Page 140 of Lost

“Goddess, she’s a crappy mom—even crappier than my ultra-religious mess of a mom.”

“That’s one contest I wish I didn’t keep winning. Anyway, how could I be part of a big family?”

“Because Zo’s House of Night and what they call their Nerd Herd are family.”

“Wait, go back. Did you sayNerd Herd?”

He grinned. “I did. When I was there I asked how they came up with that name. You named them.”

“Oh, for shit’s sake! I named the nerds and then I joined them?”

“Yep, that’s the story.”

“And I thought I had issues in this world.”

“So, that’s the biggest difference. You’re happy over there. You’re surrounded by friends and family. You’re valued by Zoey as a great prophetess. And, of course, you have that extra red added to your Mark, and those extra powers too.”

“And you swear that Nyx gave me that power.”

She hadn’t phrased it as a question, but Kevin knew she needed to hear the answer. “Yes. Absolutely. I give you my oath that Nyx gave you the power to grant second chances.”

“It’s just so weird. Sure, I have visions, but I’ve never, not one time, heard the Goddess’ voice or even felt her presence.”

“Maybe Nyx is waiting for the right time.”

“And when would that be?”

“When you’re ready to hear her voice, and be in her presence,” Kevin said.

“Have you ever heard or felt her?”

Kevin’s gaze went far off as he remembered entering Nyx’s Temple and, for the first time, feeling the presence of his Goddess. He had to clear his throat before he could speak, and when he did the words sounded rough with emotion. “Yes. I know Nyx. I’ve felt her. She’s touched me.”

“What was it like?”

“Pure love,” he said. And his gaze found hers again. “You’ll see someday.”

“How can you be so sure?”

“Because you’re Nyx’s Prophetess. And because I believe in Nyx and her love.”

“That’s a good story, Kev.”

“That’s a true story, Aphrodite.”

“Are you scared about tomorrow?” She abruptly changed the subject.

“Well, yeah. Of course,” he said honestly.

“Because you don’t think I can do it?”

“No way. I know you can. I’m scared because the Red Army is a fucking nightmare. And I’m scared that innocent people will probably get hurt because Neferet is an evil bitch. Zoey might get hurt too, which scares the crap outta me, and not just because she’s my sister and I don’t want her to die. Again. If anything happens to her, Other Stark will come over here and rip my heart out of my chest, which will not be cool.”

“Definitely not. So, Zoey and her Stark are seriously in love?”

“Yep, but it’s more than love. They’re bonded. He’s her Warrior and even more than that. They fit together. I’m happy for them. It’s what I want. Someone I fit together with.”

“It’s what I want too. But don’t tell anyone. Everyone thinks all I want is a different hot guy in my bed every night. Or maybe every other night.”