Revolution (The Revelation Series Book 4) by Randi Cooley Wilson Page B

is better than nothing. Let him work through his feelings. When he’s ready, he’ll come out of this on the other side. In the meantime, be the strong, independent woman you are.”
    I meet her gaze. “You’re a really good friend. I’m so sorry I put you through that.”
    “Tell you what. I will forgive you on one condition.” She watches my reaction.
    I study her wearily. “Which would be?”
    “I get to choose your dress for the mating ceremony.” She claps with glee.
    “If, and that’s a big if, there is a ceremony, you can pick the dress,” I grunt.
    Abby pulls me into a tight embrace and squeals in delight. “Thank you,” she whispers.
    “Yeah, well, don’t get your hopes up, Abs.”
    “I’m just shocked that you caved so easily.” She winks.
    “It’s only because I know he’ll never forgive me. Easy promise,” I say in triumph.
    “When Callan and I are done with you both, we’ll see how easy of a promise it is.”
    Crap .

 
    5 All Things Change
    ALL THINGS CHANGE. IT’S INEVIDIBLE. At least that’s what Elizabeth used to tell me. In the blink of an eye, something unpleasant can evolve into something awe-inspiring. Just give it time, she’d say. The flashback of her declaration whispers across my subconsciousness.
    I lean over the old railing of the Springbanks Arch, attempting to gain a better view of the cascading water pooling within the rock walls surrounding it. The liquid’s continuous movement a reminder that life, like the water, is a constant motion of evolution.
    Inhaling the smell of fresh grass, I bask in the warm air. This quiet wooded area of Central Park is becoming a favorite hiding spot for me. Motionless, I witness the earth’s breeze tickle the flourishing trees and low-lying plant life. The days are starting to get longer as summer nears and the fiery hues painting the sky enchant the late spring evenings.
    “Are you supposed to be out here alone, love?” Gage’s deep voice invades my tranquility.
    “Careful, Gage. You’re starting to sound like an actual protector,” I accuse.
    “Christ. I am.” He sidles up next to me and lights a cigarette. “Fucking St. Michaels.”
    “You really need to stop smoking. Gargoyle or not, it’s a gross habit.”
    He shrugs and inhales. “It relaxes me.”
    “So will yoga,” I retort.
    Gage shifts so his side is leaning on the iron rail. We just study one another.
    “Is that a hint that you would like to do downward facing dog pose with me, love?” he asks, releasing a long puff of smoke with a wicked smirk.
    My cheeks heat at his insinuation, forcing me to clear my throat.
    “I’m saying I’m tired of inhaling your second hand smoke. It might not affect you, but I’m human. In case you’ve forgotten,” I say in a bored tone.
    Gage watches me with an unnerving expression. It’s intense and I have to look away.
    “Make no mistake, love, I haven’t forgotten who and what you are.”
    We stand in comfortable quiet for a time, admiring our surroundings. This is my favorite thing about Gage. He just lets me be. There are no pretenses or expectations with him.
    “Is this where you’ve been running off to since the dark prince returned?” he asks.
    I twist to face him. “Maybe.”
    “Of all the places in this park, this is where you’ve chosen?” He puts out his cigarette.
    I hold his gaze. “Yes. Why?”
    The good-looking, bad-boy gargoyle studies me for a moment before his eyes shift behind me. Without warning, he grabs my arms and teleports us into the shaded, red brick underpass.
    I’m just about to ask what the hell is going on when his hand covers my mouth, silencing me. At the assault, I narrow my eyes at him. Gage motions with his chin to the trees behind the archway before angling his head in that direction and mouthing gorgons to me.
    “What’s a gorgon?” I whisper under the weight of his hand.
    Gage rolls his eyes as two beautiful women wearing red silk cloaks make their way toward the charming