Page 29 of Gone (Gray Wolf Security #23)

“In a secluded part of the bayou, hidden from the eyes of the world, she practiced the magic that was gifted to her from her grandmother. She was known for her deep connection with nature and her ability to harness the earth's energies.

“She was selected because of her pure heart, and she used her powers to heal the swamp and all its creatures. The gift of seeing those who had yet to move on only amplified her gifts.

“One day, a desperate plea reached her ears, although she didn’t know who the plea came from. It was a man. A man she didn’t know, but he was dying. Or dead.

“Although she knew that she had to save the man, she wasn’t even sure where to find him. So, instead, she continued on her errand in the city. Leaving the safety of her home, she took a chance.

“Irene knew that to save the man, she needed powers beyond her own.

She ventured deep into the heart of the bayou, where the ancient trees whispered secrets of old.

There, she found a sacred grove, a place where the veil between the worlds was thin.

Kneeling on the soft moss, Irene prayed to the spirits of the bayou, asking for the strength and wisdom to save the man's life.

She offered her own energy, promising to protect the bayou and swamp in return for their aid.

“As Irene's prayers echoed through the grove, the spirits responded. A gentle breeze stirred the moss on the trees, and a soft glow enveloped her. The spirits granted her the power she sought, infusing her with the essence of the bayou.

“Irene felt a surge of energy, a connection to every living thing around her. She knew she had been given a great gift, but also a great responsibility. With newfound determination, she set out once again to find the man.

“When she arrived at where she needed to complete her errand, she saw the man, and she could see the toll his near-death was taking on him.

His skin was pale, and his breathing was shallow.

He was walking between the worlds of life and death.

After speaking to him only briefly, walking with him, she knew that he was the man she was to save. He was worth saving.

“She placed her hands on his chest, feeling the energy flow from her into him.

“The power of the bayou spirits coursed through her, guiding her actions.

Slowly, the man's breathing steadied, and color returned to his cheeks.

Irene continued to channel the healing energy until she was certain he was out of danger, the entire time praying and asking the powers around her to help.

“The man didn’t understand what happened. He stared at the beautiful woman who had stolen his heart and healed it. They’d both received gifts beyond their comprehension in those magical moments. And they both knew they would spend the rest of their days giving those gifts to others.”

“Mama?” Gaspar and all the boys stood staring at her as she told the story to the animals. They stared at her, then back at the animals who seemed completely enraptured by her story. Gabriel stepped forward and smiled.

“I think it’s time, Mama.”