Daylight, a Timeless Series Novel by Lisa L Wiedmeier

murmurs as I passed over the threshold. The cool air met me and I inhaled , closing my eyes for a moment. I was quickly losing control.
    “ Wait, Cheyenne…” Lilly called out.
    “Leave her be,” Callon interrupted.
    “But—”
    The terrace door closed.
    I moved towards a chaise on the far side and took a seat. I allowed my eyes to wander to the field and forest as I calmed the inner creature. No heart, no heartbreak , I reminded myself. I couldn’t even allow Daniel in.
    Callon’s face flashed before me. I’d wounded him deeply. I’d been cruel and heartless in my actions , and yet I hadn’t stopped it. I’d let it play out, watched him suffer and watched the beast enjoy it. I couldn’t even speak, to ask for his forgiveness. It was too late now—I had no choice but to hold back any feelings of love. I’d do as they asked. I’d marry Callon, but I’d just be the weapon they all wanted. A weapon used in battle and abandoned when it was over.
    A bright light hit my eyes , and I had to squint. I shielded my face with a hand, searching for the cause. Something was reflecting off the water. The calm undulating waves stirred an idea. A walk by the lake would help calm my anger, and then I wouldn’t have to hear their murmurs of disappointment.
    I slid off the chaise and hurried into the field.
    “Where are you going?” a voice called out. I stopped, and turned back.
    A woman had appeared on the terrace, and now she was heading towards me. I frowned, remembering she’d introduced herself as Andre. How long had she been watching me?
    Huffing, I spun back towards the lake. I didn’t have to answer to her. Annoyingly, her footsteps rushed behind, and she caught up with me.
    “Pretty impressive words with Maes back there,” she smirked. “I’m surprised he backed off. I’ve never seen him bow to anyone, but then again , if looks could kill, even he would’ve been fried on the spot by you.”
    I didn’t reply , although the thought of Maes frying was appealing.
    She snapped off a tall blade of grass and began playing with it.
    “So do you always talk this much, or is it just me?”
    “Just you,” I said under my breath, though I instantly regretted it. I didn’t mean to be so harsh. I just wanted to be alone. I twirled my fingers, causing the grass to sway around us, remembering Maes’ words. I needed a distraction.
    “Ah, good to know. Must mean you’re a good listener.”
    I raised an eyebrow. What an odd thing to say. I quickly resumed my walk, finding the worn path to the lake. My eyes remained on the water. The solitude would be welcoming, but then again, I wasn’t alone.
    I stood at the lake’s edge, the water lapping at my toes. Andre plopped down on the small beach, removing her shoes and curling her toes in the sand.
    “It’s been ages since I’ve done this.” She smiled. “Something about feeling the cool earth beneath your feet. Well, what can I say?”
    I nodded, completely understanding the want or need to be outside and just los e myself in nature. But that didn’t matter anymore. All that lurked around every corner were shadows.
    Letting out a deep sigh, I sat on the shore too. I followed the curve of the lake until it disappeared beyond the trees. One day, if given the opportunity, I’d explore more, but right now I knew I was still on a tight leash. And I didn’t need more people guarding me twenty-four/seven.
    “It’s gorgeous, isn’t it?” Andre pointed to the darker parts on the lake. “The calming sound the water makes as it laps against the shore. Can’t beat it.” She began chuckling, “Maybe that’s because the rest of them drive me crazy at times.”
    I tilted my head. “They drive you crazy?”
    “Hell , yes! Especially Koda and all his stupid jokes. Just you wait till he turns his attention on you.”
    “Oh great…” My thumb began to run over my Servak ring. Just what I needed, for Koda to act like Colt and tease me.
    “I’ll try and keep him away