Broken Promises (The Brianna Lane Series) by Belinda Boring Page A

General? We’ve inserted the spell into as many forms of media as we could, causing the humans to tap into their dominating natures and release their suppressed aggression. Should we keep up with the delivery?” the man queried.
    The General took a step forward giving himself a wider view of the street. “It shouldn’t take much more for the vermin to fully succumb. The suggestion was extremely potent and for those who take longer, I’ve made it so anyone who looks into the eyes of the converted will turn as well.” He continued observing the area. His features displayed a smile of evil delight, obviously happy with what he was seeing. “Over there. The charm has finally taken hold.”
    I couldn’t resist. I peered around Quinn, and was shocked by what I saw. People had started convulsing—shaking a little before slowly straightening up—their eyes clearly an icy blue.
    Similar reactions began surfacing with an alarming frequency. In each instant, the person would briefly pause, confusion causing them to shake their heads. They’d stagger only to correct their stances and glance around with menacing intent. Some were even approaching others, attacking them with a ferocity I’d only ever seen in the movies. It was horrifying.
    I felt sick and knew right then we’d waited too long. Quinn’s eyes had changed earlier meaning the suggestion had been placed in his mind. I had to get him away from everyone until we could reverse the effects.
    They’re coming, my grandmother’s parting words stirred in my mind. Somehow she’d known and I hoped she had answers.
    The strangers moved to leave. They hadn’t gone more than a few steps when the General paused and looked over his shoulder. “Before these disgusting creatures completely kill each other off, find some among them who you think have potential. We’re going to need help gathering those who think they can fight against the charm and my army.” He looked our way and I cringed—my skin crawling as his hateful glare raked over my body.
    “Make sure to get that man over there.” He pointed straight at Quinn and I wanted to throw myself in front of him, screaming, “Over my dead body.” No one was getting near Quinn.
    “Him, Sir?”
    “Yes. The way he dominated his woman, having her completely under his control as he prepared her for sex shows the mastery I’m looking for.” The man sneered, telling me he’d known we were there all along, listening to every word they’d said.
    “Excellent. His wait is almost over. The charm is starting to overshadow his humanity.”
    His words took a moment to penetrate my thoughts and I stared at Quinn with horror. I was so focused on escaping the strangers I hadn’t felt him release me and back away. He was convulsing in small bursts, doubled over in pain. I stepped forward to help when I heard him snap.
    “Bri, run. I can feel it consuming me, and you can’t be here when it does,” he gasped, clutching his stomach. “Remember my promise? I don’t want to hurt you.”
    My eyes filled with tears, but I stood there—torn—believing there was still hope. I didn’t want to leave without him, and I took a step closer. Quinn violently straightened himself, brutally gripping my hand—the pain bordered on unbearable.
    He bent my wrist, increasing the pressure and it left me no other choice. I bent my knees for relief. I didn’t need to look to know his eyes were blue, and I was in serious trouble. My only hope was somehow finding a way to reason with him, playing heavily on his love.
    “Fight it, Quinn. We can beat this, but you need to be strong and do your part. Remember you love me and you’re a good person.”
    He abruptly released my arm, flinging it away. We stood there staring at each other, waiting for someone to make the next move. His eyes no longer flickered—my hopes crashing as they remained blue. It was further proof he was slowly slipping.
    His intense scrutiny burned, and I watched him slightly