Total pages in book: 112
Estimated words: 106600 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 533(@200wpm)___ 426(@250wpm)___ 355(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 106600 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 533(@200wpm)___ 426(@250wpm)___ 355(@300wpm)
His name is Conway. He’s one of the brothers and spends enough time at the clubhouse for me to know him by name and face. From what I’ve seen, he has a thing for one of the water fairies. I give him a nod as I continue to head into the warehouse.
Despite the rumors and myths, merfolk aren’t weakened when on land. They’re magical beings. Their magic is always at work. When outside of water, their magic pulls from the moisture of the atmosphere. There’s always moisture in the air.
Sometimes more than others. You’re just not likely to find them in Vegas, Arizona, or any type of desert. As long as they can pull from that moisture, they can survive just fine on land.
However, we thought it wiser to protect their species by starting the myth centuries ago that they need to be in water, or they become weak and can die.
Amadeus is one of the oldest of his kind. I’ve known his father before him and a long line of fathers before him. They all come from noble blood, direct descendants of Kenji, one of my most trusted friends—not a merman, but born of their blood.
His mother was the daughter of the original merking, back when merfolk were known as sirens or water nymphs. His father was a shapeshifting trickster with the gift of alchemy.
That’s what makes Amadeus the perfect captain for his people. He’s the first in several generations to display the talents of Kenji and his parentage. In addition, he and his fathers before him have been loyal for as long as we’ve had ties with them.
I step into the main office of the warehouse as Amadeus steps from his office while speaking with one of the young mermaids. Kai is his assistant and one of the fiercest warriors among his people.
“Ah, Ardan. It’s good to see you,” Kai says.
“Always a pleasure, baby girl. You staying out of trouble.”
She gives me a mischievous smile. “I’m trying.”
I give a laugh and shake my head. Kai can be a handful. Amadeus and I have had to get her out of trouble on more occasions than I care to count.
“What brings you here, brother?” Amadeus asks, interrupting our exchange.
I turn my gaze to him. He takes after his ancestor Kenji with his white hair and monolid eyes. Over the millennia, Kenji and his family settled in what is now known as Japan. They have since taken on the features of the humans in that region.
His broad upper build fills his Iron Brothers cut well. His lower body tapers in as his natural form would, with his fin visible. His aura is greater because of his heritage and the manifestation of his inherited gifts.
I’ve only known six of Kenji’s descendants who have shown signs of inheriting his gift. Five of whom he has chosen to lock those gifts within. I completely understand why—that type of power can be dangerous—and that’s only one reason for his decision.
“He comes to see me. You know this,” Kai teases.
“Mind your mouth, Kai. This is the king you are speaking of,” he bites out. “Why don’t you go wait in my office?”
I can’t help the scoff that leaves my lips. He is very protective over Kai, not that I’m interested in the young girl. I have enough years on her to be the start of her lineage. Gorgeous girl and exquisite when in her mermaid form, but not my type.
“I’m here on business. Need to collect a shipment for Ricci and run it through the tunnels for his guys to collect,” I say, turning my full attention to him.
“That container just came in. I’ll have a few guys load it up and take it down to the tunnel for you. Do you need a driver?”
“No, I’ll handle this one myself.”
I can use my magic to drive the truck while I ride my bike. We hate involving others in Ricci’s business when we don’t need to. This is a simple drop. There’s no need to involve anyone else.
Besides, I want to make this quick so I can head to my apartment. I’ve been feeling restless, like that’s where I need to be. My mind goes to my neighbor.
I would love to talk to her again. There’s always been something familiar about her. The other night was the most we’ve ever spoken to each other. Her voice was like warm honey, and she smelled as good as she looked.
If only …
“Ardan?” Amadeus calls my name, pulling me from my thoughts.
“Sorry, brother, what was that?”
“I have been summoned by Kenji. I leave within the next few weeks. I wanted to let you know Kai and Ocean will take over things here for me,” he repeats.
I nod. “I will keep an eye on things here as well. You never take time away. Try to enjoy this, brother. Time with Kenji is always an experience.”