Redemption by Randi Cooley Wilson Page A

ask.
    “He’s here because the London clan doesn’t
trust you to be alone with me,” Gage explains.
    The archangel just smiles, as my aunt steps
to his side. “Actually, I invited him. I thought it would be nice
if we all spent a little time together,” she says in her insincere
voice. Weird.
    “Libby is correct. I was invited. Though
Gage is accurate as well. The London clan doesn’t entirely entrust
your safety with Mr. Gallagher. After being called to the council
meeting, they asked me to oversee your visit,” he offers.
    My focus shifts to Gage, who rolls his eyes.
“I’m in need of some nicotine, love. Please excuse my absence
during your domestic reunion,” he says, stalking out the front
door.
    “I’m surprised that a warrior of Heaven
doesn’t have anything better to do than chaperone an
eighteen-year-old college student.” The jab causes my aunt to shoot
me a disapproving glare.
    “Eve, please exhibit manners and respect.
I’ve raised you better than that,” she scolds.
    “Sorry,” I mumble. And I’m ten years old
again.
    “Apology accepted. How about while we wait
for Gage to return, we sit. I have some of your favorite snacks
spread out. I can’t wait to hear all about school.” My aunt ushers
us toward the couches. “So, tell me everything.” She beams
enthusiastically.
    “It’s only been a week, so there isn’t much
to tell.” I sit on the couch across from them. After more prodding,
I finally offer bits and pieces about my semester and classes.
    “It’s…different without Aria…and Asher.” My
voice cracks on the release of his name.
    “I trust that your new protector is working
out well?” the dark blond-haired angel inquires.
    “We’re fine. Right, love?” Gage says, coming
back into the living room. The smell of cigarette and spice
following him. My eyes linger a bit too long. Damn . He
really is sexy.
    I yank my focus from Gage back to my aunt.
“It’s not ideal, but the temporary situation is adequate.” I use a
formal voice.
    Gage smirks at my assessment and flops down
next to me on the couch, leaving enough space so that I can breathe
comfortably. I snag a mug of dark cocoa before watching Michael and
my aunt closely.
    The warrior of Heaven is sitting close to
her on the love seat. His muscular thigh is completely brushed up
against hers and her face is in a state of constant bliss. Ewe.
Maybe she isn’t as lonely as I thought. Is that even allowed, a
human and an angel?
    “The London clan told me about your visit to
the Land of the Leprechauns recently. I am happy to see you
returned in one piece and without permanent harm,” Michael
says.
    My eyebrows shoot up. “I guess nothing is
private anymore?” I murmur offhanded.
    “After London, I would have to agree,
daughter of Heaven. Privacy is something that does not seem to
exist between us, does it?” The archangel smirks with intent.
    “I guess that’s the price I pay for being
touched by an archangel’s spirit,” I retort with a mocking tone. Damn my mood swings are back.
    “How is your training going, love bug?” My
aunt steps in, hoping to end our undertones.
    “Fine, I guess.” I shrug noncommittally.
    “Eve still has a lot of work to do. However,
Elizabeth, her skills are improving each day. Her mental control
over her gifts is remarkable, and now that she is versed on
portals, she’s focusing on becoming more aware of her
surroundings.” Gage answers proudly.
    “That is excellent news. I am glad to see
you take training seriously,” Michael interjects.
    “As opposed to?” Why does it feel like
he’s baiting me?
    “Eve, I do not wish to upset you. However,
in my opinion, your time with Mr. St. Michael was not used
efficiently. With Gage, it is my belief that your skills, overall,
will improve and you will be better equipped when the time comes.
He understands the darker side of this better than you think. Then
again, I also deduce that you are able to focus more with Gage,
than with