Page 142 of De-Witched

Eyes so like Gabriel’s father’s held onto his, bright, searing. Then August turned to the High Family. “Please don’t take her from him.”

Luisa waited a beat, pointedly looking at the door. When no more interruptions came, she allowed a thin smile. “I’m moved. And it says a lot that she has the weight of such powerful families on her side.”

The Bluewaters weren’t powerful, but otherwise, Gabriel realized she was right. Leah had made friends with the right people.

“It’s unprecedented.” Luisa shared a look with her siblings. “But as you know, humans have been allowed into society on a trial basis before. She would have to be monitored until the probation passes. Are you considering bonding with her?” she directed to Gabriel.

Bonding with a human was rarely done. Once done, a bonding could not be undone, similar to witch marriages. The human would take a sliver of their bonded one’s magic into them and it would enhance their body, allowing them to live longer. A true mate.

Sensing Leah’s confusion, he turned to look at her. And saw his future.

“Well, you have time to consider that.” Julian waved that off, the golden twin huffing in small amusement. “Give the man a break, Luisa. He’s known her three months.”

She rolled her eyes.

Gabriel didn’t let his guard down. The High Family liked to toy with prey, coaxing them to believe all was okay before hitting them between the eyes.

Arlo spoke up. “We may be willing to allow this human into society on a trial basis.”

Gabriel still didn’t celebrate. Neither did Leah or any of the others ranged around the room.

“But you broke the law,” Arlo finished. The siblings’ faces turned implacable, Luisa and Isabella rising to present a united front. The four of them stared back at Gabriel and Leah, who faced them together.

Isabella spread her hands. “There must be a price paid.”

31

“Leah, can I have a word?”

Leah pulled away from Tia’s hard hug and made a face. “Uh-oh,” she said lightly, turning to Kole. “I’m in for a spanking.” She used the light words as a defense against the rolling nausea in her belly as they grouped together like sitting ducks.

But he didn’t come back with a quip. Face set, he jerked his head to a corner of the waiting room they’d been marched into to await the High Family’s verdict. If her life hadn’t been at stake, she’d have found the large room lovely with its paneled walls, faded Persian rugs and wide, wonderful windows that let in the twilight. As it was, it was all she could do to keep from staining the rugs. Gabriel had been drawn away to speak with Bastian and Emma, which was probably why Kole was making his move.

Casting Tia a look, she followed Kole to the windows. He gazed out at the view of the bayou, one so close she figured magic had to be at play. His profile was as handsome as ever, but there was something remote about him at that moment.

It unsettled her. “Kole?”

“You love him.”

It wasn’t a question, not in that careful voice, and it wasn’t where she thought he’d start his lecture. But she nodded.

“It wasn’t something I was looking for but he kind of snuck up on me.” She laughed a little at the understatement. “He got through all my walls. He...sees me.”

Kole shifted. “Leah.” He took one of her hands in his. The seriousness of his expression caused her stomach to flip.

“What is it?”

“Can I ask you something?”

“Always.”

He hesitated. “Did you ever...?” He struggled for words. “With me, did you...?” He stopped, staring at their joined hands.

“Did I...?”

Kole’s face filled with something she couldn’t name, strong, powerful enough to make his eyes glow.

“Hey.” She squeezed his hand. “You can ask me anything. You’re big brother Kole.” She smiled, hoping to coax whatever was riding him out. “We’re family. Always.” She felt her stomach pitch. “No matter what their price is.”

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