Going Thru Hell by T. J. Loveless Read Free Book Online Page A

rhythm.
    “Thanks for that.”
    “Glad you didn't do what you were contemplating. Come on, you gave them enough of a show . They won't impede your leaving this horribly decorated place.”
    I nodded in agreement, and followed her to the end of the room. I stared, the edge leading into nothing. “Ah, how are we supposed to get out of here?”
    “No worries , grab my hand.” She held out her right hand.
    I looked at it, dubious of her ability. She gave an impatient gesture, waggling her fingers. I grabbed it and closed my eyes.
    The sensation of electricity and weightlessness washed over me. Nausea and dizziness cramped my stomach until we rolled on soft, warm grass.
    “Open your eyes. Your landings could use more work.”
    I opened one eye, peeking at our surroundings , and heaved a sigh of relief. We'd landed on the lawn surrounding the Sheraton in Nashville. I stood, swiping off the bits of grass and dirt clinging to my pajamas. A body hit me hard enough to force the air out of my lungs and slammed me to the ground. I lay in the soft grass, wondering at the feel of a heavy body on mine, yet without pain. Far from it.
    “Where the bloody hell have you been?” Aki's big body completely covered me, something I noticed despite the power I continued to hold in check. I barely blinked when Bru easily lifted him off me, and tossed the big guy across the lawn.
    “Don't do that! You idiot! The Greeks took her. On your watch!”
    One more time, I thought, standing and dusting off more bits of grass as the two continued their shouting match. I pursed my lips at the grass stains on the Deputy Dog pajamas. Damn it to hell, they were vintage.
    Despite Bru rescu ing me, I walked away without so much as a by-your-leave. Let the two fight it out. Technically, the fault lay with me, I'd pissed off Aki to get rid of him, and did a fine job, leaving me vulnerable and easily kidnapped. The anger wasn't directed at the Greeks, or Bru, or Aki. It fell squarely where it should - at myself. I'd let pride and fear drive away a perfectly good bodyguard.
    My abilities simmered, need continued to push against my resolve. I'd given most of the fire to Zeus, but not all. I didn't look forward to the inevitable hangover.
    I walked to the elevator with as much dignity as I could muster , considering my appearance wearing Deputy Dog pajamas, covered in bits of dirt and grass. Bruises added to the loveliness of the rug burns. I ignored the stares, acknowledging I needed help soon, or I'd give in to the instincts. My palms were hot, strands reappearing and taking over my sight. The elevator silently whisked me to the top floor and I took the stairs, heading for the roof. In the back of my head, I hoped Tiamat would be nearby. If not, I'd have to release something and lose a piece of soul to equalize the balance.
    The door to the roof opened with a rusty squeak, the darkness of the stairwell flooded with sunlight. I blinked and peeked outside. More strands appeared, each showing new scenarios, outcomes, consequences. Shining bright and tempting on the mental TV. Yet not one told of the amount I'd pay. None showed what I knew to be the true ending.
    “Come, young Braider. Allow me to take the fire.” The smell of sulfur and flames wafted in the air as a giant claw gently picked me up. I cuddled into the warm chest, letting go. Tiamat hissed in pain, holding me tighter even as she absorbed and filtered.

Chapter Seven

    The sound of heated whispers acted like nails on a chalkboard in my head. Bru and Aki argued in the living room as I lay in the bed, holding my head in hopes it wouldn't explode. Every muscle protested the smallest movement.
    The duvet was heavy and , with great effort, I slung it off. Carefully calculated maneuvers brought me upright. I did a small mental cheer, the first time in ages without a trip to the floor. Slow steps caught the attention of the two arguing and they rushed me in unison.
    “Please, don't talk or touch me ,” I