Chapter 23
Volik
Raindrops soak into the remaining scraps of my clothing as I stand on a patch of pavement in the faculty lot, certain this is where Nix parked her car.
I do not understand the magic that creates the mate bonds. Just yesterday, I could not smell her scent at all. Could only sense that something was there. It was as though her existence was cloaked from me.
I inhale.
It’s not anymore.
Now, I can trace every step she’s taken.
Now, I can find her. Anywhere.
The rain starts to fall a little harder.
The campus looks empty. But people are watching.
From windows. Inside cars. That one kid hiding behind a tree.
There are also security cameras. And that means I should be careful.
I should act like a gentleman.
But I need to get to Nix.
I can feel her spiraling panic in the way my heart is starting to race. And the only thing that can help her now is me.
And the only thing that will settle the roiling power inside me is her.
Our bond is newly formed and still volatile. And it seems that the farther apart we become, the worse it gets.
Thunder rolls in the distance, moving closer.
I could have asked the dean to give me her address. But… this will be quicker.
I close my eyes.
Orchids.
I breathe.
She’s everywhere.
All around me.
Unseen flower petals dance in the air. Hovering above my head, lingering like a treasure map.
Smiling, I slide my eyes open and turn toward Nix’s apartment.
Then, not caring who watches, I jump.