Page 4 of Seduced by Moonlight (Gargoyles of San DeLain #1)

C HAPTER FOUR – KAYDEN

KAYDEN MUTTERED to himself as he headed toward the garage. Once out there, he gripped the bottom of the garage door, his muscles tensing as he pulled it up.

He made a mental note as he walked outside to get the broken garage door fixed soon. If only he knew someone in construction to do the job. He snorted as he looked outside at his construction crew as the sun dipped below the horizon.

There were several pickup trucks parked by his house. He heard the passenger door of the nearest one open with a metallic groan. Good grief, surely one of them had a can of WD-40 on them for that squeak. People in construction were notorious for not taking care of their shit, and that was a perfect example.

Turning around, he watched as Mika, his foreman—all wiry muscles, black hair, and olive complexion—walked toward him.

“Hey, Mika. I appreciate you getting everybody together for me,” Kayden said.

“It was no problem,” Mika said, as Lance, also one of Kayden’s crew, waved at Kayden from the driver’s seat of another truck. “I don’t blame our newest client for wanting to meet the crew.”

The gargoyles were a reclusive and enigmatic race, known to keep to themselves and shun society. It was rare to see them mingling with others, but that didn’t mean they were isolationists.

In fact, Ward, their powerful king, had offered his help and the strength of his gargoyles in dealing with the hunters. However, their preference for solitude and secrecy made them seem distant to outsiders.

Kayden was more than fine with that. He didn’t need to be best buddies with them to do his job, but it was important that they were at ease with him and his crew so that no conflicts arose.

The gargoyles, much like daemons and dragons, were well-known, but their capabilities remained largely mysterious. There were rumors, though. Oh boy, were there rumors.

And the one that concerned Kayden the most was the gargoyles’ ability to turn someone into stone. The mere thought sent shivers down his spine, and this came from someone who had plenty of impressive abilities at his disposal as well.

Despite Kayden’s own formidable powers, the thought of facing these creatures left him feeling vulnerable and exposed, but he shook it off. Ward had sought him out and hired him for this job, for crying out loud. Still, he’d be glad when it was done.

“Let’s get this show on the road,” Kayden said as he opened his truck door. “Are you riding with me, Mika?”

“If you don’t mind.”

“I don’t mind at all. Would you close the garage door for me?” Kayden asked as he went back into his garage.

“Sure.”

Kayden climbed behind the wheel and backed out. Mika expertly lowered the heavy door with a loud bang, then joined Kayden.

He observed the other members of his team had pulled over to make way for his large truck as it rolled down the long driveway. They’d done this song and dance plenty of times—the rest of the guys would fall in behind and follow him to their next client.

Kayden lived outside of San DeLain; his land was nestled between the territories of the dragons and gargoyles. Before purchasing the property, he’d consulted with both Hudson and Ward to ensure he had their approval.

His plot spanned five sprawling acres, but he’d developed only one, leaving the rest in its natural state. As he gazed out at the untamed landscape, a sense of peace and harmony washed over him.

This was his place.

A lot of his crew had either bought on the border of the two territories or lived in San DeLain. His popularity stemmed from the fact that his crew consisted almost entirely of paranormal shifters—excluding werewolves, as the San DeLain packs disliked rogues—and magic users.

Then there were a few oddballs like him who had some sort of psychic power. His ability was both a blessing and a curse, as it often left him feeling isolated and misunderstood, but he’d learned to embrace his uniqueness.

He’d had to.

Interestingly, other paranormals did not classify people like Kayden as one of their own, but Kayden was not human either. His kind fell into the category of nonhuman, a label that only served to further emphasize their lack of acceptance among paranormal society.

Yeah, he had a chip on his shoulder about it. Many like him did.

The ironic thing was, paranormals sought out Kayden because he wasn’t human. In those situations, they were more than willing to hire him and his crew of misfits.

And Kayden gladly took those jobs and charged an arm and a leg. Sometimes two arms, two legs, and a tail or a horn depending on how the client treated him in the initial consult.

Did he jack up his prices for people like that? You bet your sweet ass he did. And they gladly paid. Kayden made a damn good living, and he made sure his crew also benefited. He hadn’t run across that kind of bigotry with the dragons, though. And so far, he hadn’t picked up that vibe from the gargoyle king either, but time would tell.

Unlike other paranormals, who often lived in organized groups, Kayden preferred the solitary life. He relished the freedom to come and go as he pleased, without having to answer to anyone else. Yet, despite his independence, he still had a tight-knit group of employees whom he cherished like family.

“How long until we get there?”

Kayden checked his phone, then handed it to Mika. “Another thirty to forty-five minutes, if traffic is good. Speaking of which, text the gargoyle king and let him know we’re on our way.”

“Sure thing.” Mika swiftly tapped out a message. “And it’s sent.”

Kayden’s cell beeped a few minutes later.

“Wow. Quick response. He says he’s expecting us.” Mika handed the cell back.

“That’s good,” Kayden murmured, slipping his cell into his pocket.

He watched the road even as his mind wandered back to the potential dangers that could await them. It wasn’t just the gargoyle’s rumored powers that concerned him—it was the unknown dynamics of their society.

As they drove through the winding roads that carved through dense forests and over rolling hills, Kayden could almost feel the atmosphere change.

A mist rose from nowhere, shrouding the surroundings with an eerie veil as they passed through a ward. A familiar tingle raced across his skin as they crossed, a sensation like walking through a curtain of static electricity.

The air thickened, making his ears pop and his senses heighten. It was as if reality bent slightly, wavering around them before settling back into place. It was an unsettling feeling that never quite became routine, no matter how many times he experienced it.

He glanced in the side mirror as the rest of his crew followed behind him with no problem at all.

Mika squinted out the window, his gaze scanning the now mist-covered landscape. “Those are some powerful wards.”

Kayden nodded. “The gargoyles don’t play around with their security. But it’s good for us too. We passed through with no problem.”

“I don’t want to know what would’ve happened if we hadn’t,” Mika commented.

“I hear you.”

As they continued their drive, the mist cleared, revealing the rugged terrain that marked the edge of gargoyle territory. Rocky outcrops jutted from the earth and dense woods hugged the road.

Kayden focused his attention on the highway as it dipped into a narrow valley shrouded by towering trees. He scanned the road ahead for any signs of trouble or unexpected guests.

It was as if the very earth beneath them was aware of their presence, watching and weighing their intentions. Ancient magic pulsated from the ground, coiling around his senses.

This area was steeped in old magic, a remnant of a time when gargoyles were not just myths tucked away in children’s storybooks, but mighty guardians of realms now forgotten by modern civilization.

The rest of the journey passed in silence until they reached a colossal wrought iron gate. Their destination wasn’t far now. The gate opened slowly as they approached, revealing a paved road.

The gargoyle king had built his stronghold into the largest of those rocky mountainsides, its gray stone walls blending almost seamlessly with the natural rock. As they approached, shadowy figures were visible, moving along the ramparts.

“It’s impressive,” Mika said. “Creepy but impressive.”

“That’s gargoyles for you,” Kayden replied with a wry smile. “Masters of stone and shadow.”

Kayden parked the truck at a respectful distance from the castle entrance, then killed the engine. He looked over at Mika and nodded toward the building. “Ready for this?”

“As ready as I’ll ever be,” he replied.

Kayden unbuckled his seat belt. “Time to see if the gargoyles are as talkative as their wards are clingy.”

He and Mika stepped out, followed by their crew. Everyone gathered around Kayden, waiting for instructions.

“Remember, respect their rules and follow my lead,” Kayden instructed firmly. “We’re here to work, not cause trouble.”

“Heads up,” Mika whispered as he nodded toward the massive doors of the castle that swung open.

A figure emerged, tall and imposing, with skin the color of the deepest blue. The gargoyle’s eyes glinted with an unnatural light, like a cat at night.

Kayden was more than a little surprised that the gargoyle approached them in his true form. But then again, why wouldn’t he? Kayden had assured Ward that what humans were on his crew were well aware of the paranormal world.

And yes, Kayden had told them their client was a gargoyle king. Still, this was definitely unexpected, and he didn’t quite know what to make of it.

He’d never seen a gargoyle in anything but their human glamor, and woo wee, this was a big one. Like massively big. Like, his muscles had muscles.

The gargoyle’s power surged forward, coming at them like a fierce wave crashing onto the shore. But instead of knocking him off his metaphorical feet, it wrapped around Kayden like a purring cat. He could literally feel the ancient magic of the gargoyle coursing through him.

Oh yes, this gargoyle was a force to be reckoned with.

Kayden stood tall and unafraid—because damned if he was going to be intimidated—when a pleasant buzz of electricity shot through him. He fought to keep the surprise off his face. What the hell was his power doing? It never reacted to others.

As the gargoyle approached, his power retreated. He stopped before them, his gaze sweeping over each member of Kayden’s team before settling on him. Kayden caught himself from running a hand through his hair. What was he doing? Had he lost his damn mind?

Instead of answering that question, he focused on the several gargoyles behind the first one.

“Welcome to my home,” the lead gargoyle’s voice boomed. “I am Ward Tywyll, king of the San DeLain gargoyles. I trust your journey was uneventful?”

King? He was the king? Of course he was the king. He was the most powerful, even if he wasn’t the biggest. But he was big enough. And holy hell, that voice was pure sex—deep and growly—and Kayden fought not to shiver.

The gargoyle king could give that actor Vin Diesel a run for his money, as far as voices went. And why was Kayden’s power suddenly fluctuating like it was being called?

Mentally, Kayden slapped himself. Snap out of it, dude.

“It was fine. Thank you for hiring my company and allowing us onto your property,” Kayden replied diplomatically as he walked to Ward and held out his hand. “I look forward to working with you, Your Majesty.”

“Please, call me Ward.”

“Thank you. Call me Kayden, then.” Shit. Shaking hands? Really, Kayden? It was a very human thing to do, and the male before him certainly wasn’t human. Get it together, dumbass!

Luckily, the gargoyle king didn’t take offense.

Although he had glanced down at Kayden’s hand and the tattoos there. Kayden gritted his teeth. Oh well, if Ward had a problem with them, that wasn’t his problem. Thankfully, the handshake hadn’t lasted long.

The static electricity sure stung too.

Ward raised his gaze and smiled at Kayden. “As I mentioned on the phone, you come highly recommended. I’ve also heard you have a stonemason on your crew, or at least someone who is familiar with working with stone?”

“As we discussed, I do, yes,” Kayden assured him.

“Good.”

Kayden motioned to his people. “Let me introduce my crew. This is Mika Suppasit, my foreman. And this is Lance Smith. If you cannot get ahold of me or Mika, go to Lance if there is a problem.” Then Kayden introduced the rest of his crew.

Ward gestured to several of the gargoyles who stood behind him. “This is my council—Luna Simmons, Scarlett Owens, Emmett Crawford, Dean Woods, and Joel Ross.” After Ward introduced each gargoyle, he gestured for everyone to follow him inside. “Let’s discuss what I need done, then. Welcome to my home.”

“My crew and I thank you for your welcome,” Kayden said. “May my entire crew come with us, or would you prefer them to wait here?”

Kayden noticed that the other gargoyles left once they were inside, leaving just two behind. He wasn’t sure why they stayed. Protection, maybe? It was kind of weird.

“They’re welcomed. They’ll need to know how to get around the castle anyhow,” Ward tossed over his shoulder.

Which was a valid point, since Kayden was debating asking for maps as they trailed Ward through the endless hallways and stairs in the castle. Their feet echoed against the stone floors as they passed by towering tapestries and intricately carved sculptures.

Scenes of heroic battles and ancient lore adorned the walls, each telling its own story. With every step, it felt as though they were walking through time itself, surrounded by the rich history of the castle.

The rustle of fabric and the tapping of shoes on stone floors echoed in the high ceilings. The dim lighting inside the castle cast shadows on the stone walls and floors, giving a sense of depth and mystery to the space.

Which made Kayden think the entire castle needed to be rewired. Was the scenery lovely? Of course it was. His gaze darted to the creature next to him. Present company definitely included, but Kayden was there to work, not gawk.

But that ass. In those pants. Those leather pants.

Nope, no gawking, even if that was a gawk-worthy ass, and he had to stop this shit before he got aroused and everybody around him smelled it. That was one of the curses of working with a bunch of paranormals—their sniffers were amazing.

But between that ass and that voice, he was in trouble.

Ward hesitated before a heavy wooden door, worn from years of use. With a steady push, he swung it open. Aged wood and old paper filled the room with an earthy, musty scent.

In the center of the space stood a massive oak table, its surface cluttered with an array of maps and architectural drawings. Kayden was pretty sure he’d never seen such a large table.

He and his crew entered the grand room. As they looked around, the sculptures adorning the space caught Kayden’s gaze. Each one depicted a gargoyle frozen in time.

Their features captured different expressions—some were fierce and poised for battle, while others seemed lost in deep thought. These silent watchers lined the walls, adding an eerie presence to the already extravagant room.

They were beautiful and terrifying, and he hoped to hell they were not real, because that thought was actually more disturbing than the statues themselves.

Ward stopped at the table and spread his large midnight-blue hands flat on the surface. Kayden stood next to him, and his crew spread out around the table.

“This is a schematic of the castle. Here”—Ward pointed at a section of the castle layout on one map—“is where I need your expertise. Weather erosion has affected the west wing, and the recent attack by hunters worsened the damage. We’ve taken measures to protect the interior, but it needs a professional’s touch to fully repair it.”

Good grief, the gargoyle was tall. And massive. Those leather pants were fighting for their life. They were so tight, and holy shit, that was a very inappropriate thought to have on the job, even if it was true.

And it was soooo true.

And if someone could tell him why the gargoyle smelled so damn good, that would be awesome, thanks. Kayden didn’t normally care for perfume, but whatever Ward wore was totally working for Kayden.

Like, was it ever. Down boy.

Kayden got his head back in the game—his other head—and leaned over the indicated area. “We can definitely fix this. I’ll need to examine it—to match the original stonework, for example—but also so I can get a good feel of what needs to be done. Can we do that tonight?”

“Of course,” Ward said. “I also want to install modern amenities for those who stay there. However, they must not disrupt the ancient aesthetics of my home.”

“We can manage that,” Kayden replied thoughtfully as he straightened. “We have people who can integrate modern utilities without compromising historical integrity.”

“Good,” Ward said. “Also, the lighting within many parts of the castle needs modernizing while maintaining aesthetic continuity with its ancient design.”

“I noticed that, and it’s definitely doable also,” Kayden assured him, already mentally cataloguing the equipment and modifications they would need.

“There is one more thing,” Ward added after a moment’s pause.

One more thing? Kayden stiffened. What now?

“This job needs not just skill but also discretion. There are secrets within these walls that must remain undisturbed.”

One of the gargoyles, Kayden thought her name was Luna, nodded in agreement. Neither of the two following them around was very talkative. But then, his crew didn’t have much to say either.

“Understood,” Kayden responded with equal seriousness. “You have my word that my team will handle your home with the utmost respect and confidentiality.”

Ward nodded. “Then follow me.”

Ward led them out of the room and toward the west wing itself. Reaching their destination, the contrast between the ancient beauty of the rest of the castle and this area immediately struck Kayden. Here, the damage from the hunters’ attack and the impact of weather was undeniable.

“Oh man, yes, they really did a number here, didn’t they? Damn, I’m sorry to see history damaged in such a way.”

“I guess we’re lucky. They bombed Kage’s building, and the destruction was much worse.”

“There is that. At least no one died here.” Kayden paused as he looked at the gargoyle who had answered. He thought his name was Emmett. “I hope no one died?”

“No, no one died.”

“Good. The hunters have done enough harm.”

“You’re more right than you know,” Ward said.

There was a wealth of meaning in those words that Kayden had no chance of understanding.