Page 46 of Found In Destruction

“My uncle is the less cool, wanna-be version of Zeus. He cares about appearances and power but doesn’t have any because he lacks clout. Zeus isolated him in own realm in the underworld, and he never really belonged with the Gods. If we give him something to do here, a place in the new order…he’ll see that as being on par with Zeus. I think he’ll do anything to feel included.”

“For fuck’s sake, one minute you’re raving about eating an entire tub of potato salad and the next you’re a damn genius!” Lucifer shouted. “Give me a half hour to go over my day with Desmond. He can take care of everything while we’re away. We’ll meet back here soon.”

After he faded out, I grabbed Diana’s hand, then led her to the couch and sat down with her on my lap. I loved how cozy and warm she felt against me. Then I motioned for Feathers to sit on my other side.

“I just want to be clear, I don’t know if Hades will be able or willing to do this. This whole plan may be a huge success…or a failure. I haven’t spoken to my uncle in centuries, so I’m not sure how this will play out.”

“The thought is what counts. Zaz, you’ve searched for a way to revive my mother for months. And that you two are even trying to help is enough for me.” She pulled us both in for a hug, and my heart leapt into my throat.

“We’ll do whatever it takes to make you happy, Angel.” Feathers sounded a bit choked up, because he was a big ole softie, but he was spot on.

“I want in on this group hug!” A feminine voice said. Angela ran over to us, hugging her niece with an excited smile on her face. I assumed it was because of her sister possibly being revived and not that she reeked of Judas’ scent. She let go, then sat across from us.

“Lucifer told us the good news and to meet him here,” Michael said as he grabbed a glass from the cabinet in the little studio kitchen and a water bottle from the refrigerator. He had permission to fade into Lucifer’s home and seemed very comfortable here…

Have you noticed how comfortable Michael seems here?I linked her and Feathers.

I can’t keep track of those two. I do know he calls himLuciwhen they’re alone. Heard him use it before Lucifer sedated me.

Hmmm, interesting.

They have a history that I can’t even keep track of, and I knew them before Lucifer fell from grace.Feathers kissed the side of Diana’s head.Promise that if we ever have another issue, we won't turn into them?

I promise, we both responded.

Feathers gave me a questioning expression. I loved how his thick eyebrows pulled together and had that furrow mark between them when he was confused. He acted much too modest to admit it, but he was handsome as fuck.

Oh, you’re not getting rid of me now. Get ready to be smothered with love, affection, commitment, and snuggles on either Sunday or Thursday—your choice.

He keeps us all on a scheduled cuddle rotation, except me. I have every day because I’m so comfortable,Diana snickered.You’ve really made it, Zaz.

I’ll pick Thursday for now.He sank further into our hug, but unfortunately, Lucifer’s impatience broke it up.

“Hug each other later, and not on my sofa!” He shouted, clapping his hands twice for effect. “Let’s go! Get in a circle!”

We all gathered around, holding hands.

“Where are we going?” Angie asked.

“Based on the time of year, I assume Hades is at his vacation home on the River Styx.” I responded.

I felt the deep, foreboding pull of Lucifer’s magic and then the entire room went black.

20

ANGELA

Every time someone faded me, my stomach felt like it was trying to exit my body through my asshole and my legs turned into jello. Dead serious, It was an awful way to travel, but it got the job done. It wasn’t even the weirdest thing I had experienced since moving to the compound. The Weirdest Experience award went to getting stuck in a panic room for baby vampires for six hours.

After I caught my balance, I realized we were not in southern California–or any earthbound place–anymore. This must have been another realm or something. Everything seemed vibrant to the point of being an illusion, like a fever dream. The sky was a striking neon blue and the clouds were pink and fluffy like cotton candy. Everything from the ground we stood on to the palm trees to the swanky vacation home further down the river appeared to be almost 4-D in how insanely brilliant and detailed they looked. I wasn’t a poetic soul by far, but even if I was, I doubt there were even words to describe this place.

“Welcome to the River Styx, everyone. Please, don’t touch the water. Don’t go into the river. If you see any bodies in there, they belong there. If you hear any screams, no you didn’t. Any creepyeyes peering out, just ignore them. I’m serious, act like it’s not even there,” Ares announced.

More powerful supernatural beings could mindlink, and I always knew when he was linking with my sister because they’d lock eyes and she’d get this dopey expression on her face. And when he was saying something flirty to her, she’d blush redder than a San Marzano tomato. Of all her boyfriends, I’d say he and Mal were tied for most adorable.

Yes, and please, for the love of all things Hellish, please do not piss off Hades. If the rumors are true, he’s a very sensitive soul and I do not want this fucked up because your temper flared,Lucifer’s voice filled my mind.

Fuck off, you bossy, arrogant asshole.

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