at him, overcome with happiness. “I told you we’d beat this thing,” I said triumphantly. I let out a sob of joy. I sucked in a deep breath and let it out slowly. My hands shook in anticipation.

As I started to reach for the bloom that would save my life, White Coyote grabbed my hand. His frown lines deepened. “Know this, Sarah. When you take this bloom, twenty-five villagers will die.”

My knees began to tremble at the shocking revelation, and my shoulders slumped. One look into his serious eyes told me it wasn’t a joke. “No! Please don’t tear out my heart like this.”

“This can’t be true,” Victor said, stunned.

I exchanged a shocked look with him, then took a deep breath as I contemplated my dire situation.

“Why didn’t Jackson tell us about these horrible consequences?” I asked.

“He knew you wouldn’t come,” Victor said. “He only cares for your wellbeing so you can help him with his expedition.”

Swallowing hard, I pondered. “He must’ve thought I’d do it once I was this close to the cure. He knows how much I love my son, and he exploited that,” I said.

Victor gazed at the man. “If picking this flower will kill some of your people, why are you not protecting it? Why are you willing to let Sarah pluck it?”

His eyes saddened, and he gripped his spear. “You passed the morality test, so I am obliged to let you choose. It is the way of the island.” He then looked at me. “You have a kind heart and have helped the poor. Your compassion is remarkable and overflowing. Will you sacrifice twenty-five lives to save your own? To be the mother to your unborn child? To be with the love of your life for all time?”

“Are you telling me this was all for nothing?” I asked desperately. “I can’t possibly take the lives of so many for my own selfish needs.”

White Coyote’s gaze narrowed. “Selfish? Is it selfish to want to be there for your child?”

“I-I want to be his mother.” Tears welled up in my eyes. “Don’t you see? I’m destined to be his mother.”

The old chief looked at me with hopeful eyes. “Then do it. The flower is within your grasp. Just pluck it, and you will have everything you ever wanted,” he said.

I shifted uncomfortably. “At what cost? How could I live with myself if I—”

“Sarah will never do such a thing,” Victor said. “If you knew anything about her, you would know my wife is the most compassionate, caring person in the world. Have you not seen that while you’ve been probing around in our minds?”

White Coyote’s brow furrowed. “Then I’m afraid your journey here is done. It is time for both of you to leave the island.”

I pulled Victor to the side and glanced over my shoulder at White Coyote. “Just give me a minute to discuss this with him.”

Victor scrunched up his brow in confusion, then nodded. “Just be careful not to anger him, and do not take long.” He cupped my cheek. “You know this is the only chance we have, but at the cost of so many lives? How can we...” he said, his voice drifting off.

“We just...can’t.” My legs shook, and my head spun. I touched his face. “We gave it our best shot, but we’re not murderers.”

Victor shook his head, visibly upset. “Jackson should’ve disclosed this to us.”

“Why did it have to turn out like this?” I asked in a grim tone.

My husband gently pushed aside some strands of hair that had fallen over my eyes. “This island may not be our only hope, love. We will not stop trying. I love you far too much to give up.”

“I love you too.” I buried my head against his shoulder.

His hand wandered to the small of my back, rubbing ever so gently, and I felt tears welling up in my eyes again. Victor held me tight, and his voice came as soft as a whisper. “We must leave immediately. We still have a little time to keep looking for answers.”

I placed my hands on top of his. “I’m not trying to be negative, but maybe it’s time to face reality. It has been...a valiant attempt.”

He gazed deeply into my eyes. “Don’t you do that, Sarah. Don’t you dare give up, because I am not.”

“I’m not either, Victor, but we have to face the reality that I may die soon. Being in denial and pretending like it isn’t gonna happen isn’t going to help either one of us.”

“How can I face the fact that the love of my life is dying?” he asked.

My stomach twisted into knots. “You must stay strong for him, Victor, for our Alexander. Our baby boy is going to need you, and you can’t fall apart.”

He opened his mouth, but no more words came out as he held me close and wept.

“I know how much it hurts, but we’re not supposed to spend my last days being sad,” I whispered, staring into his red, blood shot eyes consumed with emotion.

He just hugged me tighter as grief seeped through him. The realization hit him hard, and the thought that he might lose me forever was more than he could take.

“Let’s just go home, Victor,” I said.

The lines in White Coyote’s face softened, and compassion flickered in his dark eyes. “Victor, I implore you not to walk away. You have the opportunity to have everything you’ve ever wanted. Tell your wife to pick the sacred flower, and your son will have the loving mother he deserves.”

Victor pondered the offer for a moment. “Is there another way? Can’t we save Sarah without hurting anyone else?”

A frown formed between his brows. “No.”

Tears trickled down my cheeks. “Then I believe we’re done here.”

Victor wrapped his arm around me in a comforting gesture, and we started to slowly walk away.

Wiping the tears away, I stared at the fluffy, white clouds slowly drifting by in the blue sky. The island had been nothing more than a waste of precious time, a dead end, a false hope. Still, we had to explore every possibility. I wanted Alexander to know that I tried everything, that I never gave up and exhausted every single option. I thought about the letter I’d written for my mother to read to him, and the thought tore me apart. I’d also left him video diaries, photo albums, and mementos. A flashback hit me, and it took everything not to burst out in tears...

Chapter 20

The key unlocked, and Victor came inside.

“Hi, honey. How was work?”

He came over and kissed my lips. “I learned the new lines in the fight scene.”

“I knew you’d nail it.”

He glanced down and picked up one of the toys strewn across the table. “What are you doing? Sarah, what is all of this?”

I ripped a piece of tape. “I’m wrapping up a toy car.”

He cocked a brow. “Why? And who are all these presents for? Is it Christmas?”

“They’re for Alexander.”

Picking up a model train, he let out a long sigh. “Aren’t you getting a little carried away? Our son is going to be spoiled.”

“No, not at all.”

“Sarah, we have plenty of time to—”

“You might have plenty of time,” I whispered, picking up a colorful toy. “This is a Mr. Snail. He plays ten different notes.” My voice wavered. “Alexander loves music, and it will help improve his visual acuity, hand-eye coordination, and mental processing skills.”

“And when do you plan on giving him this?”

“You will give it to him on his first birthday.” I stretched across the table and reached for a huge dump truck. “Alex will get this on his second birthday, and—”

“You already bought him a gift for every birthday?”

I nodded. “Up to his eighteenth.”

Tears shimmered in his eyes. “You’re giving up, Sarah.”

“No I’m not. This is just...well, just in case.”

Victor touched my cheek. “You mustn’t think like that.”

I picked up a Monopoly boardgame. “This one for his thirteenth birthday. It was my very favorite game growing up, and I thought he should experience it too. Maybe it’ll be his favorite game too. And see this one?” I grabbed the stomp rocket and held it up high, my voice growing in intensity. “It launches 200 feet in the air, without any batteries or fuel. It’s for his sixth birthday, and I’m sure he’ll love it.” I handed a radio-controlled car to Victor and felt the tears sting my eyes. Thoughts of Alexander opening his presents on his birthday without me was more devastating than anything I could ever imagine. The pain cut through my soul, and I squeezed my eyes closed, wishing I could just have one more year. Is that greedy? I wondered. Is it so awful to want to spend my son’s life with him? “He’s gonna love this racecar. I think it will be perfect for his eighth birthday. And this one is for...” Emotion choked my voice. “Oh, Victor!”

He embraced me a tight hug. “It’s okay, Sarah. Everything is going to be fine. We will get through this together. We’ve conquered so many obstacles already.”

I snuggled into his chest as gasping sobs wracked my body. “I don’t want to die,” I said. “I have so much to live for, such a beautiful family.”

“We’re a strong family.” His thumbs wiped my tears away as he stared lovingly into my eyes. “I don’t care about the odds, Sarah. You’re not going to die.”

“You don’t know that,” I spat.

He held me tightly in his arms. “I see a bright future for us. I see us walking in the park, holding hands and watching our grandchildren play.”

I smiled. “That’s beautiful.”

“That’s reality,” he said confidently.

* * *

I returned to the present as Victor’s voice cut through my thoughts. “This is far from over,” he said. “I can tell you that.”

I nodded. I wasn’t dead yet, and while it was important to face reality, I wanted to hope and believe too. That meant I needed to fight and never give up. Lately, my emotions had been getting the best of me, but I needed to stay strong and focused. It’s not over until the fat lady sings, I mused, and I haven’t sung a note!

When we reached the edge of the field, White Coyote called my name. “Sarah!” he said at the top of his voice.

I turned my head. “Yes?”

With unnatural speed, he hurried over to us and handed me a gold key. “Again, you have passed the test.”

“What?” I asked in shock. “But you already tested us once.”

He straightened his broad shoulders and peered at me with eyes that pierced my very core. “Victor was tested with Ethano,” he said. “You were tested with the lives of strangers.”

“But you gave me the opportunity to kill Ethano as well.”

“Yes, but that was not your true test. You each had to be tested for character and purity of heart,” he said, his face growing solemn, his towering frame looming over me.

“But you lied to me! You claim to be testing our morals, but you are the most dishonest—”

“Sarah,” Victor coaxed, “please just let it go. If White Coyote is willing to help us, we must not question his mysterious ways.”

White Coyote stepped closer. “Victor could have easily killed the panther with his great strength, yet he had mercy on the animal and let it go because you respected our ways.”

“That was a test too?” I asked.

“Yes.”

Victor squeezed my hand in victory, and I grinned.

“I also tested you and Victor subconsciously through your dreams. I needed to know if you two truly loved each other.”

I stared at him hard. “Did you really have the power to send me back to California before any of this happened like you said. Before I ever became Immortal? Or were you just messing with my mind?”

“I could’ve done it. But you refused, because your love is far too great for Victor.”

“You’ve really tested us,” I said.

“Yes, I even caused the storm that caused the men to retreat in fear. I needed to see if you would fight for what you wanted so desperately. Rather than leaving with the terrified crew, you refused to give up. You jumped into those merciless waves and swam, exhausted yourselves to get to the island, no matter the cost. Your love for your child is genuine and unconditional, and you have passed every test I have put before you.” He looked at me, then at Victor. “Your hearts our pure, your intentions honorable, your compassion apparent, your love for each other unfailing.”

“This whole journey...it’s all for the love of our son,” I said.

His gaze narrowed. “Yes, I know. I am not a dishonest man, though, Sarah. If you had picked the flower without the key, your life would have been spared, but others’ lives would have been taken.”

My brow furrowed. “And you would’ve just let me pick it?”

“As White Coyote and guardian of this island, I would’ve stopped you a split second before your fingers broke the stem.”

“And what if you couldn’t?” I asked.

“Then many lives would have been sacrificed for yours, however—”

“There’s always a ‘but,’” I said, rolling my eyes. “Or at least a ‘however.’”

“This flowers works off the energy of the lost souls you took. You would have lived only twenty-five months for the cost of twenty-five lives.”

“I would never have sacrificed those people,” I said.

He stared at me for a long moment. “I know, and that is why you deserve the key. Only the purest of hearts can pick the flower of moral purity without bloodshed.”

“Thank you,” I said, my eyes brimming with tears. “We can’t thank you enough.”

He smiled. “Your next clue isn’t far,” he said, then pointed south.

“Next clue? Can you just tell us where the garden is?” I begged, but when I blinked and opened my eyes again, the old man disappeared.

Chapter 21

We walked over huge logs and fallen trees. When I ducked under a tangle of ferns, the sound of water echoed in the air. I rushed toward the sound of trickling water. When I burst through a patch of vegetation, I was amazed at what I saw: a large stone fountain with water gurgling from four stone tiers decorated with flowers. “This is our clue?” I asked. “It looks like a typical courtyard fountain.”

Victor touched his chin. “Perhaps it’s symbolic of water.”

“Hmm. So we have snow and water,” I said. “What could it possibly mean?”

He pressed his lips together and looked away, as if in thought. “Perhaps it has something to do with the various forms of water. When water freezes, it becomes snow, yes?”

I pondered what he was saying, but the pieces still didn’t come together. “Evaporation would be the next process then.”

“We passed their purity tests and have the key to the garden,” Victor said. “We know we’re looking for a flower.”

“All we have to do is find the garden. Once we open the gate, I’m sure the flower will be on top of a hill, maybe even glowing.”

Victor’s attention drifted to the left. “I am certain those paths weren’t there before.”

I immediately started walking toward the mysterious new trails as an explosion of floral aroma drifted all around me. There were five different paths to choose from, each carpeted in a different variety of flower. “Which one should we take?” I asked.

“We should follow the path of the flower from Jackson’s book.”

“The third one, with the cherry blossoms?” The pastel path seemed to stretch into the horizon.

The wrinkled lines between his brows relaxed. “Would you like to go for a stroll, milady?”

I gripped his hand, smiling as we walked, hand in hand, down the fragrant, beautiful path. I had to chuckle at the fact that I couldn’t see my feet as I walked; my bulging stomach obstructed my view. I felt like I was gaining weight for three. I tried to ignore that and focus on all the beauty around me. The gorgeous, plush carpet of fallen petals in shades of pink and white completely mesmerized me, like a pink, soft blanket in the middle of a big, frightening jungle. As I was admiring all the beauty around me, I felt cramps. I breathed softly through them. I didn’t want to worry Victor, so I decided against mentioning them. “When Jackson told me about this island, I was quite skeptical,” I said.

“I must admit that I was as well.”

The path seemed endless, but I walked briskly, hoping to reach the end soon. “Jackson went through everything to find a cure for me. What do you think his motives really are?”

“Those fiendish blue-ringed Immortals followed you to that market and sent Jackson in.”

“Yes, but Jackson created a diversion by compelling the gunman to rob the store. He wanted to help me get away because he knew what they’d do to me.” I thought about that for a moment. “But what if he only saved me because he knows I bear the mark of Lantera? Maybe he sensed it somehow. He has so many abilities.” I tilted my head. “Do you think he originally came into the store to capture me for the Immortals, then saw the mark and changed his mind? He did look shocked when he first saw it. Or maybe he was really trying to help me, and the mark is just an added bonus for him.”

“Or perhaps he’s a very good actor,” Victor said.

I flashed him a grin. “Like you, at the theater?”

He returned my smile. “No one could be such an excellent performer, my dear...but yes.”

“He knew my energy was at a dangerous level, that I was short circuiting.”

“He needed you alive and knew your body would never hold out.”

“So his people studied every ancient book, looking for a cure.” I shook my head. “That’s what scares me. What could be so important that they scoured those books for months to save a stranger, someone they don’t even know?”

A deep line creased his forehead. “I fear they do have an agenda of their own, that they want to use you for some personal gain.”

“But I’m just a map. At least they won’t be sacrificing me.”

A worrisome expression crossed his face. “Sarah, we have no idea how treacherous this journey may be.”

“We do know Jackson’s true identity though,” I said. “He works with the blue-ringed Immortals, but he moonlights for the rebellion, and that makes him a spy. What if Jackson kills us after we do this little favor for him? He’s clearly wishy-washy, and maybe he cannot be trusted after all.”

Victor’s lips pressed into hard lines. “I assure you he cannot be.”

“What if we join the rebellion?” I asked.

“Sarah, I think they would be our best allies. At first, I thought it best not to join either side, that we should stay hidden in the shadows. But we tried that, and they took you. I felt such pain when they took you from me.”

“If we have to pick a side, the rebellion will protect us, as long as we fight alongside them. I think it is best, Victor.” My voice grew louder as the awful memories of the laboratory returned. “Especially after what those idiots were going to do to me on that mountain.”

His voice cracked. “They would have killed our son, and I would never have forgiven them.”

“The blue-ringed Immortals are surely pissed about what you did to their mountain facility. I want to join the rebellion, but what if a war breaks out? Do you really want to be caught in the middle of it? I mean, what if they follow us back to our world and wreak havoc.”

“Wreak havoc?” Victor asked. “Ethano has already done that, my dear.”

I grabbed Victor’s arm when a sudden horrifying thought occurred to me. “What if Ethano joins them?”

He let out a long breath. “It would be a very dangerous, lethal combination.”

I sighed. “Maybe it wasn’t such a good idea to attack their lab after all. They are so powerful. Even with the rebellion, we’re no match against them.”

“They were going to experiment on you!” he said, his voice wavering. “They did horrifying things to Della for months, and they almost killed my son.”

“So they needed to pay?”

He didn’t answer, knowing there was nothing he could really say.

I continued, “If you are so bent on revenge, Victor, why didn’t you kill Ethano?” I asked. “He needs to pay, too, right?”

“Sarah, we attacked that facility to rescue those poor humans being held in those awful pods. I suspected that Lynn, the girl from our theater, was among the captives. I went there to rescue them, not to kill anyone. The rebellion took it a step further, and your sister only encouraged them.”

“You had nothing to do with the explosion?” I asked.

“No, Sarah. I swear.”

I let out a sigh of relief. “I’m glad to hear that.” I sucked in a deep breath, then let it out slowly. “I’ve been thinking, Victor. We should do Jackson the favor we promised, then leave. We can move to another country, a place where nobody will find us, not even the blue-ringed Immortals.”

He flashed me a serious look. “I do not run from my problems, My Queen.”

I sighed and stomped my foot. “Victor, you are so stubborn and—”

He cut me off and captured my mouth in a gentle kiss. I leaned into him, and he embraced me. “You love my stubbornness.”

Those pretty blue eyes of his caught mine, and we both burst out in laughter.

“I never said that,” I said.

“You do not have to say it,” he said. “I can tell by the way you kiss me, milady.”

My eyes crinkled in a puzzled look. “You can?”

As we rounded the bend, I saw a wrought-iron fence wrapped in snow-white ivy. “Get the key,” I said as my face lit up. “We’re here.” I could hardly contain my excitement. We hurried to the gate, and I anxiously peered through the steel bars. I sighed at the lush landscape. “It’s a blossom field, stretching as far as the eye can see,” I said as Victor put the key in the lock. With a double click, it opened.

“Stay on constant alert,” Victor said. “We have no idea what to expect.”

“But we’re here! You should be ecstatic!” I tried to put on a brave smile and pretend like his words of caution didn’t bother me one tiny bit.

He smiled at me, and I gripped his hand tightly as we slowly walked into the beautiful wonderland.

Chapter 22

We walked into the green meadow lined with hundreds of cherry trees in full bloom. A fragrant almond scent drifted in the air. Glancing upward, I stared up at towering trees soaring at least twenty-five feet in the air. Soft sunlight shone through the magnificent display. I was mesmerized by the pinkish-white glow of the delicate petals. I smiled as a gust of wind brought down a flurry of flowers. Petals fell like pink snow and sprinkled the ground like a pink carpet.

The majestic, serene beauty and fruity aroma took my breath away. As far as I could see, there were heavily clustered cherry blossoms and single petals in all varieties of pinkish hues, from delicate baby pink to bright fuchsia and even mauve and crimson. The birds sang happily and the sun shone on my face. I had never felt so calm, tranquil, and at peace as I did in that postcard-perfect setting.

“Stunning,” Victor said, staring up at the pinkish-white canopy above us.

“It’s beautiful,” I agreed, walking under the sweeping branches. I spun around and searched. “How will we ever find the right tree? There are cherry blossoms spreading for miles, blanketing the hills, and they all look like the drawing in that book.”

Victor’s gaze locked on mine. “We need to find snow or water, perhaps a river or stream. I am not certain, but our time is running out to solve this mystery.” He reached out and caught a few falling blossoms. “These petals are falling from the trees like snow. It could have something to do with the snow clue.”

“Symbolism? Maybe, but that doesn’t help us much. It’s snowing everywhere.” I bit my lip, pondering. “The clues were given to help us find the tree.”

His brows knitted together as he looked around. “I don’t see how snow has anything to do with cherry blossoms.”

I was completely stumped. “What about the fountain? Let’s look for a fountain under a cherry tree, with falling petals like snow.”

“Where would a fountain be?” he asked.

I tapped my chin in thought. “Hmm. Snow and fountain? What do the two of them have in common?” Then it hit me. “Snow fountain!”

Victor raised an eyebrow. “Snow Fountain? What does that mean?”

I smiled as the pieces started to fit. “It’s a type of flower, a pure white cherry blossom. It makes perfect sense. It stands for purity, just like this island and the tests they gave to us.” I glanced down at my white deerskin dress. “Even this dress is white. It’s all about symbolism.”

“There was a tree full of white blossoms back that way a bit,” Victor said.

My heart pounded as a rush of excitement ran through me. “The eternal bloom must be one of those snow fountain blossoms. All we have to do is find it. Come on!” I grinned up at Victor, tears brimming in my eyes. “Baby, we’re so close to getting out of this nightmare once and for all.”

He grinned. “Then why are you crying, love?”

My heart jumped at the sudden joy flooding every fiber of my body. “Because...we can raise our baby boy together! I’m going to live, Victor! I’m really going to live, to hold him in my arms.”

He embraced me as emotion consumed both of us, and then we hurried back to the tree Victor had seen earlier.

“According to the clues, I think we’re looking for a weeping snow fountain cherry tree,” I said. I began to peer at every tree around us, desperately looking for the miracle flower that would ultimately save my life. Suddenly, a light pain ripped across my stomach. “Victor...oh my gosh!” I took a deep breath and waited until he turned to face me.

“What is it?” he asked. “Sarah? Are you in pain?”

“I didn’t want to scare you, but the cramps have been coming for hours now. I think Alexander is ready to come...today.”

A shocked expression crossed his face. “But I thought we had a tiny bit more time.”

I bit my lip hard. “The baby has other plans.”

“Do you hurt badly, my love?”

“My abdomen just tightens up. It’s uncomfortable, but it doesn’t hurt too much.”

“It’s going to be okay,” he said.

I gazed into his eyes. “I know. I have to believe that.” Suddenly, I gripped my stomach. There were more cramps, but they were nothing I couldn’t handle.

Victor’s mouth lowered on mine. Our lips connected in a slow, gentle touch.

I stared into his eyes and felt the strength radiating from him. “Thank you. I-I couldn’t do this by myself,” I said.

He stroked my face. “You don’t have to. I’m here with you. But we don’t have a minute to waste. If labor has started, we must find that flower.”

We walked through all the cherry trees until I spotted a flash of pure white. The cascading, white, spring blossoms took my breath away. I squinted and saw that it was the only tree with nothing but white flowers. “There it is!” I said, hardly able to contain my excitement.

Victor grabbed my hand, and in a flash, we rushed to the tree.

I reached up and picked a white blossom. Its petals were as white as snow, as soft as velvet. I squeezed it in my hand as instructed and felt a cool sensation flooding through me. I was surrounded by a white glow, and I began to shiver. Intense, supernatural energy overcame me. Goosebumps covered my skin, my hands felt cold and numb, and my lips tingled, as if I was standing in the middle of the North Pole. I didn’t feel the flower in my hand, and when I opened my palm, I only saw white dust. At the very same second, my body returned to normal temperature.

“Are you...healed?” Victor anxiously asked.

“I don’t feel the energy surge anymore,” I said. “I feel like my old self.”

Victor hugged me and stared deeply into my eyes. “We did it, Sarah.”

“I’m all better!” I laughed. “I can see my baby for longer than five minutes.”

Victor grinned, and his eyes welled with tears. “You will tuck our son in tonight, my love.”

I burst into tears as I hugged Victor. “We did it,” I whispered. “I’m going to be a mother, right there with him, rather than someone he only sees in pictures, video diaries, and reads about in letters.”

Victor wiped the tears from my eyes. “This is the happiest moment of my existence.”

“There is so much more to come, baby! This is just the beginning for us!”

“Let’s go,” Victor said. “We must figure out how to get off this island.”

I suddenly doubled over in pain. “Victor, we’ll never make it off this rock before the baby comes.”

He cocked a brow. “Are you sure? I think we should—”

I shook my head. “Alexander is coming, Victor. We’re going to have our baby right here, right now.”

His eyes widened, as if in shock, but then he smiled.

“What about a doctor?” I asked. “Can we do this without one?”

He pondered, then answered calmly, “We’ve beaten the odds so far. Have no fear, my love. You will give birth to a beautiful, healthy son. I can’t wait meet my little miracle.”

“Neither can I,” I whispered as happiness washed over me. I had waited so long to meet my tiny bundle of joy. I was ecstatic. I’m not really sure there were words to describe the most amazing feeling in the entire world, a natural high I couldn’t even explain.

Victor carried me under a shade tree and gently placed me on a bed of pink and white petals.

“These blossoms only have a life span of three days,” I said. “What are the chances I’d give birth here?”

“Fate is trying to tell us that our child is destined to be here.”

“These blossoms have long been associated with purity and simplicity, and now I’m having my baby here. It’s so...ironic.”

“It is perfect,” Victor said. He snuggled up next to me.

I wrapped my arm around him. Being so close to him, lying against his chest during contractions seemed to put me at ease and calm my rattled nerves. I’d never had a baby before, and I had no midwife or doctor or my mother there to guide me through it. We spent an hour holding each other as my contractions kept their easygoing pace. We talked about everything, from the impending birth to the weather and the nature surrounding us.

He ran a hand through my hair. “You will be the most wonderful mother.”

I smiled. “Thank you. And you will be a great dad.”

I groaned as more cramps rolled across my stomach, making their way to my back. Victor helped me stand, and we walked around a little.

We swayed and danced as petals fell on us like snow. I laid my head on his chest and was comforted by his strong arms and the warmth and scent of his body.

Butterflies circled above as the song of tingling bells hung in the air. Victor held my gaze through the cloud of petals falling softly upon us. He wrapped his arms around my waist, drawing me closer.

I leaned against him until I could feel the warmth of his skin against my racing heart, and I lifted my arm to touch his flushed cheek.

He didn’t flinch or even react. He just smiled and kissed my fingers where they touched his lips. His arms squeezed me more tightly, but his touch remained soft, like the butterflies fluttering on the nearby blossoms.

More pain came. I squatted, leaned on tree trunks, and arched my back forward and backward. I tried everything to alleviate the pain, but they were the worst cramps I’d ever felt in my life, far beyond even the strongest of Midol. After I rode the next wave of pain, I started to panic.

“What’s wrong?” Victor gently asked, stroking my back.

“I’m scared. My mother and sister aren’t here, and I have never done this before. We’re by ourselves, lost on some deserted island. I’m freaked out, Victor, and I’m afraid I’m going to panic and—”

“You are not alone, my love. I’m right here,” he said, giving me a reassuring squeeze.

“But we don’t have our Immortal doctor.”

He pulled me close. “Sarah, your body was designed to do this. You will have our baby, and both of you will be fine. Remember the vision from the cave?”

“The vision was of us in a hospital,” I retorted.

“We changed the future by coming for the eternal bloom when you were so late in pregnancy.”

“We had to, Victor. My fate was sealed. You know the second I delivered the baby, I would have been as good as dead.”

“We changed that outcome,” he said. “We found the eternal bloom, and now you’re going to live.”

“The Immortals that dropped us off will come back for us. They want their money. We could be whisked off to the hospital, which would mean the prophesy on the wall was true.”

“What makes you say that?” he asked.

“That captain didn’t like bringing a pregnant woman out here in the middle of nowhere. He told me that if I had that baby, he was personally taking me to an Immortal hospital himself. That the orders were straight from Jackson.”

I closed my eyes as he wiped my face with his sleeve, comforting me. I tried to stay relaxed between contractions so I wouldn’t use all my strength up. I concentrated on the distinct smell of the cherry blossoms all around me and the beautiful songs of the birds. We didn’t talk; he just held me. It was exactly what I wanted as I soaked in all the nature around me. When I reached for my back during a cramping contraction, Victor massaged my spine without me having to ask. After a while, my soft groans turned into loud moans.

“We need to time the contractions,” I said, touching my rock-hard abdomen.

We clocked them at five minutes apart, lasting sixty seconds. I could barely breathe or talk through the strong waves washing over me. Victor pushed sweaty strands of hair out of my face, and then we just held hands until the contraction was over.

“It won’t be long now. We’ll soon meet our son, Sarah.”

I beamed. “I must be the only mom in the world who already knows what her baby looks like.”

He touched my face. “Tell me again.”

I smiled at the thought. “Alexander has the most gorgeous black curls, and his eyes are the bluest I’ve ever seen, at least as blue as yours. He has an infectious giggle, and we will devote all our love, attention, and energy to him.”

“I’ll always protect him. He’ll never set foot in my world until he is a grown man.”

I heard a light popping sound, and warm fluid rushed down my legs. “My water just broke.” A contraction ripped through me, and I fell to my knees. I tried to breathe the way I’d been taught, in through the nose and out through the mouth, but it didn’t seem to help one tiny bit. I gritted my teeth and screamed again.

Chapter 23

The pain had started like menstrual cramps, but now it was completely unbearable, a different kind of torture altogether. They had a beginning, a peak, and an end, a million times worse than a Charlie horse. The contractions got worse, deeper and closer together. “It hurts ten times worse now,” I said, gritting my teeth and sweating profusely.

Victor rushed to my side, and I gazed into his eyes.

“It’s time!” The contractions intensified, and with each one, I got louder and louder. They were so intense, powerful, and painful. I had never heard myself scream like that, like a maniac. The cramps had started out like a summer shower, and now they felt like a hurricane.

“We’ll get through this,” Victor said, “one contraction at a time.”

Victor’s support and encouragement during our labor was nothing short of amazing. I had never loved him more than that very moment. I covered my face with my hands and gasped. Pain seared my stomach and back, silencing my screams. I dug my nails into his hand at the height of a powerful contraction, then slumped when it ended. “I didn’t mean to break your fingers, babe.”

“You’re doing a wonderful job,” Victor said, shooting me a reassuring look. “Giving birth is long, hard job. I’m so proud of you.”

“I don’t want to be cliché, cursing, sweating, panting, and screaming at my husband like a maniac.”

“I don’t care if you scream, curse, or hit me. If it helps you cope with the pain, you may let me be your punching bag.”

“I need to blow through the pain.”

“Slowly inhale through your nose and exhale through your mouth, just like we learned,” Victor said.

He breathed with me, and I was able to breathe through the pain. I knew how important it was to maintain a rhythm so I would not panic; that would only use up all the oxygen my body and my baby desperately needed. We breathed that way for nearly an hour. Victor was my rock and never let me give up, encouraging me every step of the way.

Suddenly, everything tightened, hardened, and I could barely breathe as I squeezed his hand. I looked to him for strength and encouragement, and he projected a strong sense of confidence and calm. “I couldn’t ask for a better coach. You’re...my rock.”

When I began to hyperventilate, Victor breathed out loud with me so I’d slow down my breaths. My coach kept me totally focused and calm, until the peak of the next contraction. “Ow, ow, ow, ow!” I grunted, whimpered, cried, and moaned. I felt pressure in my pelvis and was sure I was going to have the baby any second.

“I’m here for you,” Victor assured me in a low, soothing tone and massaged all the areas that were hurting.

I’d never felt so in tune with Victor, so loved by anyone. His support was amazing, and he knew exactly what to do.

Victor squeezed my hand. “I can’t wait to have our beautiful wedding.”

“Me too. Only three more months.”

“You’ve been working so hard on the wedding plans. I am so proud of you, Sarah.”

“It will be a dream come true. Walking down the aisle and getting married in my church instead of some medieval place, surrounded by swords and shields. All the guests will be my friends and loved ones, and...ow! Oh my gosh, it hurts!” I had trouble maintaining my steady breathing. “It feels like thunder rolling across my stomach and back. I can take the pain, but they just keep coming and coming, and I have no time to relax.” Within seconds, I was howling in pain, like a wolf with a splinter in its paw. “Ohhh!” I yelled again, gripping my stomach.

“You’re in transition,” he said, rubbing my back.

“Somebody listened to the teacher,” I breathed out. “I wish I could remember half of what she said, but everything’s just...a blur. Pushing a baby out is hard work!” I winced, doubling over. “Here comes another one!” I said, trying to recall the deep-breathing techniques I’d learned in the birthing classes we’d attended at the community center.

Then the most amazing thing happened. The contractions stopped for a wonderful, blissful thirty seconds. It was pure heaven, with no pain whatsoever.

“You’re the strongest woman I know, Sarah,” Victor said. “You can do this.”

I grunted. “What makes you so sure?”

“You took me on and stood up to me like no woman I’ve ever met.”

“You were so cocky,” I said, “yet so damn handsome.”

“And you were so stubborn, yet so damn beautiful.”

Then I clutched my stomach, choked back a scream, and waited for the painful contraction to pass. It hurt so bad that I could hardly speak. I groaned as another painful cramp washed over me, then let out a guttural scream when another contraction tore through my abdomen. It felt as if I was being hit by a Mack truck over and over again. “As horrible as this is, I can feel progress with every push,” I breathed out. “I don’t mean to scream. I really don’t, but I-I just can’t help it.”

“It’s fine, my love. Just let it all out.”

“Back-to-back contractions? No amount of birthing classes could have prepared me for this,” I complained. “My body’s on fire, Victor. I’m so hot...and the baby’s so active.”

“He’s getting into position,” Victor said. “He wants to meet us as badly as we want to meet him.”

“Can you tell him to just stop moving and please get comfortable already?” I asked, panting.

Victor used the palm of his hand to massage my lower back. It helped to soothe my muscles and alleviate some of the pain that came so fast and hard. I swear I felt the baby turn in the birth canal, as if I’d lost all control of my body. I tried to concentrate on a flowing river or a waterfall to help me focus.

“It hurts too bad,” I yelled, gritting my teeth. “You could always feel my pain before. You’re so lucky we’re not bonded by the ring anymore! You should thank Ethano for disconnecting us, Victor. I guarantee you would not want to go through this.”

“You can make it, Sarah,” Victor reassured me in a calm voice.

I drew in deep, ragged breaths, sweating as if I’d just run a marathon. “I’ve never experienced anything like this.” I screamed as another contraction hit. “It hurts like hell!” I knew I needed to save my energy, but vocalizing really helped me through the intense pain.

“You’re doing wonderfully, my love,” Victor said, holding my hand as I squeezed. “This kind of pain brings life. Just think of the reward. We’ll be holding our baby soon.”

Victor was wonderful, and his radiant love was such a help to me. After every single contraction, he praised me and told me how proud he was of me and congratulated me on a job well done.

“I have to be fully dilated. It’s time to push. I can feel it!” I screamed and hoped I hadn’t blown out his eardrums.

He positioned himself between my legs, and I spread them apart. “When you feel the contraction, push with all your might, Sarah.”

I nodded and felt nothing but overwhelming love for my husband and son. I wanted nothing more than to see the beautiful baby we’d created together. I focused on the outcome and not the pain.

“Push! Come on, Sarah. Push hard!”

As the contraction hit, I took a big breath and focused on my baby’s sweet face. I thought about the vision of Victor and I singing “Happy Birthday” to him on his first birthday. I remembered how much he lit up, his bright smile and the twinkle in his eyes. I breathed slowly and let the contraction run its course. Tucking my chin to my chest, I curled my body and leaned forward, then bore down and grunted like a power-lifter in the gym.

After five seconds, I released my breath and breathed in and out. My urge to push came during the contraction. When the contractions stopped, I went limp and took a few calming breaths, but there was little time to relax. I knew Alexander was in perfect position to make his entrance into the world. The next contraction came like a tidal wave, and I squeezed my eyes shut. With every contraction, I brought down my head to my chest and pushed, then rested for a quick second before the next horrific one came. I couldn’t explain it, but I felt an overwhelming desire to push. The pressure was like something I’d never felt before, like a boa constrictor wrapping itself around my hips and squeezing the life out of them.

“You can do this,” Victor said. “Listen to your body. You were built for this, and I promise your beautiful body will not let you down.”

I made fists against my thighs. I could feel the baby descending down the birth canal. I took a deep breath and pushed even harder, accompanied by bloodcurdling screams of power and determination. With every bit of Immortal strength I had, I pushed. Inch by inch, Alex’s head began to emerge. I felt a burning sensation as the baby crowned. As soon as one powerful contraction let up, I was hit by another one. There was no rest between the painful waves, and catching my breath seemed like an impossible feat.

“You’re doing fantastic,” Victor said. “I see his head! Keep going. A few more pushes, and our son will be here.”

I could barely hear him through all my wails. I rested, then bore down again. I pushed hard and long at the crescendo of the contraction.

“Keep going, Sarah! One more slow push.”

It was blinding pain. “It’s burning!” I screamed, enduring the worst pain I’d ever felt in my life.

“Push through the pain.”

I focused on Victor’s voice. Squeezing his hand, I screamed. Droplets of sweat rolled down my face. I gave it one long, hard push, and I felt Alexander exit my body.

“I’ve got him!” Victor shouted excitedly. “You did it, Sarah! My goodness, he’s so beautiful!”

I did it? Really? I did it!

After an hour of hard pushing, Alexander slid out and made his way into the world. He was crying at the top of his lungs, covered in white vernix and smears of blood, moving his little arms and legs. He was my baby, my son, my world, my pride and joy, and he was absolutely beautiful.

I smiled, tears flowing down my face as emotion consumed me. “You’re here,” I said. “You’re finally here.” I had never felt such pure happiness. It was truly indescribable, serenity I never could have imagined.

“Meet our handsome prince,” Victor said. He laid the baby on my chest, and I cradled him, still in complete awe of his existence.

As tears galore streamed down my face, I cried out, “I’ve waited so long to meet you, little one.” A bond formed immediately between us. “I’m your mother, and I love you so much, my precious boy.” I looked down at his sweet face and wet tangle of dark hair, then back up at Victor. The baby had wide lips and full pink cheeks, and his eyes were wide open. As he blinked, I couldn’t help but notice how blue his eyes were, just like his daddy’s. “He’s more perfect than I ever imagined or dreamt.”

“I couldn’t agree more,” Victor said.

Tears streamed down my face. “We love you, sweet boy,” I said, voice wavering.

Alexander’s face was red from crying. I tried to soothe him by softly singing to him, the same song I’d sung to him in my womb. Our eyes locked. He stopped crying and stared straight into my soul, as if he knew exactly who I was, his mother. My composure crumbled again as more tears poured down my face.

None of the pain mattered anymore. I’d delivered a life into the world, my very own, gorgeous son. Nothing could’ve prepared me for that fantastic moment, holding my new baby with my wonderful husband smiling down at me. Tears dripped onto his face, and I wiped them away. My fingers touched every line and curve of his little face. I was holding a brand new life, breathing and crying, and it was an amazing feeling to know Victor and I had created him. I was still in shock that he was a real human being, that I’d given birth to him. He was so adorable, and I couldn’t believe he was mine. His little hand gripped my finger, our first touch, and I was overcome with sheer joy.

Victor and I were lost in that magical moment. As I looked into his eyes, I watched a tear roll down his face. He had lived hundreds of years, but I’d given him his first child. I couldn’t stop crying as I touched his cheek. We no longer had the power of our rings, but nothing could have been stronger than what we felt in that moment. I’d always thought myself strong, but caught in the little blue-eyed stare of my baby, I could only sob tears of happiness.

My baby looked right up at me, and I melted. It was love at first sight. I stared at his face and marveled that we’d made such a beautiful baby. “Hello,” I sobbed. “Yes, I’m your mommy, and it’s so nice to meet you.”

“I’m so proud of you, Sarah,” Victor said.

I squeezed his hand. “I love you so much.”

“I love you too.”

“Look at that full head of hair.”

“Just like his daddy,” I said.

“Welcome to the world, Alexander,” he said proudly. “I am your father, and I couldn’t be prouder.” He then cut the cord, wrapped our baby up in his black shirt, and kissed me on the forehead. He handed our sweet baby back to me.

Holding him was an unimaginable feeling that no words could describe. My heart and soul swelled with a love so deep, so pure. I’d lived long enough to bring Alex into the world. My unstable energies hadn’t killed me, and that was a miracle in itself. Alexander had a guardian angel in Dr. Meyers, for she’d given me the lifesaving medication that had kept me alive until I could find the eternal bloom. If it hadn’t been for her, I wouldn’t have been holding my son in my arms. Looking down at Alexander I realized all over again that with love, anything is possible.

I felt the biggest rush of euphoria as I gazed at my newborn. Alexander was the pure creation of love. When I looked at my little miracle, all the pain and worry quickly became a dim memory. I cuddled his tiny, warm body, looked into his eyes, and held him tightly against my chest.

Victor touched my face. “I’ve fought alongside brave men in glorious battles, but no one is as brave as you. You’re my hero, Sarah, and I love you with all my heart. Our son is beautiful, just like his mother.”

A tear streamed down my cheek as I met his emotional gaze. “We did it.”

He kissed my lips. “We did. Our boy is healthy and strong.”

“And so alert!”

I knew my job wasn’t done yet, but with one more push, the placenta came out; of course I had no desire to look at what was happening down there. Victor had seen me at my worst. I was a hot, sweaty mess, and he’d had to witness some grotesque things; nothing is glamorous about birth. But in the long run, we’d brought a life into the world. Nothing could have been more touching or beautiful, and I would never forget that day. I’d never been happier as my heart swelled with incredible joy.

Watching Victor hold our son was one of the most heartfelt moments I could ever imagine. The powerful Immortal king gently kissed Alexander’s head and ran his fingers over his little face, pouring out his affections. It gave me a whole new reason to love Victor. In that cherished moment, I knew we were a family, and nobody would ever tear us apart. We would be together through thick and thin, always and forever.

I held my baby up to my chest, and he latched onto my breast straightaway. I stroked his soft face and slowly rocked him as he suckled. He soon fell asleep in my arms, lulled by my comforting voice, warmth, and heartbeat. I kissed Alexander on the head. “I love you so much.”

Suddenly, a low hum caught my attention. Glancing up, I squinted. A helicopter thundered in the distance as it approached.

“Do you hear that?”

“Yes!” Victor said. “Stay right here. I’ll be back.”

I nodded as he ran off. Rocking my baby, I prayed someone had come to rescue us.

Thirty minutes later, Victor returned with a smile on his face. “They’ve seen us!” he shouted.

“So I take it we’re going home?” I asked softly, caught in the dream-like moment.

“After our hospital-ordered visit from Jackson,” he said.

“I don’t even mind,” I said. “I’m just glad we’ll all be together and that we’re all alive.”

He cupped my face as emotions spilled into his voice. “Are you ready to leave, my love?”

I smiled at Victor as I stood. Excitement and relief washed over me like a tidal wave. We were rescued. I was alive, and I had my family. When Victor wrapped his arm around me, I couldn’t stop smiling. I was overcome with incredible joy. We would raise our son to be the man he should be.

Victor placed a kiss on my lips and I smiled even bigger. Having Alexander was the single most amazing moment in my life. Neither of us knew what the future held, but we knew one thing for sure: Our child would have our undying love, attention, affection, and devotion forever.

Victor kissed my lips again, then kissed our baby on the head. I had a loving husband and beautiful child, and a whole new chapter of our lives had just opened. What more could I ask for? My life is perfect now. I knew I wouldn’t sleep that night. I didn’t want to, for fear that I might wake up from my beautiful dream.

The End

If you enjoyed this story, please let others know by adding a review. This helps others find new authors that they may have never heard of before, but may enjoy. Thank you, I appreciate it so much.

Book 6 – Eternal Flame will be released Spring 2014

See cover on next page.

Visit the Author’s Blog at: http://chrissypeebles.blogspot.com/

Connect with the Author on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=vb.351121651567296&type=2#!/pages/Chrissy-Peebles/351121651567296