Katie's Hellion

"Back up a sec. Natural talents?"

"Our ancestors were immortalized --albeit incorrectly --in myths. Mages, vampires, elves, immortal creatures with extraordinary powers who battle evil for supremacy and the ultimate fate of mankind."

"And my unique gift could make the bad guys immune to the good guys."

"Correct."

"Why is your brother so pissy when he interfered with my life?"

"My brother is never pissy," Andre said with polite offense. "He's unaccustomed to having his authority challenged. We nicknamed him the Phoenix, which is notorious for not only rising from ashes but also for taking down everyone and everything around them in flames. He's forever in that stage that precedes a perfect storm."

"Highly combustible, I get it. Send me home, get rid of everything that shouldn't be there, and move on. Everyone will be happy."

"I wish it were that easy."

"Why isn't it?" she prodded.

"Because our enemies have your blood and know everything about you. This started out as a mission about us but has turned into a mission about you."

"How did you trick my sister Hannah into thinking I had a kid, when you and I know I don't?"

"Angels must be raised by humans. It's something immortals learned long ago. Angels are mortals' allies, but they can't appreciate the intricacies of mortals without the years of exposure. When we placed Toby with you, we altered the minds of those in your immediate family circle. We learned that those outside of this circle are less likely to be concerned about the appearance of the child. The human mind is quick to find excuses to accept such things."

She gripped her head, feeling sick.

"Go and rest. We'll talk in the morning," Andre said kindly.

"I could use some food, though. Too much alcohol on an empty stomach."

"I'll send dinner. Your room is the third on the left."

He indicated a narrow hallway off the large formal living room. She stood, wobbled, and then went the direction he indicated. The room was dark, the floor-to-ceiling windows displaying the incredible views of the Eiffel Tower , whose frame was outlined by lights against the dark Parisian sky She was about to step onto the balcony when a knock at the door drew her attention.

Andre entered, followed by a second man carrying a large tray of food.

"I included the whiskey, though I advise you to stop drinking soon," he said with brotherly firmness. "We'll be going to a soiree across the street in about an hour. You'll have some peace, at least until tomorrow morning."