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Page 19 of Shattered Galaxies (Tears of the Siren #6)

Lorcan

The first time I met Maya back in that Los Angeles dressing room, I hadn’t fully grasped how different we were—partly because I’d been recovering from one of the worst beatings that Toris had ever served out.

Now that we were sitting across from one another, though—completely sober and in very different places in life—it was impossible to ignore.

With the backdrop of her Mediterranean estate, the glistening pool that sparkled in the afternoon sun, and a kitten perched on her shoulder, I realized that we were as opposite as opposite could be. I didn’t mind it, though.

In fact, the opposite. It was refreshing being around a woman who was so uniquely herself and not ashamed of it in the least, and I was beyond curious how she’d become the queen of the realm.

The two of us were sitting at a small bistro set on the far side of the yard underneath the shade of a massive olive tree.

Maya’s bright yellow and pink sundress surrounded her like a poofy cupcake, and she had legitimate glitter on her cheeks.

It brought a smile to my face with how damn sunny the woman was, and I couldn’t help but notice the massive pink diamond on her finger.

It was clear Maya’s mates knew her tastes and what she liked very well.

“You seem different than last time we saw one another.” Maya’s voice was soft and filled with curiosity.

She wasn’t beating around the bush, but she also wasn’t being rude.

I may not have been able to read her desires, but it was clear to me that Maya’s intentions with almost everything were good. It was rare to meet someone like that.

“And you’re a queen.” I took a long sigh before nodding. “But yes, I was in a very different place last time you saw me. Not a healthy place. I’m sure I didn’t leave the best impression.”

Which was why I’d been so anxious at the prospect of seeing Maya again. When Nova had brought it up, I’d nearly spiraled into a mess of anxious emotions. Not this time, though. I was shocked, but I felt more grounded than I would’ve thought possible.

“I wouldn’t say that.” Maya leaned forward with wide eyes. “I remember being concerned about you. Maker, that feels like centuries ago.”

“It does,” I said, immensely relieved that she wasn’t pressing the issue. I had a feeling the truth of my past would make Maya sadder than I could predict.

“I’m just glad you’re here now and that we can reconnect,” Maya continued, smiling as she sat back in her seat. “Nova told me about you. She mentioned that we’d need to meet eventually. Clearly the universe had its own idea of when.”

“Nova would’ve made it happen if the universe hadn’t,” I mused, Maya flashing a smile as we shared in the sentiment of how determined our mutual friend could be.

That levity didn’t last, though—not when the news I needed to deliver was still hanging over my head. “The universe does have plans, though. It’s actually why I’m here.”

Maya’s brow dipped at my tone change, and I decided to lay everything out on the table, knowing that—much like with Valentina—truth was the only way to handle this.

“The easiest way to start is to explain what I am, and hopefully, considering your own heritage, it won’t be all that shocking,” I said, straightening myself up. “I’m a siren.”

“Oh.” Maya’s eyes went wide. “Like a mermaid?”

I flashed a smile as her cat let out a happy purr on her shoulder, distracting me momentarily as her diamond collar flashed under the sun.

“Yes, I can turn into a mermaid,” I mused, “but our power is heavily based on compulsion and manipulation. Something that affects everyone—except for those that have equal or stronger powers than my own, and the individuals they’re bonded to.”

That last part was something I was assuming based on everything that had happened so far. Maya nodded, encouraging me to continue.

“Sirens have a direct connection to the universe. We can hear the stars and, more specifically, their deaths.”

Maya’s hand came up to her mouth. “That’s so sad.”

“It is, actually,” I said, staring down at the table for a long moment in reflection.

“Which means we can also hear what kills them. The world eaters—a group of cosmic entities that kill stars—are a present and very immediate threat to our universe. They’re no longer satisfied with stars and now target Earth and its realms.”

“Oh. Crap.” Maya’s eyes went wide in shock as her fingers went down to rest protectively on her flat stomach. Shit. The last thing I wanted to do was panic a pregnant woman.

“Maya?” One of her mates appeared at her side, the angel that Draven recognized. Az , was it? All of Maya’s mates seemed dangerous, but his power had an ancient flair that had me more than a bit on edge.

“I’m okay,” she promised him. “Just listening. Please continue, Lorcan.”

“Are you sure?” I asked, looking back to our men. “I can have them explain it?—”

“No. I’m sure.” Her voice was firm if tinged with concern.

“Okay.” I nibbled my lip. “There will be a war to defend our universe and its realms. A war to defeat the world eaters and those that stand by their side. Nova and I are the two prophecy holders that were foretold to do that. Only sirens, like myself, have the ability to craft a composition that will truly destroy them, while Nova will lead the battle against their allies.”

“And you’ve come seeking our help in this?” Az demanded.

I shook my head, keeping my mood calm to not worry my men.

“Not at all. I’ve actually come looking for a piece of the composition.

Zander, who’s also a siren, has been able to read that it’s located near here, and we’re hoping that you can help us find it.

I would never recruit you for a war that you wouldn’t willingly fight; please believe that. ”

“I believe you,” Maya said, taking on a thoughtful look. “This piece of the composition—where have you found others?”

“Usually in places of power, or places that have strong energy signatures. Is there anywhere like that around here?”

“The only place that I can think of is tainted with horrible memories,” Maya whispered, swallowing nervously.

Az squeezed her hand. “The Temple of Fire?” he asked, knowing where her mind had gone. “It’s been mostly destroyed at this point.”

“It may still have the power she’s looking for, though,” Maya reasoned, then looked toward me. “It’s in the mountains, quite a distance from here, but we can show you on a map. It is the only place I can think of that’s old enough and has enough magic.”

“I can portal the group of you,” Az offered. At this point Dean appeared behind me, sliding a hand over my shoulder. I’d had a feeling the men wouldn’t leave us alone for long, and already most of them were back with us.

“We’d appreciate that,” Desmond said. “Should we expect any type of fight there?”

“No.” Maya shook her head, holding my gaze. “There was a monster there before, but he’s gone. He tortured and held a population of phoenix there prisoner for…”

“A long time,” Marco finished, and a wave of grief washed over the group.

“Everyone there that could have been a threat is gone,” Atlas assured us.

“Then we’ll go,” I said grimly. “I can’t thank you enough, Maya.”

“But I can thank you,” Maya said. “Especially for warning us of what’s coming. Please know that if we can help in any way, we will. Just tell us where and when. I may not be able to go personally, but we’ll send soldiers with you to the front lines, ready to fight.”

“Most of us will join as well,” Henry—the one who had introduced himself as Marco’s beta—filled in. I could see that made Maya nervous, her hand still held protectively on her stomach.

“Only what you can spare. I don’t want to cause any hardship for you,” I said. “Seriously, Maya. I know there are more important things than this war.”

Maybe not for me, but for her? Especially if she was pregnant? I would never demand her family separate during that. Hell, I would never demand any family separate, ever. I would rather face the dark ones alone than do that.

“No. We will absolutely help,” Maya countered, seeming to shake herself from her worry.

“We won’t sit aside while the fate of our universe is at stake.

I was warned of this coming by someone months ago, I just didn’t realize it would happen so soon.

I’ll let the Dreki realm know as well. We’ll be waiting for your direction. ”

I leaned across the table and squeezed her hand in thanks, Marco saying something to Adriel over my head.

I shared a long look of understanding with Maya before pulling back.

When I’d met Maya the first time, I’d wondered what it would be like to be friends with her in a different life, if I was a different person. Maybe I’d be able to find out now.

Suddenly, her kitten jumped off her shoulder toward my hand.

“Bella!” Maya squeaked as the small fluff ball attacked my hand viciously, and I let out a legit giggle. I felt my face heat as Dean chuckled, clearly amused at my reaction.

“You are so vicious,” I told her, scratching her head as Maya tried to apologize. “Don’t even worry about it; she’s adorable.”

“She is!” Maya gushed. “Do you have a kitten? If you don’t, you should.”

“Hmm.” I tilted my head in thought.

“Or a puppy. We have a ton of them around here. We bring in any and all animals that need fostering so they can find a new home.”

My gaze moved to Maya’s as I made possibly the most ridiculous, impulsive decision ever. “Can I see them? I think I’d like that.”

“Lorcan.” Dean cleared his throat, trying to get my attention. “You can’t be serious about this. About that .”

My lips pressed into a smile as I looked down at the little ball of perfection sitting in my lap. I didn’t realize just how little puppies were—even a Newfoundland puppy.

“Am I serious about naming him Woody? Like, short for Woodford Whiskey? I am, actually. I think it’s a cool name, and he has dark brown fur, so it’s perfect. Isn’t it, Woody?” The little pup lifted his head and let out a bark. “See? He loves it.”

“I think he’s awesome,” Rhett said from next to me on the floor. “He may get a bit warm in Arizona, though. We’ll have to think about how to make sure he doesn’t get overheated.”

“Air conditioning. Outside misters. Maybe a dog house with air conditioning?” Desmond suggested, offering the pup a smile. “I like him, and I like that Lorcan loves him.”

Dean let out a low rumble that nearly had me breaking out into full laughter. I knew exactly what this was about.

“Plus, he’s going to be huge, which is always good for protection,” Zander agreed.

“That’s a good point. Won’t complain about more eyes on Lorcan,” Draven said.

“Or our future kids.” Cash let out a hum. “He would scare anyone from trying to talk to our kids.”

Dean considered this and finally let out a grunt. “Fine. Fuck it—fine.”

I flashed him a big smile. “I appreciate it, Deanie. I know you expected me to pick a cat instead of a dog.”

The lion shifter would show a preference toward felines, but what could I say? The little pup had chosen me. Seriously, when we’d entered the gigantic building that served as a luxury animal shelter, he’d all but tackled me with licks and cuteness.

Woody let out a bark and stood up, bumping his nose against Dean’s leg in a cute way. I watched as the massive man bent down and pet the top of his head. Cute.

“We have a winner?” Maya asked, walking over. “We can make sure he’s all good to go after you head to the ruins. I am so happy to hear he’ll have a home!”

“Getting a dog? Having a house? We’re getting serious so fast,” I mused to my men before looking at Maya. “Thank you for this. I didn’t realize I needed this, but I did. I really did.” Woody let out a bark of happiness as I scooped him up and rubbed his nose with mine.

Our family was growing in size right before my eyes.