Wingless (The Lia Hunter Chronicles #1)

I spent the rest of the morning crashing in the station’s on-call room. Stan slept on the floor between the bed and the door almost as if he were trying to protect me. Passed out on the lumpy bed, I slept a blissfully dreamless sleep, my body too focused on mending itself to conjure up another nightmare.

Maybe I should almost get my brains blown out more often.

By the time I woke from my desperately needed rest it was afternoon and I remembered I was supposed to be meeting Levi at the Aviary. I stumbled to the locker room, hesitantly looking in the mirror and barely restraining a laugh at the sight of my appearance. The whole right side of my face was a dark purple, and after shrugging off my shirt I actually chuckled at the sight of my back. My tattoo was barely visible above the tapestry of bruises. Blues, greens, and blacks created a marbled pattern on my back. Fascinated I reached a hand back and pressed down on one of the bruises, hissing in pain at the contact. Putting it out my mind I quickly showered, washing the clumps of blood from my hair.

I was forced to redress in the same clothes I entered with, the only clothes I now owned I realized absently. Shrugging on my jacket, I laced up my boots and harnessed my gun. A quick trip to the station’s armory yielded another harness for my daggers which I strapped on my left leg. Loading up on ammo, I grabbed another silver dagger for good measure before jumping in my car. Starting the engine I gunned it out of the parking lot, making my way to the Aviary. As I pulled up outside the enormous building the sun’s golden rays were just beginning to touch the horizon, turning the sky a frothy pink.

Passing off my keys to the valet, I ignored his gawking. Climbing the stairs, I pushed open the door, entering the building. Walking over to the pretty blonde receptionist, I waited as he finished his call. His mouth dropped open as he stared fixedly at my face, annoyed I speared him with a glare. Quickly wrapping up his call, he put down the phone and summoned an aura of professionalism even as questions burned in his eyes.

“Hello miss, how may I help you?” He asked smoothly.

“Agent Hunter here to see Lord Leviathan.”

His eyes lit up in recognition. “Ah yes, we were expecting you much earlier.”

Cocking an eyebrow I gestured to my face. “I think I have a good enough excuse.”

Wisely choosing not to comment he picked up his phone again. “Hold on just a moment while I inform Lord Leviathan of your arrival.”

Another quick conversation ensued. Hanging up he pointed to one of the Seraphim guarding the lobby. “Charles can escort you to Lord Leviathan. He is waiting for you in the war room.”

Soon Charles and I were walking in silence through the estate. As we wandered through the many halls for the first time I took a moment to study the décor. The wide open hallways were lined with rich wood, the roof painted a calming cream. Every now and then we passed a painting, some modern others expensive looking classics. Other than that there wasn’t much clutter to speak of and I had the notion that if they didn’t have to worry about rain the Seraphim would have preferred to get rid of the roof completely.

Stopping in front of a door, Charles turned to me, sympathy flashing in his eyes as they landed on my face.

“Here we are miss.” Bowing formally he took his leave.

Taking a deep breath, I knocked firmly on the door.

“Enter.” Called a familiar voice from within and I jerked in surprise as I realized it was Jehiel’s.

Snapping back my shoulders I opened the door, stepping deftly inside. I paused taking quick stock of what lay before me. It was a dark room, probably the only one in the estate that didn’t have a single window. A large table filled the space, seated around it were Geralt, Riley, Jake, Levi, Jehiel, and – my breath caught in my lungs – Zachariah. I stared at him for a moment before tearing my eyes away.

A strong hand cupped my jaw, turning the right side of my face into the light. Startled I stared up at Levi, who had somehow materialized in front of me in the space of a few heartbeats. A furious scowl creased his features.

“What the hell happened to your face?” He growled and I could hear the threat in his tone for the person who did this to me.

Stunned, I stared at him in shock as his thumb caressed the bottom of my bruised cheek. Shivers ran down my spine at the touch. A throat clearing reminded me that we weren’t the only people in the room, and I yanked my jaw from his grip, falling back against the door. Levi’s shot me a scorching look before turning and reclaiming his seat. Heat rose to my cheeks as I glanced at the others faces.

Jake and Riley swapped mischievous smirks. Jehiel thoughtfully gazed at Levi. Geralt for some reason looked oddly satisfied and I didn’t even dare glance in Zachariah’s direction. Walking towards the table I hesitated, wondering if I was supposed to sit or wait for Jehiel’s permission. Why was dealing with royalty so tricky?

“Please sit Agent Hunter.” Jehiel quickly said and I thankfully sunk into the seat next to Jake. “If you don’t mind me asking, what did happen to cause such...interesting bruising?”

“Ah well, this morning a package was delivered to my apartment, it contained this,” I dug the note from my jacket pocket, sliding it across the table to him, “and a music box. When the music box played its final note it exploded.” I said flatly, my earlier rage bubbling inside me, letting me know it was still there.

Expletives filled the air and I risked a glance in Levi’s direction. His face was a mask of calm but his hands clenched so tightly atop the table his knuckles had turned white.

“Exploded?” Jehiel said shocked. “Were you badly injured?” I could hear the genuine concern in his voice and I found myself warming towards the Seraphim king.

“I’m fine, my station’s doctor managed to patch me up. The bruises will fade eventually.”

Considering the note in his hands Jehiel’s brow furrowed.

“This note says the attack on you is because of your investigation into the murders.” He handed the note off to Levi, whose tight-fisted grip wrinkled the note. “I am deeply sorry that you have come to harm on behalf of my people.” He said solemnly. “The last thing we need in this horrid mess is another causality.”

Feeling bad for the guy I shook my head. “It’s not your fault, you’re not the one who sent me the bomb.”

“Regardless, I think perhaps it would be unwise to continue using your services for this investigation.” He glanced at Levi and Zachariah, checking if they agreed.

“I mean no offense your highness but that would just be a waste of time. I don’t intend to stop investigating these murders whether or not I’m still on your payroll. The killer has destroyed my home and tried to kill me. I don’t plan to let them get away with it unpunished.” I said darkly.

Rather than the anger I expected, laughter burst from Jehiel. “You have a strong sense of justice, the Seraphim blood must run thick inside you Agent Hunter. You sound very much like one of my own people.”

Shrugging, I forced myself not to glance in Zachariah’s direction, knowing that if I did the truth of whose blood ran through my veins would spill from my lips.

“Let’s just say I didn’t become a PeaceKeeper for the fancy title.”

“King Jehiel, if we could get back to the matter at hand,” Zachariah said his voice holding a hint of censure.

Surprised at his less than deferential tone I finally looked at him to find him staring at me with a shrewd expression. Not one to be intimidated easily, I held his gaze steadily, satisfaction filling me when he was the first to look away.

“Ah yes, we’ve been discussing our plans concerning the killer and Quinn’s involvement,” Jehiel said straightening in his chair, pursing his lips like a child caught doing something wrong.

For the first time, I realized how young he truly was, just beginning to enter his early twenties. Other guys his age would still be out partying every night, instead, Jehiel had an entire race to govern. It was clear he wasn’t yet comfortable in the position, leaning on Levi and Zachariah for support. Suddenly Madame B’s jab at Jehiel clutching at Levi’s coattails made a lot more sense.

“At this point in time, we don’t have any concrete evidence that Quinn is involved.” I said flatly, “All we are going off is a tip from someone who will remain anonymous,” I shot a pointed look at Levi who smirked, “a mystery phone that matched the one Rodrigo dropped off, and the knowledge that the person kidnapping the victims is a magic user.”

Lips pinching together Zachariah frowned, “You’re forgetting the blade that was found inside Sally Carlyle that is probably owned by Quinn. Even if you put aside that piece of damning evidence Levi has told us you have second sight and will be able to confirm whether or not the magic in Harry Lumbard’s house matches Quinn’s.”

“Yes, but even if it matches that still doesn’t mean that Quinn is the killer,” I said through gritted teeth.

“No, it doesn’t,” Zachariah replied evenly, “however it means he is involved in some capacity and that offense cannot go unanswered.”

Frustration welled up inside me, “You can’t go to war over that!” I pleaded with Jehiel. His brow wrinkled in thought and I felt a glimmer of hope that my words were getting through to him.

“To let Quinn get away with this would be to invite challenge to your reign.” Zachariah cut in and I barely restrained myself from launching across the table and tackling him. “We cannot afford to show any weakness or the other monarchs will attack.”

I opened my mouth to reply but Levi quickly interceded, “Right now all of this is moot point until we can confirm that Quinn’s magic matches the one at the scene.”

Jehiel seemed to wilt in relief. “Yes, we can put aside the debate for now. Tomorrow there is a charity ball being held at The Waterlily tomorrow night. Members of all four royal courts will be in attendance, including Quinn.”

The Waterlily was a high class renovated old hotel, owned by whimsical human billionaire Bleu Marice. He converted the old hotel into a series of grand ballrooms, which were frequently rented out for events there by the elites of New York.

He looked between Levi and me. “Agent Hunter, you and Levi will accompany me to the event.”

Protests burst from Levi and Zachariah.

“Jehiel it is far too great a risk,” Levi growled.

“Levi is right if Quinn really is the killer this could be the opportunity he’s looking for.”

“They are my people and I have been able to do nothing to protect them. Am I to be confined to the Aviary for the rest of my life for fear of attack?” Jehiel spat bitterly.

Magic sizzled through the air, raising the hair on my arms. Wind blew through the room, scattering papers and tossing hair, the others all straightened in their seats, the smell of fear filling the air. I had the sudden urge to use my second sight, no doubt, Jehiel’s magic would be a spectacular thing to see.

Levi and Zachariah traded worried looks. “My King-” Zachariah tried but Jehiel raised a hand, silencing him instantly.

“Fine, under the circumstances, they will understand why I will not be attending the event.” Mouth set in a mutinous line, Jehiel conceded. “While there, you will have the chance to use your second sight and confirm whether or not Quinn’s magic matches.”

Frustration glittered in his eyes, and I understood how he felt. I would be driven crazy if I wasn’t allowed to leave my house, unable to help out if any of my fellow PKs were in danger.

“Now if you’ll excuse us,” Jehiel said standing up, Zachariah quickly following. “I have other business to deal with.” He gave me a short nod, “Agent Hunter, you once again have my sincerest regrets over your injuries and the gratitude of all the Seraphim for your dedication to this case.”

They swept out of the room and my eyes focused on Zachariah’s black wings until the door closed, cutting off my view. Next to me, Jake let out a huge sigh, slouching in his chair.

“Not used to royalty?” I teased.

He turned wide eyes on me. “Are you kidding? I thought I was going to piss my pants the entire time.”

Laughter bellowed from Geralt, “You should see him when he’s really angry, that little display of magic is mere child’s play compared to that.”

Jake’s skin turned a fascinating shade of white and for a moment I feared he’d faint in his seat.

“Stop teasing the boy,” Levi said good-naturedly, “he’s been frightened enough for one afternoon.”

Jake’s cheeks bloomed with color and he ducked his head in embarrassment.

“So what’s the logistics for tomorrow night?” I asked, changing the subject.

We spent the next two hours going through every detail of the event with a fine tooth comb. By the time the members of the first fleet left to relieve the others from watchdog duty my head reeled with information.

“You are welcome to spend the night here, seeing as your apartment isn’t in...working order.” Levi offered.

“Thanks,” I said flashing him a grateful smile, “but Hutch already offered to let me crash at his.”

Rubbing the exhaustion from my eyes, I winced as I pressed on the bruises I’d already forgotten about. A gentle hand pushed away my own and I blinked open my eyes to see Levi’s face hovering inches away from mine.

“It’s already better looking than when you came in.” He said softly.

A single finger traced across my forehead, trailing down past my temple, over the slight rise of my cheekbone before settling on my jaw. My breath hitched in my throat, shivers dancing across my spine at the feather light touch.

Our eyes met in a collision of green. Sparks exploded to life between us, the room thrumming with energy. His eyes darkened, reminding me uncut emerald. His body shifted slightly, and as his eyes dipped to my lips I knew his intent. Even as the warning bell inside me screamed for me to run I waited, breathless, as his mouth descended. The first brush of his lips against mine was barely a whisper. We both held still, the moment stretching infinitely long between us. And then our lips met once more and passion burst to life.

Time slipped away as I became drunk with Levi’s kisses. He pulled away for a moment and my hands curled into his black hair, dragging him back to me. He lifted me from the chair and my butt hit the table. Unsteady, I grabbed onto his shoulders for balance. The tips of my fingers brushed against something impossibly soft. It took a moment for my brain to catch up but when it did I wrenched backward, breaking the kiss.

Chest heaving I stared in shock at an equally breathless Levi. Colour rode high on his cheeks, his wavy hair was sexily mussed, and his lids were lowered over his eyes in a slumberous look.

What the hell am I doing?

“What’s wrong?” Levi asked, his deep voice sending shivers through me.

“We can’t do this,” I said quickly.

Cocking an eyebrow Levi crossed his arms. “Why not?”

His new stance showed off the muscles in his arms and distractedly I stared at them.

Yeah, why not?

A satisfied smirk tipped his lips and I mentally slapped myself.

“We just can’t, okay?” I exclaimed flustered. I slid off the desk and backed away, putting some much-needed distance between us.

“I understand.”

“Look, I – wait, what?” I asked in confusion, my brain still taking its time rebooting.

“I understand,” Levi repeated evenly, “you’re not ready yet.” Taking three large steps he crossed the distance between us. His hand cupped my jaw again, his thumb doing that small caress thing that made my knees weak. His eyes glinted as a smile curved his lips.

“Don’t worry, I’m a patient man and you are well worth the wait.” Leaning down he pressed another soft kiss to my forehead before leaving the room.

Speechless, I stood there gaping for a minute unable to comprehend what just happened. I touched my forehead, the feeling of Levi’s lips still burning into my skin. Heart racing, I scrunched my eyes closed on a groan.

I am so screwed.

How did things become so complicated so quickly, I wondered. The last thing I wanted to do was become involved with a Seraphim lord, even if his kisses turned my insides to jelly. I wasn’t ready to let the world know who I was...was I? Glancing at the chair Zachariah had sat in my mind whirled. I’d sat not even four feet away from the man who could be my father and I hadn’t felt the raging anger I’d expected to all these years. Still, the thought of showing anyone my scars, letting them be witness to such a vulnerable part of me made my stomach flip in unease.

Enough, I told myself. There wasn’t any time to focus on this. Right now I just needed to get out of this building. The walls around me seemed to close in and I desperately wished for some fresh air.

Entering the hallway, I retraced my path back to the lobby. Spying the front door, I rushed towards it eager to leave the Aviary far behind me. Distracted by my thoughts I didn’t see Rodrigo until it was too late. We crashed into each other, tumbling to the ground. My bruised body shouted its complaints loudly, every nerve singing in pain.

A startled grunt came from my right and I turned to see a dazed Rodrigo struggle to sit up.

“Shit, Rodrigo, I’m sorry. I wasn’t looking where I was going.” I said helping him to his feet.

Blinking, he stared at me before his mouth dropped open. Shock causing his eyes to widen and his face to pale, he glanced at my bruised face and strangely anger soon took its place before his face smoothed over completely.

“Agent Hunter, what are you doing here?” He asked, bending down to pick up a box he’d dropped during our tussle.

“Working the case. What about you? Don’t see many humans dropping by the Aviary.” I quipped.

“I’m visiting Sandy’s parents,” he said softly, sorrow choking his words. “I gathered up all the stuff she left at my house, figured they’d want to look through it.”

My heart broke for the poor guy and I placed a hand on his arm. He stiffened at the touch but quickly relaxed. “I’m so sorry Rodrigo. Please trust me when I tell you I’m doing everything I can to track down Sandy’s killer.”

“Then why haven’t you caught them yet?” he barked out and I quickly removed my hand. Sighing, the anger left him and his face crumpled. “I’m sorry, it’s just – all I can think about is the fact they’re still out there.”

“It’s okay, I understand,” I told him softly.

“I need to go.” He said walking past me.

I watched as he entered the building before turning my face up to the night sky. Sucking in a lungful of cool night air I closed my eyes. Levi’s face popped into my head and I quickly snapped them back open.

Focus on catching the killer, I berated myself. Now’s not the time to think about how gorgeous he’d looked with his hair all messed up or how soft his lips were.

Yup, so very, very screwed.