Page 11 of Shadowed Fate

Callen steps closer, his smile disarming. "Come now, darling. Don’t you think you’ll be safer with us."

I clench my fists, feeling that strange power pulse beneath my skin. "I can take care of myself."

Lochan scoffs. "Clearly. That's why we just had to save your life."

"I didn't ask for your help," I snap, but even as I say it, I know it's not entirely true. I'm terrified, confused, and... curious.

A howl on the wind makes me tense. Lochan moves into a defensive stance, while Callen's easy smile never falters.

"Time's up, I'm afraid," Callen says, extending his hand to me. "What'll it be? Stay here and face whatever's coming next alone, or come with us and get some answers?"

I hesitate, my heart racing. "And how do I know I can trust you?"

Lochan sighs. "You don't. But I’m not giving you a choice."

I bristle at Lochan's words, but the forest suddenly feels oppressive, closing in around us. Something hums beneath my skin, eager for release, and it scares me more than these strangers.

"Fine," I mutter, reluctantly following them down the winding path leading me home. The two men remain silent, their eyes constantly scanning our surroundings.

As we approach my cottage, I feel a strange mix of relief and apprehension. It's my sanctuary, but bringing these men here feels like an invasion.

"Quaint," Callen remarks, eyeing the overgrown garden and weathered exterior.

I unlock the door, my hand trembling slightly. "You can leave now. I'm home safe."

Lochan pushes past me, entering without invitation. "Not happening."

Anger flares within me, along with that unsettling, strange energy. "You can't just—"

"We can, and we will," Callen interrupts, following Lochan inside. His charm has faded, replaced by a seriousness that unnerves me.

I step inside, closing the door behind me. The cottage feels smaller with them in it, suffocating. I lean against the wall, arms crossed. "Start talking then. Who are you and what the hell is going on?”

Chapter 7

Brigid

Standing in my cottage, I cross my arms and narrow my eyes at the two men who have just claimed to have been sent by something called Grimstone Academy.

The one called Lochan says nothing, just stands there scowling at me as his friend explains that they’ve come to escort me to said academy. He explains that it’s a place where people who have ‘powers’ go to get help learning how to use them. I think he’s a few fruit loops short of a full bowl.

But I can’t deny what I felt. What I still feel.

He tells me that the dean of the school sent them to collect me and bring me back.

I lean back slightly, giving him a once-over before speaking. Dear Lord, I didn’t know a man could be that attractive. He puts every movie star I’ve ever seen to shame. Lochan would probably be just as good to look at if he wasn’t glaring at me like a dog about to tear me apart.

"Really. You think I’m stupid? Why exactly would I go anywhere with you? I don’t know who you are." I shouldn’t have even let them in my house, not that I had much choice.

"Aside from saving your life?" Callen arches an eyebrow. He sees me about to argue and cuts me off. "Grimstone Academy is a safe place for those with supernatural abilities—like yourself."

I shake my head. Despite what I just witnessed and felt, it’s all too unbelievable. My mind tries to rationalize it—and fails.

“Why now? Why tonight?” I’ve felt different my whole life. Did other people, like this dean, know about me all along?

Callen continues, unfazed by my disbelief. "When your magic was awakened, it set off a ripple that was immediately detected by the magical wards and alert system at the academy. You can't hide from us, or from your newfound abilities."

I take an involuntary step back, crossing my arms as if to shield against the impossible claim hanging in the air.

---