Page 63 of One Last Wish

Chapter Eighteen

My hands and arms wereso bright, I felt I might catch on fire. The warmth was comforting, though. My whole body hummed and rumbled as power seared through me, but I couldn't control it.

“You need to channel the power, Alora,” a female voice chimed. I’d never heard the voice before, and in my dream she had no face. “Don’t lose it. Feel it. You can do it.”

“It’s going to burn out. I’mlosingit!” I stressed, tears coming to my eyes.

“This is the first time we’ve seen it. Your power hasn't manifested yet. It could takecenturies!You know this. Youmustgive it time,” the voice sighed.

“I’m sick of feeling souseless!”

“Alora, you are far from that. Try again. Can you feel anything?” Forcing all I had left inside me, I tried to force my power back, but it was too late. It was gone.

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I’D BEEN HAVING STRANGEdreams like these the last few days. If I could remember half of the things I'd dreamt of, I would have had a good plot for a fantasy book.

It was Thursday, Darce had annoyingly been able to keep his hands off me since Monday. Theo and I were going to lock up Bookends tonight. It made sense since we were heading out on our date once we’d finished. I had no idea what Theo had planned, but I was over it already.

“Do you want to change?” Theo asked me while Darce was closing his till down so he could leave.

“Umm...yeah, sure.” I’d only brought a different sweater with me to get changed into. I hadn’t planned on making much of an effort. Despite Darce’s hopes, this date wasn’t going to be enjoyable for me when all I wanted washim.Still, I was humouring him, as he had asked.

As I was grabbing my sweater out of my locker, Darce joined me in the break room. “I’d wrap up warm if I were you,” he mused, giving me a smile I didn’t completely trust.

“Do you know what Theo has planned?”

“I might know a few parts, yes. You’re going to have a great time.” Thinking he had the upper hand, I pulled my work shirt over my head right in front of him. Standing there in only my jeans and bra.

“Did you want to help me put my sweater on?” Darce tried not to look, but his eyes were ravenous as he took in my chest. “You could make sure I’ll be warm enough, too.”

“Such a dangerous creature,” he muttered under his breath, shaking his head at me. “I’m sure you’ll be warm enough. Have a nice date.” With that, he grabbed his things and left.Damn it!I was hoping he’d take the bait.

I slipped on my sweater, then checked my face in the small mirror and let my hair down, knowing it would keep the chill from my ears.

Theo was ready and waiting for me as I made my way back upstairs. He was holding a picnic basket.

“Apicnic? Inthisweather?” I frowned, putting my gloves on.

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