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

Wes put his lips to my ear. “It’s all right. You can trust him to work this spell correctly. Because ifhe doesn’t—” Wes lifted his head and looked Jester in the eye “—he’ll answer to me.”


“Oh, isn’t that sweet? Agent Caldwell has got himself a boyfriend.”


Wes made a noise, and Jester raised his hands.


“It’s good, it’s good. I’ll be good. Step back and let me work my mojo so I can get the hell out of here. I don’t have all day, you know.”


“Cross my heart, I’ll do it right. You there, have a seat and let’s see what’s woven around you.” Jester didn’t wait for a response before he started digging in a canvas satchel. He unearthed a pestle and mortar, then half a dozen baggies filled with various herbs. He picked through them, measuring out what he wanted in the palm of his hand before tossing them into the mortar, then he vigorously ground them. When done, he looked up, blinking. He pointed at me, then snapped his fingers and pointed to the couch. “Sit.”


Chapter 45