Page 226 of The Life of Anna-Tenth Anniversary Edition: Act 1

Devin had expected Brandon’s dissent and reservations about the idea. Oscar, on the other hand, objected only because he wanted the leadership role for himself. Nevertheless, both would be swayed to Devin’s way of thinking, one way or another.

Devin turned his gaze toward Brandon, then lightly traced his hands over Anna’s body while murmuring the ancient words into her ear. Her eyes momentarily glazed over before she fixed a seductive, intense stare on Brandon, accompanied by a suggestive smile. “Go to him,” he whispered in her ear.

Anna’s hips swayed as she walked around the coffee table and straddled Brandon’s lap. She whispered in his ear, working her seductive magic on him.

Devin turned his attention to the other Elders, who were discussing the pros and cons of adopting The Council over The Brotherhood. Tom and Marcus were his staunchest supporters and reasoned well with the others. However, when he noticed Javier’s disapproving frown directed at Anna, he realized that the Texas Elder might have need of Anna’s special persuasion, too. As for Connor and Oscar, they might want the position, but Devin doubted either of them would be willing to do what was necessary to prove themselves worthy of the role. They wanted the power, but he didn’t think they wouldn’t go to the extremes required to secure it.

Anna was winning Brandon over. His self-will was weakening under her skilled touch. The effects of the persuasion would wear off in a few days, but by then, the situation would have already been resolved. In Devin’s favor, of course.

Once Brandon yielded to Anna’s influence, Devin closed his eyes and communicated with her, directing her to go to Javier. With Alex’s absence, the bond between them had grown strong once more, and Devin was eager to put the “Alex problem” behind him. “Accidentally” removing the Elder-Son’s rings had increased Devin’s influence over Anna, and he was content to act as if the German had never interfered.

As Anna worked her charms on Javier, the other men engaged in hushed conversation. It didn’t take long for Devin to see Javier succumb to Anna’s influence. A satisfied smile crossed Devin’s face as Anna returned to his lap and cuddled close to him. Javier and Brandon looked a little dazed and watched Anna’s every movement.

Devin chuckled and turned his attention back to the others. “So, do we agree that a return to the old ways is necessary and good?”

All the men nodded.

“But who shall lead the Council?” Connor asked.

“I think Devin should lead.” Tom winked at his friend. “He has the Mistress.”

“Technically, she belongs to all of us,” Oscar said in a scathing voice.

“Do you want to be the Chairman, Oscar?” Devin asked.

“I’d at least like to be considered,” he answered sullenly.

“That’s reasonable.” Devin had no doubt that he would be made Chairman, but it would give a good show to consider the others. “As Oscar said, we’re all fit for the position, otherwise we wouldn’t be Elders.”

“Then how do we decide?” Oscar asked.

“We might be able to help,” said a deep voice behind him.

Devin smiled as the other men jumped. Kaveh and Val, the Immortals assigned to America, had appeared in the room. Devin pushed Anna gently off his lap and stood to greet them.

Anna turned and gaped at the two Immortals. They didn’t look like Sebastian. They were tall and muscular like him, but had tan skin, radiant golden eyes, and long black hair that was smoothed back into tails. Their white linen tunics and pants practically glowed and the golden belts around their waist caught the light from the lamp on the nearby table. The power they emitted made the Elder’s power seem weak in comparison.

The Elders greeted them with reverence and respect. Anna couldn’t move.

One of them looked at her. “Hello, Daughter,” he said with a sensuous smile. He walked over to her. “I am Kaveh.” He stroked her cheek and she trembled under his touch.

Anna’s mouth moved, but no sound came out.

“What a pretty thing you’ve grown into,” he said, moving closer. “Your father would be proud.” He leaned down and crushed his lips against hers. It was not a gentle, giving kiss; it was harsh and taking. His tongue invaded her mouth and she struggled for breath.

She clung to his muscular arms for support. He roughly caressed her breasts and she moaned against his lips. When he pulled away, her lips were bruised. He turned her around to face the Elders with his arm across her shoulders and pressed her back against his body. “We understand you want to go back to the old ways, Elders.” Kaveh’s torso vibrated against her back as he spoke. “We hope we can find a compromise. We detest the idea of giving up all our power.”

Devin’s eyes narrowed. “Compromise?”

“Yes. We will grant you the powers you desire, but we are loath to give up all that we have gained over the centuries.” Kaveh’s hand strayed down to Anna’s breast.

“We will support your desire against the other Immortals and Elders, and help you rule your country as you wish,” Val said, coming to stand next to Kaveh and Anna. “We simply wish to be partners with the Chairman.”

“There are aspects of this country which are quite pleasing to us and we would hate to see things change,” Kaveh said.

Devin frowned. “The old ways do not include a partnership. We humans do as we wish.”

“You may do as you want and we will give you anything you need. We will not interfere in your affairs, but it would be wise to include our perspective when making decisions. We have not steered you wrong before.”

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