Julian Thomas made the unpopular decision to become Beholden and focus his magic only on scrying. Because of it, he’s the best at his job and the top scryer for the Department of Extranormal and Magical Affairs. Which why Investigations Agent Wes Caldwell goes right to Julian for help locating a missing person.<br><br>When Wes needs to use his magic to boost Julian’s, they find a magical resonance between them that quickly leads to more. Julian doesn’t want to move too fast, but Wes knows Julian is it for him. He’s fine with waiting, as long as Julian stays close as they work through it.<br><br>But then Julian falls ill, and it’s clear there’s a magical reason. Wes will stop at nothing to find out what’s plaguing Julian, and when they realize just how deep the plot goes, they have more questions than answers. Magic is increasing in the world, and no one can figure out why. Julian and Wes have found love, but will it be enough to get them through what’s to come?

Beholden

I closed the spell and tried another. Wes suddenly appeared before me, hunched over his desk, scratching away at a yellow legal pad. His handwriting was atrocious. I could barely make out the squiggles he called penmanship. A fond smile crossed my lips, then I shook my head at my foolishness. I released the magic and slumped back in the chair. I wasn’t supposed to be thinking about Wes. But at least I knew I hadn’t lost my talent. I was still able to scry.


I felt drained. I had tried so hard with that first spell, it seemed I’d been working for days instead of less than an hour. Had I the energy, and didn’t love my bowl so much, I would have chucked it againstthe wall in frustration. What was happening to me?


The knock at the door scared the crap out of me. I really should be used to it by now. When Wes called my name, his voice concerned, I moved as fast as possible to get to the door and release the wards.


Chapter 23