Page 144 of Infernal Secrets

“Are you saying any of this other madness is expected?”

“With the book, yes.”

“What is the book? Please tell me something.”

She pulled paper and pen from beneath the counter and started writing. “The book has many purposes, depending on whose hands it falls into.”

I braced myself as she paused, unease washing over me.

“In your case, it brings the one—or ones—meant to find you. Without the book, it wouldn’t have happened, and another generation would lose their birthright until the next cycle.”

I didn’t understand a thing she said, but I had a feeling she wouldn’t clarify if I asked.

“Where does it come from?”

“The same place your soul’s need and heart’s call came from.”

“They’re not my—”

“There. All finished.” She turned the paper toward me. “This should be sufficient for Diane. I put my name and number on the bottom if she wants to follow up with me.”

I glanced down at the paper, thrown off by the sudden change in subject. “Quin?”

“Yes?”

“Oh. No. I was just reading the name.” I looked up at her. “Thank you for this.”

“Of course. I wanted to finish it for you before you missed the bus.”

My eyes went wide as I fumbled for my phone and checked the time. I had ten minutes to reach the bus stop. “Crap. I need to go.”

“Stay safe, Raelynn. Do not leave their side if you can help it.”

“Uh, yeah. Thanks.” I turned, striding across the worn floorboards.

I hadn’t gotten many answers, but I deduced the book came from Elyrdin. I still didn’t see the connection between the princes and my heart and soul. While I felt a growing connection with a couple of them, it didn’t mean I needed them.

“Oh, Raelynn,” the woman said, stopping me short. When I glanced back, her expression was grim. “Beware the one that rules the ruby circle.”

I opened my mouth, but words failed me.

What did all of this mean? I felt like I’d taken five gigantic steps backward instead of gaining ground toward helping the guys—or solving my own infernal woes.

35

INSTABILITY

EZRA

When Cyn threw the front door open, I glanced up from my lunch, bracing for another tirade about wanting to go home and hating the noise and smells on Earth.

He looked around the room. “Where’s Zeke?”

I swallowed the food in my mouth, mindful of Ash’s displeasure. “Sitting in the lounge chair outside the back door.”

“He said the weather was too nice to stay stuck inside all day,” Ash said, turning off the TV.

Cyn stalked to the back door and flung it open. “Get in here.” He crossed to the end of the counter as Ash sat down.